On Thursday, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means released a $325 million economic development bill that included several policies that would make it easier to build the homes Massachusetts needs.
These policies include:
- Enabling duplexes to be built as of right on all residential lots (similar to a recommendation of the Unlocking Housing Production Commission and legislation filed by CHAPA).
- Codification of municipal Site Plan Review processes (a CHAPA priority).
- A local-option framework to convert commercially zoned lots and buildings into residential units.
- A 30-day deadline for local zoning boards of appeal to hold public hears on appeals.
CHAPA applauds the Senate, especially Senate President Karen Spilka and Housing Committee Chair Julian Cyr, for recognizing the importance of housing for the future of Massachusetts and the Commonwealth’s economy.
Opening statements on the Senate economic development bill are expected to be made on Wednesday, July 22 and debate is anticipated to conclude the next day.