Housing Choice bill doesn’t address those most in need
Governor Baker’s Housing Choice bill will help cities and towns in the Commonwealth tackle the lack of housing inventory (“Other states take on housing crunch, but Mass. stands pat,” Page A1, Dec. 4).
There is widespread agreement that we need a range of housing: market rate, middle income, homeownership, and rental. However, the legislation is silent regarding homes that households with extremely low incomes can afford. In a state with finite room to grow, every lot developed with a market-rate apartment eliminates the opportunity to develop one for those most in need.
Our policy makers must ensure that those with the fewest resources benefit from any new housing and zoning legislation, and that each time someone talks about “affordable housing,” they clearly answer the question: Affordable to whom?
Steve Farrell
Director of communications and policy
Metro Housing|Boston