Special to the Sun
On May 6, Senator Lydia Edwards convened community members and local leaders to discuss Winthrop’s approach to the pressing housing and transportation needs as dictated by the Massachusetts MBTA Communities Law. The meeting was enhanced by the presence of Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities, Ed Augustus, who provided valuable state-level insights.
The MBTA Laws, initiated by former Speaker DeLeo and Senator Joe Boncore, are designed to alleviate a statewide housing deficit. The deficit in Massachusetts as it stands is approximately 220,000 units below what is needed. Winthrop, alongside 177 other cities and towns, is mandated to comply with these laws. To date, 44 municipalities have passed compliant zoning plans, with 25 submitted for approval to the Housing and Livable Communities (HLC) — three of which have been approved.
Senator Edwards highlighted the town’s proactive measures, stating, “What we are doing already is perfect, no need for more or less,” emphasizing that Winthrop’s existing efforts should ensure continued receipt of state infrastructure funds. Secretary Augustus expressed his support, noting, “I am confident that working together we can get to a place where Winthrop is in compliance with the MBTA Communities Law, and you get the credit you deserve for the work you’ve been doing for a number of years to make affordable housing.”
The broader implications of the Housing Bond Bill were also discussed, delineating its distinction from the MBTA Communities Law. The Bond Bill, which affects the entire state, focuses on various housing initiatives, including a local transfer fee that would allow a 2% fee on transfers of luxury housing, and eviction sealing that would give those with past evictions the opportunity to make their case to seal their record. This bill is part of Massachusetts’ largest housing initiative in history, amounting to $4.1 billion, with funds earmarked for public housing support, green initiatives, housing stabilization, innovation, and first-time homeowner programs.
Additionally, the meeting tackled the current disconnect between state housing requirements and local transportation provisions, notably the proposed bus service reductions that could undermine access to new housing locations. Ongoing discussions with city planners, the MBTA, and The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) aim to align these plans more closely to ensure that housing accessibility does not suffer.
With Massachusetts experiencing a critically low 1.6% housing vacancy rate, the lowest in the nation, the state’s laws seek to provide more residents with feasible living options near essential services and public transit, working towards eventually reaching a healthy housing ecosystem average of 4-5% vacancy rate.
The meeting also highlighted ambitious plans to expand Winthrop’s waterfront transportation infrastructure, which seeks to go beyond mere reactive measures to tunnel closures. Discussions focused on the introduction of an inner-harbor ferry service that would operate not only on weekends but throughout the year, potentially enhancing the service with an additional boat to meet growing demand. This development marks a crucial step in enhancing accessibility and connectivity for Winthrop’s residents, promoting a more robust and reliable transportation network along the waterfront.
In addition to housing and transportation discussions, the meeting also shed light on the significant advancements in early childhood education through the allocation of C3 grants and funding, bolstered by the Fair Share Tax Amendment. With the amendment generating considerable revenue, a substantial 57% of the billion-dollar fund is earmarked specifically for educational initiatives. This allocation prioritizes early childcare, recognizing the urgent need to expand and enhance the workforce and infrastructure in this sector. This strategic focus underscores our commitment to nurturing the development of our youngest residents, ensuring they receive the quality education and care necessary for a thriving community.
The community meeting led by Senator Edwards provided an invaluable platform for discussing Winthrop’s key challenges and opportunities in housing, transportation, and education. Thanks to insights from Secretary Ed Augustus and the backing of state laws, we’re well-equipped to navigate our town’s development needs with thoughtful precision. As we move forward with these exciting plans, we remain dedicated to keeping the community at the heart of our efforts. Together, we’re not just planning for a better future; we’re actively building it.