Letterie provides update on meeting with state officials on 3A

On Monday afternoon, Town Council President Jim Letterie joined Senator Lydia Edwards, Representative Jeff Turco, Town Manager Tony Marino, and Town Attorney Jim Cipoletta in a meeting with state Housing Secretary Ed Augustus and his team, along with Margot Hurley from the Attorney General’s Office, to discuss Winthrop’s 3A status and the next steps following the state’s recent filing of litigation.

The council president requested several weeks ago that the town manager reach out to the state about a potential meeting to discuss the 3A issues. 

During the meeting, Winthrop raised several questions regarding 3A compliance and its potential impact on existing condominium documents, particularly as the Planning Board’s proposed 3A district includes the Seal Harbor and Governors Park condominium developments, according to Letterie.

“We also sought clarification on the language included in EOHLC district approval letters and how it may be interpreted, specifically whether it provides the agency with the authority to make future modifications at its discretion,” said Letterie. “Additionally, we discussed what a potential ballot question might look like should Winthrop choose to present a 3A-compliant district to voters. We asked whether the ballot language could include provisions preserving the Town’s right to object to or challenge 3A regulations at a later date.”

Hurley advised the Winthrop officials that her office would need to coordinate with the Town Attorney and the Elections Office to review and approve any proposed ballot language. 

“Another important topic was the potential withholding of state grants and related restrictions,” Letterie stated. “I specifically raised concerns about 21st Century school grants, emphasizing that students should not be penalized due to a state-mandated zoning matter. We also discussed public safety and public health funding, noting that these essential services should not lose access to grants or earmarks and should remain eligible for the same opportunities afforded to 3A-compliant communities.”

While Letterie said the town officials did not receive definitive answers to these questions during the meeting, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities representatives indicated they would review their concerns internally and follow up with additional guidance.

“I will share further updates as they become available, along with our action plan as we continue to pursue all appropriate avenues and remedies on behalf of the Town,” Letterie said.