We want to start with a reminder to take some time this weekend to consider the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., and his tireless dedication to not only civil rights, but for economic and social justice in all aspects of life. Here’s King on Black economic empowerment. And here on war and peace. As we think about how we want to shape our own communities, we should remember to be conscious of the equity and social justice implications of our efforts.
The Planning Board Reviews Two Family Zoning – Let’s Encourage the Ability to Add More Homes to These Areas
On Thursday, January 18th the Planning Board will be meeting at 7:30pm. As part of the meeting agenda, they’ll be discussing potential changes to two family zoning, and the architectural continuity in those neighborhoods. One of the important lessons from the MBTA-CA negotiations is that Brookline has the tools to both preserve what we like most about Brookline’s architecture and urban landscape while also facilitating the development of more homes at all price points. While we understand that visual appeal and historic preservation are a top priority for some, we also know that for us and many of our neighbors this concern is secondary to increasing the housing production necessary to develop a vibrant, economically thriving and welcoming Brookline. We look forward to working with the Planning Board to balance the trade-offs inherent in any zoning code. We encourage folks to tune into this meeting to follow the conversation and submit comments. Click here for more information and to register for the Zoom meeting.
Support The Governor’s Affordable Homes Act – Two Actions This Week!
Tell your legislators you support Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) with Abundant Housing MA (AHMA). Why are ADUs important? From AHMA: “ADU’s are a gentle way for communities to add much needed new affordable homes.They help seniors stay in their communities by providing a space for a caregiver or supplemental income; they help families stay together by providing housing for grandparents, recent graduates, or loved ones with disabilities. ADU’s provide the flexibility that homeowners need, all while adding much needed rental homes to the community!” AHMA made it easy with a straightforward, customizable form – click here to fill out the form and make your voice heard!
And this Thursday, January 18 at 11am the legislature will be holding a public hearing on the Affordable Homes Act, and our friends at Greater Boston Interfaith Organization (GBIO) are organizing folks to attend to show their support for GBIO leaders testifying in favor of $1.6 billion for public housing and a local option Real Estate Transfer Fee, both of which Brookline for Everyone strongly supports. GBIO is looking for folks to attend to show the strength of their coalition, and the widespread support for these important initiatives aimed at supporting our low-income neighbors. Click here for more info and to register to attend.
Make Your Voice Heard in Brookline – Run for Town Meeting!
As we look toward the May election season and all the great pro-housing work we can achieve, we know one of the most important steps we can take is to elect pro-housing candidates to Town Meeting every May. To make this happen, we need great candidates, and we think YOU should be that candidate! We’re going to be hosting a couple of info sessions in the coming weeks on running for Town Meeting. If you think you might be interested, or are curious to learn more, sign up here so you’ll be first to get all the details. And if a one-on-one conversation is more your speed, we’re happy to connect that way as well!
Brookline Community Development Corporation Executive Director Job Announcement
Know anyone with Community Development Corporation experience looking to take a step forward in their career or tackle a new challenge? The Brookline Community Development Corporation (BCDC) is excited to announce that they’ve begun accepting applications for their executive director position. Click here to learn more about the role; and please share widely if you have any recommendations!
Brookings Metro Discussion on Local Parking Reform
Join Brookings Metro on Tuesday, January 16th at 4pm for “America’s parking evolution,” a discussion with Henry Graber, author of Paved Paradise: How Parking Explains the World, on how communities can reassess their parking regulations to “build more inclusive and sustainable neighborhoods.” The session will be streamed live on Tuesday, January 16th at 4pm, and will include a “panel…with experts from across the transportation, urban planning, and real estate industries to compare notes on just how big the retrofit needs are and some of the promising examples beginning to emerge from across the country and beyond.” This is a great opportunity to understand the latest research and thinking on the impact of parking on our communities, and how Brookline can learn from places across the country leading the effort toward reform. Click here for more info and to register.