Tag: Housing Choice Initiative

Baker-Polito Administration Files New Housing Legislation to Increase Housing Production in Massachusetts

Today, Governor Charlie Baker filed legislation to further the administration’s Housing Choice Initiative, a bold plan to support the production of 135,000 new housing units by 2025. This bill builds on efforts undertaken last legislative session to deliver necessary, targeted zoning reform to benefit communities pursuing new housing production.

The Baker-Polito Administration developed the Housing Choice Initiative to offer a combination of incentives, technical assistance and new capital grant funding to facilitate community-led housing production across the Commonwealth. This diverse set of tools for communities is intended to create the conditions for sustainable housing development that meets the needs of current and future residents.

“Today, we have more people working in Massachusetts than at any time in our Commonwealth’s history, and the need for substantially increased housing production –for residents across the income spectrum – is necessary to match Massachusetts’ booming economic growth,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This legislation is critical, will unlock the potential of our cities and towns committed to responsible growth, development and enacting best practices in sustainable housing production and we are committed to working with stakeholders and our partners in the legislature to make it a reality.”

“The Commonwealth’s cities and towns are eager to meet the needs of their residents and we are thrilled that 69 communities have already received a Housing Choice Community designation, showing their commitment to housing production,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “This legislation is the next step in fulfilling our commitment to Massachusetts residents, creating the conditions for all of our families and individuals to live, work, and thrive across the state.”

When the Baker-Polito Administration first unveiled the Housing Choice Initiative in 2017, in addition to the changes proposed through legislation, the comprehensive initiative also created a new system of incentives and rewards for municipalities to deliver sustainable housing growth by designating communities that are producing new housing units and have adopted best practices with a new “Housing Choice Communities.” It also created a new technical assistance toolbox empowering cities and towns to plan for new housing production.

Since the Housing Choice Initiative program’s inception, the Baker-Polito Administration has awarded $5 million in capital funding to 31 communities, and with its partnership with MassHousing, 14 communities have received technical assistance to advance the production of more than 4,000 new housing units.

The bill filed by the Governor today mirrors the legislation filed by the Governor in the last legislative session and includes changes made by the legislature in House Bill 4290 An Act to Promote Housing Choices.

This proposal will enable cities and towns to adopt certain zoning best practices related to housing development by a simple majority vote, rather than the current two-thirds supermajority. This legislation will not mandate cities and towns to make any of these zoning changes; but will allow municipalities that want to rezone for denser, transit or downtown oriented, and new housing development to do so more easily.

Zoning changes that promote best practices for housing growth that would qualify for the simple majority threshold include:

  • Building mixed-use, multi-family, and starter homes, and adopting 40R “Smart Growth” zoning in town centers and near transit.
  • Allowing the development of accessory dwelling units, or “in-law” apartments.
  • Approving Smart Growth or Starter Homes districts that put housing near existing activity centers.
  • Granting increased density through a special permit process.
  • Allowing for the transfer of development rights and enacting natural resource protection zoning.
  • Reducing parking requirements and dimensional requirements, such as minimum lot sizes.

This legislation also includes a provision, added by the Joint Committee on Housing, that would reduce the voting threshold for a special permit issued by a local permit granting authority to a simple majority vote, for certain multi-family or mixed-use projects with at least 10% affordable units in locations near transit or, in centers of commercial activity within a municipality.

Massachusetts is currently one of only a few states to require a supermajority to change local zoning.

“We have an incredible economy here in Massachusetts, capitalizing on our talented workforce, thriving innovation ecosystem,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “Attracting and retaining talent – including the Commonwealth’s newly graduated students, young families and workforce – continues to be a paramount concern. This legislation is an important step in ensuring Massachusetts cities and towns can create welcoming communities that leverage their existing assets, like thriving downtowns and vital transportation hubs.”

“Since launching our Housing Choice Initiative, we have provided technical assistance and access to new capital grant funding to numerous communities committed to housing production,” said Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Janelle Chan. “This legislation is a necessary component to our overall effort to encourage and support municipalities and, together, pro-actively move high-quality projects forward to address our current and growing need for new housing in Massachusetts.”

“There is perhaps no more critical issue impacting Massachusetts’ cities and towns today than the issue of housing. Like many communities in Greater Boston, Salem is witnessing a sharp decline in the affordability and availability of housing for people who live and work here. We are fortunate to have a city that has a rich mix of people from different backgrounds, income levels, cultures, and more. That diversity contributes to the character of our community in a meaningful way and is a part of our nearly 400 year old history. However, the current housing crisis is threatening that character as, too often, the many faces of Salem – seniors on fixed incomes, working families, young adults – all are finding our city increasingly unaffordable. We want Salem to continue to be a place that people of all means can call home. While we are pushing for policies and investments on the local level to address this growing challenge, we need a strong partnership with state leaders to advance legislation, including Housing Choice, that can make these reforms possible in the first place. I am proud to stand with Governor Baker and other advocates for sensible, compassionate housing policy, to ensure that Salem can be home for anyone,” said Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll.

“Easthampton’s designation as a Housing Choice community gave our city access to multiple tools that unlocked long standing impediments to growing our housing stock and encouraging mixed – use development.  This designation allowed our city to vertically stack grants and economic incitements.  Our ability to leverage public dollars to attract private investment makes tangible the vital connection between housing, jobs and sustainable smart growth,” said Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle.

“Creating more housing choices requires local communities across the Commonwealth to be creative and adaptable.  It also requires an approach that’s appropriate for each individual community. That’s what makes the Housing Choice Initiative such a great approach.  It gives every community new tools, from grant opportunities to technical assistance to best practices, that allows each to craft plans that make sense locally while at the same time helping address the overall housing challenge,” said Cohasset Town Manager Christopher Senior.

“This important legislation will provide communities with vital tools and authority to address our housing production needs,” said Massachusetts Municipal Association Executive Director Geoff Beckwith. “We applaud the Baker-Polito Administration for recognizing that true progress in making housing more affordable can only be achieved when the state and cities and towns work together as partners.  This bill embraces that partnership, and the MMA looks forward to working with all coalition partners to bring meaningful zoning reform that respects local decision-making across the finish line.”

“We can’t confront our housing and climate crises without local zoning changes, so we hope to see the Legislature fast-track this bill in 2019,” said André Leroux, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Smart Growth Alliance. “Thanks to the Governor’s support and the work of the Joint Committee on Housing, it also includes a key reform to encourage developers to build more of the affordable homes that our state desperately needs.”

“Housing Choice needs to pass, preferably over the next few months, before town meetings start in the spring,” said Marc Draisen, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC). “The bill would really help cities and towns to amend zoning and issue permits that will boost housing production. The legislation was thoroughly vetted in the last session, so MAPC hopes it can pass quickly this time around.”

“Passage of the Housing Choices Bill is our top priority,” said Hunter Marosits, Vice-President of H and R Homes Remodeling, Inc. in Wilbraham and President of the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Massachusetts. “Making it easier for communities to adopt zoning for housing will benefit young couples seeking to buy their first home, growing families looking to trade up, and downsizing baby boomers wishing to live near their children and grandchildren.”

“The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce applauds Governor Baker for his continued focus on remedying the Commonwealth’s housing shortage, and we are pleased to see the Administration’s Housing Choice bill back on the legislative track,” said James E. Rooney, President and CEO of the GBCC. “The rising cost of living in Greater Boston is a critical issue impacting our regional and economic competitiveness. Governor Baker’s proposal would take meaningful steps forward by increasing workforce housing development and rewarding that development with potential transportation investments, two initiatives that are strongly supported by the business community. We are eager to see this bill advance, and quickly.”

“The state’s housing crunch is not just a Boston problem, but also a suburban problem. The legislation will help communities allow the type of housing in the right area that helps promote community stability and economic growth. It is as much an economic development bill as it is a housing bill,” said Peter Forman, President & CEO of the South Shore Chamber of Commerce.

“We know the vast majority of people age 50 and older want to stay in their homes and communities for as long as possible.  With the Housing Choice bill, Governor Baker is again taking steps to help Massachusetts residents age in place. This bill allows for the development of new housing models, promotes accessory dwellings, and encourages construction in areas and neighborhoods that have accessible resources,” said Mike Festa, State Director of AARP Massachusetts.

The Baker-Polito Administration has shown a deep commitment to increasing the production of housing across income levels. Since 2015, the administration has invested more than $1 billion in affordable housing, resulting in the production and preservation of more than 17,000 housing units, including 15,000 affordable units. In 2018, Governor Baker signed the largest housing bond bill in Massachusetts history, committing more than $1.8 billion to the future of affordable housing production and preservation. The Baker-Polito Administration has also advanced the development of more than 7,000 mixed-income housing units through the successful MassWorks Infrastructure Program, reformed the Housing Development Incentive Program, and worked with communities to implement smart-growth development and planning efforts.

###

SourceOffice of Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $57 Million to Support Affordable Housing Development Across Commonwealth

Administration also allocated $33 million in tax credits to support creation and preservation of nearly 1,500 housing units

DORCHESTER — Today, Governor Charlie Baker announced this year’s affordable rental housing awards, which will provide $57 million in direct subsidies for 19 projects to fund the development, renovation and preservation of housing opportunities throughout the state. Since 2015, affordable housing awards have led to the creation and preservation of more than 6,300 housing units alone, furthering the Baker-Polito Administration’s commitment to increasing access to affordable and middle-income housing in every region of the Commonwealth.

“These rental housing awards support our Administration’s commitment to create more housing opportunities in neighborhoods across Massachusetts,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “We have also drafted legislation to develop 135,000 units of new housing by 2025 that has been endorsed by several businesses, local officials, trade organizations and community groups, and encourage the Legislature to pass this bill to build more affordable housing and support economic development in every zip code.”

The $57 million in state funding will support affordable, multifamily rental projects. Funding sources include federal HOME funds and state bond funds from six capital bond accounts. Additionally, the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is awarding $33.5 million in federal and state housing tax credits which will generate more than $240 million in equity to support the construction and preservation of 1,463 units, including 1,312 affordable units with 227 units reserved for very low-income households. Funded projects include six developments for seniors, three projects that will support substantial renovations of public housing developments, and four transit-oriented developments. Many include housing units reserved for formerly homeless families and individuals.

“The diverse array of awards represents the varied needs of our Commonwealth, and we are thrilled to support 19 high-impact projects that will provide much-need new housing, and maintain our current stock of affordable housing,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “We are proud to partner with many cities and towns, including the 69 Housing Choice Communities we designated in May, that have a keen understanding of their specific housing needs, and we are pleased to support locally driven projects to meet the needs of Massachusetts residents.”

Governor Baker joined Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Janelle Chan, City of Boston’s Chief of Housing and Director of Neighborhood Development Sheila Dillon, Representative Russell Holmes, Hearth President & CEO Mark Hinderlie, and local officials at the future site of Hearth at Four Corners, a 54-unit, new construction project for seniors. The development, in Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood, will be entirely affordable, with 19 units reserved for extremely low-income seniors, and provide extensive supportive services for tenants. The project received state and federal tax credits and direct subsidies from the state, along with funding from the City of Boston.

“More people are currently employed in Massachusetts than at any point in our history, and we need a housing market that can support working families at all income levels so that they can fully participate in this economy,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash. “Today’s awards help increase options for families to access safe, affordable, and stable housing, a critical foundation for success and prosperity, both for themselves and for our communities.”

“Across our Commonwealth, more and more young families are finding they are not able to put down roots, seniors are not able to age in their communities, and hard-working residents are spending more of their paychecks and precious time traveling further to get to their jobs,” said Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Janelle Chan.  “Today’s awards will enable communities to grow with their residents, and be a part of a state-wide and regional response to the affordable housing crisis.”

“Our state like most states in the nation is in the midst of a housing shortage,” said Senator Nick Collins. “Now, more than ever, government and its partners need to continue their commitment to supplying the demand for housing that is affordable. Today’s announcement is one example of that commitment and I look forward to continuing to help provide individuals and families with supportive services as well as housing opportunities that they can afford,” concluded Senator Collins.

“Thank you to the Baker-Polito Administration for making housing a priority, and funding this important project in Dorchester,” said Representative Russell Holmes.“This project will create vital senior housing, and transform a vacant lot into a necessary resource for this neighborhood.”

This year’s affordable rental housing awards continue to advance the Baker-Polito Administration’s commitment to substantially increasing housing production throughout the Commonwealth, with an emphasis on housing affordable to low- and middle-income households. Since 2015, the administration has spent or committed more than $880 million for the production and preservation of affordable housing. In May, Governor Baker signed a $1.8 billion affordable housing bill to ensure long-term support for the Baker-Polito Administration’s comprehensive efforts to increase the production of affordable housing, diversify the state’s housing portfolio, modernize public housing, preserve the affordability of existing housing and invest in new, innovative solutions to address Massachusetts’ rising demand for housing.

In December 2017, Governor Baker announced the Housing Choice Initiative, a comprehensive proposal to create 135,000 new housing units by 2025 with new set of incentives and rewards for municipalities committed to sustainable housing growth in their communities. The Housing Choice Initiative is a multi-pronged effort that includes a program to designate Housing Choice municipalities and new technical assistance opportunities through MassHousing, in addition to proposed legislative changes that will help deliver smart, effective zoning at the local level. The legislation,An Act to Promote Housing Choice is currently pending before the legislature.

Additionally, the highly effective MassWorks Infrastructure Program continues to be a key catalyst for housing production, supporting the creation of more than 3,000 housing units. The Open for Business Initiative will drive the production of more than 2,200 units of housing on state land. MassHousing’s $100 million Workforce Housing Initiative has advanced the development of 2,374 housing units across a range of incomes, including 631 workforce housing units. And, the Baker-Polito Administration reformed the Housing Development Incentive Program, which is on track to facilitate more than 900 new units in Gateway Cities.

Awardees:

Robert Hill Way (Ashland) is a 64-unit new construction senior housing project. The sponsor is E.A. Fish. All 64 units will be affordable to low-income seniors, with 7 units reserved for extremely low-income seniors with incomes below 30% of Area Median Income (AMI), and supportive services will be offered at the completed project. DHCD will support the project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds.

25 Amory Street (Boston) is a 44-unit new construction project to be located near the Jackson Square MBTA station in Jamaica Plain, Boston. The sponsor is the non-profit Jamaica Plain NDC. All 44 units will be affordable to households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 14 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and making the transition from homelessness. DHCD will support this transit-oriented project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds; the City of Boston also will provide additional financial support to the project.

Four Corners (Boston) is a 31-unit new construction project to be built in Dorchester, Boston. The sponsor is the non-profit Codman Square Development Corporation. All 31 units will be affordable to households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 8 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and making the transition from homelessness.  DHCD will support this transit-oriented project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds; the City of Boston also will support the project with subsidy funds.

Hearth at Four Corners (Boston) is a 54-unit new construction project for seniors to be built in Dorchester, Boston, sponsored by the non-profit Hearth. All 54 units will be affordable to low-income seniors, with 19 units reserved for extremely low-income seniors with incomes below 30% of AMI. Hearth will provide extensive services at the completed project to support tenants. DHCD will support Hearth at Four Corners with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds; the City of Boston also will provide the project with additional subsidy funds.

Old Colony Phase 3A – Award 1 (Boston) is one of the next phases in the decade-long redevelopment of public housing located in South Boston. The sponsor is Beacon Communities. This phase contains 108 units reserved for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 11 units further reserved for households earning less than 30% of AMI. DHCD will support this phase with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds. The City of Boston will also provide support for this phase.

Old Colony Phase 3A – Award 2 (Boston) is another phase in the ongoing redevelopment public housing project located in South Boston. The sponsor is Beacon Communities. This phase contains 27 units reserved for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with three units reserved for households earning less than 30% of AMI. DHCD will support this phase with Low Income Housing Tax Credits. The City of Boston is providing additional support for this phase of the project.

Downtown Brockton TOD (Brockton) is a 48-unit new construction project for families to be built in Brockton. The sponsor is the non-profit NeighborWorks of Southern Massachusetts. The completed project will create 30 units reserved for households earning less than 60% of AMI as well as 18 units restricted for households earning less than 110% of AMI. DHCD will support this transit-oriented project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds. The City of Brockton is supporting the project with additional funding.

370 Harvard Street (Brookline) is a 62-unit new construction senior project to be built in the Coolidge Corner neighborhood of Brookline. The sponsor is Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly (JCHE).   The completed project will include 57 units reserved for seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with 16 units reserved for extremely low-income seniors with incomes below 30% AMI. JCHE also will make extensive services available to the tenants of Harvard Street. DHCD will support the project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits; the Town of Brookline will support Harvard Street with local funds.

Frost Terrace (Cambridge) is a transit-oriented new construction project for families. The sponsor is Capstone Communities. This 40-unit project will be built one block away from the Porter Square MBTA/commuter rail station with retail and service opportunities available in the immediate neighborhood. All 40 units will be affordable to households earning less than 60% of AMI, with four units reserved for households earning less than 30% of AMI. DHCD will support the project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds.  The City of Cambridge will provide additional funding through city trust funds.

Squirrelwood (Cambridge) is an 88-unit family project featuring the preservation of existing affordable units as well as the construction of new units. The sponsor is the non-profit Just-A-Start. The completed project will offer 78 affordable units, including eight units restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI. Squirrelwood originally was financed by MassHousing through the Chapter 13A program.  DHCD will support the project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits.  The City of Cambridge will support the project with additional funding.

Little Pond Place (Falmouth) is a 40-unit new construction project for families in Falmouth. The sponsor is Affirmative Investments. All 40 units will be restricted for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with four units restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI. DHCD will support Little Pond Place with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds.  The Town of Falmouth also will support the project with $750,000 in Community Preservation Act funds.

Shirley Commons (Fort Devens) is a 58-unit new construction project for seniors to be built on the Fort Devens site.  The sponsor is the non-profit Women’s Institute for Housing and Economic Development. All 58 units will be restricted for seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with 15 units restricted for seniors earning less than 30% of AMI. DHCD will support Shirley Commons with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds. The sponsor will offer support services for the tenants.

Bentley Apartments (Great Barrington) is a 45-unit new construction project for families in Great Barrington. The sponsor is the non-profit Community Development Corporation of South Berkshire. All 45 units in the completed project will be reserved for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 21 units reserved for households earning less than 30% of AMI. DHCD will support Bentley Apartments with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds. The Town of Great Barrington will provide additional Community Preservation Act funds to the project.

Lyman Terrace Phase II (Holyoke) is the second phase of the comprehensive redevelopment of the Lyman Terrace public housing development in Holyoke. The sponsor is the non-profit The Community Builders (TCB). The completed project will offer 79 units of family housing reserved for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 16 units reserved for households earning less than 30% of AMI. DHCD will support this phase of Lyman Terrace with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds. The Baker-Polito Administration has previously supporting the redevelopment through affordable housing awards and the MassWorks Infrastructure Program. The City of Holyoke will provide additional subsidy to the project.

Sargent House Expansion (Northhampton) is a blended preservation and production project located on the edge of Northampton’s vibrant downtown business district. The sponsor is the non-profit Valley Community Development Corporation. The completed project will feature 31 total units. All units will be affordable to individuals earning less than 60% of AMI, with 10 units reserved for individuals earning less than 30% of AMI. Many tenants at Sargent House previously were homeless; Valley CDC will provide supportive services appropriate for the existing and new tenants. DHCD will support the project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds. The City of Northampton also will support the project with some of its own funds.

24 Gould Street (Reading) is a 55-unit new construction mixed income project to be built in in Reading’s Chapter 40R district. The project sponsor is the Traggorth Companies. The project will be built at a major intersection in Reading’s central business district. When completed, 24 Gould Street will offer 14 affordable units as well as 41 market rate units. DHCD will support 24 Gould Street with subsidy funds. The Town of Reading also will provide financial support for the project.

Lydia Square Apartments (Rockland) is a 44-unit new construction project for seniors in Rockland. The sponsor is NewGate Housing. All 44 units will be restricted for seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with 9 units reserved for seniors with incomes below 30% AMI. The sponsor will provide support services at the project as well as transportation to a nearby senior center. DHCD will support Lydia Square with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds.

Chestnut Park (Springfield) is a 489-unit preservation project in Springfield sponsored by Related Beal. The existing project, home to over 1,500 people, will be preserved and rehabilitated. When completed, 412 units will be affordable to households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 42 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI. DHCD will support Chestnut Park with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds. The City of Springfield also will provide support for Chestnut Park.

Coolidge at Sudbury (Sudbury) is a 56-unit new construction project for seniors. The project will be built on a site adjacent to the successful first phase of this development. The sponsor is the non-profit B’nai B’rith. All 56 units will be affordable to low-income seniors, with 12 units reserved for extremely low-income seniors with incomes below 30% AMI.  DHCD will support the project with Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy funds. The Town of Sudbury also will provide funds to support the project.  B’nai B’rith will provide services appropriate for the new tenants of Coolidge at Sudbury Phase Two.

###

SourceGovernor's Office

Governor Baker Signs $1.8 Billion Affordable Housing Bill to Increase Housing Production, Preserve Housing Affordability

BOSTON — Today, Governor Charlie Baker signed An Act Financing the Production and Preservation of Housing for Low and Moderate Income Residents (H.4536), to ensure long-term support for the Baker-Polito Administration’s comprehensive efforts to increase the production of affordable housing, diversify the state’s housing portfolio, modernize public housing, preserve the affordability of existing housing and invest in new, innovative solutions to address Massachusetts’ rising demand for housing.

“This bill will help expand our administration’s commitment to ensuring residents across the Commonwealth have more access to quality, safe and affordable housing and economic development opportunities,” said Governor Charlie Baker.“Municipalities, developers, and local housing authorities will be supported by a toolbox of flexible resources to create more affordable options and explore new avenues to meet a growing demand. We thank our partners in the Legislature for working with us to pass this legislation and look forward to our continued collaboration on the administration’s Housing Choice Bill to create even more affordable housing options.”

Today’s legislation authorizes $1.8 billion in new capital spending for the production and preservation of affordable housing for low- to moderate-income households, supportive housing and housing serving vulnerable populations. Additionally, the legislation authorizes $650 million for public housing modernization and redevelopment, as well as $45 million for capital improvements at Early Education and Care facilities.

“Our administration continues to seek collaborative partnerships with communities to increase affordable and market-rate housing production across the Commonwealth, through this bill, our pending Housing Choice Initiative, affordable housing awards, the Workforce Housing Initiative and the Housing Development Incentive Program,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “The housing bond bill builds on these efforts, and we are proud to have worked collaboratively with our dedicated partners in the Legislature to ensure continued funding for critical housing programs.”

The administration’s first three capital budgets supported the creation or preservation of approximately 7,500 affordable housing units, provided $17.8 million to four public housing developments for comprehensive modernization of housing for seniors and individuals with disabilities and allowed the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCH) to award $150 million for deferred maintenance projects to more than 45,000 units of extremely low-income state public housing across 234 communities.

“Massachusetts’ growing economy has increased pressure on our housing market, creating challenges for families, communities, and employers’ ability to attract and retain talent,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash. “This housing bond bill provides tools to increase housing production, including extending the State Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and the Housing Development Incentive Program. These programs support the diverse needs for housing development, which together will help us achieve our goal of stronger, more inclusive Massachusetts economy.”

The bill signing took place in Boston’s Brighton neighborhood at the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg House, operated by Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly.

“Our goal is to ensure Massachusetts families and residents, despite their income, have access to safe, quality housing they can afford,” said Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Janelle Chan. “Housing, in particular housing affordable to the spectrum of households, drives economic development, supports vibrant and walkable downtowns, promotes neighborhood stability, and enables families and residents to thrive.”

“The Housing Bond Bill will continue to give the Commonwealth the tools it needs to continue confronting its housing challenges and produce and preserve the housing we need in a growing economy,” said MassHousing Executive Director Chrystal Kornegay. “The legislation will also allow MassHousing to increase the number of the Commonwealth’s residents who can have access to stable, quality housing. We thank the Legislature for their important leadership on this issue.”

“Preserving and producing affordable housing is central to sustaining the Commonwealth’s economic prosperity,” said Senator Boncore, Senate Chair Joint Committee on Housing. “This bond bill makes thoughtful and innovative investments that will serve as tools for municipalities and developers in the modernization and production of our state’s housing stock.”

“We are all well aware of the housing crisis in Massachusetts” said Representative Kevin G. Honan, chairman of the Joint Committee on Housing. “This Housing Bond Bill is a tangible commitment to affordable housing. The provisions of this bill are the tried and true affordable housing tools that are at our disposal. Through this bill, we will recommit ourselves to housing the elderly, disabled and homeless.”

“Today is a great day for the Commonwealth.  This bond bill will allow us to continue to make important investments in housing for years to come,” said Assistant Minority Leader Bradley Hill. “I am proud to have been a part of passing this legislation and am thankful to the Governor and Lt. Governor for their leadership.”

“The housing bond bill expands opportunities for children, seniors, people with disabilities, and families at risk of homelessness to find safe, healthy, and affordable homes,” said Rachel Heller, chief executive officer of Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association. “This legislation is the result of strong partnerships among advocates, the Legislature, and the Administration who worked together to pass the bill. As one of the first bond bills filed and passed this session, the Housing Bond Bill demonstrates that creating and preserving more affordable housing is a top priority in the Commonwealth.”

“Today’s signing of the $1.8 billion Housing Bond Bill reflects the collective determination of the Baker-Polito Administration, the Legislature and housing advocates to address the need for affordable housing in Massachusetts,” said Clark Ziegler, executive director of the Massachusetts Housing Partnership. “The combination of a strong state economy, high housing demand and low production has created one of the largest affordability gaps in the U.S.  More than 240,000 low-income individuals and families in Massachusetts now pay more than half of their income on rent.  Private housing production alone will not solve that problem. The programs authorized in this bill are one of the few ways we can close this gap. Congratulations to all those who worked so hard to address the Commonwealth’s housing needs.”

“It is an incredible honor for JCHE to host this historic bill signing,” said Amy Schectman, president and chief executive officer of Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly. “Prior bond bill funds have allowed us to build our award-winning supportive, affordable housing and these new funds will be vital to creating additional opportunities for older adults to age in community.  Kudos to Governor Baker and Chairmen Honan and Boncore for their brilliant leadership on this life-or-death issue.”

The housing bond bill includes:

  • State Low-Income Housing Tax Credit: Extends the state’s ability to commit $20 million per year in tax credits to affordable housing projects until 2025 and authorizes an additional $5 million per year in tax credits specifically to support preservation of existing affordable housing. Current law would cut the size of this tax credit to $10 million on January 1, 2020.
  • Housing Development Incentive Program: Extends the state’s ability to commit $10 million per year in tax credits to market-rate housing projects in Gateway Cities until 2024. Current law would cut the size of this tax credit in half, to $5 million, on January 1, 2019.
  • Accessory Dwelling Unit Construction and Landlord Modifications: Authorizes the use of home modification funding to construct accessory dwelling units for elders and individuals with disabilities and also authorizes up to 10% of the funds to be used to support landlord expenditures to modify units for tenants with disabilities, implementing recommendations of the administration’s Interagency Council on Housing and Homelessness.
  • MassHousing Services: Expands MassHousing’s authorizing language, to allow the quasi-public agency to provide contract administration, loan servicing, and other services to other states’ housing finance agencies.
  • Early Education and Out-of-School Time (EEOST) Capital Fund Facilities Improvement Grant Program: Provides funding to non-profit child care programs licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care to renovate, acquire, or construct high-quality child care program facilities that serve low-income families and communities, fostering high quality child care environments that support positive outcomes for children.

The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to meeting Massachusetts’ housing challenge through key investments, new initiatives and program reforms. With the addition of the FY19 capital plan, the Administration will have dedicated $884 million to housing from FY16 to FY19, an increase of $100 million over the previous four years’ capital plans.

In December 2017, the administration announced the Housing Choice Initiative, a comprehensive proposal to create 135,000 new housing units by 2025. The initiative, which is currently pending before the Legislature, includes a new set of incentives and rewards for municipalities committed to sustainable housing growth in their communities. The Housing Choice Initiative is a multi-pronged effort that includes a program to designate Housing Choice municipalities and new technical assistance opportunities through MassHousing, in addition to proposed legislative changes that will help deliver smart, effective zoning at the local level.

Additionally, the highly effective MassWorks Infrastructure Program continues to be a key catalyst for housing production, supporting the creation of more than 3,000 housing units. The Open for Business Initiative will drive the production of more than 2,200 units of housing on state land. MassHousing’s $100 million Workforce Housing Initiative has advanced the development of 2,309 housing units across a range of incomes, including 616 workforce housing units. And, the administration reformed the Housing Development Incentive Program, which is on track to facilitate more than 900 new units in Gateway Cities.

###

SourceOffice of the Governor

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $8 Million in Funding to Support Nearly 100 Units of Supportive Housing

Seven housing projects will provide comprehensive supportive services for individuals, families and seniors

 

Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development
Housing and Community Development
Office of Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito

DENNIS, MA — Today, the Baker-Polito Administration awarded nearly $8 million in funding to support the creation or preservation of almost 100 units of supportive housing. Lt. Governor Karyn Polito and Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Janelle Chan joined Roger Herzog, Executive Director of Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC), Kathy Ohman, President of FORWARD, and members of the Legislature to announce the awards which include $5.5 million in state funding, 28 project-based state housing vouchers, and will leverage $2.5 million from the National Housing Trust Fund. These seven developments will provide housing with supportive services for vulnerable populations across the state, including homeless families and individuals, veterans, persons with disabilities and adults with autism. Since 2015, the Baker-Polito Administration has supported the creation or preservation of more than 600 units of housing with comprehensive support services, including today’s awards.
“The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to creating housing opportunities across Massachusetts that meet the needs of all our residents,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “The awards we are announcing today will create, expand and preserve critical housing resources for those who need it most and our Administration is proud to continue supporting these developments throughout the Commonwealth.”“I am proud to join FORWARD in Dennis to announce these important awards, which will provide services to communities across the Commonwealth, from here on Cape Cod, to Pittsfield,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “Our Administration looks forward to continuing to working with our partners at the local level to develop new housing opportunities for cities and towns in Massachusetts.”Lt. Governor Polito and Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Janelle Chan made the announcement at the future site of FORWARD at the Rock. The development will create eight units of supportive housing for adults with autism. FORWARD, Friends or Relatives With Autism and Related Disabilities, is an advocacy group founded in 2013, and will work with Housing Assistance Corporation on Cape Cod to develop the project with specific supports for this community.

“Today’s awards will provide critical, wraparound services for low-income individuals with disabilities, formerly homeless veterans, families, and adults with autism,” said Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Janelle Chan. “These projects will provide residents with long-term stability and opportunities to thrive by locating comprehensive services where they live.”

The National Housing Trust Fund is a federal program to support the development of affordable housing for low-income individuals and households, with supportive services. The Department of Housing and Community Development worked in coordination with the Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC) to make the combined $8 million available for the seven projects. Comprehensive support services, may include education, skills training, childcare, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and comprehensive case management.

“CEDAC is pleased to work with DHCD on these important supportive housing projects benefitting veterans, disabled persons, elders, and other low income families in seven Massachusetts communities,” said Roger Herzog, Executive Director, CEDAC.  “We continue to look for new opportunities to work with local communities and non-profit organizations to create and preserve affordable housing options that meet the needs of all families and individuals in Massachusetts.”

“In 2013, the Town of Dennis perceived a need for affordable housing for adults with autism and identified Town-owned land that could be dedicated to fill that need. At age 22, adults with autism “age out” of special education programs in public schools. This results in 80 percent of adults with autism living at home with little opportunity for social interaction. As parents age, they may no longer be able to care for their children with autism.  There is not enough support or resources for adults with autism, particularly with regards to long term living arrangements,” said Paul McCormick, Chairman of the Dennis Board of Selectmen. “Dennis is committed with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in supporting our adults with autism through this partnership with Project FORWARD.”

“The partnership between FORWARD, The Housing Assistance Corporation, and the Town of Dennis to create a residential community for adults with autism is an extraordinary accomplishment and an innovative model for other communities to emulate,” said State Senator Julian Cyr. “I want to extend a special thank you to Kathy Ohman, President of FORWARD, for her dogged commitment and leadership of the project; Kathy’s vision of a residence where adults with autism can age-in-place with dignity and respect is now one step closer to reality.”

“I’d like to thank the Baker-Polito Administration, as well as Secretary Jay Ash for their continued commitment to serving persons on the autism spectrum and ensuring access to safe and supportive housing,” said Representative Tim Whelan. “This has been a fantastic collaboration between local, concerned citizens and their state government.”

“HAC is excited to be a part of this project which has received significant support from the community, local representatives and the state,” said Housing Assistance Corporation CEO Alisa Galazi. “Our region badly needs affordable housing and especially for the autistic adults, and this project is exemplifies the kind of housing we need.”

“FORWARD is a unique collaboration of non-profits, state and local agencies to provide much needed affordable housing for cape cod adults with autism and related disabilities here in Dennis,” said Kathy Ohman, FORWARD. ”We are thankful to Undersecretary Chan and the Baker-Polito Administration, and congratulations to the other recipients of these important funds.”

In 2017, the Baker-Polito Administration unveiled the new Housing Choice Initiative, which created a new system of incentives and rewards for municipalities that deliver sustainable housing growth; created a new technical assistance toolbox to empower cities and towns to plan for new housing production; and proposed legislative changes, through An Act to Promote Housing Choices, to deliver smart, effective zoning at the local level.

The Baker-Polito Administration is deeply committed to meeting this housing challenge, through key investments, new initiatives and program reforms. In April, Governor Baker filed a housing bond bill seeking $1.287 billion in additional capital authorization to advance the administration’s commitment to affordable housing and has increased funding for affordable housing by 19 percent and is on course to invest $1.1 billion over five years in affordable housing. The highly effective MassWorks Infrastructure Program continues to be a key catalyst for housing production, supporting the creation of more than 3,000 housing units. The Open for Business Initiative will drive the production of more than 2,200 units of housing on state land. MassHousing’s $100 million Workforce Housing Initiative has advanced the development of 2,309 housing units across a range of incomes, including 616 workforce housing units. And, through An Act Relative to Job Creation and Workforce Development, the administration reformed the Housing Development Incentive Program, which is on track to facilitate more than 900 new units in Gateway Cities.


2018 Supportive Housing Awards

FORWARD at the Rock, Dennis        

FORWARD at the Rock is a production project that will create eight units of permanent supportive, single-room-occupancy (SRO) housing for adults with autism. The project sponsor, FORWARD (Friends Or Relatives With Autism and Related Disabilities), is an advocacy group founded in 2013 for the specific purpose of developing housing for this vulnerable population, and has partnered with the Housing Assistance Corporation on Cape Cod.  CapeAbilities will provide comprehensive supportive services.

Carlos Vega Townhomes, Holyoke

Carlos Vega Townhomes will preserve 18 units of family housing for farmworkers in Western Massachusetts, and provide necessary accessibility improvements to the property, allowing existing households to age in place. The project is owned by Valley Housing Development Corporation. Wayfinders is the project sponsor and will provide resident services to tenants.

Sergeant House Expansion, Northampton

Sergeant House Expansion will update and expand a traditional 15-room SRO owned by Valley Community Development Corporation, and create 31 enhanced SRO units (16 new units; 15 preserved units), each with its own kitchenette and bathroom.

Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Village Phase II, Pittsfield

Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Village Phase II, sponsored by Soldier On, Inc., is a new production project that will create 14 units of permanent supportive housing for formerly homeless female veterans. Soldier On will provide supportive services targeted to female veterans who have experienced trauma, including military sexual trauma and post-traumatic stress.

Germantown House, Quincy

Germantown House will produce a five-unit congregate home for extremely low income adults with physical and developmental disabilities. The project sponsor is NeighborWorks of Southern Mass., and 24-hour on-site services will be provided by Work, Inc.

Headwaters Replacement Housing, Wareham/Sandwich

Headwaters Replacement Housing, sponsored by Residential Rehabilitation Housing, Inc., will produce 10 units of SRO housing for very low income adults with disabilities. The project design is highly responsive to the particular physical and environmental needs of the population to be served. Twenty-four hour on-site supportive services will be provided by Latham Centers.

149 Belmont Street Preservation and Stabilization, Worcester

149 Belmont Street is an existing supportive housing project owned by Worcester East Side Community Development Corporation. The project currently provides nine studio apartments for formerly homeless adults with disabilities.

 

###

Source Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development Housing and Community Development