Somerville School Committee: Vote no on 2

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To the Editor,
The Somerville School Committee has taken a strong stand against Question #2, which will appear on state ballots on November 2. We ask all voters to join with us in voting NO on Ballot Question #2.
Question #2 would repeal Chapter 40B, the successful affordable housing legislation that provides incentives for developers of multi-unit projects to reserve homes and apartments for low and moderate income families. To date, nearly 58,000 affordable units have been constructed, allowing working families and seniors on fixed incomes to live in communities that otherwise would be out of their reach.
Business leaders, religious groups, and all of the candidates for governor have voiced their opposition to Question #2 for the devastating impact the repeal of Chapter 40B would have on our state’s ability to provide housing for young working families and seniors who hope to age here in Massachusetts.  With some of the most expensive housing in the country, Massachusetts will be at a competitive disadvantage if we can no longer provide the type of affordable housing allowed under Chapter 40 B.

As a School Committee, we ask you to please join with us in support of vibrant communities and VOTE NO on Question #2.
Sincerely,
Mark Niedergang, Chairman, Ward 5
Adam Sweeting, Vice Chairman, Ward 3
Maureen Bastardi, Ward 1
Teresa Cardoso, Ward 2
Christine Rafal, Ward 4
Paul Bockelman, Ward 6
Mary Jo Rossetti, Ward 7
Jack Connolly, President, Board of Aldermen
Joseph Curtatone, Mayor