Somerville is in a housing crisis, and our residents need action. Today, I join Mayor Wu and Governor Healey in saying that I strongly support compromise legislation on rent stabilization so that we can finally see some results.
Too many renters live with the fear that one rent increase, one lease renewal, or one building sale could force them out of their home. We believe in helping tenants stay in their homes whenever possible – and reasonable rent regulation is one critical tool in the toolkit to help make this happen.
Somerville has made important progress thanks to the vital work of the Anti-Displacement Task Force and many others. We filed S.22, a home rule petition seeking authorization to enact rent stabilization, and we’ve also supported enabling legislation S.1447/H2328 sponsored by Senator Pat Jehlen and Representative David Rogers. Now, I believe our best chance of achieving the key goals of our Home Rule Petition and providing renters with necessary relief is this compromise proposal.
The proposal would finally give communities like Somerville the ability to adopt local rent stabilization that they so desperately need and puts forward an annual cap on rent increases of the consumer price index (CPI) plus 5%, up to a maximum of 10%. The compromise also allows landlords to set market rates when units are vacant. These adjustments could break the stalemate and move this urgent issue forward with immediacy. I am grateful to all who came together in good faith to draft this compromise. In this time of great political polarization, dialogue is key.
I urge the Legislature to pass this compromise legislation and give communities like Somerville the tools we need to protect residents, prevent displacement, and keep Massachusetts home for the people who keep our cities and towns thriving.
You make great points which I agree with. Just want to add these three are not Somerville people or even Mass. people. All converging on here with their politics and ideas. Most of which is not wanted here. Or even fits in here. We desperately need to change our elected here to people who care for Somerville.
I guess its easy for the taxing trio. How do homeowners with families, elderly or disabled persons on limited or fixed incomes survive. The water bills, taxes and other city fees continue to escalate every year. Water / sewer just increased 15% who pays that.
Lets reevaluate the process of new and large developments such as the multi level buildings in Assembly, Union and Davis Squares, along with the expensive condos being built. Include costs to alleviate increases for the owner occupied and rental properties that are not charging excessive rents.
A good example is the water / sewer costs charge them in the new development cost. They are increasing the wear and tear and likely adding a burden onto the 100 + year old systems.
The city also needs to live within its means. With all the technology we are employing more staff in departments when it could and should be less at a much higher cost. We need more boots on the ground repairing and cleaning up a community that once shined and is no longer doing so.