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Boston Tea Party 2.0 Unfolding
While both the Boston Tea Party and resistance to the MBTA Communities Act involve acts of defiance against governmental authorities, the motivations and historical contexts of these events are quite different. The Boston Tea Party was a foundational moment in the struggle for American independence, while resistance to the MBTA Communities Act is part of ongoing debates about governance, public policy, and community rights in a modern context.
MBTA Communities Act Myths & Facts
On Thursday, April 11, 2024, residents of Shrewsbury gathered for an open forum to explore the myths, facts, and misconceptions about the MBTA Communities Act, with a specific focus on how it affects Shrewsbury and the 176 other communities in Massachusetts. Millbury, facing parallel challenges, emphasizes the importance of making decisions rooted in informed understanding rather than relying on state leaders' propaganda. It's crucial to note that the deadline for compliance is December 31, 2024.
Milton Rejects MBTA Communities Act
State officials are apprehensive that the Milton vote might embolden other communities to entertain the idea of non-compliance with the MBTA Communities Act, posing a significant setback to Governor Healey’s efforts to expand affordable housing. Numerous municipal officials are closely monitoring Milton's "no" vote to gauge the state's resolve in enforcing the new legislation.
MBTA Inclusionary Zoning Area Disclosed
The MBTA Inclusionary Zoning might be inconsequential, either way, considering that the defined area is fully developed. Furthermore, the process of acquiring developed properties, demolishing them, and constructing densely populated housing units demands substantial capital. Up to this point, no major corporate investor has shown interest in pursuing any such endeavors in Millbury. The transition from the current state to achieving 15 dwelling units per acre is improbable to happen overnight.
Holden Residents’ MBTA Challenge Dismissed
The lawsuit against the Town of Holden for not adhering to the 2021 MBTA Communities Act aimed at increasing housing supply was dismissed by Judge Daniel Wrenn. The plaintiffs failed to prove how the Town of Holden's noncompliance specifically harmed them. While the law requires certain zoning near transit stations, the Town of Holden, despite not having such stations, is still affected due to its proximity to Worcester, which does have transit access.
North Side Of Rice Road Rezoned
Article 26, Rezoning To Suburban II A Portion Of Residential I North Of Rice Road, was adopted by a two-thirds majority at Millbury's Town Meeting on May 3, 2022.