September 2020 News

We've surveyed our audience and the results are in.

• Most people were fine with the frequency of these emails or would like to get them a little more often.

• Many people felt that it would be helpful for us to provide specific suggestions about ways you can provide feedback to city officials on different projects and issues, but not so far as providing pre-written emails.

• Many of you encouraged us to build alliances with other groups. Another popular idea was having online meetings to share information with each other.

• One of the most popular priorities was the Affordable Housing Overlay, making it easier for affordable housing to be built.

So, here's what we're planning to do:

• We are doing research now about affordable housing overlay rules in other cities.

• We will try to build relationships with other groups in the city to support this new zoning rule as it is formed.

• As we learn about it, we'll plan to host an online meeting to share what we learn.

• We'll aim to send these emails at least once or twice a month.

• We'll include more specific suggestions for how you can provide feedback to city officials on key issues.

How Should The City Spend Community Preservation Act Funds?

The Community Preservation Act allows Somerville to have a dedicated municipal fund that can be spent on open space, parks, affordable housing, and historic preservation. And they want to know how YOU want that money spent.Click here to take the city's survey. It's only four questions, and you can use it to push the city to fund your priorities. We recommend placing emphasis on affordable housing and open space.