Agenda Text
title
Danielle Dupre submitting comments re: #202235, a Community Benefits Agreement for Union Sq.
body
Official Text
To the Honorable Board:
I'm a homeowner in Somerville in the Union Square neighborhood, and although I arrived late at last week's hearing on the Community Benefits Agreement issue, I was glad to hear the Board would accept additional comments. The testimony I heard was so supportive of efforts to keep Somerville and Union Square an inclusive, diverse, vibrant community for us all. Community-based activism and engagement is particularly important in the post-election climate.
When it comes to Union Square redevelopment, stakeholders from within the community itself, who can speak with authority and independence on issues like living wage jobs, environmental impacts/green space, and affordable housing should have a seat at the table. These issues cannot be addressed by zoning alone.
I am writing to express my support for the Union United request that the Board not approve the proposed zoning for Union Square redevelopment without a written, enforceable commitment to proceed with a CBA in place.
Thank you for your consideration,
Danielle Dupre