Relative to expanding the eligibility of households for inclusion in a municipality’s affordable housing inventory
Impact
Under this legislation, the chief executive officer of a municipality can include up to 50% of the total number of resident households living in manufactured homes as income eligible for affordable housing purposes. This is intended to make it easier for municipalities to meet their affordable housing goals, potentially leading to an increase in accessible housing options for residents who may not traditionally qualify under current income guidelines. The Department of Housing and Economic Development will play a key role in verifying the accuracy of reported manufactured homes in each municipality.
Summary
Senate Bill S898 is aimed at expanding the eligibility of households for inclusion in a municipality's affordable housing inventory in Massachusetts. The bill specifically amends regulations to allow municipalities to consider a significant number of households residing in manufactured homes as income-eligible for affordable housing certifications. This proposal is driven by the need to address housing shortages and ensure that a broader range of housing types is recognized in local housing plans.
Contention
Some points of contention surrounding S898 involve the implications for local control and the definition of households that qualify for affordable housing. Critics may argue that including more manufactured homes could dilute the standards required for affordable housing eligibility, while supporters assert that it provides necessary flexibility to address acute housing shortages. Stakeholders will be looking closely at how this can affect local housing strategies, community development plans, and the overall housing market in municipalities across the Commonwealth.