This means that developers can build these projects without needing to obtain special permits or approvals from local governments.
The New MBTA Communities Act: A Game-Changer for Affordable Housing
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has introduced a groundbreaking new law, the MBTA Communities Act, aimed at addressing the state’s severe affordable housing shortage. This legislation imposes zoning mandates on 177 communities, requiring municipalities to create at least one high-density, multifamily housing district “as of right” near public transportation. The law is a significant step towards increasing the availability of affordable housing options in Massachusetts.
Key Provisions of the MBTA Communities Act
The Massachusetts General Court passed a law in 2019 that allowed for the installation of grid-scale battery storage systems. The law, known as the “Grid Modernization Act,” was signed by Governor Charlie Baker in 2019.
The Grid Modernization Act: A Breakthrough for Renewable Energy
The Grid Modernization Act, signed into law by Governor Charlie Baker in 2019, marked a significant milestone in the development of renewable energy in Massachusetts. The law aimed to modernize the state’s grid infrastructure, making it more resilient and adaptable to the increasing demands of renewable energy sources.
Key Provisions of the Act
The Grid Modernization Act introduced several key provisions that paved the way for the widespread adoption of grid-scale battery storage systems. Some of the notable provisions include:
The State’s Compelling Interest Argument
The Attorney General’s argument centers on the state’s compelling interest in regulating certain land uses. This interest is rooted in the state’s constitutional authority to regulate land use, as well as its legislative power to enact laws that protect the public interest.
The Role of the Legislature
The Legislature has deemed it necessary to limit the authority of municipalities to control certain land uses. This limitation is based on the state’s compelling interest in regulating these uses, as well as the need to prevent discriminatory practices.
The letter was dated March 31, 2023, and was sent to AG’s office in response to a request for information on the board’s actions regarding the proposed Wendell Select Board meeting on April 4, 2023.
The Context of the Letter
The Wendell Select Board is a governing body responsible for making decisions that affect the town of Wendell, Massachusetts.
The board has been working with the BESS project team to develop a comprehensive risk management plan to mitigate these risks.
Understanding the Risks of BESS
The BESS project involves the installation of 10,000 lithium-ion batteries to provide energy storage for the town’s grid.
The appeal is against the government’s decision to deny their application for a permit to build a new community center.
Launching a GoFundMe Campaign
The Wendell group, a community-led organization, has taken a proactive approach to addressing the issue by launching a GoFundMe legal defense fundraiser. This campaign aims to raise funds to support their land court appeal, which is a crucial step in the process of obtaining the necessary permits to build their community center.
Key Objectives of the GoFundMe Campaign
The Importance of Community-Led Development
Community-led development is a critical aspect of the Wendell group’s project.
Al Norman lives in Greenfield.
