Boston City Council Debates Housing Initiatives and Approves Senior Tax Exemption Amid Tensions

Overview: The Boston City Council meeting was marked by discussions around housing initiatives, as well as the approval of a senior tax exemption aimed at providing relief to elderly residents. Key topics included the allocation of resources for housing projects, the implications of a proposed senior tax exemption, and community engagement in decision-making processes.

Boston Zoning Board Approves 28-Story Mixed-Use Development in Fenway

Overview: In a development for Boston’s Fenway neighborhood, the Boston Zoning Board of Appeals has approved a proposal for a 28-story mixed-use building at 100 to 120 Ipswich Street. This project will include 484 residential units, 68 of which will be designated as affordable housing. The approval marks a step in addressing the city’s housing shortage while contributing to urban revitalization efforts.

Boston City Council Proposes $110 Million Housing Accelerator Fund Amidst Community Concerns

Overview: In a recent Boston City Council meeting, the focus was on addressing the city’s housing crisis through the proposed $110 million Housing Accelerator Fund, aimed at bolstering affordable housing development. Discussions highlighted financing hurdles, community engagement, and the need for housing solutions, particularly for low-income residents. The fund is designed to support the construction of affordable housing units by taking an equity ownership position in developments, with the expectation of returns lower than those typically demanded by private investors.

Boston Building Emissions Review Board Advances Emissions Plans for Key City and Private Portfolios

Overview: The Boston Building Emissions Review Board met to review applications and discuss strategies for reducing emissions across the city, particularly focusing on buildings within Environmental Justice communities and city-owned properties. Key discussions revolved around Massachusetts General Brigham’s (MGB) decarbonization strategies and the city’s building portfolio management.

Boston City Council Tackles School Bus Driver Pay and Transportation Challenges

Overview: In a recent Boston City Council meeting, attention was directed toward the approval of new contracts affecting school bus drivers and the operational intricacies of student transportation. The council deliberated over collective bargaining agreements that will notably adjust wages, working hours, and service reliability, especially impacting the transportation available for Boston Public Schools’ students, including athletes.