Bill > S176

This bill amends Chapter 40R of Massachusetts state law to modify financial incentives for cities and towns that establish smart growth and starter home zoning districts. The bill introduces a new zoning incentive payment schedule that provides increasing financial rewards based on the projected number of new housing units: municipalities with up to 20 units would receive no payment, while those with 501 or more projected units would receive $1,200,000. Additionally, the bill establishes a one-time density bonus payment and a one-time production bonus payment of $6,000 per new housing unit created in these districts. These payments would be made from state trust funds or other appropriated money, and would be contingent on the municipality receiving department approval for their smart growth or starter home zoning district and providing proof of building permits for new housing units. The goal of these financial incentives is to encourage local governments to create zoning districts that support affordable housing development and more compact, sustainable urban growth.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S176