The Charles River Regional Chamber recently announced that it “is partnering” with a coalition “housing and climate advocates, civic leaders and clergy in support of passing the proposed Village Center Overlay District, which will also allow the city to be in compliance with the state’s MBTA Communities Law.”
The coalition, using the slogan “Newton For Everyone,” currently includes Engine 6, Green Newton’s Green Building Principles Committee, the Newton Interfaith Clergy for Housing Equity (NICHE), and the Charles River Chamber.
Chamber President, Greg Reibman said, “The chamber is proud to stand with Engine 6, the Green Newton Building Standards Committee, the Newton Interfaith Clergy and the hundreds of residents who are displaying ‘Newton for Everyone’ signs on their lawns because we have confidence that this proposal can gradually help address our housing shortage and bring vibrancy to our village centers.”
With regard to the Chamber’s process in deciding to join the coalition, “The chamber’s board of directors unanimously voted to support VCOD at its September 20 meeting although, as is our practice, we will wait for the final draft to emerge from ZAP before we issue our formal endorsement in case there are any substantive changes.”
He added: “The chamber has not donated any funds to ‘Newton For Everyone’ educational effort but I’m proud to have one of our signs on my lawn.”
Although there is no contact information for the group, visitors to the coalition’s website can submit their contact information to the group, ask questions, and request a yard sign.
Ed. Note: Fig City News, a member of the Charles River Regional Chamber, took no part in the Chamber’s decision on this matter. Fig City News is not taking a position for or against the proposed Village Center Overlay District amendment.