Housing

Housing That Works for Everyone

A pro-housing plan to build, protect, and stabilize Ward 5

Housing is a human right. And in Somerville, that right is out of reach for far too many. Renters are getting squeezed. Families are being priced out. And our middle class is vanishing under the weight of a broken housing market.

I am a renter and a proud YIMBY who believes we need to build more housing at every level—market rate, middle income, and deeply affordable. Because we cannot stabilize prices or create real opportunity if we are not building.

We need to protect tenants and build for the future. Not just talk about affordability, but deliver it—through smart growth, strong protections, and zoning that reflects today’s reality.

A Pro-Housing Agenda for Ward 5

1. Build for the Middle Class
We cannot solve this crisis by focusing only on deeply affordable or luxury units. I will champion housing for working professionals, public servants, and middle income families—the people who hold our community together but are being pushed out.

2. Affordable Housing for Those Most in Need
Every neighborhood in Somerville should include truly affordable housing. I will support expanding inclusionary zoning, improving the affordable housing lottery process, and strengthening partnerships with nonprofit housing developers to ensure low income families have access to safe, stable homes.

3. Embrace Market Rate Housing as Part of the Solution
Market rate development is not the enemy. When done responsibly, it increases supply and takes pressure off the most vulnerable. I support updating zoning to encourage market rate construction alongside strong affordability requirements so that housing for all incomes gets built.

4. Cut Red Tape and Speed Up Permitting
Permitting delays and outdated rules make building harder and more expensive. I will push to streamline approvals, remove excessive parking mandates, and ensure our planning departments are fully staffed and equipped to move projects forward.

5. Upzone Near Transit and Commercial Corridors
We need more housing near public transportation and in underutilized parts of the city. I will support increased height and density in these areas to create vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that grow alongside Somerville’s needs.

6. Keep People in Their Homes
Building is essential, but so is stability. I will fight for tenant protections including right to counsel, stronger eviction safeguards, and expanded rental assistance. We cannot build our way out of this crisis without also protecting the people already here.

This is how we make Somerville affordable again—not through slogans, but by building. And by making sure no one gets left behind in the process.