Candidates split on rent limits; broad agreement on boosting housing supply and curbing short‑term rentals

At the forum, candidates described a shared goal — more housing supply — while expressing different views on rent limits. John Newhall and Andrew Smith voiced support for rent stabilization measures: Newhall said he supports “forms of rent control” that would let landlords raise rents but protect tenants, while Smith said he would support a likely statewide stabilization measure expected on a future ballot and urged local planning to prepare for it.

Opposing strict rent caps, Cindy Jerslow and William LeGault said they would not support limiting annual rent increases, arguing the market and incentives for landlords are preferable. LeGault suggested tax incentives and facade grants to encourage landlords to keep rents lower and asked for a better accounting of short-term rentals. Several candidates targeted short-term rentals (Airbnb) as reducing rental supply: Jerslow said many short-term rentals exist in her neighborhood and described the city’s owner-occupancy requirement for short-term rentals but said enforcement is weak.

All candidates endorsed boosting housing supply through new development, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), converting underused buildings and enforcing owner-occupancy short-term-rental rules. Candidates warned that inclusionary zoning and other local rules shape developer incentives, and several urged retrofitting existing parking-heavy buildings and repurposing spaces like Shetland Park or Church Street for housing and retail that could include affordable units.