Northampton Housing Partnership reaffirms support for brokers‑fee home‑rule petition; authorizes op‑ed submission

The Northampton Housing Partnership voted unanimously to send a letter endorsing a home‑rule petition on broker fees and to authorize a Partnership member to finalize and submit an op‑ed ahead of the City Council’s April 17 vote.

Richard Abusa moved that the Partnership send a renewed letter of support for the brokers‑fee home‑rule petition; Bev Bates seconded. The Partnership recorded six yes votes and approved the motion. Members discussed whether to appear at the City Council session in person or to send a letter on the Partnership’s behalf.

Why it matters: Public comment and Partnership discussion framed the petition as a tenant protection measure and noted parallel state‑level activity. During public comment, Ace Tayloe, a former Partnership member, noted that there is state‑level activity: “Last year, the governor made an announcement about a possible law to ban brokers fees across all of Massachusetts,” and urged local action so the city’s position is clear ahead of any state changes.

Partnership members also moved and approved a second motion authorizing Hannah Schaffer to make final edits to an op‑ed and submit it on behalf of the Partnership. Members discussed publication outlets; Schaffer identified MassLive, The Republican and the Gazette as possible venues to which she could submit the op‑ed.

Members acknowledged there has been previous opposition from landlord and broker interests and noted that a visible Partnership presence at the City Council hearing could be helpful; the Partnership agreed to circulate reminders so members who can attend do so. Partnership staff said a draft letter and the op‑ed would be circulated in advance following the meeting procedure rules.

Both motions were approved by roll call votes with all members present voting yes.