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Roslindale Coalition tells council Main Streets outreach failed; asks whether relocation dollars exist for displaced businesses
Summary
A Roslindale Coalition representative told the committee that outreach to small business owners during the Squares and Streets rezoning was insufficient, that language access was poor, and that at least four owners said they plan to leave the square. She asked whether the OEOI budget includes funds to help businesses relocate.
During the public‑testimony portion of the Boston City Council Committee on Ways and Means hearing April 29, Lori Radwin of the Roslindale Coalition urged OEOI and city planning offices to intervene for small businesses affected by the Squares and Streets rezoning.
Radwin said the Roslindale Coalition represents about 800 members and affiliates, with about 20–25% of those members owning small businesses in Roslindale Square. She told the committee that outreach and translation were inadequate during rezoning and that many small owners had little time or information to respond.
Why it matters: Community representatives said zoning and redevelopment decisions that proceed without effective outreach and supports can push long‑standing neighborhood businesses out of their locations, eroding local character and jobs.
What Radwin told…
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