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Councilor proposes 500‑sq‑ft minimum for new units as city weighs housing standards
Summary
Councilor Kerwin introduced an ordinance to set a minimum floor area (proposed 500 sq ft) for new residential units after developers proposed units as small as 275 sq ft; discussion focused on habitability standards, possible exemptions and the need for further departmental input.
Councilor Kerwin said he will submit an ordinance to establish minimum square‑footage standards for newly constructed housing units, proposing 500 square feet as a starting point and citing local and Boston precedents for minimum studio sizes. Kerwin said small "one‑bedroom" units in a recent project measured about 275 square feet and that the council should adopt guidance so members know what they are voting for.
Kerwin framed the proposal as balancing the need for additional housing with standards for habitability. "We don't wanna vote for units of 275 square feet that are not hospitable for families," he said, arguing the council should set a clear minimum so future developments meet basic livability standards. He said Boston’s approach—allowing micro‑units by special process while setting typical studio minimums near 450 sq ft—was a useful reference.
Councilors and staff agreed the topic requires more departmental detail and additional meetings: building and code enforcement representatives were invited but not present at the subcommittee session, and Kerwin said the item will be rescheduled to allow code and housing staff to attend. The councilor characterized his submission as the start of a conversation and noted he did not intend to freeze out development but to set baseline standards consistent with other Massachusetts cities.
No formal vote was taken on the proposed minimum‑size ordinance during the meeting. Councilors said they will pursue further review with building, planning and housing staff before introducing final language to the City Council.
