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Residents voice sharp opposition to Hunter-lot affordable-housing proposals during lengthy public-comment period
Summary
Dozens of residents criticized the board’s handling of affordable-housing proposals (including references to a West Habs/West Ham proposal and the Hunter lot), raising concerns about transparency, parking, traffic, school overcrowding and developer influence.
A large and at times heated public-comment block focused on proposed affordable-housing development at the Hunter lot and associated zoning changes. Multiple speakers accused the board and private interests of nontransparent dealings, contended the proposals would worsen traffic and overcrowd schools, and urged trustees to reconsider moving forward without greater public benefit.
"You're allowing crooked developers get rich," one resident testified, alleging an "inner circle" of stakeholders worked behind the scenes during earlier moratoria and zoning discussions. Another speaker said school cafeterias are overwhelmed and argued that adding units would further strain facilities.
Speakers repeatedly asked the board to disclose prior email exchanges, ARPA set-asides and how previously approved funds have been spent; one resident recommended the board review prior resolutions to confirm available funds for flood or housing projects.
Trustees did not take formal action on the Hunter-lot proposals during this meeting; the record shows strong neighborhood opposition and multiple requests that the board prioritize infrastructure (flooding, parking, school capacity) before approving major land-use changes.
