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Upcoming Public Hearings
Nov. 14th, 2017 11:14 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
lancedavisward6There are several public hearings coming up, on three different nights.
1. Wednesday, Nov. 15th, 7:30 P.M. City Hall -- This is for the proposed extension of the Medical Marijuana Overlay District (http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2547&MediaPosition=&ID=16946&CssClass=), which expired in June of this year. Five applicants received a letter of non-opposition from the city. Of those, one is now open, one is under construction, two have withdrawn, and one still wants to go forward with their plan (in Union Square). In order to obtain the Special Permit required to do so, the MMOD would need to be extended. I'm told that at this time the Administration has no plans to consider additional applications (though that could be revisited in the future). The Administration does expect to include a permanent MMOD in the proposed zoning overhaul, which is not yet before the Board.
2. Monday, November 27th, 6:00 P.M. City Hall -- There are technically four separate public hearings to be held on the 27th, on two topics:
A) Creating a jobs linkage fee:
- http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2548&MediaPosition=&ID=17127&CssClass=
and
- http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2548&MediaPosition=&ID=17257&CssClass=
B) Raising the affordable housing linkage percentage:
- http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2548&MediaPosition=&ID=17128&CssClass=
and
- http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2548&MediaPosition=&ID=17256&CssClass=
3. Tuesday, November 28, 6:00 P.M. City Hall -- Finally, there will be a public hearing on the proposed District Improvement Financing (DIF) that is before the Board, which would finance major infrastructure repairs and upgrades to the City's sewer and stormwater system. The work would focus on extended areas surrounding Union Square, as that is the "down stream" part of the system that needs to be addressed first, before working back upstream. More information, including materials submitted to the Board's Committee on Finance can be found here: www.somervillema.gov/usqdif
1. Wednesday, Nov. 15th, 7:30 P.M. City Hall -- This is for the proposed extension of the Medical Marijuana Overlay District (http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2547&MediaPosition=&ID=16946&CssClass=), which expired in June of this year. Five applicants received a letter of non-opposition from the city. Of those, one is now open, one is under construction, two have withdrawn, and one still wants to go forward with their plan (in Union Square). In order to obtain the Special Permit required to do so, the MMOD would need to be extended. I'm told that at this time the Administration has no plans to consider additional applications (though that could be revisited in the future). The Administration does expect to include a permanent MMOD in the proposed zoning overhaul, which is not yet before the Board.
2. Monday, November 27th, 6:00 P.M. City Hall -- There are technically four separate public hearings to be held on the 27th, on two topics:
A) Creating a jobs linkage fee:
- http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2548&MediaPosition=&ID=17127&CssClass=
and
- http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2548&MediaPosition=&ID=17257&CssClass=
B) Raising the affordable housing linkage percentage:
- http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2548&MediaPosition=&ID=17128&CssClass=
and
- http://somervillecityma.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=2548&MediaPosition=&ID=17256&CssClass=
3. Tuesday, November 28, 6:00 P.M. City Hall -- Finally, there will be a public hearing on the proposed District Improvement Financing (DIF) that is before the Board, which would finance major infrastructure repairs and upgrades to the City's sewer and stormwater system. The work would focus on extended areas surrounding Union Square, as that is the "down stream" part of the system that needs to be addressed first, before working back upstream. More information, including materials submitted to the Board's Committee on Finance can be found here: www.somervillema.gov/usqdif
Signal boost: Affordable Housing
Apr. 6th, 2017 04:13 pmjducoeurJust heard from my Alderman that there's a huge new apartment complex proposed for Assembly Square, and the developer is trying to talk the city out of requiring the usual minimum amount of affordable housing. If you think this is a bad idea, I recommend writing to the Planning Board. More details on Mark Niedergang's website.
Rental $$ Reality Check
Aug. 2nd, 2016 01:32 am![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
serious-noir.livejournal.com4 rm apt – 1 bedroom, living room, "middle" (dining, I guess) room & kitchen. Decent windows. Tired wood floors.
Hasn't been painted in many years, kitchen very shabby, hasn't been updated since 1950's (think: double, chipped porcelain sink on a tin cabinet), except for "self-stick" floor tiles that are all cracked and loose. No kitchen cupboards but there is a pantry. Bathroom rehabbed with "bottom shelf" Home Depot fxtures 10 years ago but now is tired.
Saving graces: quiet street, easy on-street parking and easy walking distance to DS. In apt hook-ups for W & D
Anyone have thoughts on what something like this would rent for in the current DS market? I haven't been "out there" for a long time and am facing a "should I stay or should I go" moment in light of a huge rent increase.
Hasn't been painted in many years, kitchen very shabby, hasn't been updated since 1950's (think: double, chipped porcelain sink on a tin cabinet), except for "self-stick" floor tiles that are all cracked and loose. No kitchen cupboards but there is a pantry. Bathroom rehabbed with "bottom shelf" Home Depot fxtures 10 years ago but now is tired.
Saving graces: quiet street, easy on-street parking and easy walking distance to DS. In apt hook-ups for W & D
Anyone have thoughts on what something like this would rent for in the current DS market? I haven't been "out there" for a long time and am facing a "should I stay or should I go" moment in light of a huge rent increase.
Moving Company Recommendations?
Jul. 21st, 2016 10:08 amsecretlyironic.livejournal.comAnyone have moving company recommendations? We're moving a 1BR apartment's worth of stuff.
edit 9/21/2016: we went with gentle giant and it was amazing. They showed up on time, they were enthusiastic, the amount of time was under the initial estimate. There was a gps glitch that increased their drive time, and they told me about it and took the cost off the bill. Moving sucks but this was seriously the most painless move I've ever done.
edit 9/21/2016: we went with gentle giant and it was amazing. They showed up on time, they were enthusiastic, the amount of time was under the initial estimate. There was a gps glitch that increased their drive time, and they told me about it and took the cost off the bill. Moving sucks but this was seriously the most painless move I've ever done.
crankyoldguy.livejournal.comWe have started the process of looking for housing for an elderly relative with disabilities. Having already spoken with Somerville Cambridge Elder Services, we have the overview of what is available.
I was wondering if anyone here has any advice based on their experiences. Any place to avoid? Any recommendations? Any handy hints or suggestions? Nearby facilities outside of Somerville?
Thanks,
Cranky
I was wondering if anyone here has any advice based on their experiences. Any place to avoid? Any recommendations? Any handy hints or suggestions? Nearby facilities outside of Somerville?
Thanks,
Cranky
Flatbread Fundraiser TONIGHT!
May. 3rd, 2016 09:56 amnomacmac.livejournal.comEat at Flatbread in Davis Square TONIGHT, Tuesday May 3rd to benefit the Save Our Homes Walk to Prevent Homelessness.
In addition to eating pizza, you can sign up to join the 5K Save Our Homes walk which will happen on May 22nd. It is organized by the Somerville Affordable Housing Organizing Committee (AHOC). AHOC is an advocacy coalition comprised of Somerville residents and community organizations including Somerville Community Corporation (SCC), Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services (CSLS), and Somerville Homeless Coalition (SHC). Organized in 2001 by SCC, AHOC continues to pursue the vital mission of preserving affordable housing, increasing affordable housing opportunities, and stabilizing Somerville’s existing communities.
More info here: www.saveourhomeswalk.org
In addition to eating pizza, you can sign up to join the 5K Save Our Homes walk which will happen on May 22nd. It is organized by the Somerville Affordable Housing Organizing Committee (AHOC). AHOC is an advocacy coalition comprised of Somerville residents and community organizations including Somerville Community Corporation (SCC), Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services (CSLS), and Somerville Homeless Coalition (SHC). Organized in 2001 by SCC, AHOC continues to pursue the vital mission of preserving affordable housing, increasing affordable housing opportunities, and stabilizing Somerville’s existing communities.
More info here: www.saveourhomeswalk.org
Know of an apartment available?
Apr. 11th, 2016 07:04 pmpakoo.livejournal.comThis is a huge longshot for this area, but a good friend of mine has exhausted a search for an apartment. She is a single mom, has a 15 year old boy and 12 year old girl and is on Section 8. I know some landlords shy away from that, but, if you think about it, in a lot of ways it's more secure than renting on a typical lease since the payment is guaranteed by the state on the first of every month. She is hardworking and her two kids are both good students. I have known this family for years and they are responsible, quiet, and have never had one housing issue. (their landlord is selling his property and they have to move) The mom is happy to meet any prospective landlord and can provide a solid reference. The max for a two bedroom would be $1567 and the three bedroom rate would be $1945. If you happen to know of a vacancy, or know any info that could help this family, it would be most appreciated, thanks.
A Very Expensive House....wow
Mar. 23rd, 2016 04:54 pmpbockelman.livejournal.comBy Ross Blouin
The highest priced single family home listed and sold here in Somerville recently closed last week at 63 College Avenue, just two blocks out of Davis Square.
Norton listed the home last fall for $1,690,000, then it was taken off the market and recently put back on for the same amount and in one day went under agreement, at a selling price of $1,690,000.
The home was sold at full price to a young family from London, England, who will soon be moving into their newly renovated Somerville residence. The new owner, a well-known movie producer/director, is excited about moving here to Somerville and becoming involved in the community.
secretlyironic.livejournal.comControversial landlord expands empire into Somerville... Renters beware.
http://somerville.wickedlocal.com/news/20160216/landlord-blasted-in-spotlight-series-buys-100-units-in-city
http://somerville.wickedlocal.com/news/20160216/landlord-blasted-in-spotlight-series-buys-100-units-in-city
A Tale of Two Cities
Feb. 11th, 2016 04:09 amserious-noir.livejournal.comMy Google News sidebar just gave me pause:
City of Somerville’s survey finds people are happy living there
Study: Somerville residents fleeing high rents
This after coming home tonight from a meeting about affordable artists housing and the lottery for the Millbrook Lofts spaces.
Better odds than thepolitcally cowardly and regressive tax state lottery, I guess. And.... my landlord is finally planning to jack up my rent (though since my rent has been way below market rate, no fault to him, but it likely means it is time to move on. Waltham?).
Opps... TMI. Ah well. I lived in Wicker Park in Chicago when it was on the "cusp of cool" and then when it was cool. And then it peaked and many of us had tp move to Logan Square, Pilsen or wherever. Just how it goes.
Maybe Somerville Open Studios is a really, really BAD idea.... if artists want to keep living here ;-)
And the earlier link from Ron N. about the Lonely Planet story:
Somerville is one of the best places to visit in the country, according to Lonely Planet
City of Somerville’s survey finds people are happy living there
Study: Somerville residents fleeing high rents
This after coming home tonight from a meeting about affordable artists housing and the lottery for the Millbrook Lofts spaces.
Better odds than the
Opps... TMI. Ah well. I lived in Wicker Park in Chicago when it was on the "cusp of cool" and then when it was cool. And then it peaked and many of us had tp move to Logan Square, Pilsen or wherever. Just how it goes.
Maybe Somerville Open Studios is a really, really BAD idea.... if artists want to keep living here ;-)
And the earlier link from Ron N. about the Lonely Planet story:
Somerville is one of the best places to visit in the country, according to Lonely Planet
Public meeting on the zoning overhaul
Jan. 21st, 2016 01:43 pmolszowka.livejournal.comThere is a CRITICAL public meeting coming up that volunteers from Zone Smart have been calling our members about this week. Many of you committed to attending, some of you did not pickup so this email is to tell you that YOUR PRESENCE IS NEEDED. Here are the details:
What: Somerville Zoning Overhaul Public Meeting on Neighborhoods - http://www.somervillema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2015-11-12%20Zoning%20Meeting%20Poster.pdf
When: Monday at 6:30pm (Please come at 5:30pm, an hour beforehand, if you can in order to get organized, handout buttons to wear, and maximize our impact)
Where: 259 Lowell Street at the VNA Community Room.
Why: To show the Aldermen that we demand removal of the "no more than 4 unrelated" restriction from the zoning code. It raises housing costs by forcing bedrooms to stay unrented, it increases environmental burden by forcing new development, it makes most Co-op housing illegal, and it is unfair to home owners and tenants alike.
How Can You Help:
1. PLEASE CONFIRM WHETHER OR NOT YOU CAN ATTEND. If you can make it to the 5:30pm meeting (or anytime before 6:30pm) please indicate that as well.
2. Spread the word. Go to our Facebook Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/497731313721533/ and share the event with others, and click "Going"
This ordinance will change when we unite and demand that it does, and we will never have a better opportunity than this overhaul. Please come out Monday night and join us.
Zone Smart Somerville
No More Than 4 Unrelated Is Outdated
www.zonesmartsomerville.org
What: Somerville Zoning Overhaul Public Meeting on Neighborhoods - http://www.somervillema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2015-11-12%20Zoning%20Meeting%20Poster.pdf
When: Monday at 6:30pm (Please come at 5:30pm, an hour beforehand, if you can in order to get organized, handout buttons to wear, and maximize our impact)
Where: 259 Lowell Street at the VNA Community Room.
Why: To show the Aldermen that we demand removal of the "no more than 4 unrelated" restriction from the zoning code. It raises housing costs by forcing bedrooms to stay unrented, it increases environmental burden by forcing new development, it makes most Co-op housing illegal, and it is unfair to home owners and tenants alike.
How Can You Help:
1. PLEASE CONFIRM WHETHER OR NOT YOU CAN ATTEND. If you can make it to the 5:30pm meeting (or anytime before 6:30pm) please indicate that as well.
2. Spread the word. Go to our Facebook Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/497731313721533/ and share the event with others, and click "Going"
This ordinance will change when we unite and demand that it does, and we will never have a better opportunity than this overhaul. Please come out Monday night and join us.
Zone Smart Somerville
No More Than 4 Unrelated Is Outdated
www.zonesmartsomerville.org
How many people can live in a one-bedroom?
Jan. 7th, 2016 10:16 ambobobb.livejournal.comDoes anyone know...
According to Somerville zoning laws, how many people can reside in a one-bedroom? I had assumed it was only two people, but I can't find anything on the city's website about it.
According to Somerville zoning laws, how many people can reside in a one-bedroom? I had assumed it was only two people, but I can't find anything on the city's website about it.
Seeking housing options for a friend.
Jan. 3rd, 2016 08:52 pmusernamenumber.livejournal.comI'm posting on behalf of my friend Briana/Bean. She has had some really crappy luck lately, starting with health problems, and now losing her housing. I'm trying to reach whomever I can to see if someone can help her out. She has a car, so being on the T isn't necessary, but she does need to be within a 30 minute drive of the Camberville area, and given her price restrictions ($600) and pet (dog), it's still a tall order, so any tips, leads, or offers would be much appreciated! I fully vouch for her being good people.
Here's the blurb she wrote with more information. If you have something to offer, comment here or PM me and I'll see to it that she sees it.
"""
I am in search of GLBTQ-friendly housing in the Somerville/Medford/Arlington/Cambridge area, for me and my medium-sized dog. I'm a creative, considerate, 30-something night-owl. I am handy, and enjoy problem solving. I have lots of hobbies, am friendly, and I try hard to remain kind and communicative. I like dealing with situations as they arise, with transparency, clarity, and the willingness to experiment with new solutions, so that situations can often be resolved before they even become problems. My mutt is a sweet, mellow 10-year-old female border collie mix. We both have references.
I am very interested in a number of kinds of living situations, including co-op living, or barter-for-rent (or partial rent) situations. I do have health problems which make it difficult to do certain chores (for instance, mopping), and I'd be happy to either do more of other kinds of chores to make up for those, or to try to figure out alternative ways to get those chores done. I love kids (I was a long-time nanny) and animals, though my energy constraints don't allow me to take animals on long walks, or to take care of children for more than 4 hours/day. I am computer-savvy, and I am skilled at helping people get organized, and in helping to improve existing systems.
I have trouble going up and down large numbers of stairs, so I would prefer a first-floor apartment. I could live on a second floor, but no higher unless there was an elevator.
I can pay up to $600 a month for rent. My current apartment is going to be demolished on February 15th, so I need to find a place asap, where I can move to any time before 2/15.
I'd be happy to answer any questions you might have to help find us a good living situation.
Thank you!
"""
Here's the blurb she wrote with more information. If you have something to offer, comment here or PM me and I'll see to it that she sees it.
"""
I am in search of GLBTQ-friendly housing in the Somerville/Medford/Arlington/Cambridge area, for me and my medium-sized dog. I'm a creative, considerate, 30-something night-owl. I am handy, and enjoy problem solving. I have lots of hobbies, am friendly, and I try hard to remain kind and communicative. I like dealing with situations as they arise, with transparency, clarity, and the willingness to experiment with new solutions, so that situations can often be resolved before they even become problems. My mutt is a sweet, mellow 10-year-old female border collie mix. We both have references.
I am very interested in a number of kinds of living situations, including co-op living, or barter-for-rent (or partial rent) situations. I do have health problems which make it difficult to do certain chores (for instance, mopping), and I'd be happy to either do more of other kinds of chores to make up for those, or to try to figure out alternative ways to get those chores done. I love kids (I was a long-time nanny) and animals, though my energy constraints don't allow me to take animals on long walks, or to take care of children for more than 4 hours/day. I am computer-savvy, and I am skilled at helping people get organized, and in helping to improve existing systems.
I have trouble going up and down large numbers of stairs, so I would prefer a first-floor apartment. I could live on a second floor, but no higher unless there was an elevator.
I can pay up to $600 a month for rent. My current apartment is going to be demolished on February 15th, so I need to find a place asap, where I can move to any time before 2/15.
I'd be happy to answer any questions you might have to help find us a good living situation.
Thank you!
"""
theresahome.livejournal.comHi Folks,
I posted about a month ago, but not having much luck finding a roommate situation, so am posting again. Thanks for any leads!
I am searching for a shared living situation in a home that is within a 15-minute walk (max) to the Red Line (Davis Sq, Cambridge) or would also be interested in Union Square. I consider myself to be friendly, considerate, and clean and seek the same. I am mindful of other people's quiet times, clean up after myself, prompt with rent/bills. I tend to be out and about a lot, but at home I enjoy cooking, catching up with roommate(s), watching the occasional movie/documentary, reading, relaxing. I work at a nonprofit and enjoy community theater, meditation, live music, lectures, films, ... I'm looking in the $850/$900 price range for a share.
I posted about a month ago, but not having much luck finding a roommate situation, so am posting again. Thanks for any leads!
I am searching for a shared living situation in a home that is within a 15-minute walk (max) to the Red Line (Davis Sq, Cambridge) or would also be interested in Union Square. I consider myself to be friendly, considerate, and clean and seek the same. I am mindful of other people's quiet times, clean up after myself, prompt with rent/bills. I tend to be out and about a lot, but at home I enjoy cooking, catching up with roommate(s), watching the occasional movie/documentary, reading, relaxing. I work at a nonprofit and enjoy community theater, meditation, live music, lectures, films, ... I'm looking in the $850/$900 price range for a share.
How much for a 1 bedroom?
Oct. 13th, 2015 04:59 pmbobobb.livejournal.comI'm trying to see how much my unit compares in price and amenities to other one bedrooms in the area. Craigslist hasn't been much help, as there are few one bedrooms listed. Would love to hear thoughts on how much monthly rent should be for a one bedroom on the first floor with off street parking, washer/drier in the basement, disposer, dishwasher and a fairly large backyard. Location is between Ball Square and Davis Square.
It looks like $1600-$1800 seems to be the going rate, but would love to here people's thoughts.
It looks like $1600-$1800 seems to be the going rate, but would love to here people's thoughts.
Seeking Room to Rent/Home to Share
Oct. 11th, 2015 11:37 pmtheresahome.livejournal.comDoes anyone know of a room to rent situation in the Davis Square area for December 1?
Thanks!
Theresa
Thanks!
Theresa
girlgonemad.livejournal.comBoosting signal for my awesome upstairs neighbor. He writes:
"I spend a lot of time in Davis Square.. have a 2BR in Union Sq that's a short bus ride away. (Between Highland and Som'l Ave, busses on both) Currently looking for someone for 10/1 (with some flexibility before/after the date).
http://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/roo/5216548917.html "
( Craigslist ad details )
"I spend a lot of time in Davis Square.. have a 2BR in Union Sq that's a short bus ride away. (Between Highland and Som'l Ave, busses on both) Currently looking for someone for 10/1 (with some flexibility before/after the date).
http://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/roo/5216548917.html "
( Craigslist ad details )
turil.livejournal.comhttp://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/2015/08/27/two-harvard-grads-want-change-the-way-help-the-homeless/7sUBFGwo1BNYOS7gpjjJ6M/story.html?p1=feature_stack_7_hp
It's in Harvard Square, and is specifically for young folks, and is run by Harvard students, apparently. It looks to be far more supportive and respectful than the other shelters in the area (of which I am unfortunately familiar). The bunk beds look really cool!
I had heard that the previous shelter run by students at Harvard was much better than the rest (but was really hard to get into). So this one will likely be good as well. Now we just need a bunch more of these to serve all the homeless and semi-homeless, rather than having to kick some people out on the streets even when they really want to be in the shelters...
It's in Harvard Square, and is specifically for young folks, and is run by Harvard students, apparently. It looks to be far more supportive and respectful than the other shelters in the area (of which I am unfortunately familiar). The bunk beds look really cool!
I had heard that the previous shelter run by students at Harvard was much better than the rest (but was really hard to get into). So this one will likely be good as well. Now we just need a bunch more of these to serve all the homeless and semi-homeless, rather than having to kick some people out on the streets even when they really want to be in the shelters...
aliothsan.livejournal.comMy roommate and I are looking for 2 more roommates to join our 4 bedroom unit on Lowden Ave. $821/mo plus utilities. Available Sept 1 or Oct 1.
Us: friendly geeky mid-20s software people, LGBTQ+poly friendly, non-smokers, moderately social but also enjoying alone time. Hobbies include knitting, improv theater, folk music, and circus.
Apartment: 4 bed 2 bath, cats permitted, in-unit laundry, GIANT living room, spacious kitchen w/ all appliances, central heating/ac (though we do supplement with window units upstairs in summer). 10 minute walk from Davis; convenient to buses 80, 89, 96, and probably others. Landlord is a reasonable person who gets shit done.
About 75% of our common area furniture will be gone by the time you move in, so there's space to bring your own stuff or you can join us on IKEA quests.
If you are a dancer or musician who wants to practice at home, this would be a great place for you as we're out of the house during the day and you'd have the giant living room all to yourself.
Contact: alioth (at) mit (dot) edu
Us: friendly geeky mid-20s software people, LGBTQ+poly friendly, non-smokers, moderately social but also enjoying alone time. Hobbies include knitting, improv theater, folk music, and circus.
Apartment: 4 bed 2 bath, cats permitted, in-unit laundry, GIANT living room, spacious kitchen w/ all appliances, central heating/ac (though we do supplement with window units upstairs in summer). 10 minute walk from Davis; convenient to buses 80, 89, 96, and probably others. Landlord is a reasonable person who gets shit done.
About 75% of our common area furniture will be gone by the time you move in, so there's space to bring your own stuff or you can join us on IKEA quests.
If you are a dancer or musician who wants to practice at home, this would be a great place for you as we're out of the house during the day and you'd have the giant living room all to yourself.
Contact: alioth (at) mit (dot) edu
