Policy Order O-12

WHEREAS: The preservation of existing affordable housing in Cambridge is of paramount importance; and

WHEREAS: The Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) owns the most significant portfolio of the existing affordable housing; and

WHEREAS: Area IV residents in CHA housing, particularly those living in Newtowne Court and in Washington Elms, have become concerned about the long-term affordability and future of these developments; and

WHEREAS: It may be appropriate for the CHA, as a long-term affordability strategy, to consider several means of assuring the permanent affordability of CHA units; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council suggest that the CHA study and consider the feasibility and reasonableness of placing long-term affordable housing deed restrictions on developments such as Newtowne Court and Washington Elms so that these developments will always be dedicated long-term affordability housing areas.