About | Needham Residents for Thoughtful Zoning

FAQ’s (Updated)

On January 14th, 2025, DO I vote “Yes “or No” on the 3,296-unit plan so-called Neighborhood Plan (NHP)? A NO vote sends this extreme 185% over compliant plan back to the Town. The town shall act forth with to comply as stated in the petition.

Will the Town face lawsuits and lose millions? NO. Needham has been working diligently to comply with the MBTA Act. Our Select Board leaders can act in the best interest of Needham by submitting the necessary paperwork to maintain compliance during and after the referendum process. This approach ensures that the town continues to work in good faith to meet the requirements of the MBTA Act while protecting local interests.

Will a NO vote, prevent Needham from complying with the state law? No. In fact, the petition calls for the town to comply with the state law.

But doesn’t this provide senior housing? What about affordable housing? There is no provision for senior housing in the zoning. In fact, 100 West St (Avery Square – The Carter Building) is NO LONGER zoned for Senior Housing. There is nothing in the pages of rezoning in this extreme NHP that requires senior housing.

Projects of six units or more will be required to have 12 – 1/2 % of the units reserved for people who qualify for affordable housing. The income level to qualify is quite high and there is no provision limiting the amount of rent charged for any other units. This is essentially market rate housing.

Why were some special interest groups strongly opposed to allowing our citizens to vote? Our town has granted us a charter for this controversial decision, which is significant—perhaps the biggest decision in a century. We, the citizens, cannot make our voices heard unless we have the opportunity to vote on it through our long established democratic process. If the Neighborhood plan is voted down, then the town can QUICKLY act to comply. We now have a voice.