Somerville Stands Together is celebrating the launch of talks between Somerville’s newly-elected Community Benefits Negotiation Committee and Union Square developers US2. The committee consists of 15 residents, elected by their neighbors, who will represent residents concerns in negotiations with real estate developers. This is an important victory for the working people of Somerville, who see a growing disconnect between City Hall and Somerville’s progressive values. Now, for the first time, Somerville residents will have a formal seat at the table to ensure that as the city continues to grow, Somerville is a city that works for all of us.
Somerville Stands Together, a group of labor, community and social justice organizations, stands in support of Union Square neighbors as they negotiate for good jobs, affordable housing and responsible development that doesn’t displace longtime residents. The Community Benefits Negotiation Committee, born from the Union Square Neighborhood Council, will make sure community benefits agreements between Somerville city government and developers provide real value to residents. The Negotiation Committee will fight for a significant increase in affordable housing, good jobs with community standards for residents, and the highest safety standards possible on construction projects.
