Aitken: Taxpayer-funded Lobbies are Wrong

A recent article in the Boston Globe attempted to claim that the negative consequences of government mandated housing are a "myth."

After years of experience with this issue, a trusted councilor in my town assured me that high-density, low-income, ‘affordable’ housing subsidized by taxpayers never pays its fair share, even after the expiration of the 10-year tax forgiveness period often afforded the builder.

A recent UL LTE by Hilary Hamer of Dover hit the nail on the head: these attempts to force towns to squeeze housing into places it’s not wanted will turn us into Mass.

Recently, yet another 'special' housing 'committee' was proposed by NH Rep. Steven Smith, a Republican from Charlestown. Approved on voice vote by the new legislature, Smith explained it will focus on regulations that hinder builders, and yet, he’d cited a poll claiming 75% wanted more high-density housing. This new committee replaced the formerly existing 'special' committee on housing that was packed with agenda-driven individuals.

One thing is for sure; because of the nature of such 'special committees' this is again another example of taxpayer-funded lobbying and nothing more. It’s another force inside the legislature intended to streamline the bills for special interests, and on behalf of developers who want to override local control with the help of state mandates.

Those who say they want to solve a non-existent housing crisis should be reminded that this state involvement is not a “free market” solution.

Here’s hoping the new governor has her veto pen ready.

Jane Aitken
BedfordResidents.com