Somerville City Councilor Supports Group Living Special Use Permit

SOMERVILLE, MA — Ward 7 City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld has revealed a letter she submitted to the Somerville Zoning Board of Appeals in support of a group living special use permit requested by a resident in her district.

Pineda said the permit to turn 42-44 Hamilton Rd. from a single-family residence into a multi-unit home for local college students is significant for the future of housing in Somerville.

"The proposal is a model for the type of housing Somerville requires to increase affordability for a wide range of residents," Pineda Neufeld said on social media. "Once approved, the Hamilton Road property will provide a much-needed housing option for young people looking for lower-cost shared living spaces."

The Zoning Board of Appeals is due to consider the permit application at its meeting on Feb. 15.

According to Pineda Neufeld the permit application was submitted by homeowner Jusan Yang, who has renovated the Hamilton Road property to expand its capacity to house eight individuals.

Yang and his son, a student at Tufts University, plan to occupy two units in the residence, and the remaining six rooms will be leased to other Tufts students.

What about fears that local residents may have about college students living in their neighborhood?

Pineda Neufeld said steps are being taken to ensure the tenants are well-behaved and that neighbors are comfortable with them living nearby.

Pineda Neufeld said Yang plans to interview each of the prospective tenants and that clear ground rules will be laid out that prohibit excessive noise, large gatherings, smoking and other disruptive behaviors.

Meanwhile, Pineda Neufeld said she hosted a community meeting about the proposal this past September, and that Yang has engaged openly with other residents about the proposal.

"Many are enthusiastic about the new residents coming to their area," Pineda Neufeld said.

For those residents still with concerns, Yang has proactively responded to his neighbors and addressed worries over parking, noise, and other potential disruptions, Pineda Neufeld said.

The city councilor said that in addition to verbal promises, the enforcement of Somerville's existing parking and noise ordinances should provide an additional level of comfort for residents.

"Somerville prides itself on being a city that is welcoming to all, and a critical part of making that a reality is ensuring that our city remains affordable for those who wish to call it home," Pineda Neufeld said.