There seems to be multiple threads on this issue – one on an article by the Boston Globe, and one on an editorial by the Boston Globe. But I’d like to start a thread on what it takes to be a “supporter” or “advocate” of affordable housing and who makes that determination? For instance, it appears that some leaders of this blog and some commentators, believe that folks who call for a “Right Sized” development are anti-housing. (maybe that term was taken down and replaced with anti-development – I can’t keep track). Does this mean that anyone who objects to a specific development proposal because of it’s size is automatically ant-housing and anti-development (I’m not debating the “racist” issue now). I am genuinely interested because – the City Council almost unanimously voted against amending a condition of a Board Order to allow housing development at Wells Avenue (and I’m not suggesting that development there was a good idea) and some members of the then Board – stood outside the rail so they didn’t have to vote on the project. Yet I don’t recall the outrage against those who voted against amending the order and labeling them – anti-housing?  What about the B’nai B’rtih Housing Development on Commonwealth Avenue? Are the then, Ward 7 City Councilors  (which include our Mayor) who negotiated to significantly reduce the size of that development (and use significant CPA funds) also anti-housing (BTW the development is near transit and I don’t recall the outrage against that deal)? It just seems like a random, very unfair and negative label imposed by some very well-meaning (zealous) housing advocates on people who just have a very different view point on how dense a development should be in a given area (you can call it NIMBY if you’d like or genuine concern about adverse impacts).  

Frankly, I see that there is desire in this community to support affordable housing – the difference between the factions – is how much of the current development is actually providing affordable housing vs. the more expensive market rate housing.

Thoughts?