BBC’s Commitment to Affordable Housing
From its inception in 1988, BBC has included affordable housing as one of its goals. In the original BBC Articles of Organization, the first listed goal is as follows:
“Preservation and enhancement of the natural character of the Broad Brook area of Northampton and improvement of the future quality of life of Northampton residents thru the wise use of natural resources to meet the affordable housing and outdoor recreation needs of the community.”
This goal balances the need for more open space and affordable housing. Over the years BBC’s has annually contributed to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, met with the developers and convinced them to adjust their original plans, organized a team of volunteers for the Cot Shelter Program, advocated and supported various affordable housing projects and policies, encouraged members to volunteer for the Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity, and used the BBC newsletter as a means to inform its members about affordable housing issues.
In 2007 the BBC Board reviewed its commitment to affordable housing for a number of reasons. Some members wondered if BBC should be doing more to support affordable housing while other members questioned the organization’s capacity to contribute further given the many tasks to manage the conservation area, control invasive species, maintain the trails, etc. It was decided to invite all BBC members and other members of the community to a meeting discuss this issue. The meeting was held in May, 2007 and recommendations were made and adopted by the BBC Board. These recommendations included appointing a BBC Housing Liaison who would stay current on affordable housing issues, regularly inform and make recommendations to BBC about opportunities to contribute, and to write related articles in the newsletter. Betsy Siersma who is a member of the Northampton Housing Partnership was chosen for this role. It was further decided to continue to include affordable housing as one of BBC’s goals and to contribute to the efforts of other community groups recognizing our limited ability to take on major projects in this area.
Contact Jim Reis (586-0567 or reis13@comcast.net) BBC’s volunteer coordinator if you are interested in volunteering for BBC’s efforts in the affordable housing area.