Mayor Wilson Joins Gov. Maura Healey & Mayor Michelle Wu Calling for Rent Stabilization Compromise

Somerville is in a housing crisis, and our residents need action. Today, I join Mayor Wu and Governor Healey in saying that I strongly support compromise legislation on rent stabilization so that we can finally see some results.

Too many renters live with the fear that one rent increase, one lease renewal, or one building sale could force them out of their home. We believe in helping tenants stay in their homes whenever possible - and reasonable rent regulation is one critical tool in the toolkit to help make this happen.

Somerville has made important progress thanks to the vital work of the Anti-Displacement Task Force and many others. We filed S.22, a home rule petition seeking authorization to enact rent stabilization, and we’ve also supported enabling legislation S.1447/H2328 sponsored by Senator Pat Jehlen and Representative David Rogers. Now, I believe our best chance of achieving the key goals of our Home Rule Petition and providing renters with necessary relief is this compromise proposal.

The proposal would finally give communities like Somerville the ability to adopt local rent stabilization that they so desperately need and puts forward an annual cap on rent increases of the consumer price index (CPI) plus 5%, up to a maximum of 10%. The compromise also allows landlords to set market rates when units are vacant. These adjustments could break the stalemate and move this urgent issue forward with immediacy. I am grateful to all who came together in good faith to draft this compromise. In this time of great political polarization, dialogue is key.

I urge the Legislature to pass this compromise legislation and give communities like Somerville the tools we need to protect residents, prevent displacement, and keep Massachusetts home for the people who keep our cities and towns thriving.