The Northborough Planning Board made significant strides in clarifying the town's approach to affordable housing during their recent meeting on March 4, 2025. A key focus was the introduction of an "inclusionary housing permit," aimed at streamlining the process for developers while ensuring the creation of affordable units.

The board discussed the need for clarity regarding occupancy permits, deciding to specify that the timeline for compliance would begin with the issuance of the first building permit for new residential construction. This change is expected to simplify tracking for both the town and developers, particularly for larger projects with multiple buildings.

Another major topic was the renaming of the permit to "inclusionary housing permit," which aligns with existing special permits for various types of developments. This new terminology aims to reduce confusion and improve understanding of the permit's purpose. The board also emphasized that the inclusionary housing permit would not incur additional fees, encouraging developers to pursue affordable housing projects without financial barriers.

The discussion also touched on the concept of density bonuses, which would allow developers to increase the number of units in exchange for including affordable housing. While some board members expressed concerns about the potential complexity of requiring a special permit for density bonuses, others argued that it would provide necessary oversight and protect the town's interests.

The board ultimately agreed to maintain the special permit requirement for density bonuses, with the possibility of waiving associated fees to further incentivize developers. This approach aims to balance the need for affordable housing with the town's regulatory framework, allowing for flexibility while ensuring that projects undergo appropriate scrutiny.

As Northborough moves forward with these changes, the Planning Board is optimistic that the new inclusionary housing permit will facilitate the development of affordable housing, making it a more attractive option for builders in the community. The board plans to revisit these regulations in the coming years to assess their effectiveness and make adjustments as necessary.