Developers Could Get More Power if New Bill is Passed

The Boston Herald is reporting that Massachusetts lawmakers are debating a proposal that would grant developers in the Bay State more power than they have ever had.

Developers could force landowners to give up their land (essentially a version of the eminent domain law, even though it is not worded that way) and they could also raise hundreds of millions by issuing tax-exempt bonds. Builders would be able to do this in designated development districts.

Opponents of the plan are concerned that such legislation would lead to numerous “mini-cities” aroung the state, as each developer would create a an area basically fitting their own vision with little input. Also, some are concerned about the exclusive power that these developers would have over these districts.

Those concerns aren’t as significant as the ones regarding the clause that would allow developers to essentially scoop up whatever property they want to make their projects work. Within the districts, developers would be allowed to build on any of the land, even if they do not own it.

On the flip side, supporters argue that this bill is needed so that developers can pay the bills for the expensive road and utility work that goes along with getting major projects completed.

While there are certainly many critics of the proposal, but Lida Harkins, the main sponsor of the bill, is confident that the bill will be passed within the year.