RE: Article 97 “An Act Preserving Open Space in The Commonwealth of Massachusettsâ
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) is holding another Public Hearing on March 26th at 4:00pm via ZOOM.
The Healey Administration is proposing significant changes to Massachusetts State Constitution Article 97 “An Act Preserving Open Space in The Commonwealth”.
The new proposal (301 CMR XX.00 “Disposition of Change in Use of Article 97 Interests”) would weaken this article via policy changes which would make siting and permitting easier for developers, or others. Article 97 was intended as a protection “for the people of the Commonwealth, to have the right to clean air and water, freedom from excessive and unnecessary noise, and the natural, scenic, historic and esthetic qualities of their environment; and the protection to the people in their right to the conservation, development and utilization of the agricultural, mineral, forest, water, air and other natural resources and was declared a public purpose.”
It is our opinion that any amendment that diminishes this protection should not be considered.
If you previously attended a Zoom meeting (two were previously held) or you sent written comments via email, you do not need to participate. However, for homeowners who have not and are concerned about the protection of our cherished parks and open spaces, your FHMNA leadership strongly recommends your engagement.
You can participate by expressing your opinion to the Office of the EEA via ZOOM or preferably in writing via email to [email protected] and urge them to continue protecting the integrity of our parks and public open spaces.
Note the email address for public comment.
EEA will consider written comments that are received by 5:00pm on March 26, 2025.
EEA encourages electronic submission of written comments to [email protected]
Please type “301 CMR 52” in the subject line.