Page 4 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, AugusT 8, 2025 Everett earns 2025 Housing Choice Community state recognition Mayor’s efforts to expand housing and improve affordability Special to The Advocate M ayor Carlo DeMaria was proud to announce that the City of Everett has been designated a 2025 Housing Choice Community by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This distinction — awarded by the Healey-Driscoll Administration — recognizes communities making meaningful progress in expanding housing opportunities and keeping homes affordable. Everett is one of only 43 cities and towns statewide to receive the designation this year, earning eligibility for exclusive state grants and programs that support housing, city planning and local infra50 Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net structure. “The high cost of housing is one of the greatest challenges facing Massachusetts residents, and communities across the state are stepping up to meet it,” said Governor Maura Healey. “It’s great that these 43 cities and towns are doing the work to create more reasonably priced homes, support their residents and lead by example. The Housing Choice designation is one of the many ways we partner with communities to help them build housing and lower costs for us all.” Between 2020 and 2024, EvSOUNDS | FROM PAGE 3 It’s no secret that both mayors are navigating election season. But while Wu’s remarks seemed entangled in erett added 2,945 new housing units, a 16.2% increase in its total housing stock. That growth ranks Everett second in the state by percentage increase (narrowly behind Nantucket) and third in total units added, trailing only behind Boston and Plymouth. Remarkably, Everett accounted for more than 5% of all new housing built in Massachusetts during this period (2,945 out of 57,049 units). “The best way to tackle the housing crisis is by building more homes, and we’re doing just that,” said Mayor DeMaria. “This recognition is a testament to Everett’s commitment to thoughtful, forward-looking growth. We’re building a city where families, seniors and young people can all find a place to call home.” As part of the City of Everett’s approach to responsible housing growth, it has implemented forward-thinking policies to reduce congestion and protect the quality of life for residents. One such policy enpolitical subtext, DeMaria’s press conference focused on a consistent vision: progress for Everett. His track record backs that up. No Everett mayor has delivered the scale of sures that residents of new developments built in the past four years are not eligible for city parking stickers, helping to limit the number of additional vehicles on local streets. In addition, many of these new developments have revitalized formerly blighted or contaminated sites, turning underused land into vibrant residential communities. Everett has prioritized smart and intentional growth, focusing on meeting housing needs without overburdening local infrastructure or services. To earn the Housing Choice designation, municipalities must meet specific housing production goals and demonstrate progress on local policies that support affordability, sustainable development and livability. For more information on the benefits Everett will receive by being designated a Housing Choice Community, visit www. mass.gov/info-details/housing-choice-designation-participatinggrantbenefit-programs. economic growth and prestige that DeMaria has. From securing a Class A casino license for Encore Boston Harbor to pushing for a professional sports facility, DeMaria continues to raise the city’s profile. With thousands of jobs, increased tax revenue and a reshaped urban landscape at stake, the proposed redevelopment of the Island End section could be another landmark achievement. Real estate values in Everett are rising, new residents are arriving and the city’s reputation as a growing hub of opportunity continues to strengthen. Mayor DeMaria once again demonstrated that Everett has a seat at the table — and that he’s willing to stand up for his constituents, even when it means challenging the political powers in Boston. One wonders how different the conversation might be if this weren’t an election year in Beantown — but for Everett, the direction is clear, and the momentum is real. — JDM
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