Project & Program Updates

• Fair Housing Training:  We invite property managers, landlords, and developers interested in understanding their obligations under Fair Housing Law are invited to a ninety-minute, virtual training on Wednesday, October 9 from 3pm to 4:30pm. Learn how your company can avoid housing discrimination, comply with the law’s prohibitions and requirements, and a property manager’s role in the fair housing complaint process. The training will be accessible through the following Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83719259013. This training is sponsored by the Housing Discrimination Testing Program at Suffolk University Law School and the Regional Housing Services Office.
• GoGo Newton: GoGo Newton is a new transportation system for older adults, lower income individuals, and people with disabilities. GoGo Newton replaces NewMo. The amount a rider pays and the number of trips that are subsidized by the City depends on the income of the rider. Eligible Newton residents must complete an application. Options are to apply online or call 617-796-4646 to set up an in-person appointment. Visit the GoGo Newton website for more information and to apply: www.newtonma.gov/GoGo
• MyMassHome: MyMassHome is a new website designed to be a one-stop resource for helping Massachusetts homebuyers navigate their path to becoming a homeowner. The website compiles information regarding first-time homebuyer courses, different mortgage products, and down payment assistance programs that some homebuyers may be eligible for. To learn more about becoming a homeowner in Massachusetts and how MyMassHome can assist you in finding an accessible and affordable home, visit https://www.mymasshome.org/ 
• Housing Assistance & Eviction Diversion: If you, or someone you know, is having difficulty paying rent or facing eviction, there are local and state resources that can help. The City’s Housing Assistance and Eviction Diversion webpage (newtonma.gov/HousingHelp) includes information on housing and utility assistance as well as eviction diversion resources in English, Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Russian and Portuguese. Another resource is the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CDPB). By accessing their page at consumerfinance.gov/renthelp, renters and landlords can search for additional local rental assistance opportunities and connect with state and local governments who are distributing the housing assistance funding.
• Lastly, FHA borrowers in need of mortgage relief can find additional information on their options by contacting a local HUD‐approved housing counseling agency here: https://apps.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm You can also contact the City of Newton’s Social Services at 617‐796‐1420 to work with city staff on which resources may be the best fit for you.
• New Affordable Housing Opportunities: Stay up to date on new affordable rental and homeownership opportunities in Newton as they become available. Click HERE to input your name and email address to receive the Planning Department’s Email Updates regarding available affordable housing units throughout the City. Contact Malcolm Lucas at 617-796-1149 or mlucas@newtonma.gov
• Housing Navigator Massachusetts – A New Way to Search for Affordable Housing: Housing Navigator Massachusetts is a searchable database for affordable housing which tracks over 160,000 affordable units across 260 cities and towns within Massachusetts. Those looking for affordable housing (including some middle‐income units), including renters, emergency shelter, and supportive housing providers, can search and filter the database based on income, eligibility, availability, and number of bedrooms. Users can also filter the search by area or town to see what housing may be available in their desired area. Click the following link to access the Navigator tool: https://search.housingnavigatorma.org/
• Sign Up for Mayor Fuller’s Email Updates: Looking for the latest news about happenings at City Hall and around Newton? Click the icon to the right or input your email address HERE to receive Mayor Ruthanne Fuller’s Email Updates. To see archived editions of the Mayor’s Email Updates, visit the City of Newton website at www.newtonma.gov

Planning & Development Department | City of Newton, MA | 617-796-1120