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The Legalize Starter Homes campaign to allow construction of more single-family homes in Massachusetts has been endorsed by Congressman Jake Auchincloss of the state’s 4th congressional district, which includes Franklin.
Question 7 on November’s ballot would allow single-family homes to be built in any residentially-zoned area as long as the lot has at least 5,000 square feet, at least 50 feet of land bordering the street, and access to public sewer and water services. Currently, Massachusetts municipalities require larger lot sizes for single-family homes, which results in only large houses being built.
"Young Americans who work hard and plan ahead should be able to own their home by the time they're 30 years old. That's not possible in Massachusetts – and Bay Staters are leaving because of it. Starter homes are one of the solutions," said Congressman Auchincloss.
“We are grateful to have the support of Congressman Auchincloss in our campaign to bring more single-family homes to Massachusetts. Too many young people, working families, and seniors do not have enough housing options, and the high cost of houses is forcing people out of the state,” said Andrew Mikula, chair of the Legalize Starter Homes campaign. “Question 7 will set the conditions to build more houses that families can afford across the state. Congressman Auchincloss has been a leader on creating real housing solutions, and he well understands that increasing supply in a way that works for communities is a necessary part of solving our housing crisis.”
"Question 7 would provide new, affordable homeownership opportunities that currently do not exist for many young families, as an alternative to large apartment complexes, by allowing smaller, affordable single-family houses to be built on smaller lots," add Mark Minnichelli, Co-chair, BEN4Franklin (Building Equitable Neighborhoods for Franklin).
More information on Question 7 to Legalize Starter Homes can be found at legalizestarterhomes.com.
Election day is November 3, 2026. More information on how to vote can be found here: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/recent-updates/upcoming-elections.htm.
