The North Shore Chamber of Commerce supports public policies that promote a strong business climate, fiscal responsibility, transparency and sustainable economic growth. After reviewing the potential impact on businesses and communities, the Chamber’s Managing Board has taken the following positions on three statewide ballot questions.
Question 1 — YES
Include the Legislature and Governor’s Office in the Mass Public Records Law
The Chamber supports Question 1 because transparency and accountability are essential to good government and a healthy business climate. Businesses are expected to operate with transparency and comply with extensive reporting requirements. Our elected officials should be held to similar standards. Making records of the Legislature and Governor’s Office accessible to the public would strengthen accountability, promote informed decision-making and increase confidence in state government.
Question 5 — YES
Limit State Revenue Growth and Return Excess Revenue to Taxpayers
Massachusetts businesses already face some of the highest operating costs in the nation. The Chamber supports Question 5 because it would strengthen fiscal discipline by limiting state revenue collections and returning excess funds to taxpayers. Allowing businesses and residents to retain more of their hard-earned money supports investment, job creation and economic growth, while encouraging state government to manage taxpayer resources responsibly.
Question 7 — NO
Allow Single-Family Homes on 5,000-square-foot lots
The Chamber recognizes the urgent need for more housing to support our workforce and strengthen the region’s economy. However, while well-intentioned, Question 7 takes a one-size-fits-all approach that fails to adequately account for differences among communities, including infrastructure capacity, water and sewer systems, public safety and local planning priorities. The Chamber believes housing solutions should encourage responsible development while preserving appropriate local oversight. We support increasing housing opportunities, but believe this proposal has too many flaws and could create unintended consequences for municipalities, taxpayers and businesses.
