The Baker-Polito Administration has appointed Lawrence City Councilor Marc Laplante to the state Housing Appeals Committee where he will address (Chapter 40B) appeals in an impartial forum to resolve conflicts arising from the siting of new affordable housing. He serves as the city council representative on the Committee.
“Marc has been an important partner in our economic development efforts in the City of Lawrence,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash.
“His experience with municipal needs and concerns will be invaluable as we work to make Massachusetts a better place to live, work, and play.”
“It is my privilege to be asked by Governor Baker to serve on this committee,” said Marc Laplante. “Cases this committee reviews impact potential housing projects in cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth. My objective is to fairly and equitably apply the law to the cases presented to the committee.”
The Housing Appeals Committee carefully balances the need for affordable housing, and the statutory guidance in Chapter 40B, with legitimate local concerns, including planning, environmental, open space, health, and safety concerns. More information can be found at the Committee’s website.
Marc Laplante
Marc Laplante is a six term Lawrence City Councilor who currently serves as its Vice President. He is an attorney who passed the bar in 2006, served as the chairman of the Lawrence Redevelopment Authority for 10 years, and presently works for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection where he is the regional enforcement coordinator. Most recently, he served on Governor Charlie Baker and Lt Gov Karyn Polito’s Transition Team. He and his wife, Susan, live in Lawrence with their three school-age children.