Newton may change policy to expand racial diversity in affordable housing

Newton may change one of its affordable housing policies after a recent study showed the rule favored white people more than people of color.

Trio-Housing-Development-Newtonville
The city of Newton is considering a policy change to expand the racial diversity of its affordable housing after studying affordable housing lotteries at three local developments, including Trio in Newtonville. Jonathan Wiggs/Globe Staff

Newton officials may change its “local preference” policy for affordable housing applicants in the city, after a recent study showed the rule benefited white people more than people of color, John Hilliard of The Boston Globe reported.

The current policy sets aside 70 percent of affordable units for residents, people who work for the city and public schools, employees of local businesses, and families with children in the city’s schools.

A city-commissioned study of three recent housing developments found that selection rates in the local preference pool were higher for white applicants seeking affordable units than for applicants of color.

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