Tim Murray on Worcester Ballot Questions 7, 8 and 3

Worcester Chamber backs smaller housing lots, opposes marijuana rollback

By-Hank Stolz
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Worcester, MA-Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Tim Murray discusses the Chamber’s positions on upcoming ballot questions. The Chamber supports Question 7, which would allow single-family homes on smaller lots in areas with adequate infrastructure, projecting 5,200 additional starter homes over five to seven years to address housing affordability and retain young professionals. Murray draws parallels to the success of accessory dwelling units in Worcester, “Just since the ADU, accessory dwelling units have been passed. We have seen, I think we’re approaching 50 or 100 permitted just in the city of Worcester alone.”

The Chamber opposes Question 8, which would roll back marijuana legalization, citing the established industry’s positive economic impact, job creation, and tax contributions. “Well, let me first start by saying the chamber was wrong and I was wrong and I think other people were wrong, but we were wrong. We opposed the legalization of marijuana, took that position.” but now Murray says Marijuana is a Worcester economic success story, “And Worcester really led the way in putting together I think a comprehensive plan…They are sometimes the nicest storefronts in the business districts. They have really added some people activity, if you will.”

Murray personally supports Question 3 on primary election reform, arguing it would increase voter participation among unenrolled voters. Looking ahead, the Chamber’s November 12 Business After Hours at Assumption University will feature DCU Center General Manager Amy Peterson discussing modernization needs for the aging facility and her vision for its future, with Murray making the case for state investment comparable to recent upgrades in Boston, Springfield, and other Massachusetts cities.