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The potential benefits of establishing consistency among plans and programs at different geographic scales are substantial, but only if state policies, programs, and priorities are also coordinated with each other under the umbrella of the Commonwealth’s Sustainable Development Principles.  With direction from the Governor, all state agencies should adjust funding, permitting, infrastructure, housing, and technical assistance programs to promote sustainable growth.

While the Sustainable Development Principles represent a powerful and progressive vision for the state, but they have not yet been fully integrated into the state’s policies, programs, and priorities.  Of greater concern, many state programs are not aligned with one another and often work at cross purposes.  

Coordination of state policies must begin with executive leadership and clear, specific, and measureable expectations for program alignment.  Ongoing self-evaluation and “third party” assessment will be necessary to ensure that these expectations are being met.  Modifications to state policies should prioritize capital funding for designated growth areas and create mechanisms to discourage development in resource protection areas.  Expansion of the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority service area should include strict conditions for water conservation and land use controls.  Long-range permitting and capital facilities programs—such as the Water Management Act or the Massachusetts School Building Authority—should also reflect sustainable development patterns. 

16)    Ensure state policies and investments are consistent with the Sustainable Development Principles

17)    Establish mechanisms for state accountability and consistency of Sustainable Development Principles

18)    Target capital funding to proposals consistent with regional plan

19)    Adjust 40B regulations to promote both affordable housing production and plan consistency

20)    Revise MWRA expansion policies to promote sustainable growth

21)    Modify MEPA reviews to encourage sustainable development

22)    Align school building assistance priorities with sustainable development patterns

23)    Incorporate sustainable growth projections in Water Management Act permitting