In 1985, LWVMA focused on helping local Leagues respond to the overwhelming impact of growth and development on local services and the environment. A series of regional workshops were offered, a video tape produced, handbook assembled and several public forums held on the development process.

Approximately 50 local Leagues participated in some way in this action focus, applying a variety of League positions to growth and development issues. Activities included: studies of existing zoning laws and regulations, growth and change in the community and open space plans; lobbying for professional planners, land acquisition and city charter reform; educational forums regarding housing and regional approaches to growth, land use, transportation issues and county government.

The Land Use Symposium Project in 1976-77, funded by the Massachusetts Foundation for the Humanities and Public Policy, was a major League effort to encourage public discussion of land use and growth-policy-related issues. Other land use activity included testimony to the Bureau of Land Management regarding off-shore drilling, support of farmland preservation through development rights purchase and participation in the Coastal Zone Management Plan process.

Growth policy was the major focus of LWVMA's land use action in 1975 and 1976. The League reviewed and commented on a 1975 publication of the state's Office of State Planning and supported the Growth Policy Development Act. The League also monitored and encouraged local League and public participation in the growth policy process and commented on the Metropolitan Area Planning Council regional report.

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