The proposed “Local Hiring Ordinance” which is being championed by Somerville Community Corporation (SCC) might be a fine idea in principle, although a test of its constitutionality may yet be in the offing.

Simply put, the amendment is intended to assure that local residents are offered a substantial share of jobs (30%) for projects which are either wholly or partially subsidized by the city, as well as meaningful participation by organized labor.

What arouses our interest is the fact that SCC’s own local hiring record can be regarded as spotty, at best. The St. Polycarp Village Apartments project in particular comes to mind. Reportedly, very little local hiring was done (approximately 16%) and local union representation was also found to be wanting.

Can this be regarded as hypocrisy on the part of an organization whose very self-stated mission is to advocate for the rights of low and moderate income Somerville residents? As difficult as it may be to coordinate and implement such programs, the credibility of the organization could be called into question unless these incongruities are resolved.

We are not suggesting that anything wrong was done, but we are looking to find consistency in SCC’s policies and practices.  If the playing field is to be leveled and deemed to be fair for all of the players, then everyone involved ought to be following the same rules.