Matthew J. Connolly is a Partner at Nutter and serves as Co-Chair of the BBA’s Real Estate Section for the 2026–2027 program year. An experienced litigator and co-chair of Nutter’s Environment and Energy practice group, he focuses his practice on environmental, administrative, and government law, compliance matters, and regulatory litigation. As a Section Co-Chair, he looks forward to expanding programming to reflect the breadth of expertise and developments relevant to members, with a particular focus on affordable housing and emerging issues in the real estate landscape.
What are you most looking forward to as a Section Co-Chair this year?
I am really excited to be working with my new co-chair (Jorge Colon from the Preservation of Affordable Housing) and our incredibly talented committee chairs. The Real Estate Section has never had more depth in the profession, representing large and small firms, non-profits, government, and academia. As a team, we are committed to expanding our programming to match the breadth of skills and developments our section members want.
What’s one issue or trend in your practice area you’ll be watching closely?
If I had to pick one, I’d say affordable housing. The Governor, Attorney General, and municipalities continue to implement the MBTA Communities Act and Affordable Homes Act, and the Legislature recently changed the standard for municipalities to grant variances. Rent control will also continue to be discussed, even though it is no longer on the ballot this year.
What can members look forward to from the RE Section this year?
I’m looking forward to several great programming ideas in the works, such as real estate/title issues with energy projects, fee-shifting cases on behalf of tenants in landlord-tenant court, and case studies and site visits for successful Boston housing projects. The Real Estate Section also does a great job reacting to recent trends and developing timely programs throughout the year. More details on timing and panelists will be announced soon!
