In calling out the town of Brookline for its inability to keep pace with the rate of Chapter 40B development applications, a recent Globe editorial (“State can’t shield Brookline from housing law’’) overlooked another important piece of the puzzle. Towns should encourage developers to pursue innovative projects that meet both affordable housing and other community goals, without the “stick’’ of 40B.

The City of Newton is currently entertaining a proposal for a mixed-use project in Newtonville that includes 25 percent affordability, at varying ranges. More important, the Washington Place project improves the ground level experience, invests in roadway infrastructure, maximizes use of public transit, and enhances a critical village center — all without pulling the 40B lever.

This project will require the city to update zoning for the site, but by working collaboratively with the developer, the community is an active participant in the process, not a passive observer.

Rosalie Weener

Brookline