The meeting opened with an acknowledgment of the September 11th anniversary. After ratifying the minutes from the August meeting, the treasurer reported a balance of $652,400, which set the stage for a productive session. The primary focus was the draft strategic plan, which received positive feedback. The plan is nearing finalization, with the board ready to move forward after any final comments or questions are addressed.

Attention then shifted to the Veterans Lottery for affordable condominiums on Salem Street. The board’s efforts have led to an increase in affordable units in this development. Matt Wolfer was acknowledged for facilitating the lottery process, which established a priority order for potential buyers based on mortgage qualifications and down payment capabilities. Feedback from this process suggested creating a spreadsheet to link drawn codes to names immediately after the lottery, which the board found feasible for future iterations. Additionally, the board discussed the noise produced by the lottery wheel, humorously considering a quieter replacement.

The Veterans Preference lottery aimed to fill two units reserved for veterans. Initially, there was a lack of veteran applicants, prompting the board to extend the application window and enhance marketing efforts. As of the latest update, two veteran applicants were being vetted for eligibility. The board emphasized the importance of outreach to ensure these units go to veterans, with a member stating, “We’d love to get a few more veteran applicants.”

Another topic was the first-time home buyer down payment assistance program. Applications were made available both online and physically, with seven submissions received. The board is tasked with reviewing these applications to confirm eligibility based on residency, income, and assets. The program offers potential grants of up to $10,000 per applicant, combining state earmark funds with the board’s matching funds. The board discussed the importance of clarity in the application process and agreed to clarify specific details regarding the period between qualification and the purchase and sale agreement.

The board also discussed the disposition of city-owned and tax title properties, with plans to initiate a Request for Proposals (RFP) process aimed at redeveloping these properties with a focus on affordable housing. The intent is to either maximize affordable housing options on these lots or generate revenue to support affordable housing initiatives. The process involves collaboration between board members and city staff, with Tom and Lena leading the RFP development efforts. Nick Dar from Broad Sound Real Estate was selected as the broker to market and list these properties. The city staff will begin meetings with the broker to prepare the properties for redevelopment, which may include necessary repairs.

A zoning analysis conducted by the city aims to determine legally permissible developments and feasible options for the properties, aiding in crafting the RFP. Although no specific timeline was provided for the RFP process, the board will have input on how proposals are evaluated to enhance the number of affordable units or pursue specific project types.

During the public comment section, Anthony Cantino, a concerned resident, expressed his frustration about the local housing situation. He criticized the development of high-priced housing that does not cater to the needs of working individuals or the elderly. Cantino, who identified himself as 93 years old, lamented that affordable housing is not available for long-time residents like him. He highlighted issues such as a building in disrepair for seven years and owners’ lack of incentive to make necessary improvements. Cantino’s comments underscored the broader issue of housing affordability and the challenges faced by residents seeking safe and affordable housing.