The board approved a new applicant, dubbed applicant 35, for the Local Rental Assistance Program (LRAP). The applicant, a 66-year-old male living independently on social security benefits, was struggling with the high cost of living, including rent and utilities. Board members discussed the details of his application, noting his use of public benefits such as fuel assistance and SNAP. His rent was approximately $440 before utilities, rising to $675-$700 with heating costs.

Following this, the board emphasized the need to increase publicity for the LRAP. It was noted that the program was already promoted through the town’s broadcaster and newsletter, but additional outreach was deemed necessary. Suggestions included targeting property management companies and community organizations like Loaves and Fishes and local churches. One member highlighted that individuals in need are likely to frequent these places, and ongoing communication with the director of Loaves and Fishes was confirmed for distributing flyers. The board agreed that these efforts were important to ensuring eligible individuals were aware of the available assistance.

The meeting also included a update on funding. The town accountant, Michelle Rennels, informed the board that the $90,000 approved at the town meeting had been transferred from the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) housing reserve to the affordable housing trust, retroactive to July 1. This funding is now accessible for use in their housing initiatives, providing a financial boost to their ongoing projects.

Discussion then shifted to the Derky Farmhouse project. The board expressed frustration over the slow progress and the need for a clearer vision of the type of housing that could fit on the site. Member Harvey was tasked with reviewing documents related to the property but faced delays awaiting information on the number of bedrooms the site could support. The balance between the building size and the septic system capacity would dictate the number of units. Some members suggested obtaining a range of possible bedroom counts from the consultant to aid planning, though there were concerns this might prolong the process. The issue of locating wells on the property was also discussed, with the urgency of capping them before winter highlighted. The board considered involving the Highway Department for excavation and debated the appropriate communication channels to maintain proper conduct. They also discussed reaching out to the previous owners for information, although current owners were unresponsive.

The conversation included the Hager Homestead affordable unit, which had been advertised on social media and local newspapers but had yet to attract suitable candidates. The board acknowledged the difficulty in finding individuals who meet both income and mortgage qualification requirements. One member suggested enhancements to make the property more appealing, such as involving local artists to beautify the area.

The Hadon Road project was also a topic of discussion. An update was provided on revisions to the proposal, including discussions about funding caps and ensuring Habitat for Humanity would not receive CPC funding. The Town Council proposed separating the grant terms from the purchase and sale agreement, leading to a debate on whether to hold an expedited meeting to discuss the revised documents or wait until the next regularly scheduled meeting. The consensus leaned towards waiting for the revisions to be completed.

The board also reviewed a list of town-owned properties for potential affordable housing development. They discussed targeting a few of these properties for further discussions with the town assessor and planner to determine viability. The conversation highlighted the need for practical approaches to identifying suitable properties for affordable housing initiatives, using Benfield Farms as an example where $700,000 was allocated via CPC funds. The board emphasized the importance of a strategic approach, acknowledging the financial commitments previous projects had required from the town.

Additionally, the board explored the potential for smaller affordable housing projects on smaller properties. Concerns were raised about managing multiple projects simultaneously, given the lengthy processes involved in planning and execution. The importance of having a clear financial picture for the next five years was noted, and the board agreed on narrowing their focus to current commitments before expanding to new parcels for development.

The discussion also included the Shad Street property, with a desire to engage with the select board regarding its future. The board expressed interest in potentially utilizing the property for housing development, though concerns were raised about the complexities involved with renovating an old building. The conversation concluded with an emphasis on the need for a comprehensive study by the select board to determine the property’s future.