0:01The Atwood Acres discussion underscored the broader challenges the town faces in maintaining affordable housing. As the property approaches its expiration date as affordable housing, trust members recognized the importance of collaboration with the Housing Authority and other stakeholders to ensure the property remains within the affordable housing portfolio. The concern is that without intervention, Atwood Acres could be lost, exacerbating the town’s housing shortage.

1:01:52Another issue addressed was the conceptual housing plan for a parcel of land that proposes a mix of housing types, including townhouses and apartments across ten buildings. While the plan aims to maximize the number of housing units, members expressed skepticism about its feasibility, particularly concerning the septic system requirements.

Alongside the conceptual plan, the trust discussed the management and ownership structure of potential new housing units. There was debate over whether these units should be sold individually or remain rental properties, with the Housing Authority expected to play a role in these decisions. The idea of selling units with deed restrictions to ensure they remain affordable was floated as a potential solution. Members acknowledged that a mix of market-rate and affordable units might be necessary to attract developers.

The trust also tackled the budget for the fiscal year, incorporating discussions about the potential hiring of a housing director and the impact of inflation on housing projects. Funding constraints pushed the hiring timeline back, and members discussed alternative funding sources, including the use of ARPA funds and income from inclusionary zoning bylaws. The conversation revealed the financial intricacies involved in sustaining affordable housing initiatives.

22:02Moreover, the meeting addressed the ongoing forestry management plans for properties like Wallace Hill, focusing on responsible forest management to generate income and support affordable housing efforts. The forestry plan involves selective cutting, with assurances given that trails used for recreation would remain accessible. However, concerns were raised about pending state approval, without which no cutting could proceed.

1:21:55The meeting also touched on the lengthy timeline associated with affordable housing development, acknowledging that efforts have been underway for two years with no RFP expected before July. Members drew parallels with other projects, like one led by Carol Bacon from Dunstable, which took ten years to complete, cautioning that such timelines are typical for these efforts.