The meeting’s primary focus was the Five Auburn Street Project, a substantial affordable housing initiative. The presentation detailed the complex funding structure supporting the development, which is expected to cost around $23 million. The largest funding source will come from low-income housing tax credits, a componet in attracting private investment. The project has also secured funding from the West Metro Home Consortium and received federal historic tax credits, with a state historic tax credit application in progress. To meet the project’s financial needs, the developers plan to apply for $5.4 million in subordinate net debt from the state, alongside a traditional mortgage and support from local entities like the Natick Affordable Housing Trust and the Community Preservation Committee.

The Five Auburn Street Project aims to preserve the historic Elliot School building while constructing 32 units of 100% affordable housing. The emphasis on community benefits, such as energy efficiency upgrades and stormwater management improvements, highlights the project’s alignment with both affordable housing and historic preservation goals. The timeline for the project was discussed, with a town meeting vote on the Community Preservation Committee funding commitment expected by the end of the year. The pre-application for state funding is set for December, with full applications potentially submitted in early 2026, and occupancy anticipated by 2029.

The Select Board also addressed changes to downtown parking. The discussion included setting parking rates for various passes and considering adjustments to enhance the current system. Proposed changes aim to standardize on-street parking to a two-hour limit and extend parking lot duration to four hours, addressing inconsistencies that have confused residents and visitors. The board discussed transitioning from physical coin meters to app-based payment methods, reflecting technological advancements in parking management. During snow emergencies, alternative parking options will be communicated to residents.

The board’s dialogue was informed by insights from the business community and cultural district representatives. The importance of parking enforcement officers was emphasized, with their role as ambassadors assisting patrons highlighted. Additional recommendations included new on-street parking spaces and lifting overnight parking restrictions during the winter, barring state emergencies declared by the police chief. These changes aim to improve parking clarity and accessibility for both residents and visitors.

Beyond these headline issues, the meeting covered several other community matters. The board unanimously reappointed Bill Ramage and Jose Monte to the Community Preservation Committee, acknowledging their contributions to developing community preservation plans and the application process. The board also recognized David Moores for his 40-year public service career.

The board reviewed survey results aimed at improving local government meetings. The survey revealed a preference for hybrid and video meeting formats. With 739 responses, the data suggested a latent willingness among residents to increase participation if meetings were made more appealing. The feedback will guide future strategies to enhance community involvement in local governance.

The meeting concluded with updates on the gazebo restoration project, the relocation of a water line easement, and the Municipal Empowerment Act. The board expressed strong support for the act, which aims to provide municipalities with tools to address financial pressures and improve public services. The session wrapped up with adjustments to the 2025 meeting calendar.