A key topic of discussion was the Affordable Housing Trust update provided by Sarah Melish. The Crowder House Lane project, consisting of 29 apartment units historically rented below market rates, is undergoing a transition to be included in the state’s Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI). This process has faced delays due to the absence of state funding from the outset, leading to complications in meeting the necessary criteria. Melish clarified that it is the town’s responsibility, not the property owner’s, to ensure these units count toward the SHI. The Northshore Community Development Corporation (CDC) has taken over the property. However, the lack of an approved marketing plan and lottery initially hindered the process. With recent approval from the state, the Affordable Housing Trust is set to vote on the marketing plan, which will allow further unit turnovers.

The Board expressed concerns over the implications of the lottery requirement and how it might delay transitioning the units. Melish assured that existing tenants would not face eviction, and units would be gradually turned over as they became vacant, following a streamlined candidate list.

In other matters, the Board unanimously approved the appointment of Mary Miner as the Council on Aging Director. Mary, with extensive experience as the former director in Nahant, was introduced as a capable leader poised to enhance senior services in Manchester-By-The-Sea. She elaborated on her past work, including a variety of programs offered, and emphasized the importance of community engagement through initiatives like speaker series and theater programs. Questions about her fundraising experience were addressed, with Mary detailing successful past efforts alongside the Friends of the Council on Aging.

The meeting also delved into infrastructure developments, such as National Grid’s petitions for conduit installations at three properties. Michael Kazati of National Grid outlined the necessary upgrades, including customer electrical service improvements and safety-related transformer replacements. The Board approved these petitions following clarifications on the logistics and timing of the installations.

Capital improvements for the upcoming fiscal year were discussed, including water plant upgrades and roadway reconstruction projects, estimated at significant costs. The town has applied for funding through the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s SRF program, which could offer low-interest loans and potential debt forgiveness. The Board acknowledged the need for a town meeting vote to authorize borrowing, should the application be successful.

The meeting continued with discussions on the challenges faced by the Manchester Housing Authority, particularly the difficulties in rehabilitating state units due to wetlands and limited buildable land. The Board considered pausing efforts until conditions improve and additional state funding becomes available. Alternatives like smaller projects focusing on home ownership were proposed, contingent on securing town land or trust funding.

Lastly, the Board addressed local policy changes, such as the transition of the July 4th committee to an advisory role, allowing for more flexible operations without formal committee obligations. A one-day alcohol license for a community event was approved, and discussions on parking regulations led to new restrictions and signage improvements at White Beach. The Board also explored the complexities of hybrid meeting protocols and planned public forums to gather community input on school configurations.