A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing a home rule petition aimed at making attainable and year-round housing restrictions permanent. Gloria McFersonson, the housing and sustainability director, explained that while Massachusetts law allows affordable housing restrictions to be held indefinitely, it does not currently extend the same permanence to attainable housing restrictions, which default to a 30-year limit. This limitation poses challenges for Chatham as it seeks to address housing needs for higher income levels. McFersonson emphasized the importance of the petition, citing the CHOP properties with expiring 40-year deed restrictions as an example where permanent restrictions would have been preferable.

The committee’s inquiry into the petition’s timing highlighted its potential impact on future programs rather than existing properties like the CHOP units. This petition is crucial as Chatham endeavors to create a robust framework for housing that supports a stable community, with permanent restrictions ensuring long-term availability for residents.

Attention then shifted to a proposed lease to locals program, designed to incentivize landlords to convert short-term rentals into year-round leases. The program, funded by 1% of short-term rental tax revenues, aims to tackle housing shortages in tourist-heavy areas. McFersonson outlined the program’s structure, including financial incentives for landlords based on rental unit size, with subsidies capped at $15,000 annually for three-bedroom units. The program’s budget estimate of $312,500 was questioned, with McFersonson confirming it was based on similar initiatives’ actual costs.

Committee members raised concerns about managing personal data privacy, emphasizing the need for a balance between tenant income verification and security. The program’s flexibility and potential adaptation based on demand were noted, as seen in comparable efforts in nearby towns like East Ham and Orleans.

The committee also reviewed the Stepping Stones Road housing project, which involves developing 14 units in duplex structures. Members discussed the project’s funding, split between the affordable and attainable housing trust funds, and affirmed that neither fund would impact the general town budget. Questions about occupancy restrictions and deed term lengths for the attainable units were raised, with a desire expressed for perpetual restrictions.

In a related matter, the committee examined the potential acquisition of property from Pat Ford’s estate for affordable housing. The property, specified in Ford’s will for such purposes, presents an opportunity for development or sale, with proceeds directed to the affordable housing trust fund. The discussion raised concerns about existing claims on the property, including MassHealth and tax liens, and the need for a timely resolution to avoid financial penalties.

Committee members expressed interest in appraising the property to assess its value and explore rental options for municipal employees. The urgency of addressing the claims was highlighted, with a recommendation for the select board to act promptly post-town meeting acceptance.

The committee unanimously supported recommending the property’s acceptance at the upcoming town meeting, recognizing its potential value despite financial obligations. This decision aligns with Chatham’s broader strategy to expand its affordable housing inventory.