Belmar Housing Authority Approves Cost-Saving Measures for Elevator, Building Repairs

Overview: The Belmar Housing Authority meeting resulted in the approval of two resolutions aimed at reducing costs and improving local housing infrastructure. The first resolution authorized the re-tendering of building S repairs with revised specifications expected to be more cost-effective. The second resolution approved an elevator change order, which decreased the contract by $10,000 as the interior work will be completed by a different company for less cost. The discussions also included the status of ongoing projects, such as the near completion of an elevator upgrade and the occupancy of all housing units.

Acushnet Housing Authority Targets Upgrade with $75,000 Grant and Seeks Additional Funds

Overview: In a recent Acushnet Housing Authority meeting, board members voted to apply for a state grant that could potentially double the $75,000 in funding already secured from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This additional funding, if matched by the High Leverage Asset Preservation Program (High LAAP), would be used for property upgrades, including the installation of vinyl siding and new screening porches. The meeting also addressed the issue of missing utility bills and discussed ongoing maintenance efforts.

Fall River Housing Authority Addresses Tenant Debt Write-Offs and Approves Contracts

Overview: In the latest meeting of the Fall River Housing Authority, the board addressed significant tenant debt write-offs totaling over $316,000 and approved various contracts for housing projects and services. The discussion on the write-offs revealed the lingering financial impacts on tenants following the COVID-19 pandemic, with an upward trend in debts due to the drying up of third-party vendor payments. The contracts awarded included a boiler and domestic hot water heater replacement at George H. Cartel Heights and a three-year Moving and Storage service contract with an optional one-year extension. Additionally, the board approved affirmative action plans and multiple completion certificates for housing modernization projects.

Ayer Housing Trust Supports $4 Million Funding for Affordable Housing Project

Overview: The Ayer Affordable Housing Trust expressed unanimous support for a $4 million federal earmark to address a funding gap for the Noah Commons affordable housing project. During the meeting, a detailed letter of support addressed to Senator Elizabeth Warren and Senator Ed Markey, with a copy to Representative Lori Trahan, was reviewed, amended, and approved by members of the Housing Trust. The letter outlines the project’s need for additional funding due to increased construction costs and inflation and emphasizes the community’s backing and environmental considerations of the project.

Belmar Housing Authority Discusses Elevator Repairs and Housing Programs

Overview: In the latest meeting of the Belmar Housing Authority, the most pressing topic was the upcoming elevator inspection and the associated complaints from residents about the delays in elevator repairs. The meeting also addressed the rejection of bids for the facade repair of the Belmar senior house, the approval of the 5-year plan and annual statement for the 2023 Capital Fund Grant, and discussions of a new housing program called RAD.