The Housing Production Plan, presented by the Northern Middlesex Council of Governments and the Housing Advisory Board, was a focal point of the meeting. The comprehensive plan, in development for over 16 months, identifies key housing needs and outlines strategies for expanding affordable housing and improving existing stock. It highlights the necessity of maintaining a state-approved plan even when the town’s affordable housing stock exceeds the 10% threshold, as it ensures stronger local control and access to funding.

The plan’s goals include monitoring affordable housing deed restrictions, fostering public-private partnerships, and promoting sustainable development. It proposes 20 action items, such as improving land use regulations and enhancing outreach about affordable housing services. The demographic analysis revealed a growing need for accessible housing for seniors and small families, as well as racial disparities in mortgage approvals, particularly affecting Hispanic residents.

A board member raised concerns about the feasibility of the plan’s ambitious goal of producing 73 new subsidized housing units annually. Despite this, the plan received unanimous approval, enabling its submission for state review.

In addition to housing issues, the town manager reported on substantial increases in health insurance premiums for retiree Medicare supplement plans. These increases, described as extraordinary for two consecutive years, include a rise of 18.3% for MedX2 premiums and 20.79% for Medicare Blue PO premiums for 2026. Last year, these plans saw increases of 19.74% and 31.44%, respectively. The town currently allocates $4.57 million in its budget to cover these premiums for 875 retirees aged 65 and older.

The town manager expressed concern over the impact on retirees, emphasizing the unsustainable nature of these trends and calling for health insurance reform at the governmental level. He highlighted various factors contributing to rising costs, including financial difficulties faced by hospitals and insurance providers, and the increasing demand for health services. Pharmaceutical costs, particularly for specialty drugs, were also noted as significant contributors to inflated healthcare expenses.

Another important update involved the South Chelmsford Fire Station’s groundwater assessment. The town manager announced that contamination from a previously removed underground fuel storage tank has not affected the nearby public well.

The meeting also celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Wish Project, a nonprofit organization founded by Donna Hunter in 2005. The organization has grown from a small effort to a significant nonprofit providing essential items to families in need in the Merrimack Valley. A representative expressed gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “We can only do because of this amazing town that stands behind us and our mission.”

Licensing matters were addressed, including the approval of a roadside vendor license for the Central Congregational Church’s annual Christmas tree fundraiser. A one-day beer and wine license for a Huntington’s disease fundraiser and a special license for an Armenian Church food festival were also approved.

Additionally, the board discussed a proposal from Bits and Peas Farm LLC for a five-year lease of agricultural land. The proposal, offering $100 per year with improvements, was unanimously accepted, supporting continued agricultural investment in the community.

The town manager reported on a $34,000 public safety grant for municipal road safety and a $25,000 grant for cancer screenings for public safety employees. Updates on the Southwell boat ramp permit and the town’s open space and recreation plan were also shared.