Falmouth Select Board Reviews Habitat for Humanity Housing Project and Comprehensive Plan Grant
- Meeting Overview:
During the recent Falmouth Select Board meeting, discussions were dominated by plans for a Habitat for Humanity housing project and a grant application to update the town’s local comprehensive plan.
14:30The proposed Habitat for Humanity housing project aims to provide affordable housing options for families earning between 60% and 80% of the area median income. The board reviewed the comprehensive permit proposal for a property on GitHub Street Extension, which includes plans for four single-family homes. Three of these homes will be Cape-style, and one will be ranch-style, each approximately 1,200 square feet. The project is aimed at integrating with the existing community, and the board appreciated the design for its thoughtful site planning and attention to detail, such as the inclusion of sheds for storage and avoiding a standardized “cookie cutter” layout.
11:14The board discussed the project’s proximity to local amenities such as the high school, a food store, and the new YMCA, which would be advantageous for potential residents. Landscaping plans were considered to ensure adequate screening between the proposed development and existing properties. The timeline for obtaining the comprehensive permit was projected to be between three to four months, depending on the Zoning Board of Appeals’ schedule. Board members expressed optimism about the project’s application, noting its preparedness and the potential for a quicker approval process.
20:38In parallel, the board addressed a grant application for $150,000 to update Falmouth’s local comprehensive plan, which has not been revised since 2016. The application deadline is set for June 4th, with feedback anticipated in the fall. If successful, the grant will fund a consulting firm to manage the updates, including public outreach and workshops. There was discussion about the need for this update, given recent changes in the regional policy plan by the Cape Cod Commission. The board acknowledged the importance of aligning with new regional goals and considered forming an advisory committee to oversee the update process. However, concerns were raised about the potential limitations such a committee might impose on information dissemination and member participation.
28:31The board emphasized the importance of all members being involved in the planning process, referencing past experiences where limited involvement led to inadequate information sharing. There was consensus on the need for a structured consulting relationship, with regular updates provided during public meetings to ensure transparency and community engagement. The board also highlighted the necessity of tailoring the comprehensive plan to meet Falmouth’s unique needs, rather than relying on generic chapters that may not align with local priorities.
During the meeting, the board also discussed the requirements for the local comprehensive plan, which must meet a minimum set of criteria for certification. This includes a vision statement, existing conditions, goals, a capital facilities plan, a housing plan, and an implementation schedule. The flexibility within these requirements allows for the inclusion of additional topics such as climate resiliency and sustainability, provided the minimum criteria are met.
32:32In addressing potential funding scenarios, the board joked about unconventional solutions like a bake sale but acknowledged more serious alternatives such as requesting funds at the town meeting or phasing the project, though phasing could result in outdated information. Confidence was expressed in the grant application, and it was noted that the town has previously received district local technical assistance funding, which could be sought again for this project. The relationship with the Cape Cod Commission was described as positive, with past collaborations providing technical assistance for initiatives like the draft wayfinding plan.
37:47The meeting also covered public involvement in regional planning, with upcoming public information sessions scheduled to discuss infrastructure projects, including improvements for cyclists and pedestrians and a proposed viewing area on the Bourne Bridge. Updates on various local projects were provided, including ongoing construction at the Shiver Pond fishing platform and an appeal resolution for a housing development on Sandwich Road.
City Council Officials:
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
05/13/2025
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Recording Published:
05/14/2025
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Duration:
44 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Barnstable County
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Towns:
Falmouth
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