The board dedicated attention to the senior citizen home repairs program, which is designed to assist senior homeowners aged 60 and above in maintaining their homes as they age in place. The program, with a total budget of $50,000, offers up to $5,000 per project on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted. An application process was introduced, accessible online via the city website, with outreach planned through the senior center and community channels. A key feature of the program is its quick response time, aiming to provide applicants with feedback within one business day, although processing times may vary based on application complexity.

To address concerns about accessibility for seniors who may not be familiar with technology, the board ensured that trained staff at the senior center would assist in completing applications, including setting up necessary digital components like an email for submission. The application includes a checklist of required documentation, such as proof of age, residency, income, and contractor estimates for repairs.

The meeting also highlighted the introduction of a new ADU loan program, intended to support individuals in constructing ADUs while ensuring they are rented at affordable rates. The board discussed offering forgivable loans up to $10,000 for a maximum of five projects, with the loan forgiven by 20% each year over five years, provided compliance with affordability guidelines is maintained. The program requires owner occupancy during the loan term and mandates annual certification of rental rates by the city to ensure they remain within 100% of the Area Median Income. The estimated affordable rental rate was mentioned to be around $2,000 per month, categorized as affordable but not deeply affordable.

A strategic decision was made to sequence the ADU program after the senior repair program, allowing for focused implementation and avoiding the simultaneous launch of multiple programs. This approach is designed to prevent overwhelming applicants and ensure quality service. The board expressed a preference to pass the ADU program in the next meeting contingent on the progress of the senior repair program.

Another discussion revolved around the strategic allocation of funds for affordable housing initiatives. The board considered prioritizing projects that could leverage additional financial support from state, federal, and private sources, thus maximizing community benefits. A proposal for a structured application process was introduced, suggesting a two-month deadline for applications, during which projects would be presented at the subsequent meeting before board deliberation and voting.

Additionally, the board revisited the first-time homebuyer down payment assistance program, with new applications being received. Efforts are being made to make these programs accessible and effective for a limited qualifying demographic. The board considered leveraging successful marketing strategies from other communities and discussed the possibility of creating a resource webpage for prospective first-time homebuyers to simplify navigation through available assistance programs.

Updates on the Revere Housing Authority’s work revealed plans to reposition their federal portfolio through a Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) conversion, potentially creating 175 additional vouchers and generating approximately $3 million in funding for further housing developments. The board also learned about a developer’s interest in a property adjacent to the Chelsea Housing Authority, which aims to be 100% affordable, aligning with the city’s housing production goals.