The meeting commenced with a discussion on the authority’s financial status for the fiscal year, with a particular focus on budget allocations and expenditures related to housing maintenance and operations. Notably, $21,000 was earmarked for apartment rehabilitation turnover, with $15,000 specifically dedicated to repairs for units vacated by previous tenants. This allocation is projected to address the needs of two to four units, depending on their condition, and may include expenses for new appliances or significant maintenance tasks. The representative expressed confidence that even with these expenditures, the authority would meet its $7,000 profit goal for the year.

Budget discussions included a mention of a $57 tax increase from the state and a 5% increase in the management fee as recommended by the state, which aligns with the overall budget increase. The representative assured the board that these increases were incorporated into a solid and workable budget, which includes contingencies for unforeseen circumstances. The board unanimously approved the budget, and a subsequent motion to approve a new two-year contract for the management agent also passed without opposition.

Attention then turned to the issue of affordable housing in Westport. Participants expressed concerns over the current development landscape, where new homes are priced starting at $625,000, requiring an income of $89,000 to afford. This raised questions about the affordability of housing options in the community. One individual pointedly remarked, “That’s not affordable to me,” highlighting the disconnect between market prices and community income levels. The discussion pivoted towards multifamily rental units as a potential solution, with a consensus that efforts should focus on these types of housing rather than home ownership.

The meeting also addressed ongoing projects and collaborations aimed at expanding affordable housing options. A forthcoming Zoom meeting with the local affordable housing trust group was noted, intended to explore opportunities for housing expansion in the area. Additionally, the Community Preservation Committee’s potential interest in supporting property improvements was mentioned.

As winter approaches, the board also deliberated on maintenance needs, particularly the necessity of increased spending on heating system maintenance and snow removal. Staff typically handle these tasks, including snow plowing, but there was a suggestion to resurrect a past program where inmates from a local prison assisted with snow removal. The logistics of coordinating such assistance were acknowledged as challenging due to the unpredictability of snowstorms and the need for timely responses.

Safety concerns were also on the agenda, specifically regarding the storage of wood in a vehicle near the housing authority’s buildings. Communication with the fire department was planned to assess potential fire hazards, drawing on past incidents in nearby communities to stress the importance of preventive measures.