2006-09-00-CPC-rpt (Needs Assessment Report)

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Town of Lexington Community Preservation Plan Community Housing ________________________________________________ Background The majority of Lexington’s population is in the middle-income category, earning over 80 percent of area median income. Eighteen percent of the Town’s population falls into the moderate-, low-, or extremely low-income categories. Lexington is faced with a declining population in the 18 to 44 age group. High housing costs make it difficult for young people to afford a home in Lexington. At the same time, the population over 65 is on the increase. Members of this group often live on fixed incomes. There is a clear need to create affordable rental and ownership opportunities for young families and senior citizens that fall into the low- income or moderate-income categories. Lexington has three housing organizations that provide and advocate for low- and moderate- income housing. Lexington Housing Authority The Lexington Housing Authority was established in 1968 pursuant to Chapter 121B of the General Laws of Massachusetts. Its role is to provide decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing for low-income individuals and families, including veterans and the elderly. Though state and federally funded, the Housing Authority is governed by a five member Board of Commissioners, four of whom are elected by town voters and one of whom is appointed by the Governor. Lexington Housing Assistance Board (LexHAB) In 1983 the Lexington Housing Assistance Board, Inc. was established by an Act of the General Court as requested by Town Meeting and the Board of Selectmen. The immediate rationale for LexHAB’s creation was the conversion of the former Muzzey High School to affordable housing. The charge to LexHAB was broadly framed to enable it to look beyond the Muzzey units in order to provide housing for young families and other residents who could not qualify for housing provided by the Housing Authority, but who were nevertheless in need of housing assistance. The Town charged LexHAB, subject to the direction of the Board of Selectmen, to “investigate and implement” housing alternatives for low, moderate and middle income families. Since LexHAB is locally sponsored, it is able to give a preference to applicants who have a Lexington connection through residence, work, or school. LexHAB is governed by a seven- member board appointed by the Selectmen. 7