2023-09-21-CPC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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3 LexHAB/LHT Funding- The Committee discussed LexHAB’s eligibility for CPA pre-funding, or whether all pre-funding money would now be transferred to the Affordable Housing Trust (AHT). Ms. Fenollosa commented that Town Counsel said that the decision was up to the CPC and not a legal matter. Mr. Pressman commented that there has been no instance of the CPC refusing to consider a proposal that was within the Committee’s authority to approve, emphasized LexHAB’s service to the community, and stated his support for LexHAB’s ability to request pre-funding. Ms. Walker expressed concern over the prospect of the Town having a policy where all funding for community housing is required to come from the AHT. Mr. Sandeen suggested including a member of the AHT in the conversation and supported Ms. Walker bringing her concerns to the AHT. Ms. Krieger supported making as much funding available and shared that the Planning Board is considering payment in lieu of affordable housing and not considering the cost of land. Mr. Creech supported having more time to think about and discuss the matter and Ms. Fenollosa scheduling a future meeting with LexHAB and the AHT. Ms. Fenollosa advised LexHAB to apply for funding as usual while the question is still being discussed. Ms. Morrison expressed the importance of clarity for the best procedures for affordable housing funding. Mr. Pressman clarified that the discussion question is regarding LexHAB’s ability to apply for pre-funding as opposed to funding for specific projects and commented that the Housing Authority is an independent agency and therefore the Town would be unable to prevent them from submitting applications. Ms. Walker reiterated her concern for the AHT being the sole resource for affordable housing funding and supported the Housing Authority’s ability to apply for CPA funding independent of the AHT. Mr. Sandeen stated that the goal of the AHT was to have funding more readily available for housing projects rather than always having to wait for the ATM. Mr. Pressman posed the question of a hypothetical scenario where the AHT denies a request from the Housing Authority. Ms. O’Brien expressed her support for a follow-up meeting with all the players involved to better understand their needs and operations. The Committee agreed to schedule a meeting continuing this conversation and including the heads of the relevant parties. Committee Business- The Committee discussed the meeting schedule and agreed to keep future meetings on Thursdays at 4:00 PM via Zoom when scheduled. The Committee agreed to meet on Thursday, October 19th to continue the discussion on Community Housing funding. After a motion duly made and seconded, the Committee voted by a roll call vote (8-0) to adjourn at 5:16 PM. The following documents were used at the meeting: 1) CPA Summary FY2025 Budget dated 9-20-23 2) Annual Town Report Submission 2023 3) Annual Town Report Committee Photo 2023