3/4/2014 AFFORDABLE HOUSING Minutes

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Mr. Willard inquired whether the Affordable Housing Committee would continue to play a rote in the project and Mr. Isbitz responded that they served in an advisory and educational capacity. The Chair indicated that there would be hearings about the project. Mr. Marcus indicated that they were representing 93 interested homeowners with sincere concerns, noting that their neighborhood currently faced trespassing due to a lack of sidewalks. Mr. Marcus stated that the homeowners were concerned about changes to the traffic and pedestrian patterns and expressed interest in remaining in contact. Ms. Egloff referenced the AHC's hope to develop a list of frequently asked questions, as more information became available. Mr. Marcus referenced a list of 10 questions forwarded to the Board of Selectmen, highlighting the concerns of the current residents. The Chair recommended the homeowners pursue their concern about sidewalks with the Town and other members of the Committee voiced their support of the residents' effort to acquire a sidewalk. Chairman Abbott summarized the process of identifying a parcel of land to be developed for affordable housing, along with the Town's housing plan. The Chair stated that there was a waiting list for affordable units in Mashpee, some of which extended 8-10 years. Workforce rental housing was needed in Mashpee for firefighters, police officers, retail workers and teachers. Mr. Marcus inquired about the qualifications for access to affordable housing and Mr. Isbitz responded that it would depend upon the development and the funding base. Mr. Isbitz explained that each funding source may require different income restrictions, typically families earning 80% of the average median income for the area or less, which in Barnstable County was approximately $47,000. Most funding sources consider 60%-80%range as moderate and affordable, and tax credit/State managed funds typically restricted to 60%of average median income or less. Other funding could restrict to 50% or even 30% in some cases. There was discussion regarding candidates for affordable housing being regional pilots and entrepreneurs. Mr. Isbitz referenced the 134 Mashpee teachers, only 34 of whom lived in Mashpee and less than half of the police department. Ms. Egloff pointed out the need to provide housing for people who will benefit the Town and provide infrastructure and support for Mashpee. The Chair noted that he attended a number of affordable housing lotteries filled with people. Ms. Egloff summarized that the intent of the Committee was not to create a burden for the Town but to do what was best for the community. Mr. Johnson reported that in 2013 alone, Habitat for Humanity had constructed 3 new affordable homes in Mashpee. Mashpee Commons Chairman Abbott reported that, although approximately 12 affordable units were anticipated this year at Mashpee Commons, it appeared as though the total may be 3 or 4 units due to financing issues. Mr. Isbitz pointed out that, due to DHCD funding, they would not be able to build the phase without ensuring the correct proportion of affordable housing was also built. There was discussion regarding the change in leadership at Mashpee Commons. It was anticipated that Mashpee Commons could return in May to make a presentation to the Committee. Wampanoag Presentation-Leon Jacobs Mr. Jacobs, Interim Housing Director, planned to attend tonight's meeting to provide an update on the Tribe's affordable housing project on Meetinghouse. Affordable Housing Trust Chairman Abbott reported that Town Manager Joyce Mason had proposed merging CPC and Cape Cod Commission mitigation funds for the Affordable Housing Trust, but the Mashpee Housing Authority also planned to seek funds for a number of purposes, including a feasibility study for 950 Falmouth Road. Reference was made to minutes from the Mashpee Housing Authority meeting in 3