Ad Hoc Committee to Assess and Recommend Strategies for Housing | Feb. 24, 2025

The meeting focuses on assessing and recommending strategies for increasing housing creation, particularly affordable housing, within the town. The discussion heavily involves addressing the housing crisis and its impact on the community.

Watch the meeting. AI generated summary below. Corrections welcome; see contact page.

Key Points

• Housing Shortage Crisis: The committee acknowledges a severe housing shortage, exacerbated by the high number of second homes (42% in mid-Cape) and the increasing cost of land and housing. Concerns are raised about the Governor's report downplaying the need for more housing based on projected demographic shifts.
• Public Comments: Public comments strongly emphasize the urgent need for affordable and workforce housing. Speakers highlight the displacement of long-term residents due to the influx of second homes and the lack of housing for essential workers. Concerns are raised about the impact on healthcare and other essential services.
• Zoning and Development: The discussion includes support for by-right upzoning to allow for denser development, particularly in areas outside of village centers, to create more housing units without significantly altering the character of established neighborhoods. The possibility of converting existing larger homes into multi-family units is also explored.
• Town Asset Utilization: A significant portion of the meeting centers on the potential use of town assets, specifically the Armory, for affordable housing. Debate ensues regarding its suitability, potential costs, and the need for a comprehensive approach to utilizing all town assets for housing.
• Short-Term Rentals: The committee discusses the need for regulations on short-term rentals to mitigate their impact on the availability of year-round affordable housing.
• Funding Optimization: The committee discusses optimizing state and federal funding, particularly CDBG funds, to prioritize affordable housing initiatives. Concerns are raised about the clarity of how these funds are currently allocated and labeled.
• Transfer Fee: The committee considers implementing a transfer fee on high-value real estate sales to generate revenue for affordable housing. Concerns are raised about the potential impact on residents and the timing in relation to other potential tax increases.

Highlights

• Comments underscore the urgency of the housing crisis.
• The debate regarding the Armory's use highlights the complexities of repurposing existing town assets.
• The committee's struggle to balance the need for immediate action with the complexities of implementing effective and sustainable housing solutions.
• The committee's commitment to developing clear, concise, and actionable strategies for the Town Council's consideration.