Cohasset Affordable Housing Trust Seeks Support for Property Exploration
Board backs initial look at three town-owned parcels for potential development
COHASSET - January 21 - The Cohasset Affordable Housing Trust and Steering Committee are seeking support from the Select Board to explore three town-owned parcels for potential affordable housing development.
At the Jan. 21 Select Board meeting, representatives from the Affordable Housing Trust and Steering Committee presented their request to investigate the feasibility of developing affordable housing on properties at 585 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, a parcel off Route 3A, and land at the end of Evergreen Lane.
Steve Gaumer, representing the Affordable Housing Trust, explained the need for the Board's backing before expending funds on necessary studies.
"We're asking you for your perspective support such that if it were logical to approach these parcels for development of affordable housing, at that point, the trust would feel comfortable expending funds for necessary studies," Gaumer said.
Paul Kierce, chairman of the Affordable Housing Steering Committee, provided context on the town's current affordable housing situation. He noted that Cohasset achieved 10.3% affordable housing stock just before the 2020 census deadline, securing "safe harbor" status for 10 years under Chapter 40B regulations.
However, Kierce emphasized the need to plan for the future, stating, "The 2030 census now in the just to give you an idea of where we are in Cohasset, just from taking a look at the census information that's on the town website, the population in Cohasset from 2010 to 2020 grew 11%."
The trust and committee are focusing on smaller, achievable lots first. The 585 CJC Highway property already has a functioning septic system, making it a prime candidate for development.
Select Board member Paul Grady expressed support for the concept but emphasized the importance of adhering to zoning laws and maintaining the town's character.
"I would be in favor of supporting going out looking, finding viable properties," Grady said. "I would only encourage that we stay within even some of the new zoning laws."
The board ultimately passed a motion to support the steering committee's exploration of the three parcels, with the understanding that this does not commit the town to any specific action.
Gaumer also highlighted the trust's need for new members, as they are facing potential resignations that could impact their ability to maintain a quorum for meetings.
"We're going to lose three. We have two that have already stated that they would like to resign, but they've been kind enough to stay on because without them we don't have a quorum," Gaumer explained.
He urged the Select Board to consider applications and identify potential candidates to fill these crucial roles.
In other business, the board:
- Approved licenses and permits for several upcoming events, including the Cohasset Road Race by the Sea and the South Shore Art Center Annual Arts Festival.
- Received an update on the Milliken Field tennis courts, which are expected to be ready for play this spring.
- Heard about an upcoming staff wellness competition organized by the town manager's office.
The meeting adjourned with board members acknowledging the busy schedule ahead as they prepare for budget reviews and the upcoming town meeting in May.