West Newbury voters approved the creation of an Affordable Housing Trust last fall, with the goal of helping address a shortage of affordable housing in town. The Trust is comprised of seven residents who have experience and interest in creating affordable housing, and the Town Manager who is a nonvoting member.
The lack of affordable homes in West Newbury is experienced by a variety of people, including: longtime residents looking to downsize and having to move elsewhere because of the lack of elderly housing; young adults who grew up in town who are unable to find housing they can afford; and our teachers, police and other town employees unable to live in the community they serve.
The Trust is currently working with a housing consultant to develop a three-year Action Plan. The Plan will identify goals and strategies to address the lack of housing that low-and middle-income individuals and families can afford, as well as sources of funding. Projects may include the sale and creation of rental units and affordable homes, public outreach and education, and financial assistance to income qualified West Newbury residents.
We are committed to an open and transparent process as we work to address our local housing challenges. Over the next few months, we will engage in a more formal process to seek input and feedback, including a public listening session on March 16 at 7:00 p.m. If you have any immediate questions or comments, please email us at housingtrust@wnewbury.org
