Sabatus Housing seeks $500K for heating upgrades at Quaker Manor Estates
November 20, 2024 | Portsmouth, Newport County, Rhode Island
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During the Portsmouth Planning Board meeting on November 20, 2024, a significant discussion centered around an application from Quaker Manor Estates, submitted by Sabatus Housing. The proposal seeks $500,000 in funding to upgrade heating systems for 73 elderly housing units, addressing urgent needs for improved heating infrastructure.
The Planning Board emphasized the importance of this application, noting its alignment with the town's comprehensive community plan, particularly in preserving affordable housing and enhancing services for senior citizens. The board highlighted that the funding would support the replacement of outdated heating equipment, which has been a persistent issue for residents, especially during winter months when failures can leave them without heat.
Jim Sevely, chair of the Pleasant Housing Authority, voiced the critical need for these upgrades, explaining that many heating systems are antiquated and prone to failure. He described the challenges faced by residents, including the difficulty in obtaining repair parts for older systems, which can lead to prolonged periods without adequate heating. Sevely stressed that the funding is essential for ensuring the comfort and safety of elderly and disabled residents living in these units.
Michael Packard, president of Sabatus Housing, provided further insights into the types of heating systems in need of replacement. He explained that the current systems include individual boilers and atmospheric boilers, which, while durable, are inefficient and often fail due to aging components. Packard assured the board that the goal is to replace these systems with more reliable and efficient options, aiming for maximum resident satisfaction.
The board anticipates a second public hearing scheduled for December 9, where further discussions will take place. The outcome of this application is crucial, not only for the immediate comfort of the residents but also for the long-term sustainability of affordable housing in Portsmouth. The board's support for the application reflects a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of the community's vulnerable populations.
The Planning Board emphasized the importance of this application, noting its alignment with the town's comprehensive community plan, particularly in preserving affordable housing and enhancing services for senior citizens. The board highlighted that the funding would support the replacement of outdated heating equipment, which has been a persistent issue for residents, especially during winter months when failures can leave them without heat.
Jim Sevely, chair of the Pleasant Housing Authority, voiced the critical need for these upgrades, explaining that many heating systems are antiquated and prone to failure. He described the challenges faced by residents, including the difficulty in obtaining repair parts for older systems, which can lead to prolonged periods without adequate heating. Sevely stressed that the funding is essential for ensuring the comfort and safety of elderly and disabled residents living in these units.
Michael Packard, president of Sabatus Housing, provided further insights into the types of heating systems in need of replacement. He explained that the current systems include individual boilers and atmospheric boilers, which, while durable, are inefficient and often fail due to aging components. Packard assured the board that the goal is to replace these systems with more reliable and efficient options, aiming for maximum resident satisfaction.
The board anticipates a second public hearing scheduled for December 9, where further discussions will take place. The outcome of this application is crucial, not only for the immediate comfort of the residents but also for the long-term sustainability of affordable housing in Portsmouth. The board's support for the application reflects a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of the community's vulnerable populations.
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