Little Compton Council discusses affordable housing options with church community involvement

The Little Compton Town Council convened on February 20, 2025, to discuss several key issues, primarily focusing on the potential development of affordable senior housing in collaboration with a local church community. The meeting began with a recap of previous discussions, emphasizing the excitement generated by a recent meeting attended by the governor, which highlighted various options for the project.

The council explored the ownership structure of the proposed housing units, which could either be rentals or condominiums, designated for seniors aged 55 and over with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income. This affordability would be maintained for a period of 99 years. The council noted that the church community would play a significant role in the project, potentially controlling a majority of the units, which raised concerns among some council members about the implications for local residents.

One council member expressed skepticism about the benefits of the project, questioning whether it would truly serve the needs of Little Compton residents, given that the church community might own 80% of the units. This concern prompted a discussion about the transparency of the project and the need for clear communication regarding ownership and control.

Parking was another topic of concern, with the police chief having requested a parking assessment for the area surrounding the proposed development. The council acknowledged ongoing discussions about parking solutions, indicating that this issue would be addressed in future meetings.

The council also discussed the financial implications of the project, noting that the development could generate property tax revenue for the town, which is currently not being realized from the existing buildings. This potential revenue was framed as a positive outcome, as it would bring tax dollars back to Little Compton.

A motion was made to authorize the town solicitor to draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and prepare an article for the upcoming town financial meeting, where residents would ultimately have the final say on the project. The council emphasized the importance of community engagement, assuring residents that there would be opportunities for public discussion and access to documentation regarding the project.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue discussions on the affordable housing initiative and other pressing matters, including a capital needs assessment, ensuring that the council remains focused on addressing the community's needs.