Commissioners discussed the town’s affordable housing plan, adopted in January 2021 pursuant to state statute, and agreed the plan requires a five‑year update.

Planning staff told the commission that the purpose of the statutory plan is to demonstrate how the town will expand affordable housing opportunities and that the statute requires periodic updates. Staff said they will perform a data refresh — updating demographic indicators, area median income thresholds, and affordable rent calculations — and incorporate actions the town has taken since 2021.

Commissioners and staff reviewed progress toward the plan’s previous five‑year goal: the 2021 plan set a target of roughly 90 affordable housing units over five years; staff reported that 4 units are occupied since 2021, with additional committed units in forthcoming projects. Commissioners noted inclusionary commitments at specific developments: Dorset Crossing is committed to 10% affordable units and the project referred to in the transcript as “Vessel” has a 30% commitment; staff said those commitments will increase future affordable stock when built and occupied.

Staff recommended starting with updated demographic and market data, then returning to the commission for goal-setting and policy discussion. The commission agreed staff will lead the update process with commission guidance; staff said it will prepare materials and that a public hearing will be required under the statute.

Commissioners discussed timing and resources. Staff said they expect to begin turning over data in the coming weeks and aim for public engagement and hearings in early winter or as staff capacity allows; no firm deadline was promised. A commissioner reminded colleagues that the governor’s veto of a recent housing bill may affect future state requirements, but the commission agreed to proceed with the local update and notice requirements already in effect.

The commission directed staff to start the refresh, incorporate recommendations from recent advisory work, and return with data and a public hearing schedule for the fall or early winter.