Council approves contingent transfer of three city parcels for Auburn Housing Authority project; directs manager to evaluate emergency warming options

The Auburn City Council voted Monday to authorize transfer of three city-owned parcels—143 Hampshire Street and 1 and 5 Gamage Street—to the Auburn Housing Authority, contingent on the authority receiving MaineHousing grant funding to develop a supportive housing project.

City Manager Phil Crowell told the council two of the parcels were tax-acquired properties and that legal steps are required to transfer them. Crowell emphasized the sale is contingent on the housing authority’s grant award; if MaineHousing funding is not awarded the sale will not proceed. Staff said boundary changes were made after a prior workshop to preserve city-owned access land behind the primary parcel and to maintain access to Chestnut Street Park.

The council voted in favor on a voice vote: 5 yes, 0 no, 2 absent. Councilor Belinda Gary, who introduced the motion, said the units would help get people off the street and reduce future emergency-service costs. Councilors asked staff to note that the housing authority’s timetable for an application to MaineHousing had been extended; the new submission date is March 6.

Public testimony during open session highlighted the immediate needs of unhoused people during extreme cold. Paul Bernard, who works with people experiencing homelessness, and Rochelle Bernard urged the city to put warming and daytime shelter options where unhoused residents would feel safe, and to coordinate with service providers rather than rely on ad hoc postings. They described daily outreach and expressed concern that venues such as the Auburn Public Library and Norway Savings Bank Arena are not adequate overnight shelters.

Following that public comment, Councilor Belinda Gary moved—and the council approved—a direction that the city manager evaluate current warming-shelter options, identify additional suitable daytime or emergency sites, and recommend any immediate actions or resources needed. The manager said staff will prioritize Sunday coverage (the day service gap many providers identify), explore use of 121 Mill Street once final occupancy items are completed, work with volunteers and service organizations for staffing and supplies, and consider cancelling or moving regular programs if necessary to free city space. The city manager clarified that expenditures beyond currently appropriated funds could require further council action.

Ending: Crowell said two remaining items are needed to open 121 Mill Street for public use—a handrail and a fire-alarm modification tied to the sprinkler system—and staff expect those to be completed imminently. Councilors asked staff to coordinate communications so residents and providers get clear instructions on available warming locations.