Board approves $100,000 supplemental to rehab town-owned rental at 15 Sugarloaf Cut

The Board of Selectmen approved a $100,000 supplemental appropriation for rehabilitation work at 15 Sugarloaf Cut, a town-owned rental unit located on a 22-acre parcel.

Tom (staff) told the board the building had not had significant work in a long time and listed anticipated work: a new roof, exterior painting and clapboard replacement, gutters, shutters, interior kitchen and bathroom renovations, new vinyl flooring, interior painting, replacement of doors and light fixtures, and updates to smoke and CO detection. "It is a big number. It also does carry a contingency in there above the contractor's estimate," Tom said, noting the age of the structure and risk of uncovering additional deterioration once work begins.

Board discussion focused on policy tradeoffs: one selectman asked whether the town should continue to be a landlord or consider selling deeded housing units; staff and several board members noted deed limitations and the town—s interest in retaining the affordable housing credit that ownership provides. Staff confirmed the residential rental program keeps receipts and expenses in a separate fund and that the requested supplemental would be paid from those reserves.

Motion and outcome: The board moved and seconded the supplemental appropriation for $100,000 from the residential rental property reserves and approved it by voice vote.

Sources: Staff presentation and discussion during the Nov. 7, 2025 Board of Selectmen meeting.