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Trust forms working groups for rental assistance program and 25 Connector Road conversion
Summary
The Trust asked staff to finalize a MetroWest contract for the Westborough rental assistance program and formed working groups to (1) support MetroWest implementation (marketing, translations) and (2) follow 25 Connector Road owner proposals to convert the property to 109 long‑term rental units with an interest in raising the affordable set‑aside from 20% to 25%.
Trust members on July 11 took two related steps to address short‑term housing needs and a local rental conversion proposal: staff will finalize a contract with MetroWest Collaborative to implement the Town's rental assistance program, and the Trust formed a working group to respond to a developer proposal for the 25 Connector Road property.
At the meeting, Steve Allen reported owners of the Sonesta extended‑stay on 25 Connector told the Trust they plan to convert the property into 109 long‑term rental units, mostly studios and one‑bedrooms, with about 5% of units fully accessible. By zoning the property requires 20% of units be affordable; the owners signaled willingness to discuss increasing that to 25% and offering some units at 60% or 50% area median income (AMI). Members said they will gather HUD rent/AMI data and assemble a list of questions for state agencies to clarify potential state programs and funding.
Separately, staff reported they are finalizing the wording of a contract with MetroWest Collaborative to run Westborough's rental assistance program. Once signed, MetroWest will be responsible for implementation steps including application processes, marketing and translation. The Trust agreed to create a small working group to coordinate marketing, answer program questions, and ensure the program guide aligns with local needs.
Trust volunteers and staff will follow up with MetroWest and the 25 Connector developer; the Trust requested a status update at the August meeting. No formal subsidy decisions were made at the July meeting; members discussed the potential for modest local support or a letter of support if applicants pursue state funding.
