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Board hears affordable-housing update; Lavana Square placements to start Jan. 2026, district tax revenue lag expected
Summary
Board members were briefed on Round Four affordable-housing credits and Lavana Square timing; officials said negotiated credits and a $470,000 town buy-down reduce obligations, but full tax revenue from Lavana Square won’t be realized until October 2027, prompting calls for a demographic study and monitoring of student enrollments.
Board members received an update on Round Four affordable-housing negotiations and the anticipated effects of Lavana Square on district finances and enrollment.
Rob Scales, reporting for the ad hoc affordable-housing group, said current affordability controls cover 66 owner-occupied units and 22 rental units; negotiations secured 14 rental units to remain affordable, producing 21 credits. The town is using a $470,000 lump sum (from a 2009 bond ordinance) to buy down units, Scales said. He warned that while residential placements for the 330-unit Lavana Square are expected to begin in January 2026, annual tax assessments mean the district will not realize full tax revenue until October 2027, creating a near-term revenue shortfall for the district.
Board members discussed whether to commission an updated demographic study now or to wait and monitor the number of students who arrive when the first buildings are occupied. Several members urged soliciting three vendor estimates and updating the study scope to include transportation impacts (potential additional bus routes). The board agreed to request multiple cost estimates and revisit the issue at the next meeting.
No formal vote was taken on funding a demographic study during the Oct. 7 session; board members asked staff to collect quotes and return with scope and cost information.
