Select Board endorses LIP application for 626 Main St., seeks full 70% local preference at lease-up

The Select Board voted Sept. 9 to authorize submission of a Local Initiative Program (LIP) / Local Action Units (LAU) application for 626 Main Street (the former 'Imperial Bostonian') in Dennisport. Housing coordinator Maggie State Aguilar described the project: six affordable units are proposed, and the town may request up to 70% local preference at initial lease-up (four of six units) if the board so directs.

Aguilar relayed guidance from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities that local preference applies only at lease-up (the initial lottery) and does not remain a continuing occupancy restriction over time; the board asked clarifying questions about preference duration and statutory limits. After discussion the board voted to authorize the town administrator to sign the LIP/LAU application and to seek the full 70% local preference at lease-up. The motion passed with one abstention recorded.

Board members emphasized the project's potential to add affordable units quickly and noted the town will continue to monitor compliance with state rules on local preference and nondiscrimination.