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Cohasset EDA discusses housing strategy, zoning flexibility and developer incentives
Summary
At its Jan. 6 meeting the Cohasset EDA reviewed developer outreach, zoning constraints for multifamily housing, debated rental versus ownership models, and noted stalled progress on a Nelson project that needs a clearer plan for IRRR support.
The Cohasset Economic Development Authority discussed housing strategy and developer outreach at its Jan. 6 meeting, focusing on incentives, zoning flexibility and housing models.
Ashley Craiglow, the city’s Community and Economic Development Associate, said staff has prepared a developer information packet for the industrial park and available lots and is working with staff to identify incentives such as low permitting costs and flexible zoning to attract projects. Ashley said the city will provide clarity to developers about what it is willing to offer and that smaller single lots might simply be listed for sale while larger projects would be negotiated case‑by‑case.
Members discussed zoning barriers to multifamily housing and agreed the EDA, city planning staff and the council should review housing‑related parcels to identify current designations and what they would consider changing if a project is proposed. Ashley said work on a comprehensive plan will begin in March and that the strategic plan is nearing completion; she will coordinate the next strategic plan meeting with a colleague named Annie.
The EDA debated rental‑only developments versus ownership models. Several members expressed concern over rental‑only projects, citing worries about transiency and reduced long‑term stability, and preferred townhome or condo ownership models. Craiglow noted broader trends and data she cited at the meeting: “roughly 75% of people cannot afford new homes at current prices” and that the average age of first‑time homebuyers is around 35, arguments presented to show rentals might be necessary to attract a younger workforce and provide senior downsizing options.
The minutes also recorded an update on a potential project involving Nelson’s. The EDA said there were no new project details; Nelson’s showed interest in using the L&M site and requested permission to fill some wetlands for a laydown yard. Short Elliott Hendrickson (SEH) determined some wetlands could be filled though not in the exact area Nelson’s requested. Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation (IRRR) noted interest in supporting the project but asked for a clear plan—including scope, building size and number—before offering structured support. The EDA said the project remains stalled until Nelson’s provides a more concrete plan.
The group asked staff to collect examples from other rural communities on tax abatement outcomes and to analyze long‑term fiscal impacts prior to approving any abatement for new projects.
