Planning board approves 10‑unit supportive housing project on Waterville Road amid neighborhood concerns

The Skowhegan Planning Board approved a major site plan for a 10‑unit, three‑story multi‑family supportive housing building at 48 and 52 Waterville Road, a project proposed by Community Housing of Maine.

Briola Kates, introduced herself as director of Community Housing of Maine and said the nonprofit operates 87 properties around the state; this would be the group’s first in Skowhegan. “We’re a non-profit affordable supportive housing provider,” Kates said, and she described the organization’s model of pairing housing with service-provider partners to support tenant stability.

Nicole, a civil engineer for Tighe & Bond Engineering, reviewed technical elements of the plan and noted the final site plan is largely unchanged from the preliminary review. She said the design adds a concrete pad for equipment, proposes new domestic and fire water services, sanitary sewer, underground electrical and telecom, stormwater measures and a rain garden. She said the board’s earlier request to study stairs from the French Street frontage showed a roughly 12‑foot elevation change, “which would be over 20 full risers,” and that constructing that stair connection would require extensive regrading and retaining‑wall work.

During public comment, resident Ryan Wing (36 Waterloo Road) asked who would own and manage the property and what types of tenants would live there. Kates said Community Housing of Maine will be the developer, owner and property manager and that the organization is a 501(c)(3). She said tenants will be targeted at about 60% of area median income and that the project is not Section 8 but received county grant funding to keep rents affordable. Kates added the project will include service partners providing referrals and wraparound services, with a focus in this property on families — mostly women and children — who will get assistance with health, financial stability and employment.

Neighbors raised concerns about turnover, safety and the potential tax impact of nonprofit ownership. Kates said tax-exempt status and payment‑in‑lieu arrangements vary by town; the applicant indicated it may request a property tax exemption but that local rules determine whether a PILOT is required.

Board members said prior questions raised at staff review and at a workshop had been addressed. A motion to approve the site's final plan was made and seconded; the board voted in favor.

The approval covers the site plan as presented; staff will complete the required documents for signatures following the meeting.