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Task Force discusses 'starter homes' and 'middle housing' as a route to affordability
Summary
Members suggested exploring 'starter homes' and middle-housing approaches to expand affordable options, noting demographic demand from Baby Boomers downsizing and Millennials needing move-up housing; the Task Force will consider zoning examples from nearby towns.
Task Force members discussed 'starter homes' and the broader 'middle housing' concept as potential ways to expand affordable options within Avon. Randall Bowers said it "may be worthwhile to investigate the potential/initiatives to build more 'starter homes' which may indirectly create more affordable housing opportunities," adding that "Baby Boomers want to downsize while Millennials want to move up but there’s no availability."
Chair Christine Graesser noted that housing advocates often use the term "middle housing" to describe a range of smaller-scale housing types that could meet demand across age groups. Hiram Peck suggested reviewing zoning and program examples from neighboring towns such as Marlborough and Canton and said he would provide a full review of Marlborough’s proposed changes to the Task Force before the next meeting. Members also discussed inviting PZC participants to a future roundtable with adjacent towns to share experience and ideas.
