Brian Aherne

The board meeting included a public comment period and the presentation of the Executive Director's report. Financial agenda items involved the review and approval of the check register and payments. Key discussion topics included electric billing concerns for family units using dehumidifiers, safety and infrastructure improvements for Flagrock sidewalks and stairs, plans for a COA cookout, and the Regional Capital Assistance Team Program Terms of Service Agreement.

The meeting concluded with a motion to enter into an executive session to discuss real estate and CPA abatements.

The board discussed mold remediation efforts in multiple apartment units, including the use of industrial hygienists and dehumidifiers. There was a presentation from Tri-Town Health regarding a proposal to transition the properties to a smoke-free policy. The board reviewed and approved the FY 2017 operating budgets for state-aided housing, which required subsidy requests. Other topics included the Executive Director's report on vacancies and occupancy, updates on capital planning and property maintenance, and discussions regarding interactions with the Board of Health and tenant concerns raised during the public comment period. The board also approved the completion of a window replacement project.

The meeting involved the review and granting of real estate abatements, as well as the review and denial of two applications.

The committee discussed the Main Street project, focusing on proposed substitutions for tree species to improve variety and address maintenance concerns, such as replacing crab apples and pruning-intensive varieties. Proposals were made to adjust planting locations to preserve views of buildings like the Congregational church and the library. Additionally, the committee prepared recommendations for an upcoming Mass DOT hearing, deliberated on potential revisions to zoning bylaws concerning street trees, and addressed the maintenance of older trees on Gilmore Street. The meeting also included a discussion regarding committee membership.