Housing Headlines

EASTON --- A proposed smart growth district for 60 acres off Rte. 138 has sharpened the public debate between affordable housing developers and local people who worry that more development will strain local services, endanger natural resources and fchange the character of the community.

DORCHESTER --- Short-selling, foreclosure sales, a buyer's market and worse have continued downward pressure on housing sale prices in Dorchester through the fall and winter months, particularly in the multi-family market, according to a report by Dorchester Reporter editor Pete Stidman.

CHATHAM --- Thanks in part to the town's appropriation of $260,000 in Community Preservation Act funds, four families were able to purchase affordable homes in Chatham.

DENNIS --- The town of Dennis has taken back ownership of Melpet Farm, a 6.4 acre site previously under control of the housiing authority. The housing authority had planned to devleop 28 units on the site but has been plagued by ethics violations and money woes. The town is considering hiring a consultant to help determine how to develop the property.

PROVINCETOWN --- A 35-unit housing project that would create 28 affordable and median income apartments on the corner of Route 6 and Race Point Road has been referred to the Cape Cod Commission. Proposals over 30 units must be reviewed approval by the Cape's regional authority, a guideline Malone said he had forgotten until told by the town.

MANSFIELD --- Easton developer Nick Mirrione of the New England Cottage Company wants to create small single-family homes young people can actually afford in upscale towns like Easton and Mansfield. The problem is not the concept, everyone agrees this type of housing is needed. The problem seems to be nobody really wants densely settled communities. Mirrione received the same reception Wednesday, Feb. 13 at selectmen that he has seen almost everywhere else he has gone fine, but not here.