The city planning board of North Attleboro, Massachusetts is considering changes to its Master Plan that would allow for more affordable housing.
The city's affordable housing stock currently falls far below the Massachusetts requirement of 10 percent, and city officials know that changes are needed.
The most recent assessment of affordable housing in North Attleboro found that less than three percent of the city's housing stock could be deemed "affordable.
" In addition, the current wait list for the less than 300 affordable units in the city is five to seven years, and that's not including the many residents who are currently at risk of losing jobs or homes, and may soon need lower-income housing options.
North Attleboro's affordable housing availability was already strained, but the recent economic and housing crises have exacerbated the situation.
City officials agree that the current lack of low-income housing is unacceptable, and they're looking to make some changes to their long-term development plans to try and address the problem.
Among the changes being considered are zoning changes that would require some affordable units to be included in most housing development plans.
The city is also considering giving homeowners an option to add small rental units to their properties.
Mixed-use development is another option that's being explored, especially in the downtown area.
The city planning board will hold public meetings to discuss possible changes and get public feedback.
Developers interested in pursuing projects in this area are encouraged to share their insight and opinions with the planning board.