In light of public concerns that emerged last year, the Chilmark housing committee has revised its applications and other guidelines related to affordable homesites.
Four lots at Nab’s Corner were awarded in December to town residents who had been given special preference based on work or volunteer qualifications. The selectmen had rejected two appeals from applicants who were disqualified or denied preference. The housing committee had agreed to reconsider the guidelines, which were last amended in 2007.
Among other things, the changes clarify the requirements for appeals. They also increase an income threshold from $50,000 to $75,000.
“There have been many drafts of this and it really reflects a lot of thought and a lot of discussion,” selectman Bill Rossi, who also serves on the housing committee, said Tuesday. “I found the whole process pretty thorough and I think it’s going to be very helpful next time around.”
The changes also specify that seasonal residency does not count toward the five-year work requirement for Chilmark preference, and that co-applicants may contribute preferences, but not in the same category. A separate category for Island residents was expanded to include a five-year work preference, with a volunteer time requirement reduced from seven to five years. Only public-sector volunteer work is considered.
No materials will be accepted past the application deadline, unless requested by the housing committee. “That was sort of an issue last time,” said housing committee member Jessica Roddy, who presented the changes to the selectmen at their meeting Tuesday. The revision also clarifies how the lottery process works.
Separate applications for applicants and co-applicants were created, and a new form for employers, landlords and others is intended to streamline the verification process. A notarized copy of the form is also required. “It’s an extra step that I think has a psychological impact,” Ms. Roddy said.
The changes will be become official following a public hearing in the coming weeks.
Also on Tuesday, executive secretary Tim Carroll provided an update on efforts to reestablish the town line between Chilmark and Aquinnah, which runs through Menemsha Pond. Two of the pilings marking the line were broken off by ice this winter. Selectmen in both towns agreed in May to hire a surveyor and reestablish the line.
Chilmark officials have been studying historic maps, charts and descriptions of the area, but efforts to identify a marker at Pease’s Point at the north end of the pond have so far been unsuccessful. Another boulder at the south end of the pond is also thought to mark the boundary.
Mr. Carroll said the new pilings will cost about $400 each, plus about $250 for installation.
Improvements at Menemsha Beach are also underway, with a new path to the beach taking shape. Short poles and ropes will be installed on Basin Road between the comfort station and the beach to prevent people from walking on the dunes, and about 30 concrete car-stops will be added to the parking lot to keep cars off the sand.
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