Charles Drive Affordable Housing Closings Proceed After Planning Board Fast-Tracks Lot Releases
Key Points
- Planning Board held a special meeting to address an administrative oversight at the Charles Drive subdivision
- Two specific lots, 53-10 and 53-11, were released from the subdivision covenant to allow for property transfers
- The vote enables three affordable housing units to proceed to closing following a completed lottery process
- Town officials confirmed that existing performance guarantees and bonds provide total protection for the town
- The developer is required to provide a new performance guarantee before any additional lots in the subdivision are released
The Kingston Planning Board convened a special session to resolve a clerical hurdle facing the Charles Drive subdivision. The Town Planner informed the board that while the developer had successfully navigated the affordable housing lottery and buyer approvals, a technical oversight threatened to delay several upcoming closings. They overlooked that they suddenly realized they hadn't done their lot releases for two of those houses,
the Town Planner explained, noting that the meeting was called out of expedience to assist families who have already cleared the state's rigorous lottery process. The planner further detailed the status of the project, stating, the yellow lots are the ones that have already been released.
Board members expressed support for the homeowners, acknowledging that the developer has maintained a positive track record throughout construction. Thomas S. Bouchard Sr. highlighted the high stakes involved in the timing of the releases. If we don't release these the whole thing falls apart and so the pressure all ends up on us,
Bouchard remarked, adding that in this case, this guy's done everything right.
The board noted that the subdivision’s infrastructure, including roads and water lines, is already substantially complete, minimizing risk to the town.
During the brief discussion, Robert Ketter inquired about the project's specific location near the town line, noting he had frequently observed the area. I've driven past it dozens and dozens of times, but never dipped in to actually—
Ketter said, before concluding that the town's interests remained secure. I think we have total protection for the town,
Ketter stated, referring to the performance guarantees and bonds still held by the municipality for the remaining work.
Motion Made by Alexander Graham to release lots 53-10 and 53-11 for Charles Drive subdivision as noted by the town planner. Motion Passed 3-0