The Community Preservation Committee of Fall River convened on January 11, 2025, to discuss key developments in local housing and preservation projects. A significant focus of the meeting was the ongoing debate regarding affordable housing in the city, particularly in relation to a new residential project.

Committee members expressed concerns that the proposed development lacks an affordable housing component, with all units designated as market rate. One member highlighted that over 20% of the city’s rental housing is already deed-restricted affordable housing, which exceeds state requirements. However, there is a call for a balanced mix of market and affordable units to ensure a healthy community. The discussion emphasized the need for surrounding suburban areas to contribute to affordable housing efforts, as many currently have low percentages of such housing.

The meeting also addressed a separate project involving the Saint John's Holy Ghost Club, which is seeking $225,000 for the installation of a fire suppression and sprinkler system in its historic building located at 1975 Pleasant Street. This project marks a significant investment in preserving local heritage, with multiple projects from the club being discussed.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges and discussions surrounding housing affordability in Fall River, as well as the commitment to preserving the city's historical sites. The committee's next steps will likely involve further evaluation of these projects and continued dialogue on housing strategies.