On February 12, 2025, the Board of Trustees of the Affordable Housing Trust in Southborough, Massachusetts, convened to discuss critical issues surrounding the town's housing production plan and upcoming meetings with the planning board. The discussions highlighted the urgency of addressing affordable housing needs in the community, particularly as the town is currently one unit short of meeting its housing production goals.

A key topic of conversation revolved around the potential for the Affordable Housing Trust to cover costs associated with grant applications. This approach, previously undertaken by the Southborough Housing Opportunity Partnership Committee (SHOPC), raised questions about the trust's financial responsibilities and the implications of such decisions. Board members expressed a desire to clarify these responsibilities and explore the necessary steps moving forward.

The board also discussed the timing of their next meeting in relation to the planning board's agenda. One member suggested placing the housing production plan on the planning board's agenda for their upcoming meeting on February 24. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the housing issues remain a priority and that the planning department can take appropriate action.

In addition to these discussions, the board acknowledged the need for further consultation with town council regarding the requirements for renewing or updating the housing production plan. The tight timeline for any necessary updates, particularly if a new plan must be created, was a point of concern among members.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to addressing affordable housing challenges in Southborough. As they prepare for future discussions and potential actions, the board's focus remains on ensuring that the community's housing needs are met effectively and efficiently. The next steps will involve further collaboration with the planning board and legal counsel to navigate the complexities of housing policy and funding.