The recent Planning Board meeting in Danvers highlighted pressing concerns regarding the town's housing landscape, particularly the growing need for affordable housing. A detailed demographic analysis presented during the meeting revealed significant shifts in the community's population, underscoring the urgency of addressing housing challenges.

The consultant's report indicated that Danvers is experiencing an aging population and shrinking household sizes, trends that are consistent with broader regional patterns. Notably, the data showed a decrease in the number of elementary and middle school-aged children, suggesting that young families are struggling to enter the housing market. This trend may be linked to rising housing costs, which are preventing new families from moving into the area until their children are older.

The meeting also revealed that over 25% of Danvers households—approximately 3,000 families—are spending more than 30% of their income on housing, a situation known as being "cost burdened." This statistic highlights the financial strain many residents face and emphasizes the need for more affordable housing options. The state mandates that communities provide at least 10% of their housing stock as affordable, and Danvers is currently grappling with how to meet this requirement.

As the town navigates these demographic changes and housing challenges, the discussions at the Planning Board meeting signal a critical moment for Danvers. The community's ability to adapt to these trends will be essential in ensuring that all residents have access to affordable housing and can thrive in their hometown. The board's ongoing efforts to address these issues will be closely watched by residents as they seek solutions to improve the local housing market.