A developer interested in purchasing 44 Main Street has asked the town to consider an increase in sewer flow to support a proposed development of 16 two-bedroom condominium units, Selectmen heard on Jan. 20.

Town rules permit up to 1,000 gallons per day of additional sewer flow to be approved administratively by the Department of Public Works; increases above 1,000 gallons require town meeting approval. The developer’s proposal would need roughly 2,000 gallons, according to the town administrator, which means selectmen would have to decide whether to place a warrant article for a flow increase before town meeting.

Selectmen discussed whether the developer would commit to affordable units; the developer told the town administrator informally that in similar projects he might provide one or two affordable units in a building of this size, and he is willing to discuss specifics with the board or the affordable housing trust. Selectmen also asked about the possibility of over-55 housing and parking; the developer said the footprint could fit the proposed units while meeting setbacks and height restrictions but that parking — roughly eight existing surface spaces and additional under-building parking in the plan — will be an important constraint to address if the site does not include adjacent parcels.

Why it matters: A sewer flow allocation change requires a town-meeting vote and would set a precedent for downtown re-development. The development could add taxable units and new growth to the town’s tax base, and a voluntary affordable-housing commitment could affect the town’s affordable-housing inventory and eligibility metrics.

What’s next: Selectmen asked staff to continue discussions with the developer and to inquire specifically about a written commitment for affordable units and whether the developer would consider over-55 housing. The developer’s purchase-and-sale is reportedly contingent on waiting for town meeting action on the sewer flow. Selectmen must decide whether to put a warrant article on the upcoming town meeting warrant to allow the increased flow.

Ending: The board left the matter open and asked staff to return with more detailed information, including whether adjacent parcels are included in the sale, parking capacity, and a written affordable-housing commitment if available.