Thursday, Feb 8 - MAHC Member Meeting, 9-10:30 am, at Maine Housing, 26 Edison Drive, Augusta
Panel discussion on the Affordable Housing Investment Market.
ACTION ALERT: Testify In Favor of LD1672 on Jan 5, 9 am, Cross Building, via Zoom, or written
The bill will establish a key element in LD2003 and a priority of MAHC's, a centralized review board for workforce housing projects, and provide specific criteria and standards for permit approval. Specifically, it introduces several key provisions aimed at streamlining the permitting process for affordable housing developments in the state of Maine:
Creation of the Affordable Housing Development Review Board: The bill establishes the Affordable Housing Development Review Board, which operates under the Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry's Bureau of Resource Information and Land Use Planning. This board is responsible for making determinations on applications for permits for both affordable housing and workforce housing developments.
Application Process: Housing developers may apply for a permit for affordable housing or workforce housing developments in lieu of applying to a local board, under certain conditions. These conditions include the development's location in a designated growth area or an area with specified infrastructure, the inclusion of affordable or workforce housing as a significant portion of the development, and non-compliance with certain local ordinances.
Review Standards: The board is responsible for reviewing permit applications based on specific standards, including considerations related to health and safety, street design, building placement, parking, building materials, and adherence to environmental laws and rules. Preapproved building types are deemed to meet these standards.
Comprehensive Review: The board has the authority to review and make determinations for developments in historical districts, shoreland areas, or other designated areas subject to additional oversight.
Monitoring and Fees: Developers with approved permits are required to pay a one-time fee to the municipality for property reporting delegation to a housing authority or nonprofit organization. Additionally, an application fee of $5,000 is imposed for permits, with exceptions for utility and building permit fees.
Reconsideration and Appeals: The bill outlines procedures for applicants to request reconsideration and appeal decisions made by the Affordable Housing Development Review Board.
Rural Affordable Rental Housing Program at Maine Housing Sees Record Demand
The Governor's unprecedented funding for housing earlier this year provided $17.5 million to distribute to Rural Rental programs at Maine Housing. When the RFP closed earlier this month, though, there were 16 projects seeking $45 million in funding. With more than 80,000 new homes needed in Maine by 2030, Maine's development community across the State is ready to meet the need when funds are available. Read more here. Progress on the Madison Rural Rental project using first of a kind modular from Maine's KBS Builders:
Share Your Example of How HUD Choice Limiting Action Delayed, Increased Costs, or Stopped Your Affordable Housing Project
MAHC Message on Impact of Storm, Flooding & Power Outages
In light of the devastating storm that has impacted Maine people's housing, businesses and lives statewide, MAHC honors those on the front lines working to restore power, warmth, and safety to so many. We are sending support and strength to the towns, residents, and neighbors that are working hard to support one another and move through these extremely challenging times. Now, more than ever, all Maine people deserve a safe, quality, affordable home. MAHC will continue to advocate for the creation and preservation of these homes every day, and with renewed vigor, as we weather our current climate.
Your Membership dues put MAHC to work every day advocating for funding and policies to build and preserve housing for all people in Maine.
