Workforce Housing
Workforce Housing Development Partner Request for Proposals
Falmouth Town Council is continuing efforts to create housing that is more affordable to the workforce. See the fact sheet here for more information.
On Monday, February 12, 2024, the Falmouth Town Council held a workshop on the status of a project to create a more affordable or workforce housing development off Woods Road behind the Police Station on Marshall Drive. At the Town Council meeting later that night, the Council unanimously approved Order #74-2024, authorizing the Town Manager to convey Town-owned property on Woods Road to a housing developer based on criteria outlined in a Request for Proposal to be issued, provided that the price is reasonable, and subject to final approval by Town Council of any sale, development agreement, or other real estate transaction. The February 12th meeting included a public comment opportunity and may be viewed here.
The RFP was released on February 13, 2024 (and a question & answers Addendum on February 26) with responses due on March 14, 2024. The RFP seeks to find an experienced housing development partner that can design and build more affordable homes that will:
- include measures to ensure long-term affordability, like deed restrictions;
- protect sensitive environmental areas, like streams and wetlands, and preserve access to nature;
- include sustainable design & construction practices, and energy efficiency measures;
- propose an initial purchase price for the land (*note: purchase price is not the sole determining factor*)
Staff received the following four responses from the RFP:
- GreenMars Real Estate Services
- Maine's Attainable Development
- Westbrook Development Corporation & Habitat for Humanity
Next Steps
Town Council held a workshop on April 3, 2024 to review responses to a Request for Proposal issued to refine the project scope and find a development partner. Council scheduled a public meeting to tour the site on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 5pm to further explore the Scittery Woods Partners and GreenMars Real Estate options. Details for the site walk are being developed and will be published here prior to the meeting date.
Town Council has also scheduled a public forum to receive feedback on this project at their May 1, 2024 meeting. That agenda will be posted here prior to the meeting.
Public Input
The Town is interested in public feedback and is currently developing a process for additional public input as the project moves forward. Email the Council here.