Print
Share page with AddThis

Essex Affordable Housing Trust Seeking Your Contributions

Posted on: February 10, 2023 - 11:15am

DID YOU KNOW…

Essex has an Affordable Housing Trust that operates under the authority of Section 2-28 of the Town of Essex bylaws.  Because Essex has a shortage of housing that is affordable for those with low to moderate incomes, the Town has established an Affordable Housing Trust for the purpose of funding the creation of such housing.  The Trust will primarily be funded through appropriations made at Town meeting, including funds generated by the Community Preservation Act surcharge paid by property owners.

Residents can also contribute to the Essex Affordable Housing Trust or affordable housing efforts by:

  • making a donation to the Trust in money or real property
  • deed restricting your rental property or other housing to be used specifically for affordable housing

Your contributions will be used in a variety of ways to create and support affordable housing.  Some of those benefits include:

  • providing financial support for the construction of affordable homes by private developers (non-profit or for-profit)
  • rehabilitating existing homes and apartments to convert to affordable housing
  • increasing affordability in existing and future housing developments
  • supporting development of surplus municipal property for affordable housing
  • supporting to preserve restrictions on properties before restrictions expire
  • supporting programs to assist low- and moderate-income homebuyers
  • supporting programs to help low- and moderate-income families make health and safety repairs
  • supporting education and advocacy to advance affordable housing initiatives

Because the Town of Essex is a governmental entity, your donation to the Affordable Housing Trust may qualify for an income tax deduction in accordance with Federal and/or State income tax laws. Please consult with your tax advisor to determine whether your donation is tax deductible in whole or in part. Nothing in this communication is intended to constitute legal or tax advice.

For more information, contact Town Administrator Brendhan Zubricki (978) 768-6531 or bzubricki@essexma.org