The Chelsea City Council recently formed a Housing Research Advisory Commission with about six roles and responsibilities that include an inventory of the current housing stock as well as identifying, researching and identifying all types of housing in the city.
The commission will be comprised of seven members from Chelsea including two city council members (Peter Feeney and Rick Catherman), one planning commissioner, a real estate professional and three at large members. The commission shall meet for a year and be renewed as necessary.
Like the Human Rights Commission and the Sustainability Commission, the group’s principal role is to present research information to the city council for further study or action. This commission has no final decision-making authority.
Included among its responsibilities:
Inventory existing housing stock in Chelsea including size, type and value.
“Identify housing needed to achieve balanced growth in the city’s demographics,” according to the overview of the committee. The group is asked to look at housing needs that would suit the city’s work force, young families and young adults, and any other demographic that that might be in short supply.
The group is asked to look for opportunities to work with the city and city departments, local employers and non-profits to provide opportunities for affordable housing.
If you are a city resident and are interested in being a part of this commission, check the city’s website to fill out an application for possible appointment by the city council.
