The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) is making a major push for $650,000 to fund the Harwich Affordable Housing Trust (AHT) via Article 36. The funds are intended to help the town manage the regional housing crisis and maintain control over local development through the state’s 40B law.

CPC Chair Kathy Green explained that the Trust, established in 2019, is the town’s primary vehicle for creating affordable units. By increasing the town's Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI), Harwich can reach a 10 percent threshold known as "Safe Harbor." Town Administrator James McGrail noted that reaching Safe Harbor is critical because it allows the Zoning Board of Appeals to deny density waivers to developers. Once you reach that safe harbor, you don't have to issue those waivers, McGrail explained, referring to the high-density projects often proposed by 40B developers.

The $650,000 request is targeted for a new development project and a rental assistance program. The article has received the full backing of the Select Board and the Finance Committee, reflecting a unified town strategy to professionalize housing management and avoid "unfriendly" developments.