As discussed during the Town Council February 7, 2022 workshop, a reissued Housing Diversity Study Request For Proposal (RFP) was included on the February 14 agenda [Article].  The revised RFP seeks professional consulting assistance to conduct a study that should evaluate current housing costs, needs, impacts on services and other relevant elements in the town and recommend actions to create more affordable and attainable housing opportunities in the Cape Elizabeth.  

Town Planner Maureen O'Meara explained that the revised RFP increases the timespan in which the selected consultant can complete the study.  Submissions are due by March 11 and the final project deadline is set for August 30.  In addition, the revised RFP adds an optional scope of work to include hiring the consultant, if available, to do additional work after the study is completed by providing staff support with a future ad hoc affordable housing committee.  Lastly, the RFP increases available funds for the study from $20,000 to $50,000.  

Chair Jeremy Gabrielson added that the Appointments Committee has already begun the process of forming the Affordable Housing ad hoc committee and will look to announce an opportunity for community involvement in the coming weeks.

The council voted 5-2 in favor of approving the revised RFP.  Councilors Timothy Reiniger and Susan Gilles voted no.