Finance Board begins its review
Published on March 3rd, 1999
STONEHAM, MA - Governor Cellucci recently announced the state's commitment of approximately $92 million for state-aided public housing improvements, and Stoneham has been selected as one of the fortunate 131 communities to share in that pot.
$348,750 has been earmarked for the town through the state's 1998 Housing Authority Bond Bill. All the communities slated to receive the aid were selected based on their exhibited degree of need and improvement proposals.
According to Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) representative Eric Gedstadt, the funds will paid out to local housing authorities as the costs for those improvements are incurred over the next five to seven years.
"We now have a commitment of funds that will allow them to do their work," said Gedstadt.
He also explained that the DHCD has outlined very specific criteria on which the money can be spent, such as roofing, windows, siding repair and sidewalks.
"We're thrilled to have those funds," stated Stoneham Housing Authority Executive Director Joanne Graves.
She reported that Stoneham's award will be used to cover improvements at the elderly housing development on Parker Chase Road, including the removal of oil tanks. This work is expected to cost around $50,000. Consideration of converting to another heating source will be made as well.
In addition, about $55,000 of the state aid will be allocated to the veterans' housing on Calthea and Washington streets for replacement doors. The balance will be used for other health and safety improvements, according to Graves.
She credited the efforts of State Senator Richard Tisei and State Representative Paul Casey in securing the aid.
"They've been very supportive of our efforts for additional funding."
Tisei, a ranking minority member of the Housing and Urban Development Committee, stated in a recent press release regarding the award, "I am glad to see that much needed housing rehabilitation funds are finally filtering down to the cities and towns...This money is much needed and I am sure that the Stoneham Housing Authority will put these funds to good use.
"This investment shows that the state government realizes the importance of providing nice, affordable, livable housing options for those in need."
Subscribe and get Home Delivery of The Independent
Save 36% off the newstand price — that's like 18 FREE issues!