Housing Headlines

MARTHA'S VINEYARD --- In an eloquent column in the Martha's Vineyard Times, Island Housing Trust Executive Director Philippe Jordi says the major impact of the housing crisis is losing neighbors you've known for years and that's why the trust has set a goal of building 120 new affordable homes for "300 of our neighbors" by 2020.

NANTUCKET --- The Historic District Commission made a bit of history of its own recently, approving by a 5-0 vote the design for one of six buildings that will comprise Nantucket's first apartment complex, a 28-unit development of studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments for the island's year-round work force.

HYANNIS --- Aided by town workers and county jail inmates, the Barnstable police began dismantling homeless camps in wooded areas near schools and playgrounds.

SALEM --- Three development companies have submitted bids to the city's Redevelopment Authority regarding the redevelopment of the old district courthouse into a mix of residences and retail for the downtown. The SRA is expected to review all proposals this week and render a decision by Sept. 11.

HYANNIS --- State Rep. Brian Mannal, D-Barnstable, used the words "disturbing and eye-opening," after touring three homeless camps around Hyannis with Barnstable Police Chief Paul MacDonald and members of the department's community impact unit. Police said some of the camps, which are near schools, will be dismantled next week.

GLOUCESTER --- While some raised questions about building height and parking, a solid majority of the 100 residents who attended a public meeting voiced their support for a plan that would turn the former Cameron's Restaurant into a mixed-use development with first-floor commercial and 30 apartments on the upper floors.