The Lincoln Housing Commission sponsored a public conversation this evening to explore potential changes to the by-laws to expand affordable accessory apartments. Of the housing units in Lincoln, currently nearly 11% qualify as affordable housing. Affordable housing is meant to mean “affordable” for a family earning 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), which is equal to $73,050 for a family of four in 2016. This means that for a family of four, rent is capped at $1,945 for a 1,200 sq ft, 3 bedroom unit if it is “affordable”. By encouraging Lincoln homeowners who have or are considering adding/creating accessory apartments to do so in conjunction with the town, the town can increase the number of affordable units available. It was a great conversation and more information can be found here and in this informative but dated article.
