An Act relative to establishing the Barnstable home center for housing resources

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kip Diggs and 1 co-sponsor

Bill H 3988 establishes the Barnstable Home Center to provide financial aid, counseling, and resources for seniors and low-income families to improve housing stability.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3988 aims to establish the Barnstable Home Center, a dedicated resource center designed to enhance housing stability and access for residents of Barnstable, Massachusetts. The center will provide financial assistance, training, and counseling services to support homeownership and address housing challenges, particularly for seniors and low-income families.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant provisions, including:

Establishment of the Barnstable Home Center

The center will operate under the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.

It will offer a variety of services aimed at improving housing access and stability.

Financial Assistance Programs

Safe Senior Home Program: Grants of up to $5,000 for homeowners aged 60 and older earning less than 80% of the area median income to replace aging heating systems. Additional costs can be covered through 0% interest deferred loans.

Senior Loan Repair Program: Provides 0% interest deferred payment loans for seniors aged 62 and older for necessary home repairs, focusing on health and safety.

Services Offered

The center will provide:
- Financial Resources:
- Grants and low-interest loans for first-time homebuyers, including seniors looking to downsize.
- Emergency repair grants for urgent safety and health issues.
- Housing Counseling:
- Pre-purchase counseling for first-time homebuyers.
- Foreclosure prevention counseling.
- Guidance for seniors on affordable housing options.
- Partnerships:
- Collaborations with developers and nonprofits to expand housing options for income-eligible residents.
- Public Awareness Campaign: Outreach efforts to inform residents about available housing resources.

Reporting and Oversight

The center will maintain a transparent application and reporting process for all grants and loans.

An annual report will be prepared by the executive office, detailing the number of residents served, financial resources distributed, and recommendations for service improvement.

Funding Mechanism

Establishment of the Barnstable Home Resource Fund, which will consist of appropriations, interest earned, and federal grants. This fund will be used to support the center's initiatives.

Impact

The Barnstable Home Center is expected to significantly benefit:
- Seniors: By providing targeted financial assistance and housing options.
- Low-Income Families: Through grants and counseling services aimed at first-time homebuyers and those facing housing instability.
- Community Development: By fostering partnerships with developers and nonprofits to create affordable housing solutions.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: April 3, 2025

Hearing Scheduled: November 10, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 12:00 PM (Written Testimony Only)

Effective Date: The act will take effect 180 days after passage.

This bill represents a proactive approach to addressing housing challenges in Barnstable, with a focus on supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing community resources.

Bill