Acushnet: Housing Authority Oct. 28, 2026

The Acushnet Housing Authority met on October 28, 2026, to address regular administrative business, review project updates, and adopt the fiscal year 2027 operating budget. Following approval of the September 16, 2026 meeting minutes and September bills, the board heard the director's report regarding ongoing property and construction matters. The director reported significant challenges with a fraudulent low-bid contractor, Coastal Construction and Management Company, on the common entry flooring replacement project. The contract was formally terminated, the bonding company intervened to pay subcontractors, and Mass Floors took over the work. Later in the meeting, the board formally approved the Mass Floors contract for $47,378.93 under project 003068.

Kim Crowe of Fenton, Ewald & Associates presented the proposed fiscal year 2027 operating budget. Crowe explained that the state had kept spending caps flat, requiring a modest $5,000 withdrawal from operating reserves for both housing programs, while leaving reserves at a healthy 63% of the allowable maximum. The board voted to approve the Chapter 667 (Program 400-1) operating budget showing revenues of $498,533, expenses of $503,072, and a state subsidy request of $129,887, as well as the Chapter 689 operating budget reflecting $34,767 in revenue, $40,263 in expenses, and zero subsidy.

During old business, the board discussed delays on the electrical upgrade project, which remained paused while awaiting Eversource to install a new utility pole and underground service lines following town selectmen approval and a $54,000 state-funded payment. Staff delivered the maintenance report detailing boiler heating system repairs and recent state inspections. Tenant Diane Fuller shared remarks praising communication and the quality of the new flooring contractors before the board set its next meeting for November 18, 2026, and adjourned.

AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Watch the video to verify.