Town Meeting rejected Article 23, which sought authorization to sell or lease the affordable senior housing complex at 86 Central Street. The Housing Trust had advocated for the sale, arguing that the crumbling building requires $5 million to $10 million in repairs—costs the town cannot currently absorb. Jack Falvey of the Housing Trust noted that a sale to a private developer would allow for private financing to renovate and potentially expand the facility.

However, the proposal was met with fierce opposition from residents and current tenants of the Lincoln School Apartments. Cara Larson argued that the transition would sacrifice stable town-controlled housing for an uncertain future. Today we know exactly what this is... After a sale, we don't know what it becomes, Larson said. Residents also highlighted the emotional toll on the elderly tenants, with Lorraine Lions noting that many residents are in their 90s and have a deep historical connection to the building. The motion failed to reach the required two-thirds majority, leaving the town to find alternative ways to fund the building's critical repairs.

Motion: To authorize the sale, lease, or conveyance of 86 Central Street with affordability restrictions.

Vote: Failed (264 Yes, 147 No)