Housing Authority seeking applicants for veterans housing
The former State Police barracks on Route 6 will be completely transformed into low-income housing for veterans by October, and rental applications are being accepted, according to the Dartmouth Housing Authority.
The exterior of the O’Connor-Sisson House for Veterans is complete, with finishing touches to interior paint, woodworking, and landscaping next on the agenda, Housing Authority Executive Director Connie Desbiens said via email.
Once finished, the nine-unit 2.6 million project, located at 262 State Road, will house low-income veterans, a community center and an office for supportive services. Project completion is targeted for the end of September, with occupancy in October, Desbiens said.
“Thanks to many generous donors, we have the finances to furnish each unit complete with bedroom, dinette, and sitting area” furniture, said Desbiens. A fully furnished bedroom costs about $5,000.
The Dartmouth Housing Authority acquired the property four years ago and spent the past few years seeking funding for its rehabilitation. The majority of the project's cost is funded through the state’s Department of Housing and Community Development.
The Housing Authority will prioritize placing homeless veterans in the units, with half being reserved for Dartmouth residents. There are still openings. The low-income housing limits single-occupant income to $13,000, and $15,930 for a couple. Tenants will pay 30 percent of their income for rent. Remaining rental fees are paid through the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program.
Applications are available at the administrative office (2 Anderson Way) and the North Dartmouth Library (1383 Tucker Road), or can be requested via phone (508-994-1424) or email darthouse@comcast.net.
The Housing Authority is still seeking funds for additional items, such as office furniture, kitchenware, and appliances, but has begun planning the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which will take place in early October.
Donations can be sent to Partners in Housing, Inc. c/o Dartmouth Housing Authority, 2 Anderson Way, North Dartmouth, MA 02747. All donations are tax deductible and a letter acknowledging each one will be sent.