Groveland Select Board Votes 3-2 to Pull Affordable Housing Trust from Town Meeting

GROVELAND -- April 6, 2026, Groveland Select Board removes Affordable Housing Trust article from annual town meeting warrant in 3-2 vote. Member Kathy Castronellis moved to pull Article 11, arguing the proposed trust's membership structure, drawn from existing town committees, locked out residents with relevant expertise, that no public forums had been held, and that a six-month ad hoc study committee should refine the bylaw first. Supporters, including member Steve, countered that the trust launches with zero dollars, that seven of 17 operative provisions require Select Board approval before any action, and that further delay continues a years-long pattern of inaction on affordable housing. Town Moderator Joe, speaking during public comment, urged the board to avoid a neutral stance on all warrant articles and offered after the vote to serve on the ad hoc study committee, requesting a timeline of roughly one year. The board separately voted 4-1 to recommend favorable on marijuana establishment articles (Articles 12 and 13), with member Ed casting the lone dissent over water supply constraints, federal illegality, and skepticism about the revenue upside. The warrant will be posted April 9.