The Town of Ghent Affordable Housing Committee (AHC) was established by the Town Board in 2026 to help identify, evaluate, and recommend strategies that support housing opportunities for residents of all ages, across a broad spectrum of incomes, and in various stages of life.
The committee serves in an advisory capacity to the Town Board and will work to better understand local housing needs, review best practices from other communities, and explore policies and programs that can help maintain and expand housing options while preserving the character of the Town of Ghent.
Mission
The Affordable Housing Committee is charged with:
- Assessing local housing needs and challenges.
- Reviewing existing housing conditions and trends.
- Evaluating potential strategies to increase housing affordability and accessibility.
- Researching best practices from neighboring communities and regional organizations.
- Providing recommendations to the Town Board regarding housing-related policies, programs, and initiatives.
- Engaging residents and stakeholders in discussions about housing needs and opportunities.
Committee Membership
The Town Board appointed the following members to the Affordable Housing Committee:
- Dan Barufaldi, Chair – [email protected]
- Nina Benvenuto
- Fredda Herz Brown
- Erica French
- Geoff French
- Stephanie Lazar (Planning Board Representative)
- Michayla McMahon
- Jose Medrano
- Penny Sanchez
- Eric Schnackenberg
- Lyle Trued (Zoning Board of Appeals Representative)
The committee reflects a diverse range of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds from across the Ghent community.
Meetings
The Affordable Housing Committee meets the second Tuesday of every month at 6:30pm at Ghent Town Hall. Meetings are open to the public for viewing.
Contact
Questions or comments regarding the Affordable Housing Committee may be directed to the committee chair, Dan Barufaldi