SWAMPSCOTT — The town is helping to make rental application information available for seniors interested in living in the renovated Machon School building, with preference given to town residents.
“The application process for individuals interested in renting the units is ongoing. Please note that Swampscott residents have a preference for being selected as tenants. More information can be found at www.livethemachon.com. This information is also available on our website,” said town Community and Economic Development Director Marzie Galazka.
The tenant selection process has a Feb. 24 deadline for postmarked applications to be returned, and an online March 5 lottery to select tenants, followed by applicant interviews.
Rent for 30 of the Machon units is listed at $1,440 a month, with income limitation guidelines available on the website.
The town selected nonprofit B’nai B’rith Housing in 2016 to renovate the Burpee Road school building into 38 senior affordable rental units, including two handicap-accessible apartments.
B’nai B’rith signed a 99-year lease with the town for the $16.75 million project with a projected June 1 date for tenants to move in.
“At this point, the construction is 65 percent complete. On the inside of the building, the elevator, utilities and drywall are being installed,” Galazka said.
According to B’nai B’rith’s description for the Senior Residences at the Machon, one in four Swampscott households includes a senior and more than 50 percent of town seniors live alone.
“One-third of Swampscott households over 65 years old earn less than $40,000 (per) year,” stated the nonprofit’s description.
Project plans call for the Machon renovation to include a community room, library and screening room, and a fitness center.
“The Machon offers living like no other, with plentiful community amenities and programming that will provide residents with opportunities to lead active lifestyles,” states the project website description.
