Falmouth Enterprise
Carrie L. Gentile
October 3, 2014
Falmouth is not meeting the housing needs of its residents, according to a newly released study. The town’s graying population is large and growing, while the town is failing to attract younger people, partly because of a shortage of affordable housing. Alternatively, there is a scarcity of moderately priced assisted living facilities to serve Falmouth’s retirement age population and frail residents.
Falmouth Chamber of Commerce President Michael Kasparian speaks at the affordable housing roundtable on October 1. The roundtable was spurred by an extensive Falmouth housing report recently released. “We’re pricing ourselves out of a sustainable community,” said Falmouth Board of Selectmen chairman Mary (Pat) Flynn during a forum on housing held Wednesday, October 1, at the library.
“It’s hard for Falmouth to guarantee a sustainable economy when you can’t house your population,” said Judi Barrett of RKG Associates, the firm commissioned by the town to assess its housing needs. The result is an 87 page study titled “Housing For Everyone” that was the motive for the public forum. Affordable housing for myriad demographics found support during the panel discussion that attracted about 50 residents. It will serve as a springboard for further talks.
Stephanie McDowell is a CPA based in Falmouth with over 30 years of accounting and tax experience. She serves individuals and small businesses, with a specialization in Construction clients. She also works extensively with estate and trust taxation.
Thomas Zine
Brendan Crane is Vice President of Crane Appliance, a family-owned appliance company serving Cape Cod and the Islands for more than 40 years. Prior to joining the family business, Brendan built a career in entertainment and media, specializing in non-fiction storytelling and creative strategy with a strong focus on nonprofit partnerships and social impact projects. He brings a creative, community-focused perspective to both business and civic involvement in Falmouth.
Lori Andrews has held a variety of leadership roles in HR, finance, audit and IT during a 40+ year career in financial services-insurance, public accounting and government. Lori retired from Liberty Mutual in 2021 as Senior Vice President and Manager of Global Total Rewards. In that role, ensuring more than 45,000 employees receive fair and competitive compensation and benefits worldwide. Lori has served on the Partners for Youth with Disabilities Board of Directors since 2020.
Maro Titus has a deep connection to the Falmouth Community that dates back to her childhood, shaping her passion for the area. Leveraging her successful career in healthcare administration, Maro has transitioned her expertise to Kinlin Grover Compass Real Estate. As a dedicated agent, she strives to understand each client’s unique needs, bringing a wealth of marketing knowledge and enthusiasm to the real estate practice. With a background in executive leadership encompassing strategic planning, government affairs, and business development, Maro’s professional journey is marked by a commitment to excellence.
Sudie Gifford comes to our board with an extremely varied background in arts, education, finance, public relations, and charity work.
Ed Monteiro was President of the Board of Directors of Falmouth Housing Trust in the ‘90’s, and we are thrilled that he is back.
David Sutkowy has lived in Falmouth since 2020.
Tammy Rausch is an experienced operations and business transformation leader with a background in financial services, global operations, and strategic planning. Tammy has held leadership roles at companies including Fidelity Investments and State Street Bank & Trust, where she led large teams, improved operational processes, and managed global client relationships. Tammy is also active in community volunteering, supporting local organizations including Make a Wish, Hand in Hand Thrift Shop, and Next Chapter Book Club.
Joan Bates has lived in Falmouth with her husband, Robert, since 2002. Prior to that, the couple lived in Newton. Joan’s 25-year professional career was in special education and nonprofit management.
Joanne O’Sullivan is a real estate attorney who has been practicing law in Falmouth since 1995. She is a self-described “wash-ashore” living on Cape Cod for 30 plus years. Joanne grew up in South Boston, and graduated from the University of Chicago and Boston College Law School. Attorney O’Sullivan has primarily been a sole practitioner for the past 20 years. She is married with 2 adult children who live out of state for job opportunities. Ms. O’Sullivan joined the FHT Board of Directors in 2009 and has served in various capacities, currently as vice president.
Director, Addie Drolette, is a Falmouth native and makes her home in East Falmouth. Most of Addie’s professional career has been spent serving the mortgage financing needs of the community of Falmouth. She is presently a Senior Residential Loan Officer with Martha’s Vineyard Bank.