Selectmen voiced support for a small affordable housing project proposed for 20 Depot St., located across from the former East Wareham School.

The proposal calls for demolishing a single-family home on the lot and constructing three buildings with two apartment units each in its place. It received unanimous approval from the board’s five members Tuesday night, but an official vote was not taken. Selectmen said they wanted to see a complete proposal before making a decision.

However, the initial plan seemed promising.

“I love the idea,” said Selectman Patrick Tropeano. “It helps with our affordable housing percentage in town and fits in with the neighborhood.”

Tropeano did say he would not approve using money from the town’s Affordable Housing Trust or Community Preservation Act funds to help pay for the project.

Proposed by property owner Steve Beauchemin, the project is being designed by architect Anthi Frangiadis of Anthi Frangiadis Associates with site work being done by Brian Grady of GAF Engineering. Dean Harrison is providing assistance with securing necessary permits from the state regarding the project’s affordable housing status.

Harrison said he hasn’t approached the Department of Housing and Community Development yet, opting to wait for the board’s reaction.

Frangiadis said with the board’s blessing, the next step would be to apply for the state’s Local Initiative Program. A state program, it encourages the creation of affordable housing by providing technical assistance to developers working to create affordable rental opportunities.

Frangiadis said preference would be given to renters who are veterans, adding that state vouchers may be available to help make the apartments affordable.

The proposal marks the third time housing for low income individuals has been in the news recently, remarked Selectmen Chair Peter Teitelbaum.

"This seems to be affordable housing week in Wareham,” he said.

The day before, officials celebrated the opening of a six-unit apartment complex designed to provide housing for homeless individuals on Pumpkin Town Road.

Last week, Selectmen issued a letter decrying a massive affordable housing complex proposed for Cranberry Highway. In the letter, Selectmen took issue with a myriad of problems they said the project may bring, including strains on infrastructure, police, fire and the schools.