During the City Council workshop on Tuesday, November 20, Director of Economic Development Michael Scala introduced Jeff Lefkovich, Executive Director of Real Estate Services and Housing Development for Catholic Charities New Hampshire. Lefkovich presented a proposal to develop affordable housing on the site of the former Public Works facility at 45 Old Dover Road.

Catholic Charities New Hampshire is well-established in the region, operating the Saint Charles Home near the Rochester Common, St. Ann Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Dover, and the New Hampshire Food Bank. The organization also offers statewide counseling services, veterans’ support programs in Manchester, and housing and support initiatives for young mothers and their children.

Lefkovich began his presentation by addressing what he described as “rumors and misconceptions” regarding Catholic Charities New Hampshire, its affordable housing initiatives, and the organization’s plans in Rochester.

Click here to watch the City Council workshop.

During the public input session, a small group of residents expressed concerns that included the belief that the proposed housing project would serve what they referred to as “illegal aliens.”

Mayor Paul Callaghan asked Lefkovich to clarify the distinction between Catholic Charities New Hampshire and the international organization, explaining that Catholic Charities New Hampshire is separate. Lefkovich said, “We have no affiliation with any other Catholic Charities in any other states. They are all individual entities with their own programs and missions.”

Lefkovich directly addressed concerns from public input, stating, “We have absolutely nothing to do with housing [so-called] illegal aliens. This housing project has nothing to do with that.”

New Hampshire Catholic Charities requires prospective tenants to undergo a comprehensive screening process. This includes verification of U.S. citizenship, income eligibility screening, employment and income verification, social security documentation, bank statements, asset verification, criminal background checks, credit checks, landlord references, and a complete rental history.

“They must be U.S. citizens with verifiable income,” Lefkovich concluded.

The proposed development will include 80 affordable housing units designed to address City Council goals, community needs, and workforce demands while supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals. Lefkovich highlighted additional goals and community benefits, including economic and community development, financial stability for residents, and infrastructure improvements.

When defining “affordable housing”, Lefkovich explained that rents, including utility allowances, would be capped at 30% of verified income. These rates are determined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), based on the area’s median income.

At a groundbreaking last month for another affordable housing project in Rochester, Mayor Callaghan stated that myths and misconceptions regarding affordable housing are based on “fear and negative stereotypes”.

“In reality, the lack of safe, affordable housing is costing cities in several dramatic ways,” said Callaghan. “Cities that fail to step up with affordable housing solutions drive out residents, lose potential workers, and discourage growth in their local economies.”

In addition to the housing project at 45 Old Dover Road, Lefkovich says there are plans to preserve and support the existing softball field that is currently on site. Further, Catholic Charities New Hampshire pledges to make public meeting spaces available for the league’s organizers, and other local groups, demonstrating a commitment to support community activity on the property.

A groundbreaking for the project is anticipated in the second quarter of 2026.

For more information about Catholic Charities New Hampshire and future rental opportunities, visit www.cc-nh.org. For general inquiries, contact the Economic Development Department for the City of Rochester at (603) 335-7522.