Clarkstown is moving ahead with a plan to create affordable housing for volunteer first responders, following the town board’s approval to purchase the former St. Paul’s convent at 83 Gilchrest Road.

The property, located in Valley Cottage, is expected to become home to volunteer firefighters and ambulance corps members once the development is complete.

The town board approved $930,000 for its purchase during a special meeting on Tuesday morning before the swearing-in of James Fay as police chief. Supervisor George Hoehmann said the vote came after the town reached an agreement with the Archdiocese on Monday. He also noted that Clarkstown will be able to use a $500,000 grant toward the project.

Clarkstown will take ownership of two buildings on the St. Paul’s property and develop up to six affordable rental units designated specifically for volunteer first responders. Officials expect to close on the property in July.

“Get some young people — or not so young people — that are volunteer firefighters and volunteer EMS workers to be able to live here. And it can be a way in which we can help sustain our first responder base,” Hoehmann said.

The supervisor said he hopes the first responders will be able to move in before the end of the year.