About the Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) makes recommendations to the Town Council on the use of Community Preservation Act funds for eligible open space, historic preservation, recreation, and community housing initiatives, as provided in Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 44B.

Purpose & Responsibilities

The Community Preservation Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the Town Council for eligible projects involving:

• Acquisition, creation, and preservation of open space
• Acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of historic resources
• Acquisition, creation, and preservation of land for recreational use
• Creation, preservation, and support of community housing
• Rehabilitation or restoration of qualifying open space, recreational land, and community housing

When considering community housing projects, the Committee recommends, whenever possible, the reuse of existing buildings or construction on previously developed sites.

Funding & Planning

Annually, with assistance from the Finance Director, the Committee makes budget recommendations to the Town Manager for inclusion in the annual Town budget.

The Committee may recommend setting aside funds for future Community Preservation purposes when sufficient revenues are not currently available. It may also recommend that the Town Council authorize borrowing to accomplish eligible Community Preservation objectives.

In developing its recommendations, the Committee considers local and regional open space and housing plans, as well as the Town’s Master Plan. The Community Preservation Committee is a ministerial committee of the Town.

Community Preservation Needs Study

Each year, the Community Preservation Committee studies the Town’s needs, opportunities, and resources for community preservation.

The Committee consults with Town boards and committees including the Conservation Commission, Historical Commission, Open Space Committee, Planning Board, Parks and Recreation, and Housing Authority.

The Committee also holds one or more public informational hearings regarding community preservation needs and opportunities. Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 44B also requires the CPC to update its Community Preservation Plan every five years.

CPC Application Process

Residents, organizations, and Town departments interested in seeking Community Preservation funding can review the application guidance and submit the appropriate forms below.

• CPC Application Guide
• CPC Project Application
• CPC Project Eligibility Form

Community Preservation Committee Members

Interested in Serving?

The Community Preservation Committee currently has vacancies. Residents interested in serving in an available at-large position are encouraged to submit a Boards, Committees & Commissions application.