What is the CPA?

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a state law helping to preserve open space and historic sites, create affordable housing, and develop outdoor recreational facilities since 2000.

How is the CPA funded?

Each participating community raises CPA funds with a surcharge of up to 3% of property value (1.5% in Swampscott). A statewide Community Preservation Trust Fund, administered by the Department of Revenue (DOR) receives state funds from Registry of Deeds and budget surplus.  If you have sold real estate in MA since September of 2000, you have probably paid into the CPA trust fund via transfer taxes.  Read more here.

How much will we raise?

Approximately $1,000,000 in total from the Town and State match each year.  The state historically has matched the amount that towns raise by 20% - 40%. Additional matching funds are obtained for projects through grants.

How much will it cost me?

Although the Town could create a surcharge of up to 3% of your existing property tax, Town Meeting voted to allow a surcharge of 1.5%.  If your home's assessed value is:

• $300,000: an additional $34/annually

• $750,000: an additional $110/annually

• $1,100,000: an additional $172/annually

How can we use the funds from the CPA?

We can use the money we raise for expanding open space, recreational facilities, Affordable/community housing creation, and preserving historic buildings/sites. CPA funds cannot be used for maintenance or operating expenses. A local Community Preservation Committee will be formed that will ensure potential projects are transparently reviewed and our funds are utilized.  The state will also need to confirm that projects meet their guidelines.  

Am I exempt from paying?

• For residents age 60+, a single occupant with an income below $104,510 is exempt.  In a 4-person household the income threshold is $149,300.

• For residents under age 60, a single occupant with income below $83,000 is exempt.  In a 4-person household the income threshold is $119,440.

What projects are being considered?

Some examples of eligible projects include: the Hawthorne Property, Fish House, Rail Trail, General Glover House, Train Depot, Blythswood Estate, outdoor sports facilities, playgrounds, rehab and development of public/community/Affordable housing.

Which other communities in MA participate in the CPA?

196 of the 300+ Massachusetts communities participate, including our neighbors Nahant and Salem.  In 18 years, Nahant has invested $13.8 million and paid just 31% of the total project costs from the local surtax. In other words, adopting the CPA has multiplied Nahant's investments by 3x.