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HomeMy Public PortalAbout03.16.22 FinCom PacketTown of Brewster Finance Committee 2198 Main St., Brewster, MA 02631 fincommeeting@brewster-ma.gov (508) 896-3701 MEETING AGENDA Remote Participation Only March 16, 2022 at 6:00 PM This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021,. No in-person meeting attendance will be permitted. If the Town is unable to live broadcast this meeting, a record of the proceedings will be provided on the Town website as soon as possible. The meeting may be viewed by: Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel 18), Livestream (livestream.brewster- ma.gov), or Video recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov). Meetings may be joined by: 1. Phone: Call (929) 436-2866 or (301) 715-8592. Webinar ID: 862 2956 9696 Passcode: 565167 To request to speak: Press *9 and wait to be recognized. 2. Zoom Webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86229569696?pwd=MUhJNGpoU3VocTZ0cTU0VGpYcWdVQT09 Passcode: 565167 To request to speak: Tap Zoom “Raise Hand” button or type “Chat” comment with your name and address, then wait to be recognized. Finance Committee Harvey (Pete) Dahl Chair Frank Bridges Vice Chair William Meehan Clerk Andrew Evans William Henchy Alex Hopper Honey Pivirotto Robert Tobias Robert Young Town Administrator Peter Lombardi Finance Director Mimi Bernardo 1.Call to Order 2.Declaration of a Quorum 3.Meeting Participation Statement 4.Recording Statement 5.Public Announcements and Comment: Members of the public may address the Finance Committee on matters not on the meeting’s agenda for a maximum 3-5 minutes at the Chair’s discretion. Under the Open Meeting Law, the Finance Committee is unable to reply but may add items presented to a future agenda. 6.Town Administrator/Finance Director Report 7.Town Meeting Warrant Articles – Discussion and Vote ATM Article 9 - Community Preservation Act Funding (Faythe Ellis presenting) ATM Article 14 - Town Code Amendment to Community Preservation Bylaw STM Article 1 - Outstanding Obligations STM Article 2 - Budgetary Transfers ATM Article 5 - Town Budget (Re-vote Fire Dept due to OT increase) ATM Article 6 - Water Enterprise Fund Budget ATM Article 8 - Golf Enterprise Fund Budget ATM Article 10 – Capital & Special Projects – (Re-vote due to change) ATM Article 11 - Water Quality Stabilization ATM Article 15 - Yankee Drive Transfer 8.Nauset Regional Public Schools Budget – Discussion and Strategic Direction 9.Budget Calendar – Update 10.Liaison Reports 11.Review and Approval of Minutes 12.Request for agenda items for future meetings 13.Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair 14.Next Finance Committee Meeting - March 23, 2022 15.Adjournment Date Posted:Date Revised:Received by Town Clerk: 3/14/22 3/15/22 TOWN OF BREWSTER COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PLAN FY23-FY27 DRAFT 1/28/22 **DRAFT DOCUMENT INTENDED FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY** PREPARED FOR: Community Preservation Committee Town of Brewster 2198 Main Street Brewster, MA 02631 PREPARED BY: JM Goldson LLC Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 2 This page intentionally left blank Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 3 T ABLE OF C ONTENTS ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 5 KEY DEFINITIONS 6 Executive Summary 8 BACKGROUND 8 PLANNING PROCESS 8 CPC FUNDING GOALS & TARGET ALLOCATION POLICY 8 Chapter 1: Overview 10 INTRODUCTION 10 CPA ELIGIBILITY 10 BACKGROUND 10 APPLICATION AND FUNDING PROCESS 16 Chapter 2: Overall Policies and Goals 20 FIVE-YEAR TARGET ALLOCATION POLICY 20 OVERALL CPA GOALS 21 Chapter 3: Community Housing 22 NEEDS 22 GOALS 22 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES 24 Chapter 4: Open Space 28 NEEDS 28 GOALS 28 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES 30 Chapter 5: Historic Preservation 36 NEEDS 36 GOALS 36 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES 37 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 4 Chapter 6: Outdoor Recreation 42 NEEDS 42 GOALS 42 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES 44 Appendices 48 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 5 A CKNOWLEDGMENTS Thank you to the community members and Town staff who contributed their time and local knowledge to this report by participating in interviews and focus groups and attending the public forum and presentation of the draft plan. C OMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS Peggy Jablonski Paul Ruchinskas Roland Bassett Jr. Sharon Marotti Faythe Ellis Bruce Evans Barbara Burgo Elizabeth Taylor Sarah Robinson TOWN STAFF Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator Donna Kalinick, Assistance Town Administrator Jill Scalise, Housing Coordinator Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 6 K EY D EFINITIONS This list of key definitions is intended to assist the reader and is not intended to replace applicable legal definitions of these terms. The following definitions are for key terms used throughout the document, many of which are based on definitions per MGL c.44B s.2 or other statutes and regulations. Active Recreation – Requires intensive development to create outdoor recreation and often involves cooperative or team activity, including playgrounds, ball fields, and paved bike paths. Areawide Median Income – The median gross income for a person or family as calculated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, based on the median income for the Metropolitan Statistical Area. Chapter 40B – A state statue which enables local Zoning Boards of Appeals (ZBAs) to approve affordable housing developments under flexible rules if at least 20-25% of units have long-term affordability restrictions. Community Housing – As defined by the Community Preservation Act is housing for individuals and families with incomes less than 100 percent of the Areawide Median Income, including senior housing. In general, the occupant(s) should pay no greater than 30% of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. Community Preservation – The acquisition, creation, and preservation of open space; the acquisition, creation, preservation, and rehabilitation/restoration of land for recreation; the acquisition, preservation, and rehabilitation/restoration of historic resources; and the acquisition, creation, preservation, and support of community housing. Community Preservation Act – A state law, MGL c. 44B, is enabling legislation that allows communities to raise and set aside funds for community preservation projects, including open space and natural resource conservation, outdoor recreation, historic preservation, and community housing. It is funded through a combination of a local property tax surcharge of up to 3 percent and a variable state contribution from the Community Preservation Trust Fund. Community Preservation Committee – The committee established by the legislative body of a city or town to make recommendations for community preservation, as provided by Section 5 of MGL c. 44B. Community Preservation Fund – The municipal fund established by Section 7 of MGL c. 44B. Historic Resource – A building, structure, document, or artifact that is listed on the state register of historic places or National Register of Historic Places or has been determined by the local historic preservation commission to be significant in the history, archeology, architecture or culture of a city or town. Household – All the people, related or unrelated, who occupy a housing unit. It can also include a person living alone in a housing unit or a group of unrelated people sharing a housing unit as partners or roommates. Housing Production Plan – A community’s proactive strategy for planning and developing affordable housing. In a HPP, a community creates a strategy to produce housing units and meet the 10 percent goal under Chapter 40B. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 7 Local Historic District – An area or group of historic structures that are deemed significant to the town’s history, archeology, architecture, or culture and protected by public review. Low-income Housing – Housing for persons or families whose annual income is less than 80 percent of the areawide median income (AMI). The AMI is determined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Moderate-income Housing – Housing for persons or families whose annual income is less than 100 percent of the areawide median income (AMI). The AMI is determined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Open Space – Land to protect existing and future well fields, aquifers and recharge areas, watershed land, agricultural land, grasslands, fields, forest land, fresh and saltwater marshes and other wetlands, oceans, rivers, streams, lake and pond frontage, beaches, dunes and other coastal lands, lands to protect scenic vistas, land for wildlife or nature preserve, and/or land for recreational use. Passive Recreation – That which emphasizes the open space aspect of a park, and which involves a low level of development, including picnic areas and trails. Preservation – The protection of personal or real property from injury, harm, or destruction. Recreational use – Recreation uses are often divided into two categories: passive and active recreation. See definitions for “Passive recreation” and “Active Recreation.” Recreation, under the CPA, does not include horse or dog racing, or the use of land for a stadium, gymnasium, or similar structure. Rehabilitation – Capital improvements or extraordinary repairs to historic resources, open spaces, lands for recreational use, and community housing for the purpose of making the above functional for their intended uses and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other federal, state, or local building or access codes. With historic resources, “rehabilitation” must comply with the Standards for Rehabilitation stated in the United States Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties (codified in 36 C.F.R. Part 68). With recreational use, “rehabilitation” includes the replacement of playground equipment and other capital improvements to the land or facilities which make the related land or facilities more functional for the intended recreational use. Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI) - The official list of units, by municipality, maintained by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) that is used to measure a community’s stock of low- and moderate-income housing for the purposes of M.G.L. Chapter 40B’s 10 percent goal. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 8 E XECUTIVE S UMMARY B ACKGROUND The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a state law, MGL c.44B, that was enacted in 2000. Brewster adopted the Community Preservation Act in 2005. The CPA creates a way for communities to raise and set aside funds for community preservation projects. These can include open space conservation, outdoor recreation, historic preservation, and community housing. Brewster generates CPA funds through a local real property tax surcharge of 3 percent. There is also a variable distribution from the State Community Preservation Trust Fund (Trust Fund). Since the beginning of the program, Brewster has collected over $19 million.1 Brewster has funded about 70 community preservation projects since adoption. These initiatives included capital improvements, land acquisition, assistance programs, as well as plans and studies. P LANNING P ROCESS The Community Preservation Committee (CPC), through the Town of Brewster, contracted with JM Goldson, a planning consultancy, to assist with the preparation of an updated Community Preservation Plan. The consultant team’s role is to study existing plans, identify Brewster’s community preservation needs and resources, and to solicit community input. Soliciting community input was an important component of this planning process. The CPC sponsored focus groups and interviews with a variety of community members. They also held an interactive online forum to help understand community priorities for the use of CPA funds in coming years. CPC F UNDING G OALS & T ARGET A LLOCATION P OLICY Below are the goals for each CPA category and a brief description of the target allocation policy. Each goal is further described in the following chapters. TARGET ALLOCATION POLICY When Brewster adopted the CPA in 2005, it did so with a customized bylaw increasing the minimum allocation amounts for each funding area to reflect community priorities. This plan recommends bylaw amendments to remove the customized allocation requirement and to defer to the statutory minimums of 10 percent for each of the three categories: community housing, open space and recreation, and historic preservation. In addition, through this plan, the CPC establishes a five-year target allocation policy which will guide funding allocations to address the top community priorities of community housing and open space. Further information about this policy is detailed in Chapter 2. O VERALL CPA GOALS 1. Prioritize allocation of CPA funding to create and support community housing and preserve open space/natural resources, including multi-purpose projects that address both housing and open space needs. 2. Secondarily, support eligible outdoor recreation and historic preservation projects. 3. Support eligible projects that demonstrate compatibility with the Community Vision and other relevant community initiatives and goals such as at the Pond Parcel and/or Bay Parcel at the former Cape Cod Sea Camps property. 1 This number differs from the Coalition Website Total due to the removal of $571,315 from FY2005 and the addition of $59,440, approved in early 2022 from the budget surplus. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 9 4. Encourage leveraging of CPA funds with other public and private funding as well as donation, bargain sales, and the like. 5. Allocate funding for regional projects that demonstrate clear community benefit and contributions from other communities in the region. COMMUNITY HOUSING GOALS 1. Create community housing, including affordable housing, that will address documented local and regional housing needs including, but not limited to, affordable year-round senior housing options, year-round rental housing and housing assistance for low-income families and seniors, and housing for residents with special needs, such as Veterans. 2. Support eligible housing initiatives and ongoing work of the Brewster Affordable Housing Trust to address local housing needs. 3. Continue to support local capacity to implement housing initiatives, including through the Town’s housing coordinator position. 4. Support the preservation of the existing stock of affordable rental and ownership housing. 5. Continue to support the Brewster Buy Down Program to assist eligible first-time homebuyers. OPEN SPACE GOALS 1. Continue to protect drinking water quality through strategic land conservation of private properties in Zone II Drinking Water Protection Areas including through fee simple acquisition and conservation restrictions in partnership with local/regional land trusts, other private organizations, and other public entities. 2. Support the strategic land conservation to protect the water quality of freshwater ponds including through fee simple acquisition and conservation restrictions in partnership with local/regional land trusts, other private organizations, and other public entities. 3. Support open space conservation efforts to facilitate coastal management and community resilience including to support managed retreat to address coastal erosion. 4. Fund the preservation of natural resources, especially to ensure the health and expansion of salt marshes such as the removal of invasive species, protecting floodplains and uplands adjacent to salt marshes, and restoring natural tidal flow. HISTORIC PRESERVATION GOALS 1. Preserve, rehabilitate, and restore historic resources that provide a high level of community access and benefit, such as the historic structures owned by the Brewster Historical Society and historic buildings on town owned parcels like Cape Cod Sea Camps and Spruce Hill. 2. Support the preservation of Native American sites and artifacts through archaeological investigation. 3. Continue preservation efforts to protect historic town records. OUTDOOR RECREATION GOALS 1. Rehabilitate existing playgrounds, parks, and other outdoor public recreation facilities to improve quality and accessibility. 2. Create all-ages outdoor recreation facilities including those geared toward older adults, such as pickleball courts, and accessible facilities for individuals with special needs. 3. Expand and improve bike trails and bike trail connections, including the key recreation destinations. 4. Rehabilitate hiking trails and create improved trail connections, including improved boardwalks, such as the boardwalk to Wing Island at the Cape Cod Museum Trail. 5. Fund preservation of key private recreation sites to ensure public access and enjoyment. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 10 C HAPTER 1: O VERVIEW INTRODUCTION The Brewster Community Preservation Committee (CPC) created this Plan. The Plan guides the use of CPA funds for fiscal years (FY) 2023-2027. The CPC will use this plan to help decide how to recommend spending CPA funding. The CPC encourages future applicants seeking CPA funds to refer to this plan to guide their CPA requests and encourages Town Meeting members to use this plan to guide decisions on allocation of funds. This plan is created in accordance with the Community Preservation Act (CPA), Massachusetts General Laws c. 44B s.5(b)(1). The law states: The community preservation committee shall study the needs, possibilities, and resources of the city or town regarding community preservation, including the consideration of regional projects for community preservation. CPA E LIGIBILITY The CPA provides funding for four general project types: community housing, historic preservation, open space, and outdoor recreation. See eligibility chart included in the appendices. Community Housing: CPA funds can be used to acquire, create, preserve, and support community housing for households with incomes at or below 100% of the area median income. Historic Preservation: CPA funds can be used to acquire, preserve, rehabilitate, and restore historic resources that are listed on the State Register or determined to be locally significant by the Historical Commission. Open Space: CPA funds can be used to acquire, create, and preserve open space and natural resources. Outdoor Recreation: CPA funds can be used to acquire, create, preserve, rehabilitate, or restore land for recreational use. B ACKGROUND C PA STATEWIDE The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a state law, MGL c.44B, that was enacted in 2000 by Governor Paul Cellucci. It creates a way for communities to raise and set aside funds for community preservation projects. These projects can include open space conservation, outdoor recreation, historic preservation, and community housing. It is funded through a combination of a local property tax surcharge of up to 3 percent and a variable state contribution from the Community Preservation Trust Fund. As of August 2021, 187 communities have adopted the CPA, which represents 53 percent of the Commonwealth’s cities and towns. CPA ON CAPE COD Many towns on the Cape adopted the CPA in 2005 to convert the Cape Cod Open Space Land Acquisition Program2 (Cape Cod Land Bank) to CPA as enabled through MGL c.149 of the Acts of 2004. The CPA enables communities to collect money to fund community preservation projects. Per MGL c.149, Cape Cod towns may not amend the 2 MGL c. 293 of the Acts of 1998 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 11 amount of or revoke the CPA surcharge on real property until after fiscal year 2020.3 Any debt authorized through the Cape Cod Land Bank may be repaid with CPA funds. CPA IN BREWSTER Brewster adopted in 2005 - Town Meeting voted to adopt in November 2004 and it was approved through a ballot vote in May 2005. Brewster generates CPA funds through a local property tax surcharge of 3 percent and a variable distribution from the State Community Preservation Trust Fund. Since the start, Brewster has collected over $19.5 million (as of January 2022). Since Brewster adopted CPA, the town has appropriated over $17 million to community preservation projects across the four CPA funding categories, according to the Brewster Community Preservation Committee (note, the CPA Projects profile on the following page includes more detail about Brewster’s CPA-funded projects): 1. Community housing ($4.47M) – 26 percent of total allocations 2. Historic preservation ($2.70M) – 16 percent of total allocations 3. Open space ($8.49M) – 49 percent of total allocations 4. Outdoor recreation ($1.60M) – 9 percent of total allocations Up to 5 percent of total CPA funds may be spent for CPC administration. In addition, the CPA statute requires a minimum of 10 percent be spent or reserved for each of the following CPA categories: 1. Community housing 2. Historic preservation 3. Open space and Recreation Brewster’s local bylaw, as of January 2022, requires that 50 percent of total CPA funds must be spent or reserved for open space, 10 percent for community housing, and 10 percent for historic preservation. The remaining 30 percent may be spent on community housing, historic preservation, or active recreation. Note that this plan recommends amending the local bylaw to eliminate these customized minimums and adopt a more flexible target allocation policy, as described in more detail on the following pages. WHO DECIDES HOW THE FUNDS ARE SPENT? Brewster established a Community Preservation Committee (CPC) as required by MGL c.44B, which is responsible to make funding recommendations to Town Meeting. Town Meeting has the authority to approve or deny the CPC’s recommendations. Town Meeting can also approve the CPC’s recommendation at a reduced funding amount. Town Meeting may not approve funding without a recommendation from the CPC. The CPC has nine members including four members at-large who are appointed by the Select Board. Per MGL c.44B, the CPC also includes a member from each of the following five entities: • Conservation Commission • Historical Commission • Housing Authority • Planning Board • Recreation Commission The role of the CPC is to: 1) Study the Town’s community preservation needs, possibilities, and resources and hold a public informational hearing regarding the study4 3 Massachusetts Department of Revenue, Cape Cod Land Bank and Community Preservation Act, Bulletin 2004-16B, October 2004. 4 The public hearing shall be posted publicly and published for each of two weeks preceding a hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the city or town. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 12 2) To make recommendations to the Town Meeting for funding projects with CPA funds The CPC meets regularly, typically on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month at 4:00 pm virtually. These meetings are open public meetings and members of the public are welcome and encouraged to attend. Notices of CPC meetings and agenda (with links for virtual meetings, when needed) are posted on the Town calendar, which can be found on Town’s website: https://www.brewster-ma.gov/. HOW MUCH FUNDING IS AVAILABLE? Brewster generates CPA funds through a local real property tax surcharge of 3 percent. There is also a variable distribution from the State Community Preservation Trust Fund (Trust Fund). Since the beginning of the program, Brewster has collected over $19 million (as of January 2022)5 – this figure includes about $12.9M raised through the local surcharge and $6.1M through the Trust Fund distributions. In FY2021, the local property tax surcharge generated roughly $1.07M, and the Trust Fund distribution was about $368,430 (a 35.18 percent match). In FY22 the state match is 48.65 percent ($519,353). 5 This number differs from the Coalition Website Total due to the removal of $571,315 from FY2005 and the addition of $59,440, approved in early 2022 from the budget surplus. $0 $1,067,428 $1,047,220 $997,502 $929,796 $894,558 $861,948 $823,010 $799,453 $759,918 $734,513 $701,099 $685,306 $664,044 $633,392 $623,561 $597,364 $571,315 $519,353 $368,430 $292,896 $220,244 $184,636 $212,708 $291,928 $301,307 $476,816 $235,599 $224,425 $223,720 $278,863 $487,457 $623,561 $597,364 $571,315 $0 $- $200,000.00 $400,000.00 $600,000.00 $800,000.00 $1,000,000.00 $1,200,000.00 $1,400,000.00 $1,600,000.00 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 DollarsFiscal YearBrewster CPA Revenue History Source: Community Preservation Coalition Information on Individual CPA Communities database, accessed 1/4/22. Local Surcharge Trust Fund Distribution Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 13 CPA PROJECTS A PROFILE FOR THE BREWSTER COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PLAN HISTORIC PRESERVATION • Blacksmith Shop, Brewster Historical Society • Brewster Baptist Church renovation of the Church steeple • Brewster Historical Society purchase of the Elijah Cobb House • Brewster Meetinghouse Preservation project • Cape Repertory Theatre Company • Cape Repertory Theatre Company: Historic Crosby Barn Rehabilitation • Catalogue/preserve Town Hall records • Council on Aging window replacement • Crosby Mansion porch repair project • Elijah Cobb House preservation and rehabilitation • Glass plate negatives preservation • Gravestone preservation at Breakwater Cemetery • Gravestone preservation project • Higgins Farm Windmill preservation • Lower Road Cemetery Tombstone & Monument repair and restoration • Spruce Hill Barn Restoration • Stony Brook Grist Mill Works Replacement • Stony Brook/Lower Mill Pond Dam & Fish Passage Restoration project OVERVIEW OF CPA-FUNDED PROJECTS The Community Preservation Act has funded about 70 community preservation initiatives in Brewster in its since adoption, with over $17M in allocations for open space conservation, active recreation, historic preservation, and community housing initiatives. These initiatives included capital improvements, assistance programs, land acquisition, as well as plans and studies. About 49 percent of allocations as of November 2021 have been for open space projects, 26 percent for housing, 16 percent for historic, and 9 percent for outdoor recreation. This profile provides a list of projects funded in each CPA category. Community Housing 26% Historic 16% Open Space 49% Outdoor Recreation 9% Brewster CPA Project Allocations FY07-FY22 (as of Nov. 2021) Note: includes total appropriated for open projects and actual spent for closed projects. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 14 ACTIVE RECREATION • ADA improvements to athletic fields • Brewster Dog Park • Brewster Recreation Commission – Tennis Court Project • Department of Natural Resources – Breakwater Beach Restoration Project • Eddy Elementary School Accessible Playground • Pleasant Bay Community Boating (Harwich) • Recreation Department Field Repairs/Renovations • Stony Brook Early Childhood Playground • Stony Brook Herring Run Bypass and Dam • Tennis Court repairs and resurfacing • Warning lights at Cape Cod Rail Trail • Open Space and Recreation Plan COMMUNITY HOUSING OPEN SPACE • 106 McGuerty Road/Field-Kelley Acquisition • Bates Land acquisition • BBJ Cranberry Trust Land acquisition • Boehm Conservation Area – Purchase of Conservation Restriction • Crystaloski Property Land acquisition • Eldredge Property Land acquisition • Freeman’s Way/Naumekeg Acquisition • Jackson Land acquisition • Jorgenson Property acquisition • Lalor Property acquisition • Long Pond Woodlands Land Acquisition Project • Matthews Property Land acquisition • Meetinghouse Road Conservation Area • Mill Pond Conservation Area – Purchase of Conservation Restriction • Open Space and Recreation Plan update • Quivett Marsh Vista Conservation Area • Santorello Property acquisition • Seidel Land acquisition • Stranahan Property Land acquisition • Viprino Property Land acquisition • Windrift Acres and Acquisition • Affordable Housing Buydown program • Brewster Affordable Housing Trust – CPA-eligible community housing activities • Brewster Affordable Housing Trust: SHI inventory preservation • Brewster Housing Authority Huckleberry Lane Project • Brewster Housing Partnership Affordable Housing Buydown program • Brewster Woods Development • Cape Cod Village, Inc. Orleans Project • Community Development Partnership – Cape Housing Institute • Community Engagement Consultant • FORWARD: Friends or Relatives with Autism and Related Disabilities (Located in Dennis) • Habitat for Humanity Land Acquisition • Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod – Paul Hush Way affordable homeownership development • Harwich Ecumenical Council for the Homeless: Homeowners’ Emergency Loan Program • Millstone Land Acquisition • Nickerson Park Condo Purchase • Nickerson Park Condominium – Lower Cape Community Development Corporation • Part-Time Housing Coordinator • Preservation of Affordable Housing • SHI Home Appraisal • Slough Road Homes – Habitat for Humanity Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 15 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 16 REVIEW OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL PLANS The Town of Brewster contracted with JM Goldson LLC to assist with the preparation of an updated Community Preservation Plan in August 2021. JM Goldson worked with the CPC members and studied existing plans, including the 2017 Housing Production Plan; the 2020 Brewster Vision Plan; 2014 Open Space and Recreation Plan; 2020 Draft Open Space and Recreation Plan; 2007 Brewster Reconnaissance Report; and the 2009 Water Quality Status Report, to identify Brewster’s community preservation needs and resources. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Soliciting community input was an important component of this planning process. The CPC sponsored focus groups and interviews with a variety of community members, as well as an interactive online forum as part of its effort to understand community priorities and help shape this plan. Stakeholder Focus Groups and Interviews The consultants interviewed a variety of community and regional stakeholders through focus groups between September and October 2021. They also conducted individual interviews through Zoom and telephone. These interviews helped the CPC further refine its understanding of community preservation needs and resources. They also helped to identify priorities and possibilities for use of CPA funds. Community Forum On November 20, 2021, the CPC sponsored a virtual forum held through Zoom webinar. The forum was interactive and integrated live polling and open-ended questions using PollEverywhere software, allowing participants to share their thoughts and opinions alongside the presentation. Approximately 40 people participated in this online forum. Detailed summaries of the focus groups and interviews as well as the community forum are included in the appendices. A PPLICATION AND FUNDING P ROCESS The Brewster CPC accepts applications for CPA funding on a biannual basis; proposals are due July 1st to be considered at fall town meeting, or December 1st to be considered at spring town meeting. The CPC requires proposals be submitted using the CPC’s application form, available online on the CPC’s webpage at www.brewster- ma.gov or by request through the Town Clerk’s office. The CPC considers each funding application based on the merits of the project as well as the available CPA balance in an open public meeting. Through majority vote, the CPC determines which projects to recommend to Town Meeting for funding. Projects not recommended by the CPC are not eligible for consideration by the Town Meeting per statute (MGL c.44B). Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 17 REVIEW OF COMMUNITY GOALS A PROFILE FOR THE BREWSTER COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PLAN 2021 CAPE COD REGIONAL POLICY PLAN Natural systems goals: Water resources: To maintain a sustainable supply of high-quality untreated drinking water and protect, preserve, or restore the ecological integrity of Cape Cod’s fresh and marine surface water resources. Ocean Resources: To protect, preserve, or restore the quality and natural values and functions of ocean resources. Wetland Resources: To protect, preserve, or restore the quality and natural values and functions of inland and coastal wetlands and their buffers. Wildlife and Plant Habitat: To protect, preserve, or restore wildlife and plant habitat to maintain the region’s natural diversity. Open Space: To conserve, preserve, or enhance a network of open space that contributes to the region’s natural and community resources and systems. Community Systems goals: Cultural Heritage: To protect and preserve the significant cultural, historic, and archaeological values and resources of Cape Cod. Housing: To promote the production of an adequate supply of ownership and rental housing that is safe, healthy, and attainable for people with different income levels and diverse needs. PROFILE DESCRIPTION It is important for the Community Preservation Plan to consider the established goals of the Town and region. This review of the goals in existing planning documents is intended to provide a foundation to the identification of Brewster’s community preservation goals and priorities. The Town of Brewster and the larger region have several planning documents that establish community goals related to the Community Preservation Act funding categories. These include the 2021 Cape Cod Regional Policy Plan, the 2014 Open Space and Recreation Plan, the 2017- 2021 Brewster Housing Production Plan, the 2018 Brewster Vision Plan, and the 2007 Brewster Reconnaissance Report. This profile provides a summary of the goals in these other plans that are related to one or more of the community preservation act funding categories: community housing historic preservation, open space, and outdoor recreation. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 18 1. Protect the Town’s drinking water supply to meet the needs of Brewster’s residents and visitors today and in the future. 2. Provide open space and recreation opportunities that maintain Brewster’s rural character and small coastal community identity and support a sustainable local economy as a center for ecotourism. 3. Preserve and enhance habitat diversity and protect marine and fresh surface water resources to maintain their important ecological functions and values to the community. 4. Provide a variety of recreation and open space opportunities to promote healthy and active lifestyles for Brewster residents, ensuring equitable access for all users and abilities. 5. Support coordination and communication of regional open space and recreation needs. 2017-2021 HOUSING PRODUCTION PLAN Priority Affordable Housing Needs: • Low Income Rental Housing for Families • Rental housing for single people • Subsidized rental housing for the elderly • Acquisition and rehabilitation of substandard housing Housing Goals 1. Increase the supply of year-round market-rate and affordable rental housing for all types of households, such as young singles and couples, families, and seniors. 2. Build support for addressing housing needs through partnerships with conservation groups and non-profit and for-profit developers, and increased commitment of local funds such as Community Preservation Act revenue. 3. Create housing that is affordable and appropriate for very low-income seniors and people with disabilities. 4. Increase local capacity to plan, advocate for, and create affordable housing, preserve the affordability and condition of existing affordable units, and monitor affordable housing restrictions. 5. Increase the variety of mixed-income housing choices in Brewster, particularly in or near commercial areas in order to support Brewster’s economy and to accommodate household growth. 6. Create and provide programs to support struggling homeowners, such as a housing rehabilitation program to help lower-income homeowners and seniors with extraordinary maintenance and repairs. 7. Provide at least 10 percent of Brewster’s year-round housing units as affordable housing in order to meet local and regional needs. 2020 DRAFT OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION PLAN Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 19 2018 VISION PLAN Community Character Goal Sustain and foster Brewster’s historic setting, rural nature, small-town feel, and socially inclusive spirit. • Provide social opportunities and services for all. • Maintain the Town’s historic heritage and style. • Maintain the Town’s small-town feel and scale through appropriate development. 2007 BREWSTER RECONNAISSANCE REPORT Preservation Planning Recommendations 1. Inventory heritage landscapes through the Massachusetts Historical Commission inventory, as well as National Register Listings when appropriate. 2. Create a Preservation Plan to ensure the continued protection of historical resources. 3. Preserve burial grounds and cemeteries by undertaking restoration and wayfinding projects, as well as establishing community support for such projects. 4. Preserve village and rural neighborhood character through demolition delay bylaws, recognizing local historic districts, and downzoning, among other techniques. 5. Preserve agricultural landscapes by adopting a right-to-farm bylaw and continue preserving farmland through conservation and agricultural reservation restrictions, where applicable. 6. Preserve scenic roads through establishing a Scenic Roads bylaw, as well as a scenic overlay district. 7. Raise awareness about Town’s history and ensure funding for preservation projects. Water Resources Goal Protect Brewster’s freshwater system to preserve high quality drinking water and maintain or improve the health of our ponds and marine watersheds. • Protect town wellfields by expanding open space acquisition and other measures. • Improve pond water quality through public education, regulation, and mitigation activities. • Protect the water quality of the town’s marine watersheds. Open Space Goal Maintain and expand open space assets to provide public recreation, protect fragile natural habitat, and protect water resources. • Improve public access to and expand the use of recreational areas. • Prioritize environmentally sensitive areas for preservation. • Maintain open space through density and development standards. Housing Goal Provide more affordable, safe, and accessible rental and ownership housing options at different price points, particularly for single people, young families, and our older population. Achieve the state’s 10% affordable goal by 2025. • Promote housing choices to allow families to live, work, and prosper. • Provide opportunities to address the varied housing needs of Brewster’s aging population. • Address the housing needs to the Town’s year-round and seasonal workforce. Coastal Management Goal In the context of coastal change, preserve and protect Brewster’s coastal resources and expand public access. • Protect coastal resources in ways that preserve coastal ecosystems and habitats and the character of the town and coastal neighborhoods. • Maintain and expand public access for all through public consensus and explore alternate modes of transport and access points. • Adapt to climate change projections and advance adaptation and resiliency techniques that are financially and environmentally sustainable. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 20 C HAPTER 2: O VERALL P OLICIES AND G OALS The CPC developed the following target allocation policy and overall CPA goals through careful consideration of community feedback and broad community goals as established from guiding local policy documents including the Vision Plan. The policy and goals are designed to guide the CPC’s deliberation of project requests for CPA funds in all four CPA funding categories and will be used to establish funding preferences. The policy and goals are not binding; The CPC will ultimately base its recommendations on individual project merits, using the target allocation policy and overall goals as a guide. F IVE-Y EAR T ARGET A LLOCATION P OLICY When Brewster adopted the CPA in 2005, it did so with a customized bylaw increasing the minimum allocation amounts for each funding area to reflect community intentions and priorities when Brewster converted from the Cape Cod Open Space Land Acquisition Program6 (Cape Cod Land Bank) to CPA as enabled through MGL c.149 of the Acts of 2004. Per MGL c.149, Cape Cod towns may not amend the amount of or revoke the CPA surcharge on real property until after fiscal year 2020.7 PREVIOUS MINIMUM ALLOCATIONS Previously, CPA funds were allocated on the basis of the following amounts: a 50 percent allocation for open space and passive recreation projects; a 10 percent allocation for community housing; a 10 percent allocation for historic preservation; and a 30 percent allocation towards community housing, historic preservation, or recreation projects, but not open space. Of the 30 percent allocation, the CPC has been using up to 5 percent annually for administative costs, as allowed through the statute. RECOMMENDED MODIFIED ALLOCATIONS As part of this planning effort the CPC has reconsidered the minimum local bylaw allocation requirements and plans to recommend to the Select Board that Town Meeting amends the bylaw to be effective as of July 2023 (FY2024) There is an increasing community awareness of a variety of significant priorities for the Brewster community, especially for affordable and community housing as well as other CPA-eligible initiatives as at the Cape Cod Sea Camps properties (i.e., the Pond Parcel and the Bay Parcel) and capital needs for historic public buildings such as the Brewster Ladies’ Library. In addition, the CPC recognizes that there is a significant continued need for open space and natural resource conservation, especially considering the growing impacts from climate change on this coastal community and the continued efforts to protect the drinking water supply and water quality of Brewster’s ponds. For these reasons, the CPC recommends bylaw amendments to remove the customized allocation requirement and to defer to the statutory minimums of 10 percent for each of three categories: community housing, open space and recreation, and historic preservation. In addition, through this plan, the CPC establishes a five-year Target Allocation Policy which will guide funding allocations to address the top community priorities of community housing and open space. This approach will increase the Town’s flexibility and enhance its ability to utilize CPA funds to address a wider spectrum of community priorities, while continuing to allocate significant levels of funding for open space and natural resource conservation. CPC Target Allocation Policy for FY24-FY27 Through this plan, the CPC establishes target allocation policies to guide its recommendations for appropriations of CPA funds over the four-year period, FY24 through FY27. The policies are intended to support community priorities for use of CPA funds. 6 MGL c. 293 of the Acts of 1998 7 Massachusetts Department of Revenue, Cape Cod Land Bank and Community Preservation Act, Bulletin 2004-16B, October 2004. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 21 Minimum Spending/Reserves The CPC intends to continue to recommend three reserves of 10 percent total annual revenue, which comply with the statutory minimums for community housing, historic preservation, and open space and recreation. To the extent possible, the CPC also intends to recommend allocations of the CPA funds for eligible projects and initiatives and administrative funds in roughly the proportions shown below as an average over five-years: • 30 percent for Community Housing • 30 percent for Open Space • 10 percent for Historic Preservation • 10 percent for Outdoor Recreation • 5 percent for CPC Administration Costs The remaining 15 percent of funds will remain as undesignated and can be used to fund projects in any of the CPA categories. Any undesignated funds (meaning funds that are not included in the minimum 10 percent reserves) that are not appropriated each year will roll over and remain undesignated. Administrative Funds The CPC requires professional staff support to ensure proper record keeping, grant management, and clerical support in addition to other administrative needs such as funding the Community Preservation Coalition membership dues and advertising costs. Therefore, the CPC intends to budget 5 percent of total annual CPA revenue for administrative funds, as the CPA statute allows. However, if the full 5 percent is not needed in any given year, the balance may be allocated to fund projects in any of the CPA categories. O VERALL CPA G OALS These overall goals are intended to help the CPC make hard decisions with the expectation that the CPA will not provide enough funding to fully fund all CPA funding requests. The CPC will refer to these overall goals during deliberations when considering the merits of funding requests and comparing eligible projects given limited funding. 6. Prioritize allocation of CPA funding to create and support community housing and preserve open space/natural resources, including multi-purpose projects that address both housing and open space needs. 7. Secondarily, support eligible outdoor recreation and historic preservation projects. 8. Support eligible projects that demonstrate compatibility with the Community Vision and other relevant community initiatives and goals such as at the Pond Parcel and/or Bay Parcel at the former Cape Cod Sea Camps property. 9. Encourage leveraging of CPA funds with other public and private funding as well as donation, bargain sales, and the like. 10. Allocate funding for regional projects that demonstrate clear community benefit and contributions from other communities in the region. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 22 C HAPTER 3: C OMMUNITY H OUSING Habitat for Humanity House on Paul Hush Way N EEDS Housing supply in Brewster is significantly impacted bythe large number of part-time residents and vacation rentals. Although Brewster is bolstered by the seasonal economy, this factor and the investment in second home ownership have also made affordable housing and market-rate year-round rental housing difficult to find. The 2017 Housing Production Plan identified rental housing for low-income families, single people, and subsidized rental housing for the elderly as the priority housing needs of the community. The COVID-19 pandemic has also affected the town, with some residents converting seasonal homes to year-round residences, a rapid rise in housing prices, and overall uncertainty about future population trends and variations in the tourism industry. G OALS 6. Create community housing, including affordable housing, that will address documented local and regional housing needs including, but not limited to, affordable year-round senior housing options, year-round rental housing and housing assistance for low-income families and seniors, and housing for residents with special needs, such as Veterans. As is well documented through the 2017 Brewster Housing Production Plan and the 2017 Cape Cod Housing Market Analysis, Brewster’s greatest needs are for rental housing that is affordable for low-income families, senior housing options, and increased supply of housing in general. The CPA funds can fund the creation of affordable and community housing for households earning up to 100 percent AMI. Funds should be targeted to create affordable year-round rental housing options and senior housing options. In addition, creation of housing for individuals with special needs continues to be important within the region. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 23 In addition, the CPA funds are an important local resource to bring Brewster closer to reaching the state’s affordable housing goals of 10 percent year-round housing stock as tracked through the Subsided Housing Inventory (SHI). To be eligible for inclusion on the SHI, the units must be affordable to households at or below 80 percent AMI. As of August 2021, Brewster’s SHI lists 5.6 percent of year-round housing stock as affordable. This is still based on the 2010 U.S. Decennial Census count of year-round housing units and is likely to change when the 2020 Census figures are released. Per 2016 amendments to the CPA statute, CPA funds that are transferred to a housing trust must be used for statutory requirements for housing trusts. 7. Support eligible housing initiatives and ongoing work of the Brewster Affordable Housing Trust to address local housing needs. The purpose of Brewster Affordable Housing Trust (Trust), which was created through a Town Meeting vote in May 2018, is to provide for the preservation and creation of affordable housing in Brewster for the benefit of low/moderate-income households and for the funding of community housing. The Trust is overseen by a seven-member Board of Trustees, appointed by the Select Board. The Trust regularly requests CPA funds to support its initiatives. The CPC anticipates that the Trust will continue to request funding as needed, based on specific CPA-eligible projects and initiatives CPA funds, when transferred to a housing trust, must be used for CPA-eligible purposes only and must be tracked separately from other trust funds so that the use of funds can be reported annually to the MA Department of Revenue (per the CP-3 report). 8. Continue to support local capacity to implement housing initiatives, including through the Town’s housing coordinator position. The CPA funds are a critical funding source to continue supporting Brewster’s capacity to implement local housing initiative. The CPA should continue to support the Town’s local capacity in this way, including support for the Brewster Housing Office and the Town’s housing coordinator. The Housing Office addresses community housing needs in Brewster and is critical to coordinating the various local initiatives to support low/moderate income households, create affordable and community housing in the town, and as a central point of contact for information and education about housing needs, initiatives, resources, and assistance. 9. Support the preservation of the existing stock of affordable rental and ownership housing. Most of Brewster’s affordable housing units are restricted as affordable in perpetuity, however some units are not restricted in perpetuity. CPA funds can be especially critical to protecting affordable ownership units when needed upon sale through purchase and resale (it is not uncommon for the affordability of ownership units to be compromised upon resale or foreclosure, depending on the terms of the affordability restrictions). In addition, preservation of the Town’s existing affordable housing stock, especially the Housing Authority units, is also an important priority for CPA funds. 10. Continue to support the Brewster Buy Down Program to assist eligible first-time homebuyers. The Town of Brewster, through Community Preservation Funds, provides up to $30,000 of grant assistance for eligible buyers purchasing a home in Brewster. The program, contingent on existing funds, is available to households qualifying at 80% AMI (Area Median Income) who agree to place a permanent affordable housing deed restriction on the home. The grant assistance is provided as an interest free loan which is forgivable after 30 years. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 24 ELIGIBLE A CTIVITIES Chapter 44B of the Massachusetts General Laws (CPA Statute) defines “community housing” as “low- and moderate-income housing for individuals and families, including low- or moderate-income senior housing.” Low- income housing is affordable to households with annual incomes of less than 80% of the areawide median income (AMI) and moderate-income housing is affordable to households earning less than 100% AMI. Furthermore, the CPA Statute defines “senior housing” as housing for persons 60 years old or over, who also meet the qualifications for low or moderate income. The CPA Statute allows expenditures for the acquisition, creation, preservation, and support of community housing and for the rehabilitation of community housing that is acquired or created through CPA. Preservation, which is a permitted activity for community housing, is defined as the “protection of personal or real property from injury, harm or destruction, but not including maintenance.” Rehabilitation, which is only permitted for housing created using CPA funds, is defined as “the remodeling, reconstruction and making of extraordinary repairs, to...community housing for the purpose of making such...community housing functional for their intended use, including, but not limited to, improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other federal, state or local building or access codes.” The CPA Statute defines the term “support” as programs that provide grants, loans, rental assistance, security deposits, interest-rate write downs or other forms of assistance directly to individuals and families who are eligible for community housing . . .” The CPA Statute also allows CPA funds to be appropriated to a Municipal Affordable Housing Trust (MGL c.44 s.55C). Any CPA funds allocated to a Housing Trust must be used for CPA-eligible purposes, as clarified through the 2016 amendments. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 25 COMMUNITY HOUSING NEEDS & RESOURCES A PROFILE FOR THE BREWSTER COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PLAN POPULATION & HOUSEHOLDS • Brewster’s 2020 year-round population was 10,318, reversing a recent downward trend and returning to the level seen around the year 2000. • The town’s year-round population is forecast to decline at a gradual rate, with an estimated 7,888 people by 2035. • The town’s seasonal population increases dramatically, with approximately 30,000 visitors per year, increasing competition for housing between year-round residents, part-time residents, seasonal workers, and vacationers. • The population of Brewster is aging. In 2000, 26 percent of residents were over 65, increasing 32 percent by 2019. The median age increased from 47 years old in 2000 to an estimated 54 years old in 2019. • Of the 4,198 households, about 21 percent have children under 18 years old and 49 percent have one or more household members over 65 years old. • Racial make-up is predominantly White, with 94.7 percent of the population. 2.2 percent of residents are Hispanic, with the remaining 3.1 percent made up of Black or African-American, Asian, and mixed race residents. • Brewster’s median household income per 2019 estimates was $75,321 - an increase from the 2010 median household income of $68,439 (in 2019 dollars). • An estimated 38 percent of Brewster households have low incomes – incomes at or below 80 percent AMI. • The median sale price of a single-family house in 2020 was $519,500, increasing to an average of $612,850 in Jan-Jul 2021. • 85 percent of Brewster year-round households own their homes, 28 percent of which are housing–burdened (spending over 30 percent of their income on housing), while 50 percent of Brewster’s 635 year-round rental households are housing- burdened. • The median rent in Brewster is $1,097 per month, but this relatively low number is artificially depressed due to the high percentage of year-round rentals which are subsidized as well as disparities in rent throughout the year due to tourism. A SUMMARY OF KEY NEEDS Although Brewster is bolstered by the seasonal economy, this factor, along with the investment in second- home ownership, has also made affordable and market-rate year- round housing difficult to find. The 2017 Housing Production Plan identified rental housing for low- income families, single people, and subsidized rental housing for the elderly as the priority housing needs of the community. The COVID-19 pandemic has also affected the town, with some residents converting seasonal homes to year-round residences, a rapid rise in housing prices, and overall uncertainty on future population trends and variations in the tourism industry. HOUSHOLD INCOME & HOUSING COST Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 26 • Brewster has an estimated 4,198 year-round occupied housing units – 85 percent are owner occupied and 15 percent renter occupied. Census estimates suggest that Brewster lost 122 rental units since 2010, a decline of 16 percent. • There are an estimated 3,763 seasonal housing units in Brewster, comprising 47 percent of the town’s total housing units. • The Town’s housing stock remains primarily single-family at about 90 percent of total housing units, the balance being condominiums, duplexes, and multi-family units. • Brewster’s housing stock is significantly newer than in other communities, with 58 percent built after 1980, reflecting the rapid population and housing growth between 1970 and 2000. HOUSING AFFORDABILITY • 5.6 percent (268 units) of Brewster’s total housing stock is counted as affordable on the State’s Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI), which is below the State’s minimum affordability goal of 10 percent. • of the affordable ownership units were built through Comprehensive Permits under MGL C. 40B. • The largest rental development is King’s Landing on Underpass Road with 108 subsidized units at 80 percent AMI. It was purchased and renovated in 2013 by POAH, a national affordable housing development nonprofit, to ensure the affordable housing set to expire in 2017 would continue, with a current expiry date of 2033. • The Fredrick Court and Wells Court developments are state and federally funded, respectively, and together provide 46 subsidized units for seniors. • Habitat for Humanity developed 14 permanently affordable ownership units at Tubman Road, Hush Way, and Red Top Road. • The Brewster Housing Authority owns twelve duplexes with a total of 24 units of subsidized family rental housing on Huckleberry Lane. • 2006-2017 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) • 2019 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, 2010 Census, 2000 Census (U.S. Census Bureau) • 2017 Housing Production Plan (Town of Brewster) • Aug. 2021 Subsidized Housing Inventory (Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development) • Brewster, MA Town Stats (The Warren Group) • King’s Landing Apartments - Preservation of Affordable Housing (www.poah.org/property/massachusetts/kings- landing-apartments) • Senior Housing - Town of Brewster (brewster- ma.gov/senior-housing) • Huckleberry Land Project – Community Preservation Coalition (www.communitypreservation.org/community- housing-16-brewster-housing-authority-huckleberry- land-project) HOUSING SUPPLY SOURCES ABBREVIATIONS • ACS – American Community Survey • AMI – Area Median Income • CHAS – Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy • HPP – Housing Production Plan • TWG – The Warren Group Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 27 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 28 C HAPTER 4 : O PEN S PACE Windrift Acres N EEDS Brewster has protected nearly 30% of its total land area, much of which contains environmentally important landscapes and wildlife. Brewster’s water resources must continue to be protected, especially as climate change continues to have an impact on coastal communities like Brewster. It is key for the Town to maintain protections for coastal regions and those areas prone to flooding, as well as invest further into open space and passive recreation spaces with a limited environmental impact. G OALS 1 Continue to protect drinking water quality through strategic land conservation of private properties in Zone II Drinking Water Protection Areas including through fee simple acquisition and conservation restrictions in partnership with local/regional land trusts, other private organizations, and other public entities. Maintaining Brewster’s high quality of drinking water continues to be critically important locally as well as regionally. The 2021 Cape Cod Regional Policy Plan’s goal for water resources is, in part, to maintain a sustainable supply of high-quality untreated drinking water. Per the Brewster 2020 Draft Open Space and Recreation Plan, the top goal is still to protect the Town’s drinking water supply with three objectives: 1) Acquire open space for the purpose of protecting existing and future wellhead sites; 2) Protect existing public supply wells from land-based sources of contamination; and 3) Coordinate wastewater management planning efforts with protecting drinking water resources. The CPA funds will continue to be instrumental for water resource protection, particularly to acquire open space land and conservation restrictions in Zone II Drinking Water Protection Areas. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 29 2 Support the strategic land conservation to protect the water quality of freshwater ponds including through fee simple acquisition and conservation restrictions in partnership with local/regional land trusts, other private organizations, and other public entities. Brewster contains 80 freshwater ponds, encompassing over 10% of the town’s total surface area. A vast majority of Brewster's ponds suffer some level of impairment including lack of clarity (high chlorophyll,) nutrient loading (high phosphorus) and low dissolved oxygen, which limits survival in the aquatic habitat. These ponds are important natural features and habitats and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. To support a goal of the 2020 Draft Open Space and Recreation Plan, land conservation to protect Brewster’s ponds is important to maintain their important ecological functions and values to the community. CPA funds will be a critical source of funding for these initiatives. 3 Support open space conservation efforts to facilitate coastal management and community resilience including to support managed retreat to address coastal erosion. As a coastal community, Brewster is facing substantial impacts from climate change including sea level rise, flooding, and erosion. The Town is experiencing erosion rates of up to 2 feet/year (and 15 feet with storm surge) and there is little or no buffer between infrastructure, including parking areas and stormwater infrastructure, and the beach. As the region expects more severe storms with increasing frequency, these impacts will become more extreme. The environmental damage and property damage will continue to present high and increasing costs. The Town has diligently assessed vulnerability and risk and created a Coastal Adaptation Plan. CPA funds can support open space conservation efforts that enhance Brewster’s resilience including managed retreat as well as other eligible initiatives, as identified by the Brewster Department of Natural Resources.8 4 Fund the preservation of natural resources, especially to ensure the health and expansion of salt marshes such as the removal of invasive species, protecting floodplains and uplands adjacent to salt marshes, and restoring natural tidal flow. Brewster contains diverse natural habitats which support plants and wildlife including invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals, several species being listed as rare and/or endangered. Brewster has two areas designated as Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC): Pleasant Bay and Inner Cape Cod Bay. Additionally, BioMap2 identifies over 5,500 acres of Core Habitat and close to 9,000 acres of Critical Natural Landscape. These important habitats include salt marshes, which are coastal wetlands that form transition zones between land and sea. Salt marshes act as natural purifiers by filtering pollutants and sediment and by absorbing excess nutrients from streams, rivers, and surface runoff. Salt marshes are valuable for climate change mitigation because they sequester atmospheric carbon and convert it to salt marsh vegetation (referred to as “blue carbon”).9 Invasive species are introduced organisms (plant, animal, invertebrate) that are not native to a specific area and cause harm to that environment. Typically, a species that arrived after European settlement is thought to be non-native. Invasive species have substantial negative impacts to their introduced environment. This is because the species did not evolve with the local ecosystem and may not have any natural predators or contribute to native wildlife in any way.10 8 Source: Using Managed Retreat to Address Coastal Erosion in Brewster, a presentation by Chris Miller, Director of the Brewster Department of Natural Resources: http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/wp-content/uploads/D2_07_Miller-Coastal-Retreat-in-Brewster.pdf 9 Source: Association to Preserve Cape Cod/Salt Marsh Restoration: https://apcc.org/our-work/science/salt-marsh-restoration/ 10 Source: Brewster Conservation Trust/Invasive Species, Native Pollinators, and the BCT: https://brewsterconservationtrust.org/invasive-species-native- pollinators-and-the-bct/ Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 30 When tidal flow to salt marshes is restricted, these once-saline environments change to a brackish or freshwater condition in which native salt marsh vegetation suffers. Typically, these brackish marshes become colonized by the invasive common reed (Phragmites australis) which forms dense stands 12 feet or higher. As invasive species take over, a major shift in wildlife occurs, and formerly diverse communities of salt marsh inhabitants are replaced by fewer species.11 CPA funds will be an important source for protecting salt marshes including the removal of invasive species and protecting floodplains and uplands adjacent to salt marshes and restoring natural tidal flow. ELIGIBLE A CTIVITIES The CPA defines the term “open space” as including, but not limited to, land deemed necessary to protect existing and future well fields, aquifers and recharge areas, watershed land, agricultural land, lake and pond frontage, beaches, and scenic vistas. The CPA statute allows the use of CPA funds for the acquisition, creation, and preservation of open space. Additionally, the CPA statute allows for the rehabilitation/restoration of open space that was acquired or created with CPA funds. Per MGL c.44B s.5(f), CPA funds may not be used to acquire real property, or property interest, for a price exceeding the value of the property (as determined by methods customarily accepted by the appraisal profession). In accordance with the CPA statute (MGL c.44B s.12(a) and (b)), an acquisition of real property is required to be owned by the municipality and to be bound by a permanent restriction. Any open space acquisitions by the Town using CPA funds will require execution of a permanent restriction that runs to the benefit of a nonprofit organization, charitable corporation, or foundation and that is in accordance with the requirements of MGL c.184. In addition, CPA funds may be appropriated to pay a nonprofit organization to hold, monitor, and enforce the deed restriction on the property (sometimes called a “stewardship fee”). 11 Source: Association to Preserve Cape Cod/Salt Marsh Restoration Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 31 PERMANENTLY PROTECTED OPEN SPACE • MGL c. 61, 61A, and 61B allow an agricultural, forest, or recreational property to be temporarily protected in exchange for a tax reduction. The town additionally is granted the right to purchase the property if the classification is removed. • There are thirteen private parcels listed in the Chapter 61, 61A, or 61B programs, totaling about 165 acres. • Scenic Resources in Brewster tend to take the form of heritage landscapes, which include cemeteries, parks, estates, and scenic roads. • Examples include Dillingham cemetery, Stony Brook Grist Mill, and Crosby Mansion (today a part of Nickerson State Park). the Punkhorn Parklands, Sheep Pond Woodlands, Mother’s Bog, and Baker’s Pond, to name a few. OPEN SPACE NEEDS & RESOURCES A PROFILE FOR THE BREWSTER COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PLAN • Brewster contains over 2,200 acres of protected land, or 28.9% of its total land area. • The Brewster Conversation Commission manages 822 acres of conservation land, while the Town of Brewster additionally manages about 1,000 acres of other municipally owned conservation lands. • Nonprofit land trusts and organizations such as the Orenda Wildlife Land Trust, the Brewster Conservation Trust, and the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History manage smaller acreages. • The Commonwealth’s first state park, Roland C. Nickerson State Park, spans 1,960 acres and is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. The state also owns three parcels: Thad Ellis Road, off Gull’s Way on Sheep’s Pond, and off Satucket Road. • The Brewster Water Department owns an additional approximate eight acres of land. SUMMARY OF KEY NEEDS Brewster has protected nearly 30% of its total land area, much of which contains environmentally important landscapes and wildlife. Brewster’s water resources – including vernal pools, freshwater ponds, and coastal areas – must continue to be protected, especially as climate change continues to have an impact on coastal communities like Brewster. It is key for the Town to maintain protections for coastal regions and those areas prone to flooding, as well as invest further into open space and passive recreation spaces with a limited environmental impact. SCENIC RESOURCES CHAPTER 61 - TEMPORARY PROTECTION Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 32 WATER RESOURCES • Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan, 2014 (OSRP 2014) • Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan Draft, 2020 (OSRP 2020) • Brewster’s 2018 Vision Plan • Brewster BioMap2, 2012 (BioMap2) • Brewster Ponds Coalition: https://www.brewsterponds.org/b eneath-the-surface.html SOURCES • Brewster is located within the Cape Cod Watershed, the Pleasant Bay Watershed, and contains six additional embayment watersheds located within the town, including Cape Cod Bay, Herring River, Namskaket Creek, Pleasant Bay, Quivett Creek, Stony Brook, and a portion of the Bass River Watershed. • Importantly, Brewster contains 80 freshwater ponds, encompassing over 10% of the town’s total surface area. • A vast majority of Brewster's ponds suffer some level of impairment including lack of clarity (high chlorophyll,) nutrient loading (high phosphorus) and low dissolved oxygen, which limits survival in the aquatic habitat. (Brewster Ponds Coalition) • Furthermore, 20% of Brewster’s total land area is comprised of wetlands, which include saltwater wetlands (salt marshes and tidal flats) as well as freshwater wetlands (swamps, bogs, and vernal pools). • Brewster’s drinking water comes from the Cape Cod Aquifer through public wells and originates in the Monomoy Lens. The aquifer itself is at risk of contamination due to the absence of hydrogeologic barriers which can prevent contaminants from entering the water. • Brewster has enacted wellhead protections, as well as a Groundwater Protection District designation. However, note that Zone I and II only protect the aquifer within the areas that recharge wells. AREAS OF CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (ACECS) • Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) are spaces that receive recognition for the quality and significance of their natural and cultural resources. ACEC designation can allow for the creation of a framework of management and preservation of critical resources and ecosystems by local and regional entities. • ACECs in Brewster include Pleasant Bay ACEC and the Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC. • The Pleasant Bay ACEC, about 1% of which is located within Brewster, contains salt marshes, tidal flats, ponds, bays, and barrier beaches, all of which provide flood control and storm damage prevention and mitigation. • The Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC stretches across Eastham, Orleans, and Brewster, with only 15% of the area being within Brewster (East Brewster). It contains wildlife habitats, shellfish beds, and tidal rivers. FISHERIES & WILDLIFE • Brewster contains diverse natural habitats which support plants and wildlife including invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals, several species being listed as rare and/or endangered. • The Brewster BioMap2 outlines two primary habitat types in Brewster: the wetlands core and the aquatic core. Both areas contain numerous Species of Conservation Concern, meaning that both the natural life and area itself are monitored. Other habitat types include vernal pool core. • Additionally, parts of Brewster’s coastal areas are designated as Priority and Exemplary Natural Communities, indicating areas which have limited distribution of natural plant and animal communities. (BioMap2) • The town also contains approximately 38 vernal pools, which are seasonal bodies of water integral to the life cycle of a variety of species, including amphibians, crustaceans, and turtles. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 33 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 34 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 35 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 36 C HAPTER 5 : H ISTORIC P RESERVATION N EEDS Brewster has a diverse set of historical resources, from mansions and town buildings to cemeteries and churches. These resources are well inventoried, and some are protected in as part of the Old King’s Highway Local Historic District. Others have limited protection and incentives for rehabilitation through listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Key public resources need preservation as well as opportunities to protect historic resources at the Cape Cod Sea Camp’s Bay Parcel and other publicly accessible properties. Furthermore, the town contains some Native American archaeological sites which require further investigation and research. G OALS 4. Preserve, rehabilitate, and restore historic resources that provide a high level of community access and benefit, such as the historic structures owned by the Brewster Historical Society and historic buildings on town owned parcels like Cape Cod Sea Camps and Spruce Hill. CPA funds are an important source of funding for historic preservation initiatives, for both public and private resources, however given limited funding, the CPC prioritizes the allocation of CPA funds to projects that will provide a high level of public access and benefit. Examples include historic public building as well as other historic properties that are open to the public or provide other tangible and direct public benefits. CPA funds can provide support for the preservation (protecting resources from harm), rehabilitation (making resources functional for their intended use, including improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other building or access codes), and restoration (depicting the form, features, and character of a property as it appeared at a particular period). 5. Support the preservation of Native American sites and artifacts through archaeological investigation. The area was initially settled by the Sauguatuckett, Nauset, and Nobscussett tribes, who lived around the north shore of the town and developed fields at Stony Brook. Native American archaeological sites have been identified along water bodies in Brewster, as well as evidence of a pre-colonial well. However, further investigation and archaeological work is necessary to determine if more resources exist. 6. Continue preservation efforts to protect historic town records. Brewster’s historic town records and other historic documents are under the care of multiple entities. The Town Clerk is responsible for historic town records that are stored at Town Hall; the Brewster Historical Image Placeholder. Need a higher resolution photo of Cape Rep Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 37 Society stores records at the Cobb House Museum, and the Brewster Ladies Library has a collection of oral histories. The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History also has a collection of local archaeological artifacts. Preservation of historic town records is a common preservation project in many CPA communities. Town records are not included on the State Register of Historic Places and, therefore, need to be determined by the Brewster historic preservation commission to be significant in the history, archeology, architecture, or culture of a city or town. ELIGIBLE A CTIVITIES The CPA Act, as amended July 2012, defines a historic resource as “a building, structure, vessel, real property, document, or artifact that is listed on the State Register of Historic Places or has been determined by the local historic preservation commission to be significant in the history, archeology, architecture, or culture of a city or town.” CPA funds can be used for the “acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of historic resources.” In addition, CPA funds may be appropriated to pay a nonprofit organization to hold, monitor, and/or enforce a deed restriction as described in Section 12 of the CPA Act (amended Summer 2012). Furthermore, within the definition of “rehabilitation,” CPA is allowed to fund improvements to make historic resources functional for their intended use, including improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other building or access codes. All rehabilitation work, with respect to historic resources, is required to comply with the Standards for Rehabilitation stated in the US Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties (codified in 36 C.F.R. Part 68). Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 38 NATIVE AMERICAN RESOURCES PRIORITY LANDSCAPES LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICTS NATIONAL REGISTER RESOURCES • National Register districts are established by the Secretary of the Interior, and provide recognition of the importance of a place, while allowing limited protection from federal or state funded projects. • There are two National Register districts in Brewster: The Old King’s Highway and the Stony Brook/Factory Village districts (MACRIS) • Within these two districts, there are 266 properties listed as National Resources (MACRIS) • Additionally, five resources are individually listed on the National Register: three are related to the Nickerson Mansion; others include Dillingham House and the Old Higgins Farm Windmill (MACRIS) • Local historic districts (LHD) are created through local bylaws and are regulatory. An LHD regulates changes made to exterior architectural features of structures located along the district (Landscape Inv) • Brewster contains one Local Historic District, the Old King’s Highway Historic District, which was adopted in 1973 (Landscape Inv) • The Old King’s Highway Historic District contains eighteen resources, ranging from agricultural sites and burial grounds to civic centers and open space areas (Landscape Inv) A SUMMARY OF KEY NEEDS Brewster has a diverse set of historical resources, from mansions and town buildings to cemeteries and churches. These resources are well inventoried, and some are protected in as part of the Old King’s Highway Local Historic District. Others have limited protection and incentives for rehabilitation through listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Key public resources are in need of preservation as well as opportunities to protect historic resources at the Cape Cod Sea Camp’s Bay Parcel and other publicly-accessible properties. Furthermore, the town contains some Native American archaeological sites which require further investigation and research. • The Massachusetts Heritage Landscape Inventory identified nine priority heritage landscapes, including, but not limited to: Cape Cod Sea Camps, Old King’s Highway, and Stonybrook Valley. • A priority heritage landscape is a place that is defined by human interaction and is integral to the community both past and present. Each of these landscapes tell a story of Brewster’s past: the Cape Cod Sea Camps, established in the early 20th century, is both a natural and historical resource for the generations of children who attended summer camp here. HISTORIC PRESERVATION NEEDS & RESOURCES A PROFILE FOR THE BREWSTER COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PLAN • The area was initially settled by the Sauguatuckett, Nauset, and Nobscussett tribes, who lived around the north shore of the town and developed fields at Stony Brook. • During the Contact Period (1500-1620), Native Americans sold agricultural products to settlers. • Native American archaeological sites have been identified along water bodies in Brewster, as well as evidence of a pre- colonial well. However, further investigation and archaeological work is necessary to determine if more resources exist. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 39 17TH CENTURY 19TH CENTURY 18TH CENTURY • By the 18th century, Brewster’s economy began to expand from primarily agriculture to include mills and whaling. Later in the century, the salt manufacturing trade began to develop. • Many town institutions such as the first churches and meetinghouse were developed during this period. • 18th century resources on MACRIS include the Old Higgins Farm Windmill (1750) and Captain Elijah Cobb House (1799). The latter property remains standing and is currently home to the Brewster Historical Society Museum. ARTIFACTS AND DOCUMENTS • Some of Brewster’s historical documents and records are preserved by the Brewster Historical Society, which stores these resources at the Cobb House Museum. These include the Donald Doane collection of over400 turn-of-the-century photographic glass plate negatives. • The Town Clerk is responsible for historic town records stored at Town Hall, including handwritten material from the town clerk and tax assessors dating back to 1803. • Additionally, the Historical Commission maintains an inventory of important historical resources, which are listed on the town website. • The Brewster Ladies Library houses a collection of oral histories from long time Brewster residents as part of its historic resources. • The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History has a collection of local artifacts, including Native American. • Native American Sauguatucketts occupied the land around the north shore with planting fields concentrated at Stony Brook. • The first European settlement was established in1650 in Sauguatuckett territory. Early settlers called themselves the “Setucket Proprietors” and met to lay out roads and settle property disputes. • By the end of the 17th century, the area’s major roadways had been established, connecting the settlement to nearby towns. • The first Gristmill was built at Stony Brook in 1662. • MACRIS lists three resources from this time, which include the Dillingham House (c. 1659) and Eldridge House (c. 1690). • In 1694, a township named Harwich was established. The North Parish of Harwich included the Stony Brook Valley and shoreline along Cape Cod Bay. • One such resource, the Linger Longer By The Sea Cottage, is still standing and operates as a vacation rental. • The North Parish of Harwich was officially incorporated as the Town of Brewster in 1803. Many of the town’s residents made their living from the sea as shipmasters or crew members. The town’s saltworks provided significant economic value until the decline of the local salt industry in the mid- 1800s. • MACRIS lists 203 resources from this time, including two grist mills, four churches, and over 150 houses. • Structures from the first half of the century had diverse uses, such as Harwich First Parish Church Archway and Water Pump, while the latter half of the century saw the construction of homes as well as the Old Town Hall and the Ladies’ Library. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 40 SOURCES 20TH CENTURY • Massachusetts Cultural Resource Information System, mhc-macris.net (MACRIS) • MHC Reconnaissance Survey Town Report: Brewster, 1984 (Reconnaissance Survey) • Heritage Landscape Inventory Report : Brewster, MA, 2007 (Landscape Inv) • Brewster Historical Society (BHS) • Brewster Historical Commission (BHC) • Massachusetts Historical Commission There’s A Difference Report, https://www.sec.state.ma.us/mhc/mhcpdf/difference.pdf (TAD Report) • Cape Cod Museum of Natural History - contact Kate Roderick kroderick@ccmnh.org • Brewster Archaeological Resources Map • The early 20th century saw a sharp decline in Brewster’s population. By World War I, the town saw an increase in the construction of summer homes and private estates. This trend continued through the rest of the century, with an increase in seasonal homes coinciding with a decrease in year-round population. • MACRIS lists 231 resources from this century, notably Nickerson Mansion and Park (1908). The earliest structures include churches and cottages dating to 1900, which are still standing. • Much of Brewster’s historical resources from this century were constructed between 1930 and 1970, some of which – like the Crosby House and Nickerson Mansion – have already been preserved and turned into a museum and state park, respectively. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 41 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 42 C HAPTER 6 : O UTDOOR R ECREATION Stony Brook Field N EEDS Many of Brewster’s 30,000 seasonal visitors are drawn to the recreation activities in the area, including fishing, boating, swimming, biking and golfing. The town serves residents with a wide variety of sports fields and venues as well as classes, activities, and local recreational clubs and camps. Since most of the land in Brewster is privately owned, preservation of private recreational parcels is important, such as privately owned campgrounds, riding paths, golf courses, and youth camps. The Brewster Vision Plan highlights the need for more walking trails and bike paths and residents consider the development of new seasonal and year-round active recreation activities for all ages to be very important, with an emphasis on accessible recreation options. G OALS 6. Rehabilitate existing playgrounds, parks, and other outdoor public recreation facilities to improve quality and accessibility. As amended in 2012, the CPA statute allows CPA funds to be used for rehabilitation of existing outdoor recreational resources including playgrounds, parks, golf courses, and other facilities. For recreation projects, rehabilitation also includes replacement of playground equipment and other capital improvements to make the land more functional for the intended recreation use. This includes improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other codes. One of the key goals stated in the Town’s 2020 Draft Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) is to provide a variety of recreation and open space opportunities to promote healthy and active lifestyle for Brewster residents, ensuring equitable access for all users and abilities. CPA funding can help promote this important goal for existing outdoor recreation facilities. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 43 7. Create all-ages outdoor recreation facilities including those geared toward older adults, such as pickleball courts, and accessible facilities for individuals with special needs. As stated above, a key goal of the Town’s 2020 Draft OSRP is to promote healthy and active lifestyles and equitable access for all users and abilities. As the local and regional population ages, it is important to provide outdoor recreation facilities for all ages. CPA funds can create new outdoor recreation facilities as well as rehabilitate existing facilities to promote accessibility and options geared toward older adults. 8. Expand and improve bike trails and bike trail connections, including the key recreation destinations. The 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT) passes through Brewster for approximately six miles on its way from Dennis to Wellfleet. It is the only designated bike path in the town and is heavily used. Biking is popular and could provide additional recreational benefits with connections to key destinations. The CPC would consider recommending CPA funds to creating additional bike paths to promote outdoor recreation. 9. Rehabilitate hiking trails and create improved trail connections, including improved boardwalks, such as the boardwalk to Wing Island at the Cape Cod Museum Trail.12 Many of the Town’s Conservation Areas as well as other open space properties have hiking/nature trails, which provide passive recreation opportunities for residents and visitors. CPA funds can be an important source of funding, paired with other state funds such as the MassTrails Grant Program, to create and improve trail connections. Some specific project possibilities could include the boardwalk to Wing Island from Drummer Boy Park, which has been raised at the last two public hearings. 10. Fund preservation of key private recreation sites to ensure public access and enjoyment. There are several private non-profit camps and sporting clubs in Brewster that provide important recreational facilities for kids and adults. Funding for outdoor recreation facilities that are privately-owned could be eligible for funding with the provision of a clear a direct public benefit, such as public access. 12 Note that the MassTrails Grant Program awarded the Town of Brewster $50,000 in 2021 to fund design, public outreach, and permitting for the Wing Island boardwalk project. The boardwalk would provide accessibility to the 27-acre Wing’s Island, interconnect existing public trail segments, and provide a fully ADA compliant pathway to complement recent work at neighboring Drummer Boy Park. The project will receive $46,013.64 in matching funds from the Town of Brewster. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 44 EL IGIBLE A CTIVITIES The CPA defines recreational use as including, but not limited to, the use of land for community gardens, and noncommercial youth and adult sports, and the use of land as a park, playground, or athletic field. The definition goes on to prohibit “. . . horse or dog racing or the use of land for a stadium, gymnasium, or similar structure.” Per the July 2012 amendments, the CPA statute allows use of CPA funds for the acquisition, creation, preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of land for recreational use. Note that the 2012 amendments allow “rehabilitation” where previously it only allowed for recreational land created through the CPA. This amendment would allow existing parks and playgrounds to be rehabilitated with upgraded and new facilities and amenities. Maintenance costs are not eligible for CPA funds. In addition, acquisition of artificial turf for athletic fields is expressly prohibited in Section 5(b)(2). Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 45 RECREATION NEEDS & RESOURCES A PROFILE FOR THE BREWSTER COMMUNITY PRESERVATION PLAN PONDS & BEACHES • Brewster contains about 80 ponds, making up over 10 percent of the town’s surface area. The ponds are used for recreational fishing (14 ponds are regularly stocked with fish), boating, sunbathing, swimming, ice fishing and ice skating. MA fishing licenses are required on all ponds. Most ponds lack official public landings, but five ponds have formal public beaches and landings: o Long Pond – Boat ramp and beach (with lifeguard from July 4 – Labor Day) o Slough Pond – Car-top boat launch and beach o Upper Mill Pond – Accessible viewing platform and boat ramp o Sheep Pond – Accessible viewing platform, boat ramp and beach o Schoolhouse Pond – Accessible fishing dock and car-top boat launch, winter ice skating o Walkers Pond – Town public boat ramp • Brewster has ten saltwater beaches along Cape Cod Bay, each of which is accessible from a street connecting to Route 6A. The beaches are popular for swimming, sunbathing, beach strolling, fishing, and boating access. The beaches from west to east are: o Wings Island Beach o Paine’s Creek Beach o Mant’s Landing Beach o Saint’s Landing Beach o Breakwater Landing o Breakwater Beach o Point of Rocks Landing Beach o Ellis Landing Beach o Spruce Hill Beach o Linnell Landing Beach o Crosby Landing Beach SUMMARY OF KEY NEEDS • Many of Brewster’s 30,000 seasonal visitors are drawn to the recreation activities in the area, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The town also serves residents with a wide variety of sports fields and venues as well as classes, activities, and local sporting and recreational clubs and camps. • Since most of the land in Brewster is privately owned, preservation of private parcels with recreational space is very important, such as Brewster’s privately owned campgrounds, riding paths, golf courses, and youth camps. • The Brewster Vision Plan highlights the need for more walking trails, bike paths, sidewalks, and a dog park. In a recent survey, only half of respondents said they lived within ¼ mile of a recreation or open space resource. • In the same survey, 40 percent of respondents considered the development of new seasonal and year- round active recreation activities for all ages to be very important, with an emphasis on accessible recreation options. • Note that this profile provides a sample of recreation activities and spaces in Brewster. Conservation areas provide space for residents to enjoy the outdoors, meaning that there is considerable overlap between open space and recreation resources. NATURE TRAILS, PONDS, AND OPEN SPACE • The 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT) passes through Brewster for approximately six miles on its way from Dennis to Wellfleet. It is the only designated bike path in the town, and is heavily used by cyclists, roller skaters, roller bladers, skate boarders, cross country skiiers, walkers, and occasionally equestrians. • The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History additionally contains a trail access point to Wing’s Island, where visitors can enter near the museum, cross a salt marsh, access Wing’s Island, and end at a barrier beach. Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 46 RECREATION DEPARTMENT • Nickerson State Park, owned and managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, is in the eastern sector of Brewster and covers over 1,960 acres. Popular recreational activities in the park include camping, hiking, cycling, freshwater and saltwater swimming, fishing, and boating. Camping is particularly popular in the park, with over 400 camp sites available. The Park also contains the Stephen L. French Youth Forestry Camp, which hosts the Homeward Bound Wilderness Program for court-acquainted adolescents. • Drummer Boy Park is a 17-acre park with lawns used for active recreation as well as a recently updated children’s playground. The Park also contains historical properties. The town is undertaking a master planning process for the park, including access to Wing Island. • Public baseball, soccer, and softball fields are available at Eddy and Stony Brook Elementary Schools, behind the Senior Center, in front of the Town Hall, and off Freeman’s way. • The 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT) passes through Brewster for approximately six miles on its way from Dennis to Wellfleet. It is the only designated bike path in the town, and is heavily used by cyclists, roller skaters, roller bladers, skate boarders, cross country skiiers, walkers, and occasionally equestrians. • The Brewster Recreation Department employs 2 full- time staff members and 30-40 seasonal employees and offers a variety of recreation programs and activities for all ages. • Activities offered include senior fitness, tennis, basketball, softball, lacrosse, track & field, ultimate frisbee, family fishing, tee ball, pickleball, basketball, summer rec programs, yoga classes on the beach, archery, kayak rentals, sailing, mad science classes, dance instruction, flag football, and field hockey. • The Department also facilitates community events including the ice rink, Brewster in Bloom 5k run, summer kick-off party, movie night by the Bay, parents’ night out, hotshot basketball shootout, and senior games. • The Department owns two facilities in the town, the Community Tennis Courts at Underpass Road and 26 acres of athletic fields at Recreation Drive and operates the Finch Skate Park Orleans in partnership with the towns of Orleans and Eastham. • In addition to its own facilities, Recreation Department events and activities are held at numerous other beach and pond properties, public fields, and at several schools including Stony Brook Elementary School, Nauset Regional High School and Middle School, and Eddy Elementary School. RECREATION ON CONSERVATION LAND The Senior Center serves as a recreational resource for seniors, with social events and activities including computer classes, gardening sessions, and a recently installed Bocce court. SENIOR CENTER • Town of Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan (August 2021 Draft Version) • Brewster Recreation Department (https://www.brewsterrecreation.com) • Massachusetts Paddler (https://www.massachusettspaddler.com) SOURCES There are several private non-profit camps and sporting clubs in Brewster that provide important recreational facilities for kids and adults including: • Camp Mitton - Crossroads • Camp Favorite - Girl Scouts • Cape Cod Museum of Natural History • Brewster Sportsman's Club • Dream Day Cape Cod • Brewster Community Garden – operated by the Brewster Conservation Trust • Sweetwater Forest Campground • Shady Knoll Campground • Emerald Hollow Farm • Cape Cod Sea Camps – Closed in November 2020. Town completed purchase of both Bay and Pond parcels in 2021. PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 47 Brewster Community Preservation Plan FY23-FY27 48 A PPENDICES To be completed – including summaries of the focus groups and community forum. Can also include the CPA Application if desired. Let’s discuss. FY23-27 based on Existing Formula Existing formula 50%10%10% Open Space Housing Historical Recreation Budgeted Reserve*Admin Total End FY22 est.1,499,295$ 41,612$ 496,593$ 600,279$ 2,637,779$ Est FY 23-FY 27 Revenue 3,576,745$ 715,345$ 715,350$ 1,788,371$ 357,674$ 7,153,485$ Total 5,076,040$ 756,957$ 1,211,943$ 2,388,650$ 357,674$ 9,791,264$ Bond FY 23-27 (819,837)$ Net total available for projects 4,256,203$ 756,957$ 1,211,943$ -$ 2,388,650$ 357,674$ 8,971,427$ Estimated Projects FY23-27 2,000,000$ 1,427,500$ 1,951,208$ 1,430,000$ 6,808,708$ Funded from category reserve (2,000,000)$ (756,957)$ (1,211,943)$ 2,162,719$ Look to fund from Budgeted Reserve 670,543$ 739,265$ 1,430,000$ (2,839,808)$ Est. net total end of FY27 2,256,203$ -$ -$ -$ (451,158)$ * Reserved for Housing, Historic, Recreation Assumptions: Level annual revenue of $1,430,697 FY23-27 based on CPA Plan Open Space Housing Historical Recreation Budgeted reserveAdmin End FY22 est.2,637,779$ 1,499,295$ 41,612$ 496,593$ -$ 600,279$ Current Bylaw Allocation of revenue 50%10%10%0%25%5% Est FY 23 Revenue 1,430,697$ 715,349$ 143,070$ 143,070$ 357,674$ 71,535$ Bond expense FY23 (196,658)$ Bond FY24-FY27 (623,179)$ Adjusted Carryover/Revenue FY23 3,248,639$ 1,394,807$ 184,682$ 639,663$ -$ 957,953$ 71,535$ Revenue FY24-FY27 5,722,784$ Admin FY24-FY27 5%(286,139)$ Est. net FY24-27 Revenue 5,436,645$ CPA Plan Target %30%30%10%10%20% Target $ FY24-27 1,630,993$ 1,630,993$ 543,664$ 543,664$ 1,087,329$ Estimated total for new projects FY23-27 8,685,284$ 3,025,800$ 1,815,675$ 1,183,327$ 543,664$ 2,045,282$ Estimated Projects 2,000,000$ 1,427,500$ 1,951,208$ 1,430,000$ Funded from Category Reserve (2,000,000)$ (1,427,500)$ (1,183,327)$ (543,664)$ Look to fund from Budgeted Reserve -$ -$ 767,881$ 886,336$ (1,654,217)$ Est. net total end of FY27 1,025,800$ 388,175$ -$ -$ 391,065$ Note: I will be referencing this information in my comments to FinCom on 3/16. 30% including 5% Admin Town of Brewster SPECIAL & ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT for May 14, 2022 at 10:00 AM STONY BROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 384 UNDERPASS ROAD Please bring this copy of the warrant to Town Meeting Large print copies of the warrant are available at the Brewster Town Offices TOWN OF BREWSTER SPECIAL & ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT May 14, 2022 TABLE OF CONTENTS A INDEX 2 B INFORMATION & MODERATOR’S STATEMENT FOR VOTERS 4 C CONSENT CALENDAR – ROUTINE ARTICLES FOR APPROVAL D FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT E TAX RATE INFORMATION F CAPITAL PROJECTS REPORT G HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES REPORT H 2022 SPECIAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES ARTICLE DESCRIPTION SPONSOR PAGE 1 Outstanding Obligations Select Board 2 Budgetary Transfers Select Board 3 Golf Department Enterprise Fund Select Board 4 Other Business Select Board H 2022 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES 1 Cape Cod Regional Technical High School Operating Budget Cape Cod Technical School Committee 2 Elementary Schools Operating Budget Brewster Elementary School Committee 3 Brewster Elementary Schools Special Education Stabilization Fund Brewster Elementary School Committee 4 Nauset Regional Schools Operating Budget Nauset Regional School Committee 5 Town Operating Budget Select Board 6 Water Enterprise Fund Operating Budget Select Board 7 Golf Capital Stabilization Fund Select Board 8 Golf Enterprise Fund Operating Budget Select Board 9 Community Preservation Act Funding Community Preservation Committee 10 Capital and Special Projects Expenditures Select Board 11 Water Quality Capital Stabilization Select Board 12 Bond Premium Appropriation Select Board 13 Special Revenue Fund: Cable Franchise Fee Select Board 14 Town Code Amendment to Community Preservation Committee Bylaw (§ 17) Select Board 15 Transfer of Tax Title Property – 212 Yankee Drive Select Board 16 Lease of Town Property - Antenna Select Board 17 Utility Easement - 361 Slough Road Select Board 18 Citizens Petition - Punkhorn Hunting Ban Citizens Group 19 Citizens Petition - Punkhorn Hunting Restrictions Citizens Group 20 Other Business Select Board J TOWN MODERATOR’S RULES K GLOSSARY OF FINANCIAL TERMS TOWN OF BREWSTER SPECIAL TOWN MEETING MAY 14, 2022 Barnstable, ss To: Roland W. Bassett, Jr. Constable of the Town of Brewster Greetings: In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby directed to notify and inform the Town of Brewster inhabitants qualified to vote in Town affairs to meet at the Stony Brook Elementary School ballfield, 384 Underpass Road, on Saturday, May 14, 2022, next, at 10:00 a.m. o’clock in the morning, then and there to act upon the following articles: OUTSTANDING OBLIGATIONS ARTICLE NO. 1: To see what sums the Town will vote to appropriate from available funds for the payment of unpaid obligations from previous fiscal years, including any bills now on overdraft: Vendor Amount a. Custom Drug Testing $165.00 b. Titleist/Acushnet $1,683.28 c. Jet Professional Group $687.50 d. Addy $1,802.00 Total $4,337.78 Or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Nine-tenths Vote Required) COMMENT This article will authorize the payment of outstanding bills from a previous fiscal year. According to Massachusetts General Laws, a Town cannot pay a bill from a previous fiscal year with the current year’s appropriation. Therefore, Town Meeting authorization is required. a. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 b. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 c. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 d. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 BUDGETARY TRANSFERS ARTICLE NO. 2: To see what sums the Town will vote to transfer into various line items of the Fiscal Year 2022 General Fund operating budget from other line items of said budget and from other available funds: FROM TO AMOUNT a Town Health Insurance Short-term Debt $300,000 b School Health Insurance Short-term Debt $100,000 c Ambulance Receipts Fire Department Overtime $150,000 Or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT This article would authorize the transfer of surplus funds from certain departments’ budgets and/or accounts and Free Cash for Fiscal Year 2022 to other accounts which are experiencing unanticipated shortfalls and/or require additional funding for new programs and/or initiatives. The following is a brief review of these requests: a. This sum is required to help pay down a total of $400,000 in short-term debt previously approved by Town Meeting, thereby creating capacity in the FY23 Town operating budget to make a $300,000 payment to cover some of the remaining expenses associated with the purchase of the Sea Camps property on Long Pond. Taking this approach, the Town anticipates paying off our remaining short-term obligations for this land purchase by FY25. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 b. This sum is required to help pay down a total of $400,000 in short-term debt previously approved by Town Meeting, thereby creating capacity in the FY23 Town operating budget to make a $300,000 payment to cover some of the remaining expenses associated with the purchase of the Sea Camps property on Long Pond. Taking this approach, the Town anticipates paying off our remaining short-term obligations for this land purchase by FY25. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 c. This sum is required to cover additional personnel expenses stemming from staffing turnover in the Fire Department and contractual obligations. The ambulance receipts account has a current balance of just over $2M. The FY23 Fire Department budget has been adjusted to account for ongoing increased operational expenses. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 GOLF DEPARTMENT ENTERPRISE FUND ARTICLE NO. 3: To see if the Town will vote to accept the provision of G.L. Ch. 44 Section 53F½ in order to establish a Golf Department Enterprise Fund for fiscal year commencing on July 1, 2022, and to transfer any funds remaining in the Golf Department Reserve Fund as of June 30, 2022, or to take any other action relative thereto. Or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT While Brewster Golf Department revenues and expenses have always been accounted for separate from the General Fund, acceptance of this local option formally establishes the Golf Department as an enterprise fund. Enterprise fund accounting provides more flexibility and transparency than the current enabling statute for our Golf Department. It clearly identifies the total cost of providing this service and helps determine if the rates charged are sufficient to cover the cost, providing useful management information and data tracking for more informative decision making. The National Golf Foundation recently completed a comprehensive analysis of operations, finances, and capital needs for the Captain’s Golf course. The Golf Commission and Town staff have further refined projections based on their findings and recommendations. Enterprise fund accounting allows payments for indirect costs to flow from the enterprise to the General Fund to reimburse the Town for the associated costs of Town employees working on enterprise activities. Also, surpluses remain in the fund and may be used to pay operating, capital, or debt service costs associated with the operation. Additionally, investment income earned by the particular enterprise fund is retained within the fund to finance anticipated projects. The MA Department of Revenue’s Division of Local Services recommended making this change in their 2019 Financial Management Review. Select Board: Yes 5, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 OTHER BUSINESS ARTICLE NO. 4 To act upon any other business that may legally come before this meeting; or to take any other action related thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) You are hereby directed to serve this Warrant with your doings thereon to the Town Clerk at the time and place of said meeting as aforesaid. Given under our hand and Seal of the Town of Brewster affixed this __th day of April 2022. ___________________________________ Cynthia A. Bingham, Chair ___________________________________ David C. Whitney, Vice-Chair ___________________________________ Edward B. Chatelain, Clerk ___________________________________ Mary W. Chaffee ___________________________________ Kari Sue Hoffmann I, Roland W. Bassett Jr, duly qualified Constable for the Town of Brewster, hereby certify that I served the Warrant for the Special Town Meeting of May 14, 2022 by posting attested copies thereof, in the following locations in the Town on the xx day of April, 2022. Brewster Town Offices Café Alfresco Brewster Ladies Library Brewster Pizza House The Brewster Store Millstone Liquors U. S. Post Office _________________________________ Roland W. Bassett, Jr. Constable TOWN OF BREWSTER ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 14, 2022 Barnstable, ss To: Roland W. Bassett, Jr. Constable of the Town of Brewster Greetings: In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby directed to notify and inform the Town of Brewster inhabitants qualified to vote in Town affairs to meet at the Stony Brook Elementary School ballfield, 384 Underpass Road, on Saturday, May 14, 2022, next, at 10:00 a.m. o’clock in the morning, then and there to act upon the following articles: CAPE COD REGIONAL TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL OPERATING BUDGET ARTICLE NO. 1: To see what sums the Town will vote to raise and appropriate and/or transfer from available funds to defray Cape Cod Regional Technical High School charges and expenses for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2023, as follows; DEPARTMENT EXPENDED FY2021 APPROPRIATED FY2022 REQUESTED FY2023 CAPE COD TECH ASSESSMENT 562,646 825,363 1,115,633 DEBT ASSESSMENT 294,741 409,710 549,461 TOTAL ASSESSMENT 857,387 1,235,073 1,665,094 or to take any other action relative thereto. (Cape Cod Technical School Committee) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT This article will provide funding for the Fiscal Year 2023 operating budget for the Cape Cod Regional Technical High School District. This district consists of the Towns of Barnstable, Brewster, Chatham, Dennis, Eastham, Harwich, Mashpee, Orleans, Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet and Yarmouth. The overall district-wide budget has increased by 1.99% over Fiscal Year 2022. Brewster’s actual share of the assessment has increased by a sum of $290,270 or 35.17% over Fiscal Year 2022. District wide enrollment has increased from 626 students to 653 students, with Brewster’s enrollment increasing from 41 to 59 students for this same period. This is the second consecutive year that Brewster enrollment has significantly increased. The Debt Assessment line represents Brewster’s fourth year payment for the new Cape Cod Regional Technical High School as approved by voters at the October 24, 2017 Special Election. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS OPERATING BUDGET ARTICLE NO. 2: To see what sums the Town will vote to raise and appropriate and/or transfer from available funds to defray the Elementary Schools’ charges and expenses, for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2023, as follows; DEPARTMENT EXPENDED FY2021 APPROPRIATED FY2022 REQUESTED FY2023 ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BUDGET 8,333,661 7,951,488 8,150,275 SCHOOL FRINGE BENEFITS 1,974,982 2,131,313 2,342,589 TOTAL ASSESSMENT: 10,308,643 10,082,801 10,492,864 or to take any other action relative thereto. (Elementary School Committee) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT This article will provide funding for the Fiscal Year 2023 operational budget for the Stony Brook and Eddy Elementary Schools. The Fiscal Year 2023 budget request for the Elementary Schools stands at $8,150,275. These operational budgets have increased by the total sum of $198,787 or 2.5%, over Fiscal Year 2022. The Town’s total elementary school assessment is increasing by 4.1% when the schools’ proportionate shares of fringe benefits expenses is applied. In addition, the Town’s Fiscal Year 2023 operating budget seeks to appropriate $100,000 to a proposed new Special Education Stabilization Fund to cover unanticipated expenditures (see Article 3). Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 SPECIAL EDUCATION STABILIZATION FUND ARTICLE NO. 3: To see if the Town will vote to create a new Special Education Stabilization Fund, consistent with Section 24 of Chapter 218 of the Acts of 2016, for unanticipated or unbudgeted costs of special education, out of district tuition, and related transportation expenses at the Brewster Elementary Schools. (Elementary School Committee) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 NAUSET REGIONAL SCHOOLS OPERATING BUDGET ARTICLE NO. 4: To see what sums the Town will vote to raise and appropriate and/or transfer from available funds to defray the Nauset Regional School District charges and expenses for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2023, as follows; DEPARTMENT EXPENDED FY2021 APPROPRIATED FY2022 REQUESTED FY2023 NAUSET ASSESSMENT 11,476,397 11,743,855 12,229,216 NAUSET DEBT ASSESSMENT 122,645 175,644 208,735 TOTAL ASSESSMENT: 11,599,042 11,919,499 12,437,951 or to take any other action relative thereto. (Nauset Regional School Committee) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT This article provides funding for the Fiscal Year 2023 operational budget for the Nauset Regional School District. The overall operating budget for the Nauset Regional Schools stands at $25,796,005 which represents an increase of 5.94% over the prior year. Brewster’s share of the Nauset Schools operational budget is $12,437,951. Brewster’s proportionate share of enrollment has decreased from 48.17% in Fiscal Year 2022 to 47.41% in Fiscal Year 2023. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 TOWN OPERATING BUDGET ARTICLE NO. 5: To see what sums the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, for the purposes of supporting the offices, departments, boards and commissions of the Town of Brewster for Fiscal Year 2023, including authorization for lease purchases of up to five years, as follows: EXPENDED APPROPRIATED REQUESTED DEPARTMENT FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 GENERAL GOVERNMENT Finance Committee 4,754 105,500 105,500 Assessors 126,059 136,549 151,782 Accounting 224,423 224,446 258,343 Treasurer/ Collector 274,521 303,511 350,727 Information Technology 272,201 334,056 410,962 Legal 107,677 165,640 168,653 Moderator 300 300 300 Planning 173,151 181,488 206,412 Select Board / Town Administration 462,860 490,320 592,355 Human Resources New in FY22 147,774 165,949 Town Clerk 205,380 192,636 249,324 Public Buildings 157,327 157,667 273,639 SUBTOTAL GENERAL GOVERNMENT 2,008,653 2,439,887 2,933,946 PUBLIC SAFETY Building Department 407,486 420,371 416,157 Fire Department 2,603,170 2,948,872 3,123,820 Natural Resources 419,130 446,240 483,715 Police Department 2,789,806 2,924,587 2,996,585 Sealer of Weights & Measures 9,225 9,456 9,692 SUBTOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY 6,228,817 6,749,526 7,029,969 PUBLIC WORKS Public Works 1,878,073 2,014,227 2,185,153 Snow & Ice Removal 161,817 165,053 169,179 Street Lights 2,875 5,515 5,515 SUBTOTAL PUBLIC WORKS 2,042,765 2,184,795 2,359,847 EXPENDED APPROPRIATED REQUESTED DEPARTMENT FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 HUMAN SERVICES Council on Aging 312,531 360,441 385,337 Board of Health 222,173 251,994 284,805 Veteran’s Services 111,940 130,330 120,837 Public Assistance 135,620 144,900 136,950 SUBTOTAL HUMAN SERVICES 782,264 887,665 927,929 CULTURE & RECREATION Brewster Ladies Library 644,519 689,226 738,034 Recreation 160,028 205,316 232,235 Memorial Day Celebration 0 1,500 1,500 SUBTOTAL CULTURE & RECREATION 804,546 896,042 971,769 DEBT SERVICE Principal & Interest 2,119,348 2,007,298 3,321,898 SUBTOTAL DEBT SERVICE 2,119,348 2,007,298 3,321,898 INSURANCE, UTILITIES & FRINGE BENEFITS General Insurance 362,511 467,250 534,482 Utilities 328,750 443,671 505,423 Fringe Benefits 3,805,056 4,726,694 4,515,109 SUBTOTAL INSURANCE & FRINGE BENEFITS 4,496,317 5,637,615 5,555,014 EXPENDED APPROPRIATED REQUESTED DEPARTMENT FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 OTHER OPERATING EXPENSE & ASSESSMENTS Assessments 28,040 28,040 29,271 Alewives 2,500 4,350 4,350 Local Service Funding 39,363 40,000 40,000 Transfer to Capital Stabilization 0 225,000 187,500 Transfer to General Stabilization 200,000 0 0 Transfer to Housing Trust 0 250,000 375,000 Transfer to OPEB Trust 222,671 267,000 267,000 Transfer to Brewster Elementary Schools Special Education Stabilization New in FY23 New in FY23 100,000 Transfer to Water Quality Capital Stabilization New in FY23 New in FY23 112,500 SUBTOTAL OTHER OPERATING EXPENSE & ASSESSMENTS 492,573 814,390 1,115,621 GRAND TOTAL OF GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGETS 18,975,285 21,617,218 24,215,992 Or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT This article will provide funding for the Fiscal Year 2023 operational budget for the Town boards, committees, and departments. The Town’s operating expenses, as presented in this article, exclusive of excluded debt and transfers to stabilization funds, have increased by 4.98%. Please note the following details on these budget line items listed above:  Public Assistance: This section is inclusive of funding for Health & Human Service organizations and fuel assistance.  Assessments: This section is inclusive of funding for Pleasant Bay Alliance, Greenhead Fly, and the Historic District.  Local Services Funding: This section is inclusive of Chamber of Commerce, Town Band, Cultural Council, Skipping Program, and Millsites. Water Department and Golf Department related operating expenditures are now shown in their own articles in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 53F½. Water, Golf, and Ambulance related capital requests are contained in the Capital & Special Projects Article as needed. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 WATER DEPARTMENT ENTERPRISE FUND OPERATING BUDGET ARTICLE NO. 6: To see if the Town will vote, in accordance with G.L. c. 44, §53F1/2, to appropriate from Water Department receipts, transfer from available funds or otherwise fund the sum of TWO MILLION NINE HUNDRED SIXTY ONE THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED NINETY NINE DOLLARS ($2,961,199) for Fiscal Year 2023 costs associated with the operation of the Water Department including, but not limited to acquiring professional services and equipment, personnel and maintaining facilities and operations, including authorization for lease purchases of up to five years; all expenditures to be made by the Water Department, subject to the approval of the Town Administrator, or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT In accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 53F1/2, receipts from Water Department related activities are used to directly offset Water Department related expenditures including some capital and infrastructure costs. Voting a spending amount within the Water Department Enterprise Fund allows receipts and related expenditures to be recorded in one fund. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 GOLF CAPITAL STABILIZATION FUND ARTICLE NO. 7: To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of G.L. c. 40, §5B for the purpose of establishing a Golf Course Capital Improvement and Maintenance Stabilization Fund; and to see if the Town will transfer from available funds a sum of money for said stabilization fund, or take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT With several major capital projects anticipated in the next few years at the Captains, this new capital stabilization fund would allow the Town to direct a portion of anticipated Golf revenues to help pay for some of these future projects without issuing debt. For FY23, a $400,000 appropriation is included in the proposed FY23 Golf Department budget that would transfer those funds to this new account. Funds in the new Golf Capital Stabilization Fund will require a 2/3 vote by Town Meeting to appropriate. The Town currently plans to consistently make significant contributions to this new fund in the next few years to help mitigate the cost impacts of larger capital projects to avoid the need of major fee increases. Select Board: Yes 5, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 GOLF ENTERPRISE FUND OPERATING BUDGET ARTICLE NO. 8: To see if the Town will vote, in accordance with G.L. c. 44, §53F1/2, to appropriate from Golf Department receipts, transfer from available funds or otherwise fund the sum of FOUR MILLION TWO HUNDRED FIFTY FOUR THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED THIRTY FOUR DOLLARS ($4,254,134) for Fiscal Year 2023 costs associated with the operation of the Golf Department including, but not limited to acquiring professional services and equipment, personnel and maintaining facilities and operations, including authorization for lease purchases of up to five years; all expenditures to be made by the Golf Department, subject to the approval of the Town Administrator, or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT In accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 53F½, receipts from Golf Department related activities are used to directly offset Golf Department related expenditures including some capital and infrastructure costs. Voting a spending amount within the Golf Department Enterprise Fund allows receipts and related expenditures to be recorded in one fund. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT FUNDING ARTICLE NO. 9: To see if the Town will vote to act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the Fiscal Year 2023 Community Preservation Budget and to appropriate or reserve for later appropriation monies from the Community Preservation Fund annual revenues or available funds for the administrative and operating expenses of the Community Preservation Committee, the undertaking of Community Preservation Projects and all other necessary and proper expenses for the year, with each item considered a separate appropriation to be spent by the Community Preservation Committee, all as set forth below: Estimated revenues FY23__ a. Estimated FY23 tax surcharge $1,144,558 b. Estimated FY23 state contribution (25%) $ 286,140 c. Estimated FY23 Total: $1,430,698 FY23 Appropriations and Allocations d. Historic Preservation Reserve appropriation (10%) $143,070 e. Community Housing Reserve appropriation (10%) $143,070 f. Open Space Reserve appropriation (50%) $715,349 g. Budgeted Reserve (25%) $357,674 h. Administrative Expense (Budgeted Reserve) ( 5%) $71,535 i. Total $1,430,698 Purpose Item Funding Source(s) Amount 1 Historic Preservation a. Brewster Historical Society Digitization of Ellen St. Sure Collection Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $22,617 b. Designated Reserves for Historic Preservation Transfer to reserve from estimated annual revenues in accordance with G.L. c.44B, §6 Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $120,453 Sub-total $143,070 2 Community Housing a. Town of Brewster Town Administration - Housing Coordinator Payroll and operating costs for Part-time Housing Coordinator position to assist public Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $66,900 with affordable housing program b. Community Development Partnership Lower Cape Housing Institute (2-year funding) Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $15,000 c. Designated reserves for Housing Transfer to reserve from estimated annual revenues in accordance with G.L. c.44B, §6 Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $61,170 Sub-total $143,070 3 Open Space a. Community Preservation Bonded Debt Service Payment of debt principal and interest for the BBJ Property and Bates Property bonds Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $196,658 b. Designated reserves for Open Space Transfer to reserve from estimated annual revenues in accordance with G.L. c.44B, §6 Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $518,691 Sub-total $715,349 4 Budgeted Reserve a. Administration Expense Administration and operating expenses for Community Preservation Committee Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $71,535 b. Pennrose/ Orleans Cape Cod Five Affordable housing at former Cape Cod Five Operations Center in Orleans Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $105,000 c. Designated for Budgeted Reserve Transfer to reserve from estimated annual revenues in accordance with G.L. c.44B, §6 Fiscal Year 2023 CPA estimated annual revenues $252,674 Sub-total $429,209 Grand Total $1,430,698 For Fiscal Year 2023 Community Preservation purposes, each item is considered a separate appropriation to be spent by the Community Preservation Committee; provided however, that the above expenditures may be conditional on the grant or acceptance of appropriate historic preservation restrictions for historic resources, open space restrictions for open space reserves, and housing restrictions for community housing, running in favor of an entity authorized by the Commonwealth to hold such restrictions for such expenditures, meeting the requirements of G.L. c.184 and G.L. c.44B, Section 12, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey or accept such restrictions; And further, any revenues received in excess of the estimated receipts are transferred to their respective reserve fund balance(s) for future appropriation using the allocation formula of 50% Open Space, 10% Housing, 10% Historical and 30% for Budgeted Reserve for CPA. Or to take any other action relative thereto. (Community Preservation Committee) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT In May of 2005, Brewster voters approved a ballot question which allowed for the adoption of the modified Community Preservation Act. The act appropriates a 3% surcharge on the Town’s real estate tax revenues, which are reserved in a special fund in order to finance projects and programs for the purposes of preservation of open space, recreation, community housing, and historic preservation. Brewster is also eligible to receive up to 100% in matching funds from the State, although we anticipate a reduced reimbursement rate from the State for Fiscal Year 2023, which is projected at 25%. Brewster established, through a local bylaw, a distribution schedule for the CPA funds according to the following: 50% of the funds for open space, 10% for community housing, 10% for historic preservation, and 30% balance is available for housing, historic preservation and/or active or passive recreation projects. 1. Historic Preservation: a. Brewster Historical Society – Digitization of Ellen St. Sure collection - This item will fund the digitization and preservation of the Ellen St. Sure research collection. Former Town Archivist and Brewster history enthusiast Ellen St. Sure compiled her own personal research files about Brewster residents, houses, and businesses. This collection was gifted to the Brewster Historical Society with the understanding that they would maintain the collection and make it accessible to researchers. The Society wishes to digitize the research collection and make it available via their website with links to the Town website and the Brewster Ladies Library website. Total Project Cost: $35,441.50 CPC Request: $22,616.5 0 CPC Vote: 8-0-1 Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 2. Community Housing: a. Town of Brewster- Housing Coordinator – This item will fund the part-time Housing Coordinator position. The Community Preservation Committee has supported the Housing Coordinator position since 2017. The hiring of a housing coordinator was identified as a key strategy in the Town’s 2017 Housing Production Plan. The Housing Coordinator holds hours for the public weekly, supports multiple Town committees, including the Housing Trust and Housing Partnership, works with regional housing agencies and organizations in town to promote housing choice. The Housing Coordinator is an integral part of the Town’s housing efforts, outlined in both the Town Vision Plan and the Select Board Strategic Plan. The Housing Coordinator helps to acquire, create, preserve, and support community housing. The FY23 request is to fund the position at 30 hours per week with the CPC providing funding for the salary and the Town providing funding for all benefits of the position. The request is for an increase of 5 hours weekly (from 25 in FY22), due to the increased number of housing initiatives and support services that the Town is providing. Our housing program continues to be a partnership of many Town entities. Total Project Cost: $ 89,150 CPC Request: $ 66,900 CPC Vote: 8-0-0 Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 b. Community Development Partnership (CDP): Lower Cape Housing Institute – This item will fund the sixth and seventh years of CDP’s Lower Cape Housing Institute, training that equips local elected and appointed officials with the knowledge and skills needed to support the creation of more year-round housing in the Lower Cape, including Brewster. Local elected and appointed municipal officials and Town staff need training and technical assistance in the complexity of developing and managing housing that is affordable to year-round residents. Total Project Cost: $123,350 CPC Request: $15,000 CPC Vote: 7-0-0 Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 3. Open Space: a. Community Preservation Bonded Debt Service – This item pays for the $196,658 in FY 2023 principal and interest on open space acquisitions that were financed via long-term bonding ($2.5M for 50 acres in West Brewster by Mother’s Bog and Walker’s Pond and $675k for 36 acres in the Punkhorn). Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 4. Reserves for Community Preservation: a. Administrative Expense – This item will fund the costs associated with general administrative and operating expenses, including but not limited to legal and other professional consulting services, related to carrying out the operations of the Community Preservation Committee. The Community Preservation Act allows up to 5% of expected annual revenues for this purpose. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 b. Pennrose/Cape Cod Five – This item will fund a request from Pennrose LLC. They propose to re-use the former Cape Cod Five bank headquarters building in Orleans, combined with a new construction addition and two separate townhouse buildings, as mixed-income and affordable housing. Together, the refurbishment and new construction will provide 62 rental units, including 52 affordable units and 10 middle-income "workforce" apartments. The existing structure consists of an original 1978 building and a 1990s addition. The building served as the headquarters and operations center for the Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank from 1978 until 2020. The site has been the subject of multiple feasibility studies led by the Town of Orleans, seeking to identify the best, most appropriate use for the site after the bank's departure. The proposed re-use program has been developed in cooperation with the Town of Orleans and closely mirrors the "preferred development scenario" identified by Town staff and the general public in its recent study. The site enjoys strong access to shopping, a grocery store, public transportation, and other amenities, making it an ideal location for affordable and mixed- income housing. Developer Pennrose is requesting CPA funds from multiple Cape towns, recognizing that progress towards regional housing creation and affordability goals benefits all of the area’s communities. Town Meeting voters in these towns have already approved funding: Orleans ($2 Million), Eastham ($100,000), and Provincetown ($20,000). An application to Harwich for $100,000 is under review. In both Chatham ($100,000) and Truro ($100,000), funding requests are on the Spring 2022 Town Meeting warrants. Wellfleet has asked Pennrose to reapply for funding in October 2022. Pennrose is seeking $100,000 of Brewster CPA funds for construction expenses. The CPC request includes an additional $5,000 to be set aside to pay for Brewster CPC legal and administrative expenses related to the award. Total Project Cost: $27,705,000 CPC Request: $105,000 CPC Vote: 8-0-0 Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 CAPITAL AND SPECIAL PROJECTS EXPENDITURES ARTICLE NO. 10: To see what sums the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or authorize the Town Treasurer to borrow under and pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Sections 7, 7(1), or 8, or any other enabling authority, for the capital outlay expenditures listed below, including, in each case, all incidental and related costs, to be expended by the Town Administrator with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, except School expenditures to be made by the School Superintendent with the approval of the School Committee; authorize leases and lease purchase agreements for more than three but not more than five years for those items to be leased or lease purchased, and further that the Town Administrator with the approval of the Board of Selectmen or School Superintendent with the approval of the School Committee for school items, be authorized to sell, convey, trade-in or otherwise dispose of equipment being replaced, all as set forth below: Department Item Funding Source(s) / Appropriation or Transfer Amount 1 Select Board a. Integrated Water Resources Planning & Implementation Professional services and costs for preparing studies, engineering, and coordinating inter- municipal water resource management planning General Fund Free Cash $75,000 b. Drummer Boy Park Master Plan Implementation - Design Professional services and costs for engineering, design, and permitting associated with planned improvements to the park General Fund Free Cash $75,000 Sub-Total $150,000 2 Elementary School Department a. Technology Upgrades and Improvements Ongoing information system and equipment improvements including but not limited to purchase of desktop computers, servers, productivity and office software, backup system, and General Fund Free Cash $15,000 other hardware/software, switches and access points for wi-fi at Eddy and Stony Brook Elementary Schools b. HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical Maintenance & Repairs Professional services and costs for upgrades, repairs and replacement of HVAC plumbing and electrical systems (equipment, supplies and related software/hardware) at Eddy and Stony Brook Elementary Schools General Fund Free Cash $25,000 c. Exterior & Interior Painting Project Professional services and costs for interior/exterior painting at Eddy and Stony Brook Elementary Schools General Fund Free Cash $10,000 d. Stony Brook Elementary School Boiler & Unit Ventilator Replacement - Design Professional services and costs to design upgrades to the existing boiler and supporting HVAC systems at Stony Brook Elementary School General Fund Free Cash $75,000 Sub-Total $125,000 3 Nauset Regional School District a. Capital Plan Projects Professional services and costs, including procuring, engineering, permitting, repair and maintenance of buildings, grounds, and equipment within the Nauset Middle School and Nauset High School Raise and appropriate $271,782 Sub-Total $271,782 4 Natural Resources a. Beach and Landing Repairs & Improvements Professional services and costs for repairs and improvements to various public beaches and public landings throughout town General Fund Free Cash $15,000 b. Long Pond Boat Ramp and Public Access Improvements Professional services and costs for upgrades to existing boat ramp and parking area, improvements to public access and stormwater treatment General Fund Free Cash $225,000 c. Wildfire Management Professional services and costs to implement and update Town’s Wildfire Management Plan, including vegetation management General Fund Free Cash $10,000 Sub-Total $250,000 Department Item Funding Source(s) / Appropriation or Transfer Amount 5 Water Department a. Distribution Infrastructure Costs for goods, materials and professional services to maintain, repair, and upgrade the Town’s water distribution system Water Retained Earnings $50,000 b. Buildings & Treatment Facilities Costs for goods, materials and professional services to maintain, repair, and upgrade the Water Department’s buildings and treatment facilities Water Retained Earnings $50,000 c. Water Meter Replacement Costs for goods, materials and professional services to maintain and replace water meters Water Retained Earnings $80,000 d. Two Pick-up Trucks Costs to purchase and equip two (2) pick-up trucks Water Retained Earnings $88,000 Sub-Total $268,000 Department Item Funding Source(s) / Appropriation or Transfer Amount 6 Department of Public Works a. Public Works & Recycling Center Site Assessment Professional services to conduct a site assessment of Public Works & Recycling Center property and facilities Article 10 (2F), May 2017 Annual Town Meeting $70,000 Sub-Total $70,000 7 Facilities a. Town Hall Window Replacement Professional services and costs to replace windows at Town Hall offices General Fund Free Cash $50,000 b. Town Hall Air Conditioning Unit Replacement Costs to purchase air conditioning units at Town Hall offices General Fund Free Cash $10,500 Sub-Total $60,500 8 Library a. Library Elevator Replacement - Design Professional services and costs to replace elevator at Ladies Library General Fund Free Cash $30,000 Sub-Total $30,000 9 Golf Department a. HVAC/Boiler Upgrades Professional services and costs to replace furnaces, air handlers, and related HVAC systems in the clubhouse, pavilion, and pro-shop Golf Reserves $185,000 b. Clubhouse Window and Door Replacement Professional services and costs to replace windows and doors in clubhouse, pavilion, and pro-shop Golf Reserves $190,000 c. Maintenance Facilities Study Professional services to identify existing conditions and develop Golf Reserves $20,000 conceptual plan for maintenance facilities Sub-Total $395,000 10 Fire Department a. Deputy Fire Chief Vehicle Costs to purchase and equip Deputy Fire Chief first response vehicle Article 8 (2G), May 2016 Annual Town Meeting; Ambulances Receipts $60,000 Sub-Total $60,000 Grand Total $1,680,282 Or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT 1. SELECT BOARD 1a. Integrated Water Resources Planning & Implementation - These funds will be used to implement the Pleasant Bay Watershed Permit and support other water quality improvement projects related to coastal waters and freshwater ponds. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 1b. Drummer Boy Park Master Plan Implementation (Design) – These funds will be used to complete design and permitting work associated with the Drummer Boy Park Master Plan Update approved by Town Meeting in November 2021 to include: development of site survey and existing conditions plan; evaluation of sub-surface conditions; public outreach; development of design plans, including stormwater management; preparing permit applications; developing construction plans and specifications; and, providing procurement services and construction oversight/inspections. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 2. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DEPARTMENT 2a. Technology Upgrades and Improvements - These funds will be used to continue with the K-5 technology plan for both Eddy and Stony Brook Elementary Schools; including replacing iPads, computers, network printers and laptops, switches and access points for wi-fi. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 2b. HVAC, Plumbing, Electric Maintenance & Repairs – These funds will be used to make repairs to the mechanical systems at both Elementary Schools as needed. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 2c. Exterior & Interior Painting – These funds will be used for regularly scheduled interior and exterior painting at the Stony Brook and Eddy Schools. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 2d. Stony Brook Elementary School Boiler & Unit Ventilator Replacement (Design) – These funds will be used to design upgrades and/or replacement of the existing boiler and ventilation systems at the Stony Brook School. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 3. NAUSET REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT 4a. Capital Plan Projects – These funds, in the amount of $269,400 for Fiscal Year 2023, are an assessment for the capital equipment and facilities budget for the Nauset High and Middle Schools. This program was originally approved by means of a Proposition 2 ½ override question in May of 2005, which included an annual 2.5% escalator. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 4. NATURAL RESOURCES 4a. Beach and Landing Repairs – These funds will be used for improvements, maintenance, and repairs at various Town Landings, including sand nourishment, stairs, pathways, interpretive signs, and other related needs. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 4b. Long Pond Boat Ramp and Public Access Improvements – These funds will be used for safety and access enhancements to the existing ramp and parking areas. Stormwater treatment and traffic circulation will also be improved. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 4c. Wildfire Management – These funds will be used to implement the Town’s Wildfire Management Plan, focusing on the Punkhorn, and other large, wooded conservation areas. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 5. WATER DEPARTMENT 5a. Distribution Infrastructure – These funds will be used to maintain, repair, and upgrade the Town’s water distribution system as needed. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 5b. Buildings & Treatment Facilities – These funds will be used to maintain, repair, and upgrade the Water Department’s buildings and treatment facilities as needed. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 5c. Water Meter Replacement – These funds will be used to maintain and/or purchase and install replacement water meters on an ongoing basis. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 5d. Pick-up Trucks – These funds will be used to purchase and equip two (2) new pick-up trucks for Water Department staff. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 6. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS 6a. Public Works & Recycling Center Site Assessment – These funds will be used to complete a comprehensive site assessment of the property and facilities on Run Hill Road. The study will examine code compliance, including a safety review of the site and facilities. Operational efficiencies and site constraints will be evaluated. A series of conceptual improvements will be developed, including permitting requirements and cost estimates for each scenario. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 7. FACILITIES 7a. Town Hall Window Replacement - These funds will be used to replace 30+ windows in Town Hall that are in poor condition. A number of windows are no longer operable due to failing conditions and replacement parts are no longer available due to the age of the windows. Replacing the windows will increase energy efficiency and, more importantly, they will be safe to operate. This is the first of two planned phases for this project. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 7b. Town Hall Air Conditioning Unit Replacement – These funds will be used to purchase new window air conditioning units for Town Hall offices. This is the second and final phase of this replacement project. Alternative air conditioning options were evaluated but were not projected to result in significant energy savings and so were dismissed as cost prohibitive. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 8. LIBRARY 8a. Library Elevator Replacement (Design) – These funds will be used to develop specifications to solicit bids to install a new elevator at the Ladies Library. This equipment has exceeded its useful life and requires frequent repairs, limiting resident access to the facility. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 9. GOLF DEPARTMENT 9a. HVAC/Boiler Upgrades – These funds will be used to replace the furnaces and air handlers in the clubhouse, pavilion, and pro-shop to install a fully operational and more energy efficient heating and cooling system. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 9b. Clubhouse Window and Door Replacement – These funds will be used to replace windows and doors in the clubhouse, pavilion, and pro-shop. Many of the windows in the building have broken seals that have caused clouding of the windows. They are unsightly and do not project a good image of the facility. In addition, many of the doors have clouded windows and do not open and close properly. This is largely due to the high volume of foot traffic throughout the building. All of the doors and windows are over 20 years old. This is the first, and largest, or two planned phases for this project. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 9c. Maintenance Facility Study – These funds will be used to identify existing conditions and develop conceptual plans to upgrade these facilities. The two principal maintenance buildings are 21 and 36 years old respectively and do not conform to current code and energy efficiency standards. They require significant improvements to optimize operational efficiency. The results of this study will be used to inform design specifications to build new facilities. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 10. FIRE DEPARTMENT 10a. Deputy Fire Chief Response Vehicle – These funds will be used to purchase and equip the Deputy Fire Chief’s vehicle. Administrative / first response vehicles are replaced every ten years. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 WATER QUALITY CAPITAL STABILIZATION FUND ARTICLE NO. 11: To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of G.L. c. 40, §5B for the purpose of establishing a Water Quality Stabilization Fund; and to see if the Town will raise and appropriate and/or transfer from available funds a sum of money for said stabilization fund, or take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT Select Board: Yes 4, No 0, Abs 1 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 BOND PREMIUM APPROPRIATION ARTICLE NO. 12: To see if the Town will vote to transfer and appropriate a total sum of $238,349 from bond sale premiums from projects authorized at the May 4, 2015 Town Meeting under Articles 19, 20, & 30, May 2, 2016 Town Meeting under Article 20, and September 2, 2015 Town Meeting under Article 2-7B to the Road Bond Capital Projects Fund. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT Select Board: Yes 5, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 SPECIAL REVENUE FUND/Cable Franchise Fee Account ARTICLE NO. 13: To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from the Cable Franchise Fee Special Revenue Fund the sum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000), for the purpose of offsetting costs associated with providing local cable television related purposes, the sum of including, but not limited to the general public purpose of supporting and promoting public access to the Brewster cable television system; training in the use of local access equipment and facilities; access to community, municipal and educational meeting coverage; use and development of an institutional network and/or municipal information facilities; contracting with local cable programming services providers and/or any other appropriate cable related purposes, and including all incidental and related expenses, or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT Included within each resident’s cable bill is a line item to provide for the costs of local cable television services. These monies are retained in a special revenue account and are used to enhance local cable programming for the town’s public, education, and government channels. These funds will be used to continue these informational and educational services, and may include, but is not limited to, equipment purchases, contracted services, construction services, and labor expenses. Select Board: Yes 5, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 7, No 0, Abs 0 TOWN CODE AMENDMENT TO COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE BYLAW ARTICLE NO. 14: To see if the Town will vote to amend the General Bylaws, Section 17, to delete Sections 17-4 and 17-5 in their entirety, with such revision to take effect on July 1, 2023, as follows: Section 17-1. Membership of the Committee – There is hereby established a Community Preservation Committee, consisting of nine (9) voting members. pursuant to the provisions of Section 298 of Chapter 149 of the Acts of 2004, as amended by Sections 129-133 of Chapter 352 of the Acts of 2004. The composition of the Committee, the appointing authority and the term of office for the committee members shall be as follows; one member of the Conservation Commission, as designated by said Commission; one member of the Historical Commission, as designated by said Commission; one member of the Planning Board, designated by the said Board; one member of the Recreation Commission, as designated by the Commission; one member of the Brewster Housing Authority, as designated by said Authority; and four individuals to be appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Each member of the Committee shall serve a term of three years or until the person no longer serves in the position or on the board or on the committee as set forth above, whichever is earlier. Should any of the officers and commissions, boards or committees who have appointing authority under this bylaw be no longer in existence for whatever reason, the Board of Selectmen shall appoint a suitable person to serve in their place. Any member of the committee may be removed by the Selectmen, with prior notice to the member and a hearing, for good cause. Section 17-2. Duties – The Community Preservation Committee shall study the needs, possibilities and resources of the town regarding community preservation. The Committee shall consult with existing municipal boards, including the Conservation Commission, the Recreation Commission, the Historical Commission, the Planning Board, the Department of Public Works, and the Housing Authority, or persons acting in those capacities or performing like duties, in conducting such studies. As part of its study, the committee shall hold one or more public informational hearings, at its discretion, on the needs, possibilities and resources of the town regarding community preservation possibilities and resources, notice of which shall be posted publicly and published for each of two weeks preceding a hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the town. Section 17-3. The Community Preservation Committee shall make recommendations to the Town Meeting for the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space, for the acquisition and preservation of historic resources, for the acquisition, creation and preservation of land for recreational use, for the creation, preservation and support of community housing and for rehabilitation or restoration of such open space, historic resources, land for recreational use and community housing that is acquired or created as provided in this section. Section 17-4. In every fiscal year, the Community Preservation Committee shall recommend that Town Meeting spend, or set aside for future spending, the fixed figure of fifty (50%) percent of the net annual revenues in the Community Preservation Fund for open space purposes, not less than ten (10%) percent of the net annual revenues for community housing purposes, and not less than ten (10%) percent of the net annual revenues for historic resources purposes. In every fiscal year, the Community Preservation Committee shall recommend that Town Meeting spend or set aside for future spending the remaining thirty (30%) percent of the net annual revenues for community housing, recreation and historic resources purposes, but not for open space purposes. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the net annual revenues paid into the Community Preservation Fund shall be dedicated to open space purposes until such time as prior appropriations made pursuant to the so-called Land Bank Act have been fully expended, even if the aggregate amount of such expenditures exceeds 80% of the annual revenues. Section 17-5. Provided that the Community Preservation Act is accepted at the 2005 Annual Town Election, this section shall take effect upon approval by the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and after all the requirements of Mass. Gen. Laws, ch. 40, § 32 have been met. Each appointing authority shall have thirty (30) days after the effective date to make its appointments. or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 TRANSFER OF TAX TITLE PROPERTY – 212 YANKEE DRIVE ARTICLE NO. 15: To see if the Town will vote to transfer the care, custody and control of the parcel of land with the improvements thereon located at 212 Yankee Drive, identified by the Assessors as Parcel 77-37-0 and acquired by the Town by Foreclosure in Tax Lien Case, from the tax custodian for tax title purposes to the Affordable Housing Trust for affordable housing purposes and for the purpose of conveyance. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT The Brewster Housing Program in conjunction with the Affordable Housing Trust has been actively working for the past 4 years on the preservation of homes that are on our Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI). The home located at 212 Yankee Drive has been vacant for several years and suffered some water damage. The Housing Department in collaboration with the Treasurer Collector, Building Department and town legal counsel initiated the process of a tax taking. The owner of the property has not lived in the home for over 4 years, will not return, and has a conservator that the Town has communicated with throughout the process. The goal of the Housing program and Housing Trust is to rehabilitate the home and convey it to a qualified affordable buyer. The home currently has an affordable deed restriction on it and will continue to have a deed restriction after conveyance. The Community Preservation Committee provided funding to the Affordable Housing Trust to assist with the preservation of homes on our SHI. Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 LEASE OF TOWN PROPERTY/Antenna ARTICLE NO. 16: To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Town Administrator, acting under the direction of the Board of Selectmen, to lease from time to time a portion or portions of Town-owned property located at 1657 Main Street for wireless communications purposes, including, without limitation, for the construction, installation, maintenance and replacement of communications antennas, towers, cabinets, cables, and other appurtenances, and to grant such non-exclusive access and/or utility easements on portions of said property as may be necessary or convenient to serve the communications equipment thereon, said leases to be for periods not exceeding twenty (20) years and on such other terms and conditions as the Town Administrator and Board of Selectmen deem to be in the best interests of the Town, or to take any other action relative thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 UTILITY EASEMENT - 361 SLOUGH ROAD ARTICLE NO. 17: (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT Select Board: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 0, No 0, Abs 0 CITIZENS PETITION/Punkhorn Hunting Ban ARTICLE NO. 18: To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town’s General Bylaw by adding a new Chapter 98 – Hunting in the Punkhorn Parklands as follows: §98-1 No person shall discharge any gun, including paint ball guns, fowling piece, pistol, or firearm or release an arrow from a bow or hunt or trap or poison or set fire to any material known as fireworks, or other combustible matter, on any and all Town-owned parcels in southwest Brewster commonly referred to as the Punkhorn Parklands; provided, however, this section shall not apply to any person abating nuisance or in the exercise of duty required by law, or to take any other action relative thereto. (Citizen's Petition) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT The parcels of land commonly referred to as the Punkhorn Parklands constitute a major conservation area, purchased by the Town to protect it from development and to preserve its varied environment. Public use of the Punkhorn has increased significantly over the years, with an even greater increase occurring during the past couple of years of social distancing necessitated by the COVID pandemic. Every year more and more hikers, dog walkers, cyclists, horseback riders, bird watchers, and nature lovers make use of the Punkhorn trails and lands, both residents and visitors alike. At the May 1989 Annual Election, Brewster voters passed a non-binding public advisory to express the opinion that all hunting and use of firearms, bows and arrows, air guns and pellet guns should be prohibited in the Town-owned Punkhorn Parkland. At the May 15, 2021 Special & Annual Town Meeting, voters passed what we thought was a by-law banning hunting in the Punkhorn. The Attorney General's Office approved it, but Town Counsel ruled that the language did not conform to the standards for a by-law, so the petition was "merely advisory." This time, Town Counsel supplied the appropriate language to make this a binding by-law. We once again urge you to vote to make this ban official to protect the safety of all who use the Punkhorn Parklands. Select Board: Yes 3, No 2, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 2, No 5, Abs 0 CITIZENS PETITION/Punkhorn Hunting Restrictions ARTICLE NO. 19: To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town’s General Bylaw by Adding a new Chapter 98 – Hunting in the Punkhorn Parklands as follows: §98-1 No person shall discharge any gun, including paint ball guns, fowling piece, pistol, or firearm or release an arrow from a bow or hunt or trap or poison or set fire to any material known as fireworks, or other combustible matter, within the Town-owned land known as the Punkhorn Parklands; provided, however, this section shall not apply to any person abating nuisance or in the exercise of duty required by law: provided further that bow hunting only shall only be permitted during a three-week period beginning on the first Monday in December of each year, or to take any other action relative thereto. (Citizen's Petition) (Majority Vote Required) COMMENT Select Board: Yes 2, No 3, Abs 0 Finance Committee: Yes 2, No 5, Abs 0 OTHER BUSINESS ARTICLE NO. 20 To act upon any other business that may legally come before this meeting; or to take any other action related thereto. (Select Board) (Majority Vote Required) Select Board Joint with Finance Committee Minutes February 16, 2022 Page 1 of 7 TOWN OF BREWSTER SELECT BOARD JOINT WITH FINANCE COMMITTEE Date: February 16, 2022 Time: 6:00 PM VIRTUAL MEETING MINUTES Present: Select Board Chair Cynthia Bingham, Vice Chair David Whitney, Clerk Edward Chatelain, Mary Chaffee (7:38pm), Kari Hoffmann Finance Committee Chair Pete Dahl, Vice Chair Frank Bridges, Clerk Bill Meehan, Honey Pivirotto, Robert Tobias, Alex Hopper, Bob Young, William Henchy, Andy Evans Capital Planning Committee Chair Bill Schirmacher, Cynthia Caldwell, Town Administrator Peter Lombardi, Treasurer/Collector Lisa Vitale Also present: Donna Kalinick, Assistant Town Administrator; Susan Broderick, Human Resources Director Absent: Mimi Bernardo, Finance Director The Chair called the meeting to order at 6:02 pm and announced a quorum. This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021. No in-person meeting attendance will be permitted. If the Town is unable to live broadcast this meeting, a record of the proceedings will be provided on the Town website as soon as possible. The meeting may be viewed by: Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel 18), Livestream (livestream.brerwster-ma.gov), or Video recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov). 1.Public Announcements and Comment- none 2.Select Board Announcements and Liaison Reports - none 3.Town Administrator’s Report - none 4.Presentation and Vote on 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan (FY22-26) and Review of Spring 2022 Capital Project Recommendations – Capital Improvement Committee Peter Lombardi said over the past two years they developed a five-year Capital Plan. It took a considerable amount of work to get through that work. We typically go through the development and approval process in the winter months, and then in the summer leading up to fall special town meeting, the plan is adopted and then what has changed within the past 6 months. They bring most of the Capital requests to special town meeting and then the balance in the spring. Peter Lombardi then went into the new initiative to having the Budget information online in real time. We have the information loaded on the Open.gov platform. This is a hybrid product and will look very different once things are solidified. We realize it isn’t fully available for this year. For tonight, we will use the platform as we did last Wednesday. Any initiatives over $10,000 are included in the Capital Plan. Typically, our primary funding source for most of our Capital projects is from Free Cash. We generally try to target $1.75M and felt comfortable up to $2M, but no greater in any one fiscal year. This year was a little bit of an outlier, a record high Free Cash balance certified by the State at a little over $4.5M. Town Approved: VOTE: Select Board Joint with Finance Committee Minutes February 16, 2022 Page 2 of 7 Meeting appropriated $1.75M to help with the acquisition costs of the Sea Camps properties in September. In the fall, we received approval at Town Meeting to use $950,000 in Free Cash to fund our Capital needs then. In the spring, we are seeking to use $605,000 to cover Capital requests. Total Capital expenditures is just over $3.5M. That brings our Free Cash to just under $1M to close out FY22. The Select Board has a reserve policy that targets the closing balance between 2-2.5% of the FY Operating Budget. This will bring us in at just under 2.2%. May be a bit lower than the past several years, but historically, it has landed at 2.15-2.2%. So, we are right where we want to be going forward in a balanced and reasonable way. There are some very important disclaimers at the bottom of the plan. Just last month, we received the feasibility study for the potential consolidation of the elementary schools as part of their report, they identified another $4M in Capital needs for our two elementary schools that aren’t currently accounted for in their current five-year Capital Plan. They are not as part of the school consolidation plan, they are separate. Relative to our recent discussions to water quality planning and related initiatives. We had a report from our water quality consultant who identified between $20M-$30M in major future waste-water water quality initiatives. Those bigger expenses aren’t currently included in the plan. There are two capital requests associated with the Sea Camps properties over the next year or two. As we go along, we will have a much better idea of what those expenses will be and the additional projects we may be looking at in the coming year. Then Peter Lombardi said he would start at the top of the Plan and go department to department. He would cover the highlights, not line by line. All the yellow highlighted spots are Capital Requests – larger projects. In terms of the DPW, we try to purchase one larger item, such as the dump truck, and then several other smaller items each year. One of the things we did this year to balance the Capital Plan is with the L3 Loader at $225,000 - to push it out to FY26, but we may need to revisit this, as repairs for our current truck are costly as this is almost a 20-year-old vehicle. We are planning to seek reappropriation of funds from a previous Capital Article that we are not using, to have a site assessment done of the entire public works and recycling campus. The Facilities Department has two requests – Town Hall window replacements, and to get started, we know we need about $50,000 this spring. The other request is replacing Town Hall AC units at just over $10,000. Window units are less than ideal in terms of energy efficiency, but ultimately, there wasn’t enough significant return on investment with the cost of that project being close to $100,000. So, for now, we are looking to replace several very old window units. For the Library, the largest project is their full renovation, but that is budgeted for FY24 and FY26. In FY26, we have $4M+ awarded from State Grant Funding, but the queue of other libraries in front of us is long. So, in the meantime, we will keep it on the Capital Improvement Plan. We have one Capital Request for $30,000 to replace the elevator which is out of order frequently. Our estimate is approximately $300,000 for replacement work in FY23. Right now, the Town will use $20,000 in Free Cash for design work and the Library Association would contribute $10,000. And then the construction, $225,000 from Free Cash and $75,000 from the Library Association. There’s also some exterior work, painting, etc. for FY23/24 of $100,000 total. The bike trail extension has been pushed out to FY24/25. We still haven’t been able to identify a funding source for the project for the just under $2M pricing. We do have design plans that we worked with DCR on several years ago but haven’t been able to move forward. The Wing Island Boardwalk construction, we had approved the $50,000 this fall from Free Cash to cover a portion of the $130,000 for design and permitting. We got the $50,000 from the State and the $30,000 private donation. The overall project early estimates a little over $1M. We have received a pledge from the same private donor for $1M to cover the costs of construction. We did decide to use $100,000 in FY25 from CPA funds to cover the balance. Select Board Joint with Finance Committee Minutes February 16, 2022 Page 3 of 7 Peter Lombardi discussed how the Sea Camps Land acquisition wasn’t on the plan last year. The total debt and Free Cash appropriation is reflected in FY22. In FY23 and beyond, we have working assumptions based on covering those debt payments and our short-term debt obligations. For the purposes of this plan, we are assuming the Brewster Conservation Trust will be able to provide $1.75M in funding over the next 3-5 years to cover some of the costs and that Mass Audubon will contribute $1.5M, with the Water Department contributing a total of another $100,000 within the next 3 years. For the Sea Camps comprehensive planning, Town Meeting approved reappropriation of existing funds of $185,000 in the fall, and we plan on seeking another $75,000 in State Grant funding. We have our two near-term Sea Camps projects – the first is $100,000 to develop beach access on the Bay Property. We have design and permitting work to be done. We are anticipating using $100,000 in ARPA funding for that purpose. We will have more answers over the next several weeks. Our plan is for this beach to be resident-only. The next project is $200,000 for site remediation. We are planning to use ARPA funds to cover the start of that work. Lastly, on Drummer Boy Park construction, the total cost estimate is $1.5M for FY23 & FY25 - $500,000 of the total is anticipated to come from the Community Preservation Act funds and the rest will come from Free Cash. The first phase of construction is looking at improving access coming in, add more formal parking, and provide walkways. Then build the boardwalk out to Wing Island which will be a very popular destination and a big draw regionally. For the Nauset Regional High School project, the total cost as just under $132M. That isn’t Brewster’s share of course, but assuming the MSBA reimbursement comes in where we thought it would, the cost would come in at $95M with 50% based on our student enrollment population. That all remains to be seen, but they haven’t issued any of the long-term debt yet. It is our understanding that will be done in FY24. Selectperson Bingham asked if there were any questions from the Select Board. There were none. She handed the meeting to Finance Committee Chair Pete Dahl. Pete Dahl asked if the Finance Committee had any questions. Honey Pivirotto asked about the ARPA funds and if any of the guidelines have changed. Peter Lombardi answered that there were recent changes when the US Treasury issued its final rule. The major change there that gave us flexibility to use these funds as proposed is that the US Treasury changed their approach to revenue law and looked at municipalities and allowed them to claim up to $10M in revenue loss associated with the pandemic and to use ARPA funds for any general government services or projects. This gives us a lot of flexibility. Robert Tobias asked if the Stony Brook school boiler is to be converted from oil to gas and wondered if that design might consider electric heat pump technology. Peter Lombardi answered they have spoken to the Energy Committee and the plan is that once the funding is in hand, we will have a meeting with the School Committee, our Energy Committee, and Energy Manager to discuss final outcomes. Frank Bridges asked if there was gas going to the Stony Brook School itself. Peter Lombardi answered yes. Peter Lombardi said the Capital Planning Committee did meet and vote to approve of this plan as presented last week. Selectperson Chatelain MOVED to approve the Capital Planning as outlined in this presentation. Selectperson Whitney second. Roll Call Vote: Selectperson Hoffman – yes, Selectperson Whitney – yes, Selectperson Chatelain – yes, Select Board Chair Bingham – yes The Select Board voted: 4-yes 0-no Select Board Joint with Finance Committee Minutes February 16, 2022 Page 4 of 7 Chair Bill Schirmacher MOVED to adjourn the Capital Planning Committee Meeting at 7:38 PM. Peter Lombardi second. Roll Call Vote: Lisa Vitale – yes, Peter Lombardi – yes, Cynthia Caldwell – yes, Chair Schirmacher – yes The Capital Planning Committee voted: 4-yes 0-no 5.FY23 Budget Presentations (Select Board FY22-23 Strategic Plan Goal G-6) a.Human Resources b.Accounting - deferred c.Debt - deferred d.Town Administration/Select Board e.Employee Benefits & Pension/Retirement f.Liability Insurance g.Utilities h.All Others a.Human Resources, Director Susan Broderick presenting Susan Broderick went over some of the accomplishments over the last 8 months of the new Human Resources Department since it’s inception. They completed a Comprehensive Compensation and Classification Study, which hadn’t happened in over 10 years. Over the last 7-9 months, we have hired 14 new employees. They were able to hold several well-received trainings partnering with CCCC’s and had great feedback from staff that attended the trainings. They are working on several other trainings to come. They also want to work on developing contacts and relationships with some area colleges, alumni associations, and trade schools to help with resources for any openings and recruitment needs. Lastly, another goal is looking at developing an employee recognition program. In the FY22 budget there was a training and education line item at $5,000 and an OSHA and professional development line item for $13,000 for a total of $18,000. This year, we are requesting a total of $15,000 under one line item. We have been able to take advantage of free trainings from our insurance company. There is an increase in the recruitment line item as it is getting increasingly difficult to find experienced specialized municipal employees. This will require more outreach on our part, posting positions in some places where some will charge you to post. Even the Cape Cod Times has partnered with Zip Recruiter which has increased the cost of advertising. There are some upcoming retirements and there will be a need for posting those as well. No questions. d. Town Administration/Select Board, Town Administrator Peter Lombardi presenting Peter Lombardi said their budget has increased by about $72,000. It is misleading in two ways – 2/3rds of that increase is due to two positions that are coming online in our budget for next FY. The first is the Energy Manager which has been funded through a grant fund, and for FY23 and beyond, it will be covered by a portion of the revenues from lease agreements with the solar car ports from the golf course. They are looking to hire a new part-time administrative assistant that will work across Town Hall offices. We have departments of 2, 3, and 4. This position will provide coverage for phones, walk-ins, etc., wherever there is high-volume foot traffic. Secondly, Kathy and Tom are processing all their new bills, having no administrative support currently. Under Facilities, we have added management operations for the Sea Camps. We have taken it on at Town Hall and hopefully this person would help Select Board Joint with Finance Committee Minutes February 16, 2022 Page 5 of 7 with that as well. They may also be able to assist with digitization and scanning for Building, Health, and Planning. That’s our major staffing request. It is in our office but intended to be available for all departments. We are proposing increasing the professional services funding for next year, to give the office an ability to be nimble and be able to hire a consultant to help forward a particular project, etc. – to have a little more capacity to do that. We are decreasing our overtime budget, due to how staff spends their time in the office. We have another decrease in our Town Meeting line item – we do have ARPA funds available and feel this expense line can be reduced. No questions. e. Employee Benefits & Pension/ Retirement, Town Administrator Peter Lombardi presenting Peter Lombardi said he and Donna Kalinick would be trading off items. In terms of employee benefits, they are up in total by a little under $200,000 (5%). A major driver is increased Health Insurance costs. The golf and water departments carry their own share of Health Insurance in their budgets. We have almost fully implemented the classification and compensation plan but haven’t yet implemented for library employees or police personnel bylaw employees. We have a $40,000 line item in contractual obligations to fully implement for those employees. We see increases 8-10% in our assessments. Our assessments by the regional retirement board are going up by $93,000. This helps create some capacity this year. We pre-pay up front to get a benefit discount. No questions. f. Liability Insurance, Assistant Town Administrator Donna Kalinick presenting Donna Kalinick said our primary insurance agency is MIIA. We are covering a wide range of insurance needs in the town – our buildings, equipment, automobiles. Our liability insurance and our worker’s compensation have a component of coverage related to worker’s compensation related to Police and Fire as well. We also have some specialty coverages – marina liability, drone coverage, bond insurance. We do meet with MIIA every year, review coverage, necessary changes, new potential areas of insurances, thoroughly going through all coverages each year. We participate in their rewards program which provides a percentage discount on all policies – it’s a win/win to participate in that program. We apply for a MIIA grant. We have been awarded that for the past several years. We have purchased an extra safety trailer; we are purchasing much needed radios for the golf department through those funds. It is up to $10,000 each year. We also take advantage of an early pay discount. We haven’t received our official rates yet – for purposes of budgeting, we are carrying a 3% increase on the overall coverages. In addition, there is $50,000 in insurance coverage for the Cape Sea Camps properties. Just as with pension and health insurance, the insurance for Golf and Water is allocated to those departments and they pay through their department’s budgets. Selectperson Hoffmann agrees with everyone who really likes the new format – so easy to use. She asked what MIIA stands for. Donna Kalinick answered - Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Agency. Bill Henchy asked Donna Kalinick what drone coverage is? She answered the Fire Department has a drone that they use for emergency safety and recovery purposes and a couple of Town functions. You are required to have insurance and be licensed to operate a drone. Robert Tobias asked where Cyber is and did we drop coverage as Umbrella went to zero? Donna Kalinick said Umbrella coverage is incorporated into liability coverage. We have been trying to streamline our line items for accounting purposes. The cyber liability coverage is included in our MIIA coverage package. Select Board Joint with Finance Committee Minutes February 16, 2022 Page 6 of 7 g. Utilities, Assistant Town Administrator Donna Kalinick presenting This covers our electricity, natural gas, fuel oil, postage, telephone and communications, diesel and gasoline, and systems and repairs mostly related to telephone or gas systems. Some of the major drivers are from the Select Board meeting with Cape Light Compact, talking about the increase in electric rates. Because we get our electricity through them, the impact is a little less than what the public is seeing. We have carried a 6% increase based on their advice. The communications/telephone has an increase of $10,000 based on our prior year actuals. We have had a need for an increase in communications because of remote work and the pandemic. Our fuel oil, gasoline, and diesel are all bid through Barnstable County. Gasoline and diesel is one of the biggest bids in all counties – we are proposing a 3% increase. It could be more than 3%, but we won’t know just yet. The buying power of the town does help us keep this number low. Postage has gone up and with the initiatives to increase voting by mail, the Town Clerk’s office has been doing a lot more mailings and getting notices out. We are also incorporating the costs of the utilities at the Sea Camps properties with our utilities budget. We have been looking at what is already in place and how we can decrease some of the services going forward. Hopefully in the next 6 months we will have more details on the usage in the Sea Camps. Robert Tobias asked about the electricity line item – is this for all the town’s properties and departments other than golf and water? Donna Kalinick said there are other departments such as Fire and DPW which carry a line item for electricity in their own budgets. h.All others, Town Administrator Peter Lombardi, Assistant Town Administrator Donna Kalinick, and Project Manager Conor Kenny presenting The Health and Human Services Committee recommended a total decrease in funding of 6.1% for FY23.The Fuel Assistance Budget is level funded. The FY22 Budget was temporarily inflated by $5000 to help keep the Nauset Youth Alliance afloat during the pandemic. The FY23 recommendation is temporarily deflated due to the Gosnold Agency deciding not to reapply for all $12,000 in funding. They have decided not to apply for any funding from all Health and Human Services Committees across the Cape. Generally, the Health and Human Services Committee recommends a total funding increase of 2.5% each year. They said they would plan to use that baseline for next year. The Committee set aside last year’s $5000 for the Youth Alliance, level funding for 7 out of 16 agencies that re-applied, and increased funding for 9 for an average increase of 8% across all applicants. Local funding: Brewster Chamber of Commerce $27,000 Town Band $3500 Skippers Program $4500 All level funded for FY23 Local Cultural Council – receives money from state and local funding of $1,000 – this is level funding. However, this amount was increased in FY21 at the request of the Cultural Council to give them a little more capacity. We have kept it there going forward. Alewives Committee – helps to pay stipends for herring run wardens and site for $4,350 - level funded. Mill Sites Committee – their events were cut back because of the pandemic; but this year, they were able to do a few events. This stipend provides supplies to the Miller and supplies to run the mill and grind corn at host events and make minor repairs at the property for $4,000 - level funded. We did have Select Board Joint with Finance Committee Minutes February 16, 2022 Page 7 of 7 significant help from AmeriCorps this year cleaning out the Mill Sites. It looked great. We also have a very dedicated volunteer core who maintains the beauty of this site. Assessments – Peter Lombardi said these are figures that do not have discretion built into them. 2.5% increase for our County Assessment – the regional services provided by county government. State Aid as a revenue source and offsets on the expense side, our assessments will decrease by a little under $13,000 for the coming fiscal year. Pleasant Bay alliance covers cost with participation in the alliance working with officials to comply with the Pleasant Bay Watershed permit. It has staff support in place to lead and coordinate the regional effort. There is a small increase of a little under $1,000. Greenhead Fly assessment – we are assuming it is level funded but won’t have the details for a month or two. Old Kings Highway Historic District assessment to cover expenses associated with review of any projects within the Old King’s Highway District. There is a 2% estimated increase for FY23. Sealer of Weights and Measures – a regional program with an annual 2.5% increase. No questions on the presentation. 6.Finance Committee Liaison Assignments to Sea Camps Planning Committees Pete Dahl said he would make this brief. His assignments are: Bay Property, Bill Meehan Pond Property, Bill Henchy Thanks to both members who will be working on this long-term. 7. Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair- none 8. Questions from the Media - none 9.Next Meeting: February 28 (FY23 School Budgets) joint with Finance Committee 10. Adjournment Bill Meehan MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 8:53 PM. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes. The Committee voted: 8-yes 0-no Bob Young left the meeting before the vote was taken. Selectperson Chaffee MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 8:54 PM. Selectperson Chatelain second. Roll Call Vote: Selectperson Chaffee – yes, Selectperson Hoffman – yes, Selectperson Whitney – yes, Selectperson Chatelain – yes, Select Board Chair Bingham – yes The Select Board voted: 5-yes 0-no Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine Packet of supporting materials on the website for public review. Finance Committee Minutes March 9, 2022 Page 1 of 6 TOWN OF BREWSTER FINANCE COMMITTEE Date: March 9, 2022 Time: 6:00 PM VIRTUAL MEETING MINUTES Present: Chair Pete Dahl, Vice Chair Frank Bridges, Clerk Bill Meehan, Robert Tobias, Alex Hopper, William Henchy, Andy Evans Also present: Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator; Mimi Bernardo, Finance Director; Donna Kalinick, Assistant Town Administrator Absent: Honey Pivirotto; Bob Young The Chair called the meeting to order at 6:01 pm and announced a quorum. This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021. No in-person meeting attendance will be permitted. If the Town is unable to live broadcast this meeting, a record of the proceedings will be provided on the Town website as soon as possible. The meeting may be viewed by: Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel 18), Livestream (livestream.brerwster-ma.gov), or Video recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov). 1.Public Announcements and Comment- none 2.Town Administrator/Finance Director Report Peter Lombardi said we will be meeting with Nauset School Committee and Nauset representatives on Wednesday, March 23rd with a 7PM start. It looks like they will be presenting to Orleans earlier that night. 3.Town Meeting Warrant Articles – Discussion and Vote Article 1 – Cape Cod Technical High School Operating Budget Article 5 (not 6) – Town Operating Budget Article 10 (not 11) – Capital and Special Projects Expenditures Article 1 – Cape Cod Technical High School Operating Budget $1,665,094 Pete said we have had a comprehensive presentation on this budget. Bill Meehan said given the amount of increase, we can expect questions at Town Meeting. Pete said the budget was kept at a very reasonable 1% increase over the previous year. Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 1 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Approved: VOTE: Finance Committee Minutes March 9, 2022 Page 2 of 6 Article 5 – Town Operating Budget General Government $2,933,946 Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 5, Town Operating Budget, General Government as presented in the Warrant for $2,933,946. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Public Safety $6,929,969 Bill Henchy spoke on the Training line item for the Police Department. The interactions our citizens have with the police are critical to how we are received by people as a town. He recognizes what is in the budget, is probably ample, but he remembers Chief Eldridge’s statement, that he can make it work. The police are called on to make quick decisions about complicated questions every day. He would be in favor of doubling that line item to $30,000 as a suggestion. Pete said to leave Public Safety there, and we will move on for now. Peter Lombardi wanted to mention for the Police Budget, that total figure is higher than what was presented in February. The library union and Police personnel bylaw employees were the two groups where we hadn’t finalized the employee compensation and classification study yet. We had money in the employee benefits for contractual obligations that would move to those departments. We have completed them now. So that total is a little higher to cover their new wage scale. Pete said this seemed to be the amount requested and if there were additional training funds needed, they could request a transfer from the Reserve Fund. Peter Lombardi said that Brewster has put in place relative to accreditation. The first step is certification where Brewster has achieved State certification and will work toward accreditation. We already have some pretty significant systems in place and trainings in place relative to liability in terms of police interactions with our residents. We feel like the training budget amount requested is consistent with the needs of the department. Bill Henchy MOVED to amend the Police Department budget by increasing the training line item by $15,000. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – no, Bill Meehan – no, Robert Tobias – no, Andy Evans – no, Alex Hopper – no, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– no The Committee voted: 1-yes 6-no Bill Henchy MOVED to approve Public Safety as presented in the Warrant for $6,929,969. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Peter said with the new Police reform legislation, there may well be an increase in future years. It is a fair point to bring up. Pete said he appreciates what Bill Henchy had to say. Bill Henchy thanked everyone for their consideration. Finance Committee Minutes March 9, 2022 Page 3 of 6 Public Works $2,359,847 Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 5; Public Works as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Human Services $927,929 Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 5; Human Services in the amount of $927,929 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Culter and Recreation $971,769 Peter Lombardi said this is another area where we were waiting for the pay scale for the library employees to be finalized. We had been carrying $40,000 total for both Police and Library with approx. $13,000 to Ladies Library salaries and $23,000 to Police. Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 5; Culture and Recreation in the amount of $971,769 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Debt Service $3,321,898 Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 5; Debt Service in the amount of $3,321,898 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Insurance, Utilities, and Fringe Benefits $5,555,014 Peter Lombardi said this was also a change as they increased general insurance by $10,000 because they budgeted $50,000 for liability insurance for the Sea Camps property. Our plan for this summer is to develop parking on the tennis courts that are adjacent to the boathouse and the dune. There will be a handful of other one-off events. We don’t know yet what our increased insurance will be, but in the meantime, we felt it prudent to increase that line item by $10,000. Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 5; Insurance, Utilities, and Fringe Benefits in the amount of $5,555,014 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Finance Committee Minutes March 9, 2022 Page 4 of 6 Other $1,115,621 Peter Lombardi said the earlier presentation back in February proposed a higher appropriation amount to Capital Stabilization. Since that time, we have talked with the Select Board about funding our water quality initiatives. We agreed to bring an Article to Town Meeting to create a new Water Quality Stabilization Fund. And we are proposing to allocate 15% of our projected Short Term Rental revenues for FY23 to that new fund. That is a new line item of $112,500. We decreased our proposed appropriation to Capital Stabilization accordingly. Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 5; Other Operating Expenses and Assessments in the amount of $1,115,621 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Bill Meehan MOVED to approve the entire Operating Budget for the Town of Brewster under Article 5 in the amount of $24,115,992 as presented in the Warrant to be raised and appropriated. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Article 10 – Capital and Special Projects Expenditures Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 10, Section 1 Select Board in the amount of $150,000 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 10; Section 2 Elementary School Department in the amount of $125,000 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 10; Section 3 Nauset Regional School District in the amount of $271,782 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 10; Section 4 Natural Resources in the amount of $250,000 as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Finance Committee Minutes March 9, 2022 Page 5 of 6 Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 10; Section 5 Water Department in the amount of $268,000 to be sources from retained water earnings as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 10; Section 6 Public Works the amount of $70,000; Section 7 Facilities in the amount of $60,500 to be funded from General Fund Free Cash; and Section 8 Library in the amount of $30,000 to be funded from General Fund Free Cash as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Peter Lombardi said the boiler project (1st & 2nd) for the golf department - they have been working with design engineers and they have both come in higher than expected and presented in the Capital Plan. We increased the appropriation by $35,000; and the clubhouse door replacement came in significantly higher as well so the appropriations to be increased from $150,000 to $190,000. Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 10; Section 9 Golf Department in the amount of $395,000 to be funded through Golf Reserves. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 10 of the Warrant, the grand total amount of $1,620,282 to be funded from various sources as presented in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no 4.Nauset Regional Public Schools Budget – Discussion and Strategic Direction The meeting has been scheduled for March 23rd starting at 7PM as joint with Select Board 5.Budget Calendar – Update The above meeting is the only update 6.Liaison Reports Bill Meehan appreciated the Golf Annual Report – it was a banner year. In any metric, it will be a hard act to follow. It is a healthy operation, and it gets healthier each day. He appreciated the Finance Team forming a Capital Stabilization Fund for Golf. It will make all the difference in the world. Pete said with respect to Golf, the biggest issue is already on the Warrant – bringing Golf in as an Enterprise Fund formally. Finance Committee Minutes March 9, 2022 Page 6 of 6 7. Review and Approval of Minutes - defer 8. Request for agenda items for future meetings – please email Pete 9. Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair- none 10. Next Finance Committee Meetings- March 16, 2022 & March 23, 2022 11. Adjournment Bill Meehan MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 6:58 PM. Frank Bridges second. Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes. The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no Robert Tobias left the meeting before the vote was taken. Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine