HomeMy Public PortalAboutCPC packet 032724Town of Brewster
Community Preservation Committee
2198 Main St., Brewster, MA 02631
cpcmeeting@brewster-ma.gov
(508) 896-3701
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA
2198 Main Street
March 27, 2024 at 4:00 PM
This meeting will be conducted in person at the time and location identified above. This means that at least a quorum of the
members of the public body will attend the meeting in person and members of the public are welcome to attend in person as
well. As a courtesy only, access to the meeting is also being provided via remote means in accordance with applicable
law. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the
public, the meeting/hearing will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual
broadcast or affect remote attendance or participation, unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with
particular interest in any specific item on this agenda, which includes an applicant and its representatives, should make plans
for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly.
Phone: Call (312) 626 6799 or (301) 715-8592. Webinar ID: 837 7728 4808 Passcode:326439
To request to speak: Press *9 and wait to be recognized.
ZoomWebinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83777284808?pwd=NjB3WldRTGRxb0l0WXhIS1J0Y1NOQT09
Passcode:326439
To request to speak: Tap Zoom “Raise Hand”, then wait to be recognized.
When required by law or allowed by the Chair, persons wishing to provide public comment or otherwise participate in the
meeting, may do so by accessing the meeting remotely, as noted above. Additionally, the meeting will be broadcast live, in real
time, via Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel 18), Livestream (livestream.brewster-ma.gov), or Video
recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov).
Please note that the CPC may take official action, including votes, on any item on this agenda.
1.Call to Order
2.Declaration of a Quorum
3.Meeting participation statement
4.Recording Statement: As required by the Open Meeting Law we are informing you that the
Town will be video and audio taping as well as broadcasting this public meeting. In addition, if
anyone else intends to either video or audio tape this meeting they are required to inform the
chair.
5.Public Announcements and Comment: Members of the public may address the CPC on
matters not on the meeting’s agenda for a maximum of 3-5 minutes at the Chair’s discretion.
The CPC will not reply to statements made or answer questions raised during public
comment but may add items presented to a future agenda.
6.Financial Update
7.Recap of warrant article presentations to Select Board and Finance Committee
8.Review of revisions to Project Listing spreadsheet
9.Project Updates
10.Approval of Minutes
11.Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair
12.Announcements
13.Next Meeting: April 10, 2024 at 4 PM
14.Adjournment
Date Posted:Date Revised:Received by Town Clerk:
Community
Preservation
Committee
Sarah Robinson
Chair
Faythe Ellis
Vice Chair
Sharon Marotti
Treasurer
Elizabeth Taylor
Clerk
Roland Bassett, Jr.
Christine Boucher
Bruce Evans
Peggy Jablonski
Paul Ruchinskas
CPC Assistant
Beth Devine
Community Preservation Committee: FY24 Forecast as of 12/6/2023
3,624,053$
1,223,691$
358,153$ 1,581,844$ 0
1,581,844$
Pre FY24 FY24
10%10%10%
Open Space Housing Historical
$ 2,002,817 $ 144,789 $ 301,854 $ 1,174,593 3,624,053.22$
$ 158,184 $ 158,184 $ 158,184 $ 1,107,291 1,581,844.03$
$ 2,161,001 $ 302,973 $ 460,039 $ 1,174,593 $ 1,107,291 5,205,897.25$
Open Space Housing Historical
$ (49,050)
$ (94,400)
$ (46,183)
(79,092)$
Spring 2024 Town Meeting Approved
(70,580)$
107 Main St, Orleans (55,000)$
Juniper Hill, Wellfleet (55,000)$
FORWARD Phase 2 (125,000)$
Accessible Outdoor Furniture (9,670)$
Millstone Road - POAH (507,500)$
Buydown Program - Housing Trust (255,000)$
(1,346,475)$
3,859,422.04$
Total YTD Obligations - fy24 $ (189,633) $ - $ - $ (1,077,750) $ (79,092)
$ 1,971,368 $ 302,973 $ 460,039 $ 96,843 $ 1,028,199 3,859,422.04$
Total net available from all accounts
[5] Allocated funds from the revised funding allocation method voted on at town meeting in the Spring of 2023. New allocation is 70% for Undesignated Fund Balance
[1] Balance forwarded estimated from prior year includes all unallocated funds, including unspent amounts from projects and budgeted administrative and professional
{4{ Balance forwarded for all unallocated funds in the previous "Budgeted for Unreserved Funds" account, which contained funds using the Pre-FY24
allocation method
(2) State Match revenue is projected at 30%
[3] Administrative expenses are limited by law to 5% of the total CPC budget and include primarily payroll costs, legal and other professional
Coalition dues.
Undesignated Fund
Balance [5]
FY-23 Actual Unreserved Fund Balance with Original
Match(4)
FY-24 Estimated revenue
fy24 Estimated Unreserved Fund Balance as of 12/6/23
with Adjustments
FY-24 obligations as of 12/6/23
BBJ Property Bond #1
BBJ Property Bond #2
Bates Property Bond
Administration Expense [3]
Housing Coordinator
FY-24 Estimated Funds available
FY-23 Estimated total balance forwarded [1]:
FY-24 Estimated local tax revenue:
FY-24 Estimated State contribution [2]:
Total FY-24 Estimated funds available:
Undesignated Fund
Balance [4]
BONDS
BONDS
Community Preservation Committee: FY25 Forecast as of 12/20/2023
3,859,422$
1,254,283$
250,857$ 1,505,140$
1,505,140$
Pre FY24 FY24
10%10%10%
Open Space Housing Historical
$ 1,971,368 $ 302,973 $ 460,039 $ 96,843 $ 1,028,199 3,859,422.04$
$ 150,514 $ 150,514 $ 150,514 $ 1,053,598 1,505,140.08$
$ 2,121,882 $ 453,487 $ 610,553 $ 96,843 $ 2,081,797 5,364,562.13$
Open Space/Rec Housing Historical
$ (47,025)
$ (90,800)
$ (44,783)
(75,257)$
Spring Town Meeting Submitted
Housing Coordinator -74589
Cape Housing Institute -20000
Finch Skateboard Park -7500
Schoolhouse #3 -148400
Total YTD Obligations - fy25 $ (190,108) $ - $ (148,400) $ (94,589) $ (75,257)(508,354.00)$
$ 1,931,774 $ 453,487 $ 462,153 $ 2,254 $ 2,006,540 4,856,208.12$
Total net available from all accounts
[5] Allocated funds from the revised funding allocation method voted on at town meeting in the Spring of 2023. New allocation is 70% for Undesignated Fund Balance
FY-24 Estimated total balance forwarded [1]:
FY-25 Estimated local tax revenue:
FY-25 Estimated State contribution [2]:
Total FY-24 Estimated funds available:
Bates Property Bond
Undesignated Fund
Balance [4]
Undesignated Fund
Balance [5]
FY-24 Actual Unreserved Fund Balance with Original
Match(4)
FY-25 Estimated revenue distribution
FY-25 Estimated Funds available
FY-25 obligations as of 12/6/23
BBJ Property Bond #1
BBJ Property Bond #2
{4{ Balance forwarded for all unallocated funds in the previous "Budgeted for Unreserved Funds" account, which contained funds using the Pre-
FY24 allocation method
Administration Expense [3]
FY25 Estimated Unreserved Fund Balance as of 12/6/2023
with Adjustments
[1] Balance forwarded estimated from prior year includes all unallocated funds, including unspent amounts from projects and budgeted administrative and professional
(2) State Match revenue is projected at 20%
[3] Administrative expenses are limited by law to 5% of the total CPC budget and include primarily payroll costs, legal and other professional
Coalition dues.
BONDS
BONDS
Warrant Projects by CPA Category Open Space Housing Historical Recreation
Admin/Undesignate
d (4 categories)Revenue Assumption
FY24 Spring TM approved 305,580$ 9,670$ 79,092$ 1,531,897$
FY24 Fall TM approved 762,500$
FY25 Spring Applications 94,589$ 148,400$ 7,500$ 74653 1,493,052$
FY25 Fall
FY26 Spring
FY26 Fall
FY27 Spring
FY27 Fall
Totals -$ 1,162,669$ 148,400$ 17,170$ 153,745$ 3,024,949$
% of revenue 0%38%5%1%5%
Target %30%30%10%10%20%
Description Notes Open Space Housing Historical Recreation
Unallocated
Reserve - Historic,
Rec, Housing
Unallocated
Reserve - all Admin
Carryover
EOY FY22 1,556,879$ 45,370$ 500,351$ 757,756$
Bond expenseFY23-27 (819,837)$
Net amount (A)737,042$ 45,370$ 500,351$ 757,756$ 2,040,519$
Revenue EOY FY23 50/10/10/25/5 906,595$ 181,319$ 181,319$ 472,422$ 71,535$ 1,813,189$
EOY FY24 30/30/10/10/15/5 543,957$ 543,957$ 181,319$ 181,319$ 271,978$ 76,595$ 1,531,897$
FY25 TAP 30/30/10/10/15/5 459,569$ 459,569$ 153,190$ 153,190$ 229,785$ 74,653$ 1,493,052$
FY26 TAP 30/30/10/10/15/5 447,916$ 447,916$ 149,305$ 149,305$ 223,958$ 76,519$ 1,530,378$
FY27 TAP 30/30/10/10/15/5 459,113$ 459,113$ 153,038$ 153,038$ 229,557$ 78,432$ 1,568,638$
Subtotal (B)2,817,149$ 2,091,874$ 818,171$ 636,852$ 472,422$ 955,277$ 377,733$ 7,937,154$
TOTAL available for projects A + B 3,554,191$ 2,137,244$ 1,318,522$ 636,852$ 1,230,178$ 955,277$ 377,733$9,977,673$
36%21%13%6%12%10%4%
Notes:1. Annual Revenue increase estimated at 2.5% - to be updated once actual revenue calculated
2. New Allocation targets applied to begin with FY24 revenue.
4. Open Space debt expense FY23-28 deducted from carryover revenue
5. Therefore, Open Space TAP calculated based on same annual revenue estimate as other categories
TARGET ALLOCATION POLICY TRACKING FY24-FY27 (12/20/23)
BACKGROUND ASSUMPTIONS/ CPC BUDGET PROJECTIONS
02/14/2024 Page 1 of 6
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT FUNDING (Annual Town Meeting)
ARTICLE NO.x : To see if the Town will vote to act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on
the Fiscal Year 2025 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 FY25
a. Estimated FY25 tax surcharge $1,254,583
b. Estimated FY25 state contribution (20%) $ 250,857
c. FY25 Estimated Total: $1,505,140
FY25 Appropriations and Allocations
a. Historic Preservation Reserve appropriation (10%) $150,514
b. Community Housing Reserve appropriation (10%) $150,514
c. Open Space/Recreation Reserve appropriation (10%) $150,514
d. Budgeted Reserve (65%) $978,341
e. Administrative Expense (Budgeted Reserve) ( 5%) $ 75,257
f. Designated Reserves for Open Space $32,094
g. Undesignated Fund Balance $102,089
h. Total $1,639,323
Purpose Item Funding Source(s) Amount
1 Historic Preservation
a.Designated Reserves for
Historic Preservation
Transfer to reserve
from estimated annual
revenues in accordance
with G.L. c.44B, §6
Fiscal Year 2025 CPA
estimated annual
revenues
$150,514
Sub-total $150,514
2 Community Housing
a.Designated reserves for
Housing
Transfer to reserve
from estimated annual
revenues in accordance
with G.L. c.44B, §6
Fiscal Year 2025 CPA
estimated annual
revenues
$150,514
Sub-total $150,514
3 Open Space/Recreation
a. Community
Preservation Bonded
Debt Service
Payment of debt
principal and interest
for the BBJ Property,
and Bates Property
bonds
$150,514 from Fiscal
Year 2025 CPA estimated
annual revenues and
$32,094 from Designated
Reserves for Open Space
$182,608
Sub-total $182,608
02/14/2024 Page 2 of 6
4 Budgeted Reserve
a.Administration Expense Administration and
operating expenses for
Community
Preservation
Committee
Fiscal Year 2025 CPA
estimated annual
revenues
$75,257
b. Designated for
Budgeted Reserve
Transfer to reserve
from estimated annual
revenues in accordance
with G.L. c.44B, §6
Fiscal Year 2025 CPA
estimated annual
revenues
$978,341
Sub-total $1,053,598
5 Undesignated Fund Balance
a. Community
Development
Partnership (CDP)
2 Years of funding for
Cape Housing Institute
Undesignated Balance
CPA Reserves
$20,000
b.Town of Brewster
Administration-
Housing Coordinator
Payroll and operating
costs for Part Time
Housing Coordinator
position to assist public
with affordable
housing program
Undesignated Balance
CPA Reserves
$74,589
c.Nauset Together We
Can Prevention Council,
Inc.
Renovations to Finch
Skateboard Park in
Orleans
$7,500 from
Undesignated Balance
CPA reserves
$7,500
Sub-total $102,089
Grand Total $1,639,323
For Fiscal Year 2025 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 10% Open Space/Recreation,
10% Housing, 10% Historical and 70% for Budgeted Reserve for CPA.
Or to take any other action relative thereto.
02/14/2024 Page 3 of 6
(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 (CPA). 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 2025, which is projected at 20%. In Fall 2022 Brewster adopted, through a local
bylaw, a distribution schedule for the annual CPA funds beginning in FY24 as follows: 10% of the funds for
open space and recreation, 10% for community housing, 10% for historic preservation, and the 70%
undesignated reserve balance is available for any CPA eligible project. The 2022 bylaw also established a non-
binding 2023-2027 Target Allocation Policy as follows: 30% for Open Space, 30% for community housing, 10%
historic preservation, 10% recreation, and 20% for any CPA eligible project.
At the beginning of FY24, Reserve balances were as follows:
Historic Preservation $ 460,039
Affordable Housing $ 302,973
Open Space and Recreation $1,971,368
Undesignated Reserve $1,125,042
1. Historic Preservation:
a. Designated Reserves for Historic Preservation – This item transfers money from FY25 estimated annual
revenues to the Historic Preservation reserve for future appropriation to meet the minimum 10% statutory
allocation.
2. Community Housing:
a. Designated Reserves for Community Housing – This item transfers money from FY25 estimated annual
revenues to the Community Housing reserve for future appropriation to meet the minimum 10% statutory
allocation.
3. Open Space:
a. Community Preservation Bonded Debt Service- This item pays for the $182,608 in FY 2025 principal and
interest on 3 CPA (BBJ 1 and 2 and Bates) open space acquisitions that were financed via long term bonding.
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.
b. Designated for Budgeted Reserve - This item transfers money from FY25 estimated annual revenues to the
Budgeted Reserve for future appropriation to meet the minimum statutory allocation.
5.Undesignated Balance/CPA Reserves:
02/14/2024 Page 4 of 6
a. Community Development Partnership (CDP) – Lower Cape Housing Institute - The CDP’s Lower Cape
Housing Institute is one of three components of Lower Cape Community Housing Partnership (LCCHP). The
LCCHP harnesses the urgency to address the deepening housing crisis by providing opportunities for business
owners, low-moderate income households, historically marginalized communities and year round residents to
advocate for housing production and related policies at annua town meetings. Since 2017, the CDP has
offered an annual Lower Cape Housing Institute (LCHI) to educate at least 40 local elected and appointed
officials, per year, from the eight towns on the Lower Cape including the town of Brewster. Over the past six
years, 306 Lower and Outer Cape individuals have attended the LCHI, including 45 from Brewster. Through
quality training, peer-to-peer learning and technical assistance, the LCHI builds municipal capacity to address
the housing needs of Brewster residents. Brewster voters have supported funding for LCHI since its inception.
This item will fund years 8 and 9 of the LCHI.
Total project cost: $652,337 Funding requested: $20,000 CPC vote: 7-0-0
b. 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 Brewster 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 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 FY25 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. Our housing program continues to be a partnership of many town entities.
Total Project Cost: $ 114,599 CPC Request: $ 74,589 CPC Vote: 8-0-0
c.Nauset Together We Can – Finch Skatepark Safety Improvements -
The Finch Skatepark in Orleans provides a thriving social hub for the Lower Cape skateboard community. The
park was established through a grass roots community effort in 1995 and has been volunteer managed for
more than 25 years by Nauset Together We Can -- a 501c3 whose goal is to develop and implement solutions
to prevent high-risk social behaviors in our youth. Although the towns of Brewster, Eastham and Orleans
provide small amounts of funding for day-to-day operations of the park, all funding for the park’s
infrastructure comes from grants and private donations. This award will be used for funding of safety
upgrades to the current electrical service and several existing ramp features in order to keep the park open
and available to its many users.
Total Project Cost: $31,300 CPC Request: $7,500 CPC Vote: 7-0-0
02/14/2024 Page 5 of 6
2/19/24 Please note: This item has not yet been voted on by the CPC. Scheduled to be on the
committee’s 2/28/24 agenda
ARTICLE NO. XX:
CONSERVATION RESTRICTION ACQUISITION: O MAIN STREET
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to acquire a perpetual conservation restriction under
MGL Ch. 184, Secs. 31 through 33, on a parcel of land designated on Brewster Assessors' Map 126 as Parcel 4,
5 and 9 located at 0 Main Street, and a portion of the parcel currently designated on the Brewster Assessors' Map
1 14, Parcel 60 located at the rear of 3571 Main Street in Brewster, Barnstable County, Massachusetts, consisting
of 12.36 acres as shown on a plan of land entitled, "Survey and Plan of Land in Brewster, Mass, as claimed by
Washington E. & Mary F Chase, Scale I in = 60 ft. March 10, 1989, East Cape Engineering, Orleans MA." and
recorded in the Barnstable County Registry of Deeds as Plan Book 459, Page 75, and as more particularly shown
as Lot 2 and Lot 3 on a plan of land entitled, " Lot Study Sketch for Property at 3571 Main St, Brewster, MA
02631 Prepared for Brewster Conservation Trust, Scale 1 in. = 80 ft, July 3, 2023, Soule Land Surveying." a copy
of which is on file with the Brewster Town Clerk; to acquire interests in said parcel by gift, purchase and/or
eminent domain taking under MGL Ch. 79, or any other enabling authority; to acquire said conservation
restriction for conservation and passive recreation purposes for the general public, consistent with the provisions
of MGL Ch. 40 Sec. 8C and Article 97 of the Amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, and in compliance with MGL Ch. 44B, Sec. 12(a), protecting the property for the purposes for
which it is acquired; to transfer from available funds, including, without limitation, the Community Preservation
Fund, the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($225,000.00) to pay costs of this
acquisition, and all other costs incidental and related thereto; further, to authorize the Conservation Commission
to assume the monitoring and enforcement authority of the conservation restriction on the property; and to
authorize the Select Board and Conservation Commission to enter into all agreements and execute any and all
instruments as may be necessary on behalf of the municipality to effect this purchase and obtain reimbursement
funding;
Or to take any other action relative thereto.
(Community Preservation Committee)( Majority Vote Required)
March 3,2024:CPA Update is the Coalition's periodic roundup of news,success stories,and
important updates on the Community Preservation Act.
It's FY25 Budget Season:
So How is the CPA Trust Fund Looking?
This time of year, there's usually one question on
everyone's mind: is there any guidance on the
upcoming CPA Trust Fund distribution?
In prior years, the Department of Revenue has
provided an official CPA Trust Fund estimate to
municipalities in the spring. In 2023, all eligible CPA
cities and towns received a base match of 21%, but
based on recent collection trends at the state’s Registries of Deeds, the
distribution in November 2024 is almost assuredly going to be lower than
last year. In addition, several new CPA communities will be eligible for their
first distribution this year. Because of these two factors, the Coalition
expects that revenue from the CPA Trust Fund will result in a match below
20% in November.
We've reached out to DOR about the timing of this year's budget memo,
and we will update CPA communities as soon as more information is
available. As we await further guidance, it's clear that communities should
remain conservative with their CPA budget estimates this year.
Year-End CPA Financial Reports Now Online!
DOR Database Brings Increased Transparency for CPA
Until now, there wasn't an easy way
to obtain the year-end CPA financial
statements for each CPA community
(known as the "CP-2 report").
Responding to a long-standing
request from the Coalition to make
this information publicly accessible,
the staff at the Department of
Revenue's Data Analytics and
Resources Bureau has just
launched a new database of
these annual CP-2 Reports.
The CP-2 presents an accounting of all CPA revenues and expenditures in
each funding category, including the year-end balance in each community's
various CPA accounts, administrative expenditures, interest earned, and
more. Surprisingly, very few municipalities have traditionally provided a
copy of this form to the local Community Preservation Committee.
Now that this information is easily accessible online, we encourage local
CPC's to check their community's information - as well as confirm the
following:
Is your community completing the CP-2 each
year? According to our contacts at DOR, some municipalities
have neglected to submit their CP-2 report by the October 31st
deadline. If information is missing for your community, you'll
want to contact your local finance department to find out why.
Are your CPA funds receiving interest? The CPA legislation
requires that any interest earned on cash sitting in a
community’s CPA fund must be credited back to the fund. The
new DOR database makes it easy to confirm that your
community's CPA program is being credited with this interest!
View the New Public CP-2 Report Database
It's Time for Another CPA Bootcamp!
Webinar in May - More Details Coming Soon
If you're looking for a refresher course on
CPA, we've got good news! This spring,
the Coalition staff will be bringing back
our popular "CPA Bootcamp" webinar.
We're planning to hold an updated
version of our virtual training session in
May - keep an eye out for registration
details in the coming weeks.
"CPA Bootcamp" is a one-hour virtual
webinar that provides a condensed
version of our full Community
Preservation Committee training,
including a live Q&A segment for attendees. While the focus of this webinar
will be on orienting new CPC members, veteran committee members and
municipal staff that would like a refresher course on CPA are welcome to
attend.
Housing and Conservation Working Together:
How to be Allies, Not Adversaries!
Anyone working on CPA understands that
it's more important than ever for land
conservationists and housing advocates
to work together as partners. As we
highlighted in our coverage of last
year's MassLand Conference keynote
speech, it's critical that advocates
across different CPA funding categories
collaborate on local initiatives.
With that in mind, we wanted to share a
new report from The Land Trust Alliance,
titled "Breaking Ground: An
Affordable Housing Resource Guide
for Land Trusts." According to their
website, "the purpose of this report is to
provide a strong foundation for land
trusts to gain literacy in the world of affordable housing, while encouraging
cross-movement collaboration." For CPA advocates across the state
working to balance the different needs of their communities, we encourage
you to download a copy!
Click Here to Download a Copy of "Breaking Ground"
at the Land Trust Alliance Website
CPA Success Story:
Lowell Protects Rollie's Farm with $1.5M in CPA Funds
First impressions can count for
a lot, and the same can be said
for CPA when it comes to a
community’s first completed
project. An impressive “CPA
debut” can signal to residents
that their investment into
community preservation efforts
is worthwhile, as well as setting
the tone for what other
successes await in the future.
Shortly after the city of Lowell
adopted the CPA program in
2021, an amazing opportunity was presented to the local Community
Preservation Committee to save a piece of property known as Rollie’s
Farm.
This 20-acre farm had been owned by the same family for 70 years, and
while Lowell had once been the home to a variety of agricultural properties,
the woodlands of Rollie’s Farm were the very last of its kind in the area.
But thanks to a grassroots collaboration between the municipality and both
state and local nonprofits, the Lowell CPA program has just celebrated its
very first CPA Success Story by permanently protecting Rollie’s Farm and
transforming this conservation land into the Pawtucket Farm Wildlife
Sanctuary.
Read the Full CPA Success Story
on the Coalition's Website
The CDP's Under One Roof monthly newsletter, bringing you news andThe CDP's Under One Roof monthly newsletter, bringing you news and
information about upcoming housing advocacy trainings and eventsinformation about upcoming housing advocacy trainings and events
March 2024 IssueMarch 2024 Issue
CDP Program Updates
Town Highlights
YIMBYTown Conference Summary
Spotlight: What is CPA?
Community Resources & Events
CDP Program UpdatesCDP Program Updates
Lower Cape Housing InstituteLower Cape Housing Institute
Through virtual workshops and quarterly peer groups, the Lower Cape Housing
Institute (LCHI) provides training to municipal officials on the critical need for and
mechanics of attainable and affordable housing. All LCHI programming is open to
elected and appointed officials and is especially valuable for new board members,
committee members, and future town leaders.
Contact Amanda Bebrin, Director of Housing Advocacy, at amanda@capecdp.org or
508.290.0130 with any questions.
Get caught up on our LCHI workshop recordings:Get caught up on our LCHI workshop recordings:
ADU's to Zoning Changes: Strategies
to Encourage Housing Production
This session from January explored
how current zoning is holding us back
from creating the communities we want
and need, and ways to align zoning
with the vibrant visions of our
Local Preference: "But Who's Going to
Live There?"
February's session discussed what
Local Preference is, in terms of
eligibility, mechanics, and how lotteries
work. It also shed light on who Local
Preference might be keeping out of
housing opportunities: our communities
should provide housing for both current
communities' futures.
Watch "Strategies"Watch "Strategies"
sessionsession
and future residents!
Watch "LocalWatch "Local
Preference" Preference"
Home Ownership Education ProgramHome Ownership Education Program
We wrapped up our March First-Time Home Buyer's
Workshop with 14 graduates, with 10 participants from
the Lower and Outer Cape. In this cohort, one is in the
process of closing on a home, two households are
engaged in the pre-approval of a mortgage and two
participants have signed up for our one-on-one
counseling to improve their credit.
Our next workshop begins in April. Register below.
Purchasing a home is one of the most important financial decisions a person will
make. The CDP is here to help year-round residents get started and get closer to their
goals of financial freedom and one day owning a home.
The CDP’s Home Ownership Education Program (HOEP)Home Ownership Education Program (HOEP) provides training and
technical assistance to help residents seeking a path to homeownership. The program
has two components:
First-Time Homebuyer WorkshopsFirst-Time Homebuyer Workshops in a virtual group format and self-paced
training for those who cannot attend a workshop. The course provides
information on budgeting, looking for, selecting, and purchasing a home, and
local resources available to buyers.
One-on-One Personalized Counseling SessionsOne-on-One Personalized Counseling Sessions focusing on issues related to
income, debt, and credit situations. Counseling participants also learn about
various mortgage products, including subsidized mortgages, down payments,
and closing cost assistance for income-eligible buyers.
The next First-Time Home Buyer Workshop First-Time Home Buyer Workshop is offered via Zoom on 4/23, 4/24, 4/30,
and 5/2, 6:15-8:30 PM. To learn more or to register, visit here or click the button
below. Questions? Contact Pelinda Deegan at pdeegan@capecdp.org or
508.290.0115.
Register here for April's First-Time Home BuyerRegister here for April's First-Time Home Buyer
WorkshopWorkshop
Lower Cape Housing & ADU Resource CenterLower Cape Housing & ADU Resource Center
The Lower Cape Housing & ADU
Resource Center will host a free, online
information session about current housing
resources for Lower and Outer Cape
residents offered through the CDP and
Homeless Prevention Council.
Wednesday, March 27, 11 am-12:30pmWednesday, March 27, 11 am-12:30pm
The first 30 minutes will provide an
overview of the LCHARC's services and programs and the second portion will offer a
deep dive into the ABCs of ADUs, including discussion of key elements of building
ADUs and the common hurdles homeowners face. Visit the LCHARC website for
more information: www.lowercapehousing.owww.lowercapehousing.o rgrg
RegisterRegister
HereHere
Town HighlightsTown Highlights
ProvincetownProvincetown
Provincetown’s Housing Office is expanding! As many towns struggle to fund
and staff housing roles, Provincetown remains ahead of the curve in adding a
third position to their Housing Department. The Housing Director and Deputy
Housing Director will be joined by a new, part-time employee who will split their
time between working with the Year-Round Market-Rate Rental Housing Trust
(YRMRRHT) and on other housing-related projects.
Provincetown’s justification for a third position demonstrates how necessary and
demanding such work is. For more details on this position, see this articlethis article from
the Provincetown Independent.
The Town of Provincetown has received two applications from brokers to sell or
lease the Town-owned apartments at Harbor Hill. The 28-unit complex is home
to 55 residents earning between 80% and 200% of the Area Median Income
(AMI). The YRMRRHT has the authority to buy and sell property without a Town
Meeting vote but will hold a public hearing to discuss any offers it receives to
buy or lease Harbor Hill. For more details, read herehere.
The Provincetown Select Board voted unanimously to move $348,500 in rooms
tax money from the town’s Housing Fund to the Year-Round Market-Rate
Rental Housing Trust Fund to pay for a one-year Lease to Locals pilot program.
The program begins on April 1.
TruroTruro
Truro’s Special Town Meeting will take place the day before Annual Town
Meeting. After being postponed several times last fall due to ongoing voter
registration challenges, Truro’s Special Town Meeting was ultimately unable to
proceed as the unprecedented turnout exceeded the capacity of the Elementary
School. Debate on two of the warrant subjects - development of affordable
housing at the Walsh Property, and a new Department of Public Works - have
been contentious. To read public opinion around Truro regarding the two
proposed projects, click herehere.
Special Town Meeting will remain as printed last fall and will be held on May 4th,
with Annual Town Meeting following on May 5th. The Truro Select Board voted
to hold both meetings at the Elementary School.
Town Moderator Paul Wisotzky and Judge Dan Winslow will be hosting
“Engage and Empower: Navigating Town Meeting Process Respectfully &“Engage and Empower: Navigating Town Meeting Process Respectfully &
Effectively” at the Truro Library on Thursday, March 28Effectively” at the Truro Library on Thursday, March 28 thth at 6:00pm at 6:00pm. The event
flyer can be found here.
Two houses were successfully relocated to a town-owned lot at 25 South
Highland Road on February 22nd. One of the buildings is a studio previously
located at 127 South Pamet Road and the other is a cottage deemed to be one
of the most salvageable from among eight uninhabited on the Walsh property.
The town of Truro plans to renovate the homes and use them as seasonal and
transitional housing for Town staff, possibly as early as this summer. More
details can be found in this Provincetown Independent Provincetown Independent articlearticle..
WellfleetWellfleet
In 2022, Wellfleet Town Meeting voted to purchase Maurice’s Campground for
$6.5 million and at the end of 2023, the Town issued an RFP for master
planning services. The Planning Committee was pleasantly surprised to receive
six proposals to create a master plan for the 21-acre parcel. The Select Board
and Planning Committee voted to award the contract to Studio G Architects.
Studio G is one of our partners on the Residences at Lawrence Hill, and Gail
Sullivan, the managing principal, is a CDP Advisory Council member. The team
will also include JM Goldson for community engagement, Langan Engineering
for site planning, and Boston Communities for financial
feasibility. Congratulations to Gail and the Studio G team! Read the press
release herehere.
Applications for four Habitat for Humanity homes on Old Kings Highway are
now open. Submit the application by Monday, May 13, 2024. Click herehere for
eligibility information and the application.
EasthamEastham
Eastham is considering a number of zoning and bylaw changes for Spring Town
meeting, including some restrictions on short-term rentals. The proposed
changes are to ban fractional ownership, and to limit an owner to two short-term
rental units. The details of the by-law amendments can be found herehere.
The Affordable Housing Trust commenced an interim update to the 2021
Housing Production Plan, in order to incorporate the most recent census data
which reflects the impacts of the Covid -19 pandemic. The update is close to
being finalized.
The Town is making progress on design and funding applications for 2555 State
Highway (Beach Plum Motel) and 580 Massasoit, respectively. A CPA funding
article for historic renovations and code upgrades for the latter will be on the
Spring Town Meeting warrant!
OrleansOrleans
The Orleans Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously on February 21st to
grant a special permit to the developer looking to bring 29 units of housing to
the site of the former Underground Mall. The project will develop units across
five buildings and repurpose the existing mall structure on the 3.6-acre site.
Chris DeSisto of Maple Hurst Builders plans to sell 12 units across three two-
story buildings fronting Route 6A as condominiums, with the remaining 17 units
rented as workforce housing in the remaining two three-story buildings at the
rear of the property. The plans also include a community room and space for an
office and apartment for an onsite superintendent. For additional information,
read herehere..
ChathamChatham
Chatham’s Select Board voted unanimously on February 20th to release
requests for proposals (RFPs) to developers for affordable, attainable, and
workforce housing on the town-owned Buckley and Meetinghouse properties.
Chatham has built only nine affordable units over the past 12 years, and the
development of Buckley and Meetinghouse represents meaningful opportunities
for the town to greatly increase its affordable housing stock. The RFPs request
at least 36 units at Buckley and 35 units at Meetinghouse. The process will be
managed by both the Housing Trust and the Select Board, and proposals from
developers are due by April 25th. Recent press coverage of the process to date
can be found herehere and herehere.
BrewsterBrewster
Brewster held a lottery for an affordable resale home, the fully-renovated three-
bedroom 212 Yankee Drive. Seventy people participated in a Zoom
informational session; the town received 31 applications. Of those, 24 were
deemed eligible for the lottery held February 20th. The final determination is now
in progress and the new owners should close on the property this spring!
The year-long comprehensive planning process for the former Cape Cod Sea
Camps came to a close with recommended plans for the Bay and Pond
Properties heading to spring Town Meeting for voter consideration. Affordable
housing, a stated priority across guiding Town documents, was a key decision
point and the subject of mixed resident input and intense discussion. The
proposed plans have slated an area for affordable housing development on the
Pond Property, with the option to pursue future housing on the Bay Property.
Read more about the plans herehere.
HarwichHarwich
Harwich’s Affordable Housing Trust voted in January to fund 3 one-bedroom
apartments at the former fire station for $476,000. These units will be available
to residents making less than 80% of the area median income in Barnstable
County. Read more about it herehere.
The Trust also voted approval of a final RFP for an affordable housing project
at 456 Queen Anne Rd, which could provide up to 90 bedrooms. The RFP
provides general requirements for the project while also allowing for flexibility in
developer responses.
YIMBYtown 2024 ConferenceYIMBYtown 2024 Conference
CDP community organizers
participated in YIMBYtownYIMBYtown, a three-
day conference in Austin, TX, that
brought together housing advocates,
policymakers, and experts from
around the nation to share ideas,
strategies, and data that support the
creation of housing. It was an
energizing event, jam-packed with
workshops and forums that ranged
in topic from developing an anti-
racism outlook to the removal of
parking minimums. We had many
opportunities to network with other
organizers from Massachusetts
(Hello, AHMAAHMA!) as well as far-flung
locations such as Missoula, MT, Portland, OR, and Providence, RI. We learned a lot,
took copious notes, and are ready to integrate promising ideas into our work.
A key takeaway was the value of collaborating with municipal decision-makers value of collaborating with municipal decision-makers. Many
elected officials in attendance spoke of the value of having supportive relationships
with advocates and activists. Decision makers noted the significant moral boost that
comes from advocates speaking supportively of ongoing initiatives, as well as how the
celebration of small wins builds momentum for the board or committee doing the work.
Expert advocates also hammered home the utility of building positive relationships
with decision-makers.
The CDP has long identified municipal officials as key stakeholders in our work, and
through our programming and supportive services, we actively seek new ways in
which to strengthen and expand these relationships for the betterment of our
communities.
A stand-out discussion centered on the
idea that advocates should be regularly
interfacing with officials to learn what
they need to get the job done. This
could be support from a broad coalition
of non-profits and social service
providers for a by-law change, a group
of people showing up at public
comment to speak in favor of a new
development, or data that verifies the
severity of the housing crisis, to give a
few examples. Knowing what type ofKnowing what type of
effort policy makers need to get the jobeffort policy makers need to get the job
done allows us to tailor our advocacy work to be as effective as possible.done allows us to tailor our advocacy work to be as effective as possible.
Community ResourcesCommunity Resources
Mark Your CalendarsMark Your Calendars!
Mass Housing Partnership (MHP) isMass Housing Partnership (MHP) is
hosting its Annual Housing Institute Junehosting its Annual Housing Institute June
12-1312-13 at the AC Hotel in Worcester. This
two-day event actively engages
participants in discussion and problem-
solving activities related to the
development of affordable homes across
Massachusetts. Fun fact: this state-wide
training was also the inspiration for our
Lower Cape Housing Institute!
Register HereRegister Here
Image: mhp.net
Habitat for Humanity Applications NowHabitat for Humanity Applications Now
Open!Open!
Habitat for Humanity of Cape CodHabitat for Humanity of Cape Cod is
currently accepting applications for eight
affordable homes for purchase to be built
in Dennis (four homes) and Wellfleet
(four homes. The application deadline isThe application deadline is
May 13th.May 13th.
Image: habitatcapecod.org
For more information click here.
SpotlightSpotlight
The Community Preservation Act (CPA)The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a state law that was passed in 2000 and
helps communities preserve open space and historic resources, create affordable
housing, and develop outdoor recreational facilities to benefit the public.
The CPA allows towns to levy a community-wide property tax surcharge of up to 3%
to create a local Community Preservation fund that can qualify for state matching
funds. The fund must be used for at least one of the following purposes: to acquire
and protect open space and recreation lands, to preserve historic buildings, or to
create and maintain community housing. To date, 196 municipalities196 municipalities in the state have
adopted CPA.
The CDP's Lower Cape Housing Institute receives funding from the CPA communities
in the Lower and Outer Cape region. In addition to advocating and organizing to
support housing articles at the Annual Town Meetings and Special Town Meetings,
we track the amount of funding approved for housing articles each year.
Take a look at the CPA activity on the Lower and Outer Cape by the numbers since
2018.
There are 15 CPA
communities on Cape Cod.
All eight towns from
Brewster to Provincetown
have a 3% surcharge. In
2014, the Town of
Provincetown amended theamended the
CPA revenuesCPA revenues to reflect
the priority for community
housing to 60% of the CPA
revenues for community
housing, 10% each for
CPA funds have played an
important role in supporting
housing assistance
programs. Many of the
Affordable Housing Trusts
are commonly funded by
CPA funds and used to
establish housing
programs like Rental
Assistance, Buy Down
Programs, Down Payment,
and Closing Cost
CPA funds continue to
strengthen the capacity to
accomplish local housing
initiatives across the Lower
and Outer Cape region.
Several towns request
CPA funds to contract the
services of housing
coordinators to help the
town achieve successful
implementation of local
housing initiatives. Towns
historic preservation and
open space/recreation, and
20% remaining
undesignated and
available for any category.
Other towns in the region
have followed suit to match
CPA priorities to changing
needs.
Assistance. CPA funds
have also been used for
housing development
activities including housing
production plans, feasibility
studies, technical
assistance, and land and
property acquisition.
with housing coordinators
include Chatham, Harwich,
Brewster, Orleans,
Eastham, and
Provincetown.
If you're struggling, the Homeless Prevention Council can help.If you're struggling, the Homeless Prevention Council can help.
The Homeless Prevention Council (HPC) is in the Town of Brewster at The Pause
Community Center for Recovery. Walk-ins are welcome or call for an appointment:
774-801-9501
Receive help with:Receive help with:
Rental assistance
Fuel assistance
Reduced utility rates
Food assistance
Financial assistance
Community resources
Where: Where: Pause A While, 250 Underpass RoadPause A While, 250 Underpass Road
When: 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the monthWhen: 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month
Time: 12 pm - 2 pmTime: 12 pm - 2 pm
Thank YouThank You
Your support is critical for the growth and successYour support is critical for the growth and success
of the CDP’s Housing Programs.of the CDP’s Housing Programs.
Affordable Rentals and Canal HouseAffordable Rentals and Canal House
Chapel of St. James the Fisherman
The Mary-Louise Eddy and Ruth N. Eddy Foundation
St. Christopher’s Church
St. Vincent De Paul Society
Cape Cod Foundation-Toop Family Fund
Cape & Islands United Way
Lower Cape Community Housing PartnershipLower Cape Community Housing Partnership
Cape Cod Healthcare Foundation
Community Preservation Committees of
Brewster, Chatham, Eastham, Harwich, Orleans, Provincetown, Truro, and Wellfleet
Massachusetts Community Health & Healthy Aging Funds
Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
Lower Cape Housing & ADU Resource CenterLower Cape Housing & ADU Resource Center
Sailors' Snug Harbor of Boston
FTHB Workshop SponsorFTHB Workshop Sponsor
Seamen’s Bank
STAY CONNECTEDSTAY CONNECTED
Visit the CDPVisit the CDP
WebsiteWebsite
This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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Town of Brewster
Council on Aging Board
2198 Main St., Brewster, MA 02631
(508) 896-3701
TO: Faythe Ellis
Chair, Community Preservation Committee
FROM: Sharon Tennstedt
RE: CPA Grant Final Report
DATE: March 1, 2024
The COA Board is pleased to report that the purchase of age-friendly benches and
pici picnic tables for the Freemans Way Fields has been completed. Working with
Brewster’s P the Town’s Procurement Officer, Donna Kalinick, they were ordered in early July
and and received in late August. Donna procured them from a different vendor at a
slightly lower cost which enabled us to purchase an additional bench. The 7
benches benches and 4 picnic tables are currently in storage at the DPW. The same
hexagonal hexagonal picnic tables have been installed in the pavilion adjacent to the pool at
the Bay property.
Locations for the benches and tables at the fields have been determined in
collaboration with Mike Gradone, Rec Director, and Griffin Ryder, DPW Director.
Their installation on concrete pads will be completed when the paths are paved
at the fields. The DPW has submitted a plan for this work to the Planning
Department and expects the work to be completed by an outside contractor in
FY25.
The COA Board appreciates the support of our effort to place age-friendly benches
and tables in public venues. We intend to continue this effort for other Town
venues venues as part of our plan to seek certification of Brewster as an Age- and
Dementia-D Dementia-Friendly Community.
Donna pro
Board
Sharon Tennstedt
Co-Chair
Andrea Nevins
Co-Chair
Jill Beardsley
Jay Green
Penny Holeman
Honey Pivirotto
Laura Usher
Alternate Members:
Jan Crocker
Eva Orman
Elton Cutler,
COA Director
Cindy Bingham,
Select Board
Liaison
TBN
Finance Committee
Liaison
Marilyn Dearborn,
Friends of Brewster
Seniors Liaison
Annie Rapaport,
Program
Coordinator
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes of February 14, 2024 Page 1 of 5
vd
2198 Main Street
Brewster, Massachusetts 02631-1898
(508) 896-3701
FAX (508) 896-8089
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
Hybrid Meeting w In-Person Quorum
Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.
MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 14, 2024
Present: Community Preservation Committee (CPC) – Chair Sarah Robinson, Vice Chair Faythe Ellis,
Treasurer Sharon Marotti, Clerk Elizabeth Taylor, Roland Bassett, Paul Ruchinskas, Bruce Evans
(remote attendance)
Absent: Peggy Jablonski, Christine Boucher
Also Present: Cynthia Bingham, Select Board (remote attendance); Donna Kalinick, Assistant Town
Manager; Amy Henderson and Peter Johnson, Conservation Commission
Chair Robinson called the meeting to order at 4:01 pm, announced a quorum, and read the Recording
Statement.
This meeting will be conducted in person at the time and location identified above. This means that at least a quorum of the members of
the public body will attend the meeting in person and members of the public are welcome to attend in person as well. As a courtesy only,
access to the meeting is also being provided via remote means in accordance with applicable law. Please note that while an option for
remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting/hearing will not be suspended or
terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast or affect remote attendance or participation, unless otherwise
required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda, which includes an applicant and its
representatives, should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly.
1.Public Announcements and Comment- none
2.Financial Update
Numbers have not changed since last meeting. No questions.
3.Discussion and possible vote on Finch Skate Park request for $7500 for safety upgrades
Sarah said Recreation voted unanimously for this project. Faythe asked Rollie if there was a lot of
discussion about this project? Rollie said we have had a partnership for years, there was discussion – this
will be for more than just maintaining the park, it will be for safety for the park. It was felt it is time to
make this safe for the community. Rollie agreed to be liaison. Conditions for the award? Faythe said she
looked at the award letter for the benches that were installed through the ACO. Paul asked about
contract work through vendors. Rollie said some of the funds come from donations, some of the work
may be done by mothers and fathers. We didn’t get into if they would be contracted out. Most of the
work over the years has been done by donated time and that may be why the safety upgrades are needed
now. Paul said maybe hold back 10% and invoice for documented expenses, and documentation of other
Approved:
VOTE:
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes of February 14, 2024 Page 2 of 5
funding sources. Faythe said we would want to split 2,254 from undesignated and the remainder from
Open Space. That way we will be done with the undesignated fund balance carry over.
Motion to approve the Finch Skateboard Park request of $7500 with the funding as follows: $2254
from Pre-FY24 Undesignated Fund Balance with the remaining coming from Open Space. Liaison
will be Roland Bassett. Stipulations on the award will include the requirement for documentation
of other funding sources, a holdback of 10% until completion, payment to be made upon invoice
receipt of documented expenses.
MOVED by Faythe Ellis. Roland Bassett second.
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas - yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 7-yes 0-no
4.Intake of application from Open Space Committee requesting $225,000 for purchase of 0 Main
Street/3571 Main Street aka Washington Chase Bog
Elizabeth addressed the committee. This request is to pay for a Conservation Restriction (CR) on Main
Street. Brewster Conservation Trust (BCT) is purchasing the parcel and is asking the CPC to join them
by purchasing the conservation restriction. This is an old cranberry bog, and it will be a very visible
restoration which abuts Nickerson State Park and the Rail Trail going all the way back to the marsh.
BCT is hoping to create an ADA accessible trail. The State has mentioned that the town needs to have
ADA trails on its lands. It will be very easy to access. Amy Henderson and Peter Johnson from the
Conservation Commission then addressed the committee. Amy Henderson thanked the committee for
accommodating them and being flexible with the application. Sarah asked for additional information.
Amy Henderson went over the application with the committee. The parcel is part of a larger project BCT
is working on where we can marry housing and conservation. This 12.36 acres is part of a bigger project
which includes a 1.58-acre house lot which currently has one unit, and they are working with Habitat for
Humanity on adding 2 more units. When we look at the local comprehensive plan, this project answers 4
out of 5 building blocks identified in the plan. Paul asked about the appraisal – is there going to be 3 lots
for housing? Amy Henderson answered the appraisal was completed for the state grant and looks only at
the conservation land which could have been subdivided into 2 house lots with each appraised at $400K
to support a 5-bedroom house. Faythe asked if this CR purchase would be for the conservation parcel,
not the housing portion of it. Amy Henderson answered yes, and that Habitat would be coming to the
CPC later for funding for the housing portion. Paul asked how they arrived at the $225K? Amy
Henderson answered that the overall cost of the entire property is over $700K with additional costs for
the closing. We are hopeful that Habitat would contribute some portion of that which would leave the
BCT with $150K plus additional costs with the closing. Rollie asked if there was enough setback from
the wetlands. Amy Henderson passed information over to Rollie to give him that answer – that portion
would be outside the wetlands. Faythe asked Elizabeth about the CR draft on page 14, it lists $295K.
Amy Henderson answered that was one of the original asks through the State application, and they will
make their corrections after receiving their response. We will plan to vote on this at our next meeting
with the edited information discussed. Peter Johnson said working with the town has been a really good
partnership in the past. We feel it is a win/win for the Trust and the Town.
5.Update from Brewster Historical Society withdrawing request for additional funding for
Schoolhouse #3 project
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes of February 14, 2024 Page 3 of 5
Sarah said that the BHS was withdrawing its request at this time for the additional funding for
Schoolhouse #3. It seems they will hold on to the original award until they can get to a better place.
Faythe said they intend to retain the award as we originally agreed upon – 2 years. No further
discussion.
6.Discussion and possible vote on amendment to existing award letter for Schoolhouse #3 project
Faythe said in all our conversations, it seemed to her that they and the Historical Society agreed the
project should not commence until all the funding is in place. We have had a clause in other award
letters to that point, she recommends adding that to the current award letter now before the project
commences. Sharon asked about the timeline, when does the original grant expire? Faythe answered, Jan
of 2025. Sharon asked if they have to decide if they will move forward by that date, or will we extend
that as well. Faythe said she looks at it that that award is in place until that date to use and if they
haven’t used it before that time, they have to come back to ask for an extension.
Sarah said to recap: if and when they come back for a second request for funding, that will be on a
different timeline? Faythe said that award runs until it runs out. What could happen in the next time
frame is other sources of funding may emerge that might fill the gap they were requesting from the CPC.
Paul said this current one is relatively close, if we start pushing out longer and longer, it might make
sense to have them withdraw and then reapply for the total amount they are needing. Faythe said if they
withdraw and reapply, they are starting from scratch to go again to Town Meeting. Sarah agreed that
having a bit of a tighter rein on the funding might be a good idea. Paul said to use the wording of
whatever funding is necessary, not a specific dollar figure. Faythe said she would update it for the next
meeting.
Waiting for the next meeting for a vote.
7.Discussion and possible vote on The Annual Report (Elizabeth)
Faythe and Sarah and the rest of the committee thanked Elizabeth for all the work put into this.
Elizabeth said the report goes to Conor Kenney, and he is asking for a photo - a project picture. Faythe
suggested maybe a picture of 212 Yankee Drive? Faythe asked for suggestions. Elizabeth asked for the
committee to decide on what pictures we want to use and send it on to Conor Kenney. Paul thought 212
Yankee Dr. would be a good photo opportunity. It is such a great story. Suggest to Conor Kenney that he
defer to Donna Kalinick for a great photo of Yankee Drive. Sharon asked about Brewster Woods as
well. Faythe said to suggest that to Conor as well.
Motion to approve the draft Annual Report as amended and to authorize Elizabeth to finalize and
send to Conor Kenney.
MOVED by Faythe Ellis. Roland Bassett second.
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas - yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 7-yes 0-no
8.Discussion and possible vote on Award Letter drafts for:
-Housing Coordinator
-Lower Cape Housing Institute
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes of February 14, 2024 Page 4 of 5
Housing Coordinator –
Bruce said the Housing Coordinator reports both to the Town Planner and to the Assistant Town
Manager. The Town Planner is mentioned to be responsible for reporting every three months, but not
copied on the award letter. He would suggest he be copied. Paul said under Item 3 under terms and
conditions is to add Assistant Town Manager as well.
Motion to approve the Housing Coordinator letter with those edits.
MOVED by Faythe Ellis. Roland Bassett second.
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas - yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 7-yes 0-no
Paul recused himself for the next award letter.
Lower Cape Housing Institute –
Faythe noticed an update that needs to be made before it can be finalized. Terms and conditions, item 4
the dollar amounts should be $5,000 – those numbers need to be updated.
Motion to approve the Lower Cape Housing Institute award letter with the amendments
discussed.
MOVED by Faythe Ellis. Roland Bassett second.
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 6-yes 0-no
9.Project Updates
Sarah asked the liaisons to check in with their respective projects and get something in writing on that in
the next one or two meetings, that would be great.
Faythe said she did include the documents being referenced in the last meeting from Eric Dray in the
Schoolhouse Project to have a record of that.
Paul said the update is self-explanatory. They did not need to come back for additional funding because
their fundraising has been so successful.
10.Approval of Minutes – 1/10/24 & 1/24/24
1/10 –
Motion to approve the Minutes of 1/10/24 as presented.
MOVED by Faythe Ellis. Roland Bassett second.
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas - yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 7-yes 0-no
1/24 –
Motion to approve the Minutes of 1/24/24 as presented.
MOVED by Paul Ruchinskas. Roland Bassett second.
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes of February 14, 2024 Page 5 of 5
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas - yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 7-yes 0-no
11.Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair - none
12.Announcements - none
13.Upcoming meeting: February 28th at 4PM
MOTION made by Faythe Ellis to adjourn the meeting at 5:00 pm. Paul Ruchinskas second.
Roll Call Vote: Sharon Marotti – yes, Elizabeth Taylor – yes, Bruce Evans – yes, Roland Bassett –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas – yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 7-yes 0-no
Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine, Recording Secretary
Packet of additional documents available on website for public review.
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes of February 28, 2024 Page 1 of 3
vd
2198 Main Street
Brewster, Massachusetts 02631-1898
(508) 896-3701
FAX (508) 896-8089
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
Hybrid Meeting w In-Person Quorum
Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.
MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 28, 2024
Present: Community Preservation Committee (CPC) – Chair Sarah Robinson, Vice Chair Faythe Ellis,
Treasurer Sharon Marotti, Clerk Elizabeth Taylor, Roland Bassett, Bruce Evans, Paul Ruchinskas,
Peggy Jablonski (remote attendance)
Absent: Christine Boucher
Also Present: Cynthia Bingham, Select Board; Amy Henderson and Peter Johnson, Conservation
Commission
Chair Robinson called the meeting to order at 4:01 pm, announced a quorum, and read the Recording
Statement.
This meeting will be conducted in person at the time and location identified above. This means that at least a quorum of the members of
the public body will attend the meeting in person and members of the public are welcome to attend in person as well. As a courtesy only,
access to the meeting is also being provided via remote means in accordance with applicable law. Please note that while an option for
remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting/hearing will not be suspended or
terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast or affect remote attendance or participation, unless otherwise
required by law. Members of the public with particular interest in any specific item on this agenda, which includes an applicant and its
representatives, should make plans for in-person vs. virtual attendance accordingly.
1.Public Announcements and Comment- none
2.Financial Update
Sarah said the financial update does not have many changes, are there any questions? No questions.
3.Discussion and possible vote on Open Space Committee/Town of Brewster request for $225,000
to purchase Conservation Restriction for 0 Main Street/Washington Chase Bog
Elizabeth brought paper copies for the committee. She also brought the Conservation Commission letter
of support to pass to the committee. Sarah read the letter aloud. Amy Henderson said she had no
additional comments, but she would answer any questions the committee might have. Faythe asked for
clarification on the parking planning. Amy Henderson answered access would be from the rail trail. And
they are currently working on the house lot which is the second part of the project in which they have a
reserved right for a small parking area just off the front driveway. There would be about 4-5 parking
spots, handicap access would come down to the trail. There would be a crushed stone material put down
which would make it all access. There would also be a viewing platform somewhere along the trail as
well. They are also designing all their benches with backs and arms. Brewster Conservation Trust (BCT)
Approved:
VOTE:
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes of February 28, 2024 Page 2 of 3
also always has an on-leash policy at their properties for dogs. Faythe wanted to clarify that this project
does not have any housing involved – it is only for the Conservation Restriction. Cindy Bingham
commented that they came to the committee with a great project. Faythe said the vote would include the
amount of the award, funding source, any additional expenses, liaison, and if there are any conditions.
Elizabeth will be the liaison. Funding source – Open Space Reserves. Additional expenses of $5,000.
Motion to approve the application for funding of the Town of Brewster Conservation Restriction
on Washington Chase Bog Project in the amount of $225,000 with an additional $5,000 for CPC
legal and admin expenses. The funding source is Open Space Reserve, and the liaison is Elizabeth
Taylor.
MOVED by Faythe Ellis. Sharon Marotti second.
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas - yes, Peggy Jablonski – yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 8-yes 0-no
4.Discussion and possible vote on amend CPA funding source for Finch Skateboard Park project
Faythe said she suggests we consider amending the decision to pay for part of the park from the open
space reserve to change to undesignated fund balance. She included on page 5 of the packet the
categories. You can see we set aside 50% for open space and open space alone and recreation projects
were funded from the unbudgeted reserve. In the past year, the money in the open space reserve that
could be used for recreation funds has been spent on all the debt service we carried forward, so there is
no money for recreation. Therefore, she recommends that the funding source comes entirely from the
undesignated fund balance.
Motion to approve the funding source be Undesignated Fund Balance.
MOVED by Faythe Ellis. Bruce Evans second.
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas - yes, Peggy Jablonski – yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 8-yes 0-no
5.Discussion and possible vote on draft award letter for Finch Skateboard Park project
Faythe suggested having Rollie go through the letter. He said it looked complete to him.
Motion to approve the draft letter as presented and that it is ready for review by Town Counsel.
MOVED by Faythe Ellis. Roland Bassett second.
Roll Call Vote: Bruce Evans - yes, Sharon Marotti – yes, Roland Bassett – yes, Elizabeth Taylor –
yes, Paul Ruchinskas - yes, Peggy Jablonski – yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 8-yes 0-no
6.Review of draft warrant article for Spring Town Meeting
Faythe said this draft of the warrant article is based on updating last year’s article. You can see that at
the top of the article we list estimated revenues discussed and agreed upon with Mimi Bernardo. Under
the FY25 appropriations and allocations, we are appropriating the revenue in accordance with the
statutory formula. Followed by additional funds we are paying for with reserves. She talked the rest of
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes of February 28, 2024 Page 3 of 3
the article through with the committee. As we move into the grid, we are highlighting category by
category for the voters to see what we are doing. As a new item, she included what the reserve balances
were in the beginning of the year and felt it might be useful for Town Meeting voters to have that
information. The project descriptions start on page 4 and most of the wording is taken from the
application itself. Are there any comments regarding the write ups? No questions or comments.
Faythe will move this forward to Town Administration. Customarily, any Open Space applications are
separate articles.
They will plan to vote after presentations are made to the Select Board and Finance Committee ahead of
Town Meeting.
7.Project Updates
Elizabeth asked Richard at Crosby to send a written update.
Faythe included in the packet the latest update from CDP about their programs.
8.Approval of Minutes – 2/14/24 - defer
9.Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair - none
10.Announcements -
Town Meeting is May 11, 2024 beginning at 1PM, check-in at noon at Stony Brook School.
11.Next meeting: March 13, 2024 at 4PM
MOTION made by Faythe Ellis to adjourn the meeting at 4:35 pm. Sharon Marotti second.
Roll Call Vote: Sharon Marotti – yes, Elizabeth Taylor – yes, Bruce Evans – yes, Roland Bassett –
yes, Peggy Jablonski – yes, Paul Ruchinskas – yes, Faythe Ellis – yes, Chair Robinson - yes.
VOTE 8-yes 0-no
Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine, Recording Secretary
Packet of additional documents available on website for public review.