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Community Preservation in Upton

Thanks to the Community Preservation Act, adopted by Upton voters in 2003, a new fund has been created for public investment in open space, historic preservation, affordable housing and recreation. Here are some questions and answers about how the Community Preservation Fund will work.

What is the Community Preservation Act?

The Community Preservation Act is a state law which allows cities and towns to establish a property tax surcharge which, along with a state match, funnels money into a locally controlled Community Preservation Fund. Upton voters approved the CPA in May 2003.

What can the fund be used for?

                State law stipulates that at least 30 percent of Community Preservation funds be used on projects that protect open space (10%), preserve historic resources (10%) and provide affordable housing (10%).  The remaining funds can be spent on any of these purposes as well as to create or enhance outdoor recreation facilities. Up to 5 percent of the fund can be used for administrative purposes.

How big is the Community Preservation Fund?

                The property tax surcharge, which is already being collected, is projected to generate approximately $250,000 a year. The state hopefully will match that amount in October of each year.

How is the Community Preservation Fund administered?

                A Community Preservation Committee (CPC) has been named, including representatives from six town boards and three selectmen’s appointees.  The CPC is establishing a process through which town boards, committees and other organizations can apply for funding. The committee will establish criteria for funding, will consult with those preparing applications.

                The CPC will hold at least one public hearing, then will make its recommendations to Town Meeting. Only a positive Town Meeting vote can appropriate money from the Community Preservation Fund.

Will the CPC manage the projects?             

In most cases, the CPC will act more like a loan officer than a project manager.  Commissions and committees sponsoring projects recommended by the CPC will be expected to present their ideas at Town Meeting and manage them if they are approved for funding.  All invoices submitted for payment should be copied to the CPC for review

Where can I get more information?

                Information about selection criteria and application instructions is available at this website and at the Town Clerk’s office.  You may also contact any member of the CPC or write the Upton CPC at P.O. Box 298, Upton, MA 01568.

                For information on the CPA in general and ideas on how other communities are using the program, go to www.communitypreservation.org.

                The Upton CPC meets at 7:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month in the Media Center (library) at Nipmuc High School. All residents are welcome to attend.