Description
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) Committee will hold a virtual public hearing to receive public requests and comments on FY26 funding for affordable housing, open space and historic preservation projects.
Each year, at least 10% of annual CPA revenues shall be spent or set aside for later spending on affordable housing, open space, and historic preservation. The remaining percentage can be used towards any of the three funding categories.
The hearing will be held virtually through Zoom.
To view the meeting and/or to participate in public comment online, please register here:
https://cambridgema.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-OvHhB-MTPi24BKuMZR-mQ
CPA Meeting Agenda (link to PDF)
Monday, July 28, 2025
1. Introduction and Overview of CPA Process
2. Review & Adopt Minutes
3. FY26 Funding Estimates
4. Public Comment
5. Overview of Public Proposals Received
6. Overview of City Proposals
7. Committee Discussion
Background
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) was created by state law (G.L. c. 44B) to help cities and towns preserve the character of their community. In 2001, Cambridge residents voted to adopt the CPA locally, which allowed the City of Cambridge to implement a 3% surcharge on Property Tax bills to fund eligible projects.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides "matching" funds in addition to those raised locally by the surcharge. The percentage of the state match varies from year to year, depending on two factors: the amount of fees paid at Registries of Deeds throughout the state, and the number of communities that have adopted the CPA locally (thereby receiving a share of the state match).
Additional information is available on the CPA Committee website, Cambridgema.gov/cpa