The Reading Post accepts Letters to the Editor. The Reading Post reserves the right to edit or refuse letters. Letters containing hearsay, rumors, personal attacks, name-calling, or anything that could be considered defamation, slander, or libel will not be published. The Reading Post reserves the right to end debate on a topic after both sides have had ample chance to express their views. All letters are posted as received, unless otherwise noted. All letters are subject to editing for style, mechanics, and grammar. editor@thereadingpost.com
Together for Reading supports a Yes vote on the Community Preservation Act (CPA) this November.*
We think this is a good opportunity for Reading to make some important investments in our community without adding a burden to residents who can least afford it.
CPA funds can be used for things that matter to Reading, such as preserving open space and recreation, protecting our historic resources, and supporting much needed affordable housing. And because the state provides matching funds, our local investment can go further.
Some argue that the state’s CPA matching funds aren’t what they used to be and may continue to shrink. That’s a fair concern, but we don’t think it’s a reason to walk away from the program. If Reading is going to make these investments anyway, leaving state matching money on the table doesn’t make sense. Even a smaller match is still additional money coming back to Reading. It’s money we won’t receive if we don’t participate.
Residents should be aware that the CPA also includes protections for residents facing financial hardship. The proposed 1% surcharge applies only to residential property and excludes the first $100,000 of assessed value. Low-income residents and qualifying low- and moderate-income seniors are fully exempt from the surcharge. Existing qualifying property-tax exemptions can also reduce the amount owed. And businesses are exempt entirely.
Residents concerned about Town expenditures should know that CPA funds would be limited strictly to community preservation purposes and subject to local oversight through a dedicated CPA committee and Town Meeting approval. Importantly, this structure allows for community-wide input prior to any fund allocation, including a required annual public hearing.
Reading has a chance to make these investments now and bring additional state funding into our community. We think that’s an opportunity worth taking. Questions? For more information visit cpaforreading.com and communitypreservation.org.
Together for Reading encourages residents to vote YES on CPA in November.
Carolyn Johnson
Chair, Together for Reading
*This endorsement has been cleared by the Office of Campaign and Political Finance.
