CPA

CPA: History

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) was created in 2000 by a state law (MGL Chapter 44B) to help cities and towns preserve the character of their community. The act allowed a 3% surcharge on Property Tax bills (with certain residential exemptions) to fund affordable housing, open space and historical preservation.

It was adopted by Cambridge voters in November 2001; the CPA Committee was formed by the City Manager March, 2002.

In July, 2012, amendments to the CPA legislation now allow for greater flexibility in use of CPA Open Space funds from the first 10% allocation, including active and passive recreational uses such as parks, playgrounds, community gardens and athletic fields.

Each year, at least 10% of annual CPA revenues shall be spent or set aside for later spending on open space, historic preservation and affordable housing. The remaining percentage can be used towards any of the three funding categories.

Summary of CPA Fund Allocations and Appropriations all Sources

(Prop. Taxes, State Match, Reserves and Fund Balance (FY02-FY16)

FY02-16 FY02-16

CPA Fund

FY02-16 Total

Allocated/ Appropriated

Local Funds

State Match

Balance

All Sources

Affordable Housing Trust

$73,000,000 $37,740,000 $13,620,000 $124,360,000

$9,125,000 $4,717,500 $1,702,500