[Fomp] Urgent call for tomorrow's CPC meeting

[Barry Herring]

Dear Friends:
It has come to my attention that tomorrow's meeting of the Community Preservation Committee may be even more important than I indicated in yesterday's email.  Therefore, I'm making an urgent call for FOMP members to attend the Dec 8 (tomorrow) meeting of the CPC in the Town Hall at 7:30 pm to express support for the use of CPA funds for the restoration of Morses Pond.   I apologize for the short notice.  For those of you who are unfamiliar with the CPA and CPC, here is a description excerpted from the Town web site:

"On November 5, 2002 Wellesley residents demonstrated their commitment to open space, historical preservation and community housing  by passing the Community Preservation Act  (CPA).  



As approved by Town Meeting, the local funding source for the Act in Wellesley will be a surcharge of 1% on the annual property tax bill assessed on  real property, with certain exemptions, commencing in  fiscal year 2003.



The Wellesley Community Preservation Committee (CPC) was formed in December, 2002 to make recommendations to Town Meeting on how to utilize the funds raised through the surcharge and the State match (CPA).  CPA funds may be used for projects in the areas of open space, recreation, housing and historical preservation.



Community Preservation funds originate from two sources: a one percent surcharge on the local property tax bills and State matching funds. For the two years ending June 30, 2004, the Town raised $1,071,000 through the surcharge and there have been two State matches bringing the total CPA funds to $2,142,000. It is anticipated that the FY 2005 surcharge will provide $590,748 and unless the State Legislature amends the Community Preservation Act , the Town can anticipate another 100 percent match from the State in October 2005."



The restoration of Morses Pond clearly falls within the mission of CPA fund use.   CPA funds can be used only for "capital" projects and not for ongoing maintenance, but that would still allow funding of at least half of the total Plan.  Because CPC has already contributed $75,000 to the development of the Plan, it is doubly important for the Town to see CPC leading the way with funding for implementing Plan.



Although it is not necessary for attendees to speak at the meeting, those who do wish to speak will be accommodated.  Please come and show your support!



Barry Herring

FOMP Chairman
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