11/10/2015 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT COMMITTEE Minutes

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4 Community Preservation Committee Minutes November 10, 2015 Review of CPA Proiects Proposed for the May 2016 Town Meeting: Leila Botsford, Mashpee Housing Authority- Housing Assi.stanre Program: (continued) The one-time assistance program for first/last/security deposits, the one-time emergency assistance for rent, the mortgage assistance and down -payment assistance, and down -payment assistance for first time homebuyers are considered loan programs. In the Towns of Chatham and Harwich, the loan programs for the first/last/security and for emergency rent and mortgage assistance was not successful. As a result, the towns have modified their programs, and applicants receive funding in the form of a grant for up to three years. The highest amount paid per rental is $350. The assistance in the Town of Mashpee is only provided for 12 to 24 months. Funds for rental assistance are no more than 30% of an applicant's income The range allocation is based upon the need. Ms. Botsford indicated that approximately 50% of the renters in the Town of Mashpee are in a housing cost burden. CFC member Ed Larkin indicated he has been disappointed the program did not receive funding during the last round. The Community Preservation Committee voted unanimously to approve the project in 2015. At the request of the Board of Selectmen, Mr. Botsford, and CPC members Larkin and Kaplan met with the Selectmen to review the explanation of the process with the Mashpee Housing Authority. Mr. Larkin indicated the process was sufficiently explained, and it is a complete and comprehensive program. Mr. Larkin stated that currently, the Community Preservation Committee appears to be spending money on recreational activities such as boating, etc. As a result, the CPC maintains a large reserve of funding in the affordable housing category. Mr. Larkin indicated that it is time for Mashpee to stand up to help our residents. Mr. Larkin stated he is 100% in favor of the expenditure for housing assistance. Mr. Larkin further stated if the committee doesn't spend money on this program, we are a committee without a heart. Mr. Larkin indicated this is a very worthwhile program, and he would like to see it expanded. Ms. Botsford indicated she was very thankful of Mr. Larkin's positive opinions. A copy of application has been submitted to the new Town Manager. Ms. Botsford indicated she is willing to meet with the Town Manager and the Board of Selectmen and assured the CPC that this is a tightly ran program. It was noted the Housing Authority is given a rigorous review by the state. Instead of paying for additional auditing, a previous requirement of the Board of Selectmen and former Town Manager, it was recommended that DHCD be contacted. Veterans are given first priority for all programs. Second priority is given to those who live and work in Mashpee. Third priority is given to those who live, or plan to live (only) in Mashpee.