10/06/2025 SELECT BOARD Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Select Board October 6, 2025 Minutes Preservation Committee (CPC)—to allow the Trust to act without waiting for formal approvals or Town Meeting votes. Sparkes emphasized that having flexible, available funds could significantly strengthen the Trust’s ability to address affordable housing needs in real time. Assistant Town Manager Wayne Taylor explained that prior attempts were made to secure recurring CPC appropriations, but CPC declined to commit to ongoing funding without specific projects identified, limiting the Trust’s ability to move on opportunities like the property on Ashumet Road, which was lost due to lack of available funds. Selectman Cotton noted the red tape often associated with CPC and supported further exploring a recurring appropriation. However, he cautioned that a recurring request directly from taxpayers at Town Meeting might raise concerns, and that CPC is already a designated funding source for affordable housing. Chair Wyman-Colombo clarified that the conversation involved two potential avenues: A recurring appropriation through CPC; A recurring appropriation directly from the Town. Selectman Richardson stressed the importance of using the existing system correctly. Selectwoman Kelley-Wilson proposed a “both-and” approach—seeking a designated percentage annually from CPC and potentially from other sources as well. Chair Wyman-Colombo noted that the upcoming CPC funding application deadline is November 11, and recommended preparing an application for submission, with any award to be voted on at the May Town Meeting. Selectman Weeden raised a legal question regarding whether CPC funds could be allocated annually without a new application each year, given potential restrictions under the Community Preservation Act. Town Manager Rodney Collins confirmed the need for legal clarity. Selectman Weeden also asked legal counsel to examine whether a 501(c)(25) designation, in addition to the proposed 501(c)(3) status, could benefit the Trust, especially when it comes to holding land or buildings. Collins agreed to consult with legal counsel and explore the potential for partnership with the Mashpee Housing Authority, which could help attract 40B interest. Chair Wyman-Colombo asked whether CPC guidelines had changed regarding deposits into the Trust. Collins stated they had not to his knowledge. Selectman Weeden suggested preparing a proposal that includes legal and administrative costs to help “empower” the Trust structurally. Chair Wyman-Colombo 8