12/16/2025 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT COMMITTEE Minutes

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,�yrxrasr�.a Town of Mashpee Community Preservation Committee 16 Great Neck Road North Mashpee,MA 02649 FIRST PENTECOSTAL CHURCH Steve Milton, newly elected pastor of the First Pentecostal Church, and his assistant, Melanie West, appeared before the Committee to request CPC historic preservation funding to rehabilitate the church building, described as a long-standing community landmark dating to the 1930s. They explained that the original structure was built from a former icehouse, with additions constructed in the 1970s, and has served the community continuously for decades. Mr. Milton and Ms. West reported significant water intrusion, mold, and extensive deterioration of wood framing and finishes, particularly in the basement, describing crumbling materials, damaged walls, and outdated infrastructure. While the congregation has attempted small,phased repairs using limited funds, they stated these efforts have been insufficient and that comprehensive stabilization is now necessary to prevent further decline. They described the church's long-standing community role, including past and present activities such as food pantries, food and clothing drives, donations to local charities, childcare programs in earlier years, fellowship gatherings, Bible studies, and services open to the public. They expressed a desire to revive outreach once the building is stabilized. Current attendance was reported at approximately 25-30 congregants, many of whom are senior citizens, and they noted that the building's deteriorated condition has contributed to declining participation. Discussion focused on several issues, including: • The church's location within a historic district, requiring exterior work to comply with Historic District Commission standards; • Whether CPC support might need to focus primarily on exterior stabilization and weatherproofing such as siding, trim, windows, doors, and foundation sealing—if interior work proves ineligible; and •Accessibility needs, including possible ramps or ADA lifts, balanced against impacts to the historic facade. Mr. Milton and Ms. West indicated flexibility in project scope, emphasizing that exterior stabilization and foundation sealing are critical to stopping water intrusion, and that interior work could proceed as funds allow. They noted the building's unique masonry foundation (stones) and that some interior work has already begun using available funds and volunteer support. Chair Russell raised concerns regarding the Massachusetts Anti-Aid Amendment and legal limits on public funding for religious institutions, explaining that Town Counsel's memorandum would require careful review. Reference was made to the Caplan case. 6