Acton Finance Committee reviews CPA fund allocations for recreation and housing projects

Acton Town Meeting kicked off on May 5, 2025, with a focus on financial planning and community projects, as residents voiced their opinions on key funding allocations. The meeting highlighted the importance of preparing for future financial challenges, particularly concerning the town's Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds.

During discussions, Paul Mahoney raised concerns about the proposed construction project at 53 River Street, suggesting that the town should prioritize funding for more impactful projects, such as complete streets and sidewalks, rather than smaller-scale initiatives that may not benefit a wide audience. He emphasized the need for judicious financial decisions to avoid potential overrides in upcoming years.

Judith Ehrenstein contributed to the conversation by clarifying the origins of CPA funds, which are generated through a surcharge on real estate taxes. These funds are earmarked specifically for recreation, historic preservation, open space, and affordable housing. She urged attendees to understand that these funds are already collected and cannot be redirected to the general budget, a point echoed by David Martin, who reassured residents that CPA funds do not compete with general funds and cannot lead to budget overrides.

The meeting concluded with a call for residents to better understand the allocation of CPA funds, as many items were held for further discussion, potentially due to misconceptions about their use. As Acton moves forward, the focus remains on making informed decisions that will shape the town's financial future and community development.