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Lakeville committee seeks guidance on using CPA funds for private developments and preserving affordable units
Summary
Committee members debated how CPA funds can be used to preserve community housing, whether funds may support private 40B developments, and whether the town should pursue planners or legal help to extend affordability of existing units.
The Town of Lakeville Community Preservation Committee discussed preserving affordable housing and whether CPA funds could be used to support private developments, including potential 40B projects.
Committee members said preserving existing affordable units and extending affordability periods is an emerging priority as some locally counted affordable units approach the end of their affordability term. The coalition’s guidance was cited repeatedly as the group debated whether CPA funds can be used to create or extend affordability in private developments.
“We know we can maintain,” Nancy, committee member, said while differentiating rehabilitation and maintenance; the committee noted CPA money cannot pay for routine maintenance but can be used as a local match for state or federal grants. Members asked whether CPA funds may be applied to a private developer’s new 40B-style project to increase affordable-unit percentages or to extend the affordability of exiting units. Several members said they expect the coalition or state agencies would clarify that CPA funds are generally intended for municipal or community-owned projects rather than direct support of private development, but that precedents exist and the committee should seek written guidance.
Committee members discussed options to preserve affordability: hiring or designating a planner or legal counsel to work with state agencies, coordinating with the coalition for technical assistance, and partnering with neighboring town offices such as Middleborough’s housing staff. The group also raised the idea of using CPA money to provide matching funds for state or federal rehabilitation grants rather than paying for ongoing maintenance.
No formal motion was made; members agreed to research precedents (including a previously circulated Middleborough case) and to place the question of private-developer funding and extensions of affordability on the April agenda. Members emphasized that any use of CPA funds to alter affordability rules or fund private projects would require clear legal review and likely collaboration with the select board and planning board.
