The Springfield Community Preservation Committee recommended using leftover CPA funds to support two preservation projects: an off‑cycle $300,000 award to repair the exterior of a fire‑damaged house at 37 George Street and a transfer of a previously allocated $250,000 for exterior work on the Gun Block (477 State Street) to a local nonprofit that recently acquired the building.

Bob McCarroll, chair of the Community Preservation Committee, described the 37 George Street work as an exterior‑only restoration to address the roof, clapboards, windows, masonry and carpentry after a May fire. He said the committee is recommending an off‑cycle application for $300,000 to "button up the roof so there's not water damage taking place." Bob explained CPA policy generally funds exterior historic features and typically reimburses private owners after work is completed in phases.

The homeowner and contractor described an urgent need and lack of insurance. The contractor said the house is currently protected with tarps and that the work (framing, plywood, roofing) could begin quickly if the CPA petition is granted. The contractor noted compliance with "Massachusetts law" for historic windows.

Councilor Elser Whitfield asked how the committee defines an emergency and how residents who lack CPA familiarity would learn about an emergency application. Whitfield said she wanted to ensure fair and equitable access, asking, "How do everybody who needs funding have access to it? Not the people that know to go to the CPA account." Bob and Karen Lee explained off‑cycle emergency awards are handled on a case‑by‑case basis and that unspent funds from prior cycles (e.g., a $300,000 allocation for another property) are a common source for off‑cycle awards. Committee members agreed a report on past funded and completed projects would help transparency.

On the Gun Block, Bob said a Connecticut developer earlier awarded $250,000 never performed the exterior work and recently sold the building to a local nonprofit. Janae McDonald, representing the nonprofit, said she lives in Springfield and intends to use the ground floor for a community café and learning center while adding affordable housing on upper floors. "We're sticking to the original plans," she said, and emphasized the project would preserve historic character and uplift the State Street corridor.

Committee members voiced support for both projects but asked about protective measures for winter weather and for increased follow‑up on previously funded projects. The CPA chair explained that work for private nonmunicipal entities is typically done first and then the committee reimburses in segments. Final approvals for the recommended awards will be considered by the full City Council at its upcoming meeting.