CPC recommends $8,000 CPA match for Townhouse mechanical assessment

The Bridgewater Community Preservation Committee voted unanimously June 24 to recommend using $8,000 in FY27 administrative CPA funds to match a state cultural grant for a mechanical and accessibility assessment of the Townhouse.

Chair Gina Gusonei summarized the award and the required one-to-one cash match after members reviewed a copy of the town manager’s letter confirming the $8,000 request. Josh (town staff) read the accounting information identified for the match and noted the account coding for FY27 administrative funds.

Why it matters: The state grant will fund a limited assessment of mechanical, electrical and accessibility systems that complements a separate interior historic assessment the committee is already funding. Committee members said the two studies together will provide a clearer basis for future repair, reuse and funding decisions for the Townhouse.

Discussion and vote: Members discussed timing and whether the match should be capped; one member proposed authorizing “up to $10,000” to ensure coverage but the motion taken recommended the $8,000 match explicitly. Larry made the motion to recommend the CPA match and members recorded a roll-call vote: Gina Gusonei, Carlton, Moren, Pat Driscoll and Lori all voted yes.

Contract and next steps: Committee members were told a separate contract for the Townhouse interior historic assessment was signed with Joe Booth and Associates; a kickoff meeting was scheduled for the following morning and on-site visits were expected in the week ahead. Staff will forward the state award email and the town manager’s letter to the committee for their records and will provide the match documentation to the July town council meeting as needed.

The committee’s recommendation will be transmitted to the town manager and included in materials to town council for final approval of CPA funding.