Community Preservation Act Committee Meeting Oct 1, 2026

The Town of Amherst Community Preservation Act Committee held its 2026–27 organizational and orientation meeting on October 1, 2026. The committee elected Jason Dornney chair and Ellen Kaider vice chair, and reviewed the CPA application and recommendation process. Applications are due October 16; staff will screen them for eligibility before committee presentations and deliberations scheduled for November and December. Recommendations go to Town Council for review, with funding for this cycle not expected to become available until July 1, 2027.

Staff estimated that approximately $2.2–$2.3 million is currently available for new FY28 projects, potentially increasing toward $2.5 million as prior project balances are closed out. An estimated $664,000 is reserved for debt service on previously approved projects. The committee was advised that at least 10% of estimated CPA revenue must be allocated to each required category: historic preservation, community housing, and open space/recreation. The meeting included no project awards, vendor selections, or procurement approvals. Staff explained that community awards generally operate through agreements and reimbursement, while town projects follow applicable municipal procurement processes.