The goal of the CPA is to preserve the character of our communities by addressing sprawl, the rapid loss of remaining open land and historic landscapes, and the need for housing affordable to town employees, senior citizens and others. Local priorities are researched and acquisitions and expenditures recommended by a Community Preservation Committee. The CPA becomes effective by local option. There is a vote on a ballot question at the next regular state or municipal election to accept the CPA in the form voted by the legislative body. Whether this vote can be taken at the same meeting where the legislative body votes to accept the CPA is being explored.
Funding is a combination of locally-raised money and a match provided by the state.
Certain exemptions, spelled out in the statute, may be included. Local funds raised are matched by state funds raised through a new surcharge on the fees on filings in the Registry of Deeds and the Land Court. The locally-raised surcharge money is placed in a Community Preservation Fund. The state money is placed in the Community Preservation Trust Fund administered by the Department of Revenue. After disbursal each October, the city or town places the state money in its Community Preservation Fund.