By Mary Canty
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) in Massachusetts helps communities obtain funding to develop open space and recreational facilities, create affordable housing, and preserve historic sites. It was enacted in September 2000 and has been adopted in 201 communities in Massachusetts. Becket has been an active member since 2008.
During that time the Becket CPC has supported and completed many projects that have helped us improve our town: two affordable housing projects, the rebuilding of the Congregational Church belfry—which houses our Paul Revere bell—capital improvements to Seminary Hall and the Athenaeum, playground equipment at our town parks, and establishing Esau’s Heel Trail on Route 20, to name just a few.
The funding for CPC is established through a 1.5% surcharge on real property tax and a distribution from the Mass Community Preservation Trust Fund to participating communities. All CPC projects are presented annually at the Town Meeting and must be approved by town residents to move forward.
During the 17 years the CPC has been active in Becket, we have established a sizable balance. The current project on Brooker Hill Road addresses the erosion of a stone wall and pillars. The town approved $50K for this at the May 2025 Town Meeting.
We are looking for new projects that residents of the town are interested in proposing and leading. Please bring us your ideas that meet the criteria for open space and recreation, historic preservation, or affordable housing.
The CPC meets regularly at Town Hall with the next meeting scheduled for January 21 at 6:30 pm. All are welcome. We would love to hear from you! Come in to chat about your potential projects with the Committee; we are happy to provide background and guidance. Readers may also direct any questions to CPC Chair Mary Canty at cpa@townofbecket.org. The application form for future projects can be found at townofbecket.org/files under the Community Preservation Committee heading. The deadline for 2026 Projects is February 28.
Community Preservation Committee-funded projects; photos courtesy of the CPC
