This past fall, LWVN commented on several applications before the Community Preservation Commission (CPC). Below are excerpts from our letters.
Golda Meir House, $3.25 million
In general, we feel this project has lots of positive aspects. Specifically, the new units fill a large need in the community, have permanent deed restrictions on the affordable units; is aiming for LEED silver construction, will partner with Hearth, Inc., and leverages CPC funding to access other funding, limiting CPC funding to about 11% of the project cost.
Our main concerns are the support of the neighboring community and the question of seniors who should suddenly find themselves in financial difficulty.
Newton Conservators, $30,000
Our recommendation is to approve this application to cover the additional costs related to conservation restrictions for properties purchased with CPA funding. We also recommend that this additional cost be added in to any future application to purchase conservation land.
Allen House, $600,000
Regarding the current application, this is part of a multi-stage project that goes back to 2015. Our readers found that the organization has successfully managed its earlier construction projects and are inclined to recommend this project. However, one reader raised the question about whether or not the proposed theatre space would generate enough income needed to finish the renovations, and wondered if a needs assessment has been done. The idea was raised of possibly generating more income from providing rental space to non-profits and small businesses than from theatre space.