Since 2003, when the city started its program, it has collected $3,097,959 in surcharges and received $2,200,554 in matching funds from Massachusetts.
Agawam Town HallAGAWAM – Agawam city councilors flirted with the idea of putting the future of the Community Preservation Act program on the ballot, but ended up deciding the program to fund recreational and other programs is worthwhile after all.
The City Council voted 2-9 last week on a motion to put a question on the ballot about the program. It enables the city to assess a 1 percent property tax surcharge to fund projects involving open space, historic preservation and affordable housing.
Councilors James P. Cichetti and John F. Walsh had sponsored a proposal to put the issue before local voters. However, Cichetti said after doing research, he decided the program has great value. He ended up voting against the motion.
Among the projects the city’s Community Preservation Committee has used the locally raised money for over the years are $1.7 million for School Street Park, $210,000 for preservation of the historic Thomas Smith House, $248,000 for roof, door and window replacements for the Agawam Housing Authority, $65,000 to preserve historical records in the Town Clerk’s Office and $92,820 for a play area at Benjamin Phelps School.
Since 2003, when the city started its program, it has collected $3,097,959 in surcharges and received $2,200,554 in matching funds from the state.
Councilors Walsh and George Bitzas cast the only votes to put the matter on the ballot. Bitzas said he isn’t against the program, but believes voters should get a chance to weigh in.
“Let the people speak and say if they want it,” Bitzas said. “Don’t underestimate the wisdom and knowledge of the Agawam voter.”
“The economy is much different from back in 2001 when we first passed it,” Walsh said of the city adopting the state legislation that made it possible to have a local program.
Several councilors spoke out strongly in favor of the program.
“I think we’d be making a horrible, horrible mistake if we eliminate this program,” Councilor Robert E. Rossi said.
“There has been a great deal done by the CPA over the years,” Councilor Robert A. Magovern said. The chairman of the Ordinance Committee, Magovern said that body voted 3-0 to keep the program.