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October 18, 2012

Letter: Clearing up CPA misconceptions

The Salem News

To the editor:

I want to correct wrong information that is making the rounds about Question 4 in Beverly, the Community Preservation Act. Is it a tax? Yes, it’s a tax. But unlike other taxes, the 1 percent rate cannot be raised unless citizens go through the entire referendum process again and voters agree to the new rate.

Unlike a tax, the money raised goes for specific purposes: open space and recreation, historic preservation, and affordable housing. Unlike a tax, a committee of Beverly citizens will choose how the money is spent. Unlike a tax, the state contributes a match to the funds raised here in Beverly (money that the city currently misses out on). Like a tax, there are exemptions for homeowners hit hard by the current economy and for low- and moderate-income seniors. I plan on voting yes on 4 in November. I’m willing to pay a week’s worth of coffee and doughnuts to pay for the things that make Beverly beautiful, interesting and affordable for young families.

Dawn Paul

Beverly

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