Representative Dave Rogers supports Question 5

Representative Dave Rogers

Yes on Question 5 is grateful for the support of State Representative Dave Rogers, who represents those parts of Arlington that are in the 24th Middlesex District.

As the people of Arlington reflect on whether or not they want to adopt the Community Preservation Act (CPA), I would like to offer a few thoughts on why I believe doing so is a good idea.

The CPA affords communities an opportunity to invest in specific, positive ways.

It can be hard to prioritize the sorts of investments the CPA emphasizes within the context of a town budget. With roads to repair, schools to fund, and salaries and pensions to pay, money for conservation, historical preservation, outdoor recreation, and affordable housing can be scarce.

But these are precisely the sorts of investments that distinguish a community like Arlington and safeguard its future, and there are strong arguments for why each of the four areas of investment is of great value.

1. Preservation of open space improves life for all residents of Arlington. The natural beauty of open spaces makes a community desirable and thereby increases property values. The opportunity to spend time outside also provides a chance for physical activity and for children to learn about and appreciate nature.
2. Affordable housing, which is important in its own right, helps to maintain the economic diversity that is central to Arlington’s identity. In addition, helping those of more modest means is consistent with the town's values. As we all know, living in Arlington has grown increasingly expensive over the years and helping alleviate that burden for those in need is ever more important.
3. Like Boston and many of its surrounding communities, Arlington is a town full of history. Historical sites are easily lost and can be expensive to protect, but once protected, they are treasured by many locals and visitors alike.
4. Outdoor recreation facilities promote fun, healthy living, and community. Whether it is individuals availing themselves of these public spaces or children coming together to play sports, outdoor recreation gets people on their feet and interacting with each other.

Central to helping Arlington make investments in these areas is the fact that passing the CPA will entitle Arlington to state monies. The Community Preservation Trust Fund, which is administered by the state Department of Revenue, is distributed to communities to support CPA projects and to encourage adoption of the CPA.

Leaving that money "on the table" just does not make sense.

Through adoption of the CPA, the people of Arlington have the opportunity to come together and make improvements to this wonderful community. I encourage the people of Arlington to adopt the CPA and take another step forward in the goal of continuing to create a community in which so many want to live.

Representative Dave Rogers
24th Middlesex