Dear Readers,

I have very much enjoyed the discourse on the affordable housing aspect of article 16. I think the information solicited has been important, and I think George has done an admirable job of answering the questions with accurate information.

Article 16 seeks Town Meeting approval to spend the CPA budget (and allocate remaining revenues in reserve) for three projects: restoration work as part of the Senior Center renovation that NAU supports, funding to complete the window restorations at Stevens Estate which will address window deterioration and hopefully lower utility costs, and contribute funds to NOAH's affordable housing project, "Stevens Corner".

CPA funds must be used in strict adherence to the state guidelines. North Andover has at times grumbled about the CPA surcharge, but we have reaped tremendous benefits from this program. I have attended many meetings over the years and listened to John Simons speak about his committee's work - they truly see their role as stewardship for the community with a sharp awareness of their fiduciary duty to use those monies well.

North Andover United has not taken a position on this article yet - but speaking personally, I expect I will vote in favor of this article.

As it stands now - I believe that the CPA request for funding under Article 16 is sound.

The breakout of the Article 16 is as follows. Support for senior center renovation is minimal.

The vast majority ([i]14.75 times more[/i]) is for taxpayer subisidized housing at the Greenery. (Percentages are compared to CPA total of $1,817,000)


Old Police Court Refurbishment $91,476 Historical Preservation 5.03%

Stevens Estate Restoration – Windows (Phase II) $30,000 Historical Preservation 1.65%


Former Greenery Property –
Neighborhood of Affordable
Housing (NOAH) to create 42 new
affordable housing units $1,350,000 Affordable Housing 74.28%

Reserve for Open Space $231,200 Open Space Protection 12.72%

Reserve for Historical Preservation $109,724 Historical Preservation 6.04%

Administrative Costs $5,000 Administration 0.28%