In 2001, the residents of the Town of Medway voted to adopt the Community Preservation Act (CPA), an initiative providing dedicated funding for three main purposes: Open Space/Recreation, Affordable Housing, and Historical Preservation. Funded through a 3% adder on local tax bills and an annual contribution of funds from the Commonwealth, this program has allowed Medway to make significant improvements throughout our Community.
These funds have supported the preservation and rehabilitation of the Thayer Homestead, major recreation improvements at Choate and Oakland Parks, additional playing surfaces at Medway High School, and the infusion of vital affordable housing options. Today, we again look to the CPA to provide funding for perhaps our most important initiative to date: the purchase of 88 acres of open space in the heart of Medway - the Shady Oaks Farm.
Nestled along Winthrop Street, these parcels abut key Town properties, including Medway High School to the west and Medway Community Farm to the north. From rolling meadows to waterfront acreage, the opportunities for generations of Medway families are limitless. This iconic farmland brings the farming history of Medway to life every day, and allows us to preserve that heritage in its natural setting. By acquiring this land, we will achieve key goals of our Master Plan, and provide the passive enjoyment of the beauty that truly sets Medway apart.
On May 11, residents will be asked to vote on this critical purchase under Article 1 of the Annual Town Meeting.
The total funding request of $5,620,000 includes the land purchase price of $4,850,000, with $770,000 allocated for site clean up, the removal of deteriorated structures, and necessary legal, technical, and survey work.
To ensure fiscal responsbility, the Town utilized professional site assessment services to study the properties. Their findings confirm that the funding is appropriate and that this purchase is in Medway’s best interest. And, by utilizing existing CPA funds ($2,870,000) and financing the balance ($2,750,000) through future CPA receipts, residents will NOT be asked to pay any additional monies for this purchase.
In 2001 Medway’s residents envisioned the long-term benefits of the Community Preservation Act. Twenty-five years later, we have the opportunity to once again highlight that vision with Shady Oaks Farm. Thank you Medway for your thoughtful consideration - we look forward to seeing you on Monday, May 11th at 7:30PM.
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