To the editor:

As former members of the Swampscott Select Board, we are writing to encourage residents to vote “YES” on Ballot item No. 6, the Community Preservation Act (CPA).

This Massachusetts law is a powerful tool for funding historic preservation, affordable housing, and open space/recreational opportunities.

The statewide Community Preservation Act fund has received money from our town, but never directly funded any of our initiatives because we have not approved participation. Neighboring towns such as Nahant and Salem have renovated their Lifesaving Station, veterans’ housing, parks and beachfronts.  More than 195 communities have used these funds. We’re behind the curve.

The CPA will benefit all members of the Swampscott community. There are exemptions for senior households with less than $104,000 and under-60 households bringing in less than $83,000/year. Get more information at www.SwampscottCPA.com. We urge you to vote “YES” on Question No. 6 to help our town enhance public benefits for all residents.

Naomi Dreeben

Neal Duffy

Laura Spathanas

Peter Spellios

Polly Titcomb

Swampscott