What is the process for approving CPA in a community?

A municipality may accept CPA through passage by the legislative body (town meeting or city council) or through a citizen petition that must be signed by 5 percent of the municipalities registered voters. In either case, CPA must subsequently be approved by a simple majority of local voters at the next town election.

CPA remains in effect for a minimum of five years from the date of voter approval in a municipality. After five years, it can be revoked in the same manner, legislative body acceptance (simple majority) or initiative petition followed by voter approval, used to approve CPA originally. Voters may amend the exemptions or surcharge level in any election year.