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ARNSTABLE – Delegates of the Barnstable County Assembly reviewed a proposal for a luxury real‑estate transfer fee, noting both enthusiasm and reservations. Advocates argue the fee, if approved by the state legislature, could generate critical revenue to tackle Cape Cod’s housing shortage. The bill would let towns opt in, setting a fee between 0.5% and 4% on sales above $1 million, or a higher rate chosen locally.

    Yarmouth delegate Susan Warner said, “We’ve spoken with many residents and towns to capture diverse perspectives and appreciate their input. We must secure a revenue source that supports those who work here but cannot afford to live here.”

    Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce CEO Paul Niedzwiecki urged a county‑wide approach, noting that pooled resources enable larger, faster projects than individual towns could manage.

    Wellfleet Select Board member John Wolf highlighted the need for regional home‑rule, adding that county‑level initiatives may have more legislative traction than town‑level petitions.

    Further public sessions will precede the final vote.

    By Jim McCabe, CapeCod.com NewsCenter