C
ape leaders are considering a regional luxury real estate transfer fee to address the 'missing middle' housing issue. While officials emphasize that the plan is still in its early stages, they acknowledge that towns like Provincetown and Eastham have already implemented fees of up to 3 percent.

    The Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates has questions about exemptions and whether individual towns can opt out. To move forward, a home rule petition would be needed from the state legislature, as well as a county ordinance establishing a housing fund.

    Assembly Speaker Randi Potash noted that housing is a regional issue that requires a collective solution. "We have a responsibility to find new ways to fund sustainable approaches while protecting the environment and scenic waterways," she said. The Assembly will continue discussing the proposal at their next meeting.