Former VCIA President, Honorary Member, and all around wonderful friend, Molly Lambert stopped by our offices last week, and, as many of you know, she is Vermont’s most respected community servant. Molly is doing a little work for a local affordable housing organization here in Burlington, Champlain Housing Trust, and it just so happens the stars align that bring the world of captive insurance and affordable housing.

This past year, the Vermont General Assembly passed an amendment in a housing bill that added captive insurers as a listed group that can take advantage of a tax credit that supports affordable housing. Currently banks and traditional insurance companies can take advantage of the credit. This change was welcome by both the Governor and legislature, as affordable housing is a priority for both.

CPA Mutual Insurance Company of America Risk Retention Group is the first captive insurance company to take advantage of Vermont’s Affordable Housing Tax Credit program. The captive purchased credits from the Champlain Housing Trust who will use the proceeds to create permanently affordable homes in Essex, Vermont.

CPA Mutual’s captive management company, Strategic Risk Solutions, worked with VCIA and the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation to bring the initiative to the legislature. The purchase of the tax credits will provide a reduction in state tax liability spread out over the next five years, while providing a lump sum up front for Champlain Housing Trust to subsidize four condominiums for sale in its shared equity program.  The revenue from the sale of the credits will subsidize the purchase of the homes. In exchange for this down payment assistance, buyers agree to share any market appreciation if they decide to sell at a future date.

William Thompson, president of CPA Mutual, commented: “This was an easy decision for us. To play a role in increasing the availability of affordable housing in Chittenden County is critical right now, and investing in the tax credits makes good business sense, too.”

Just like Molly to be on the side of good community and good business!  Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.

Rich Smith
VCIA President