Acadia plans to auction surplus land for new police facility funding

The Candia Board of Selectmen convened on December 4, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, including a proposed warrant article concerning the sale of surplus town land.

The meeting began with a proposal from a board member regarding the identification and auctioning of 72 parcels of land owned by the town, many of which are not currently serving a municipal purpose. The member suggested that the proceeds from the sale of these properties be allocated to a capital reserve account specifically for the construction of a new police facility.

The member highlighted that the aggregate assessed value of the identified parcels is approximately $2,313,000. If these properties were sold at one-third of their assessed value, the town could potentially raise around $800,000. Additionally, returning these properties to private ownership could generate nearly $50,000 annually in property taxes.

To facilitate the sale, the board member mentioned that they had contacted a company specializing in selling municipal tax-dated properties. This company would handle the entire process at no cost to the town, charging a 10% buyer's premium instead. They would manage everything from mapping the properties to advertising and conducting the sale.

However, it was clarified during the discussion that while the town has the authority to sell surplus land, a warrant article is necessary to authorize the allocation of the proceeds to the capital reserve account. The board agreed on the importance of moving forward with this proposal to support the construction of the new police facility.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to optimizing town resources and addressing public safety needs through strategic financial planning. Further steps will be taken to draft the warrant article for the upcoming town meeting.