Council approves transfer of hayfield lease on Hunter Road to longtime resident

The Tolland Town Council unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing the transfer of the south section of a town‑owned hayfield on Hunter Road to longtime resident John Dempsey.

Town staff said the property — acquired in 2002 as open space and historically farmed — has been leased for hay production. At the public hearing, staff described the transfer as a straight lease assignment: the selected farmer will continue agricultural production and take the hay bales as consideration rather than paying cash rent to the town. Town staff said the arrangement saves the town the recurring maintenance and mowing costs associated with the parcel.

According to staff, the parcel and its uses were intended to remain in agricultural production under the original acquisition deed. The council opened and closed a public hearing on the proposed lease transfer and then approved the resolution by roll call. The recorded vote was unanimous in favor of adoption.

Why it matters: The move keeps the parcel in agricultural use, preserves open green space along Hunter Road that abuts residential neighborhoods and transfers routine maintenance responsibility to a local farmer at no cost to taxpayers. Town staff said the arrangement has been the pattern for the property for years and that public works crews and volunteers have provided occasional support for upkeep.