Bolton selectmen pause on $250,000 parks grant; ask staff for options before applying

The Bolton Board of Selectmen on Tuesday discussed a $250,000 legislative appropriation earmarked for parks and recreation but did not authorize immediate acceptance or spending. Instead, the board directed administrators to gather information about restrictions and return with concrete options, and members proposed forming a small advisory group to recommend uses. The money was described during the meeting as a legislative grant secured by state lawmakers and sent to the town through the state Department of Administrative Services. Jim (town staff) told the board the funds carry no statutory match and that the award came from a biennial budget allotment originally requested as $500,000 for the two-year cycle; Bolton would receive $250,000 in the coming year. Board members repeatedly said they were grateful for the allocation but uncomfortable approving a plan before identifying a project. One meeting participant asked administrators to “give us some options as to what we would accept the money for,” and another proposed a public committee to vet candidate projects and ensure transparency. Several board members noted local plans that might qualify, including restoration of Herrick Park fields and an accessibility-focused playground project at Veterans Field supported privately and discussed with state lawmakers. Selectmen emphasized three sequential steps: (1) confirm whether the funds have any statutory restrictions, (2) solicit input from parks and recreation staff and public stakeholders, and (3) return to the full board with a recommended use before applying or accepting the money. The board did not take a final vote to accept or reject the funds at the meeting. The discussion also flagged timing questions: officials said there was no immediate deadline to file paperwork but acknowledged the grant opportunity might be time-sensitive if the state’s biennial budget changes. The board asked staff to contact the senator’s office and meet with parks and recreation and public stakeholders before agendizing the matter again.