The Town of Wayne Select Board voted 5-0 on July 15 to cancel the current request for proposals for an appraisal of the 100 Acre Wood property and to reissue a revised RFP with clearer instructions and a longer response window. Shannon (Town Manager) told the board she contacted nine firms; two responded (one declining for scheduling reasons, one proposing but leaving open additional hourly and travel charges), while the others did not return calls or emails.

The board asked staff to tighten the pricing section of the RFP so the base appraisal deliverable is provided as a fixed-price item and to require a schedule for any additional, post-report services (court testimony or expert updates). One proposal included a fixed price for the initial appraisal and a caveat for additional hourly charges for future services; the board asked for hourly rates to be included in the reissued RFP so bidders and the town can compare bids directly.

Board members also recommended asking for references and proof of prior similar work, extending the submission window (several members suggested more than the two weeks originally allowed), and consulting a local retired appraiser to review the RFP language before release. The board directed Shannon to cancel the existing solicitation without award and to prepare a revised RFP for reissue.