Templeton directs town administrator to inventory foreclosed and town‑owned properties for possible auction

The Select Board voted on Nov. 27 to ask the town administrator and treasurer to compile an inventory of town‑owned properties and to recommend which could be auctioned to return parcels to the tax rolls.

Treasurer and town staff explained the process for properties that have been in tax title or are currently in Land Court. Once Land Court turns a parcel over, the town has 30 days to decide whether to keep or sell it; if the town chooses to sell it must obtain an appraisal and engage a real‑estate agent, likely through a public bidding process. Recent state law changes require different accounting for some foreclosures; the town may need an interest‑bearing holding account for auction proceeds and could be required to reserve funds in case sale proceeds fall short of taxes and fees owed.

The board specifically asked staff to prioritize three town‑owned houses that were acquired under previous law and are currently on the town's inventory. The treasurer advised that auctions typically return revenue to the town only if sale prices cover outstanding taxes, fees and legal costs; if bids fall below appraised values, the town could be "upside down." Board members discussed clearing overgrowth to make lots visible and whether to schedule auctions in spring when market conditions are more favorable.

The motion passed with unanimous roll call. The administrator said he would compile the list and bring recommendations to a future meeting.