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Selectboard weighs $600,000 Tucker sand‑pit offer, flags access and remediation issues

November 26, 2025 | Northfield Town, Washington County, Vermont


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Selectboard weighs $600,000 Tucker sand‑pit offer, flags access and remediation issues
Board members reviewed a purchase agreement for a Tucker family sand‑pit property that lists a $600,000 purchase price and identified several conditions that must be resolved before the town could move forward.

Staff and board members said the site contains significant sand deposits but also coarser, 'bony' material that would require crushing or mixing; a preparatory phase to remove material to allow a crusher on site could take about two years, the board was told. The proposal also raised infrastructure questions: access to the site uses a single‑lane bridge and a rail crossing that could trigger the need for an electrified crossing at significant cost. One staff estimate cited roughly $250,000 to install an electrified crossing if commercial traffic made it necessary.

Board members said they need additional technical information and clearances before acting. Members requested geological survey data (the transcript references a report from another municipality), a second report from Rob Townsend, and confirmation of arrangements with the railroad. They also discussed financing options (owner financing or municipal note) and whether voter approval would be necessary if the town borrowed funds for a purchase. Staff advised that purchasing property generally does not require voter approval unless the town takes on debt (a note), in which case voter approval may be required.

Several logistical concerns were raised: ensuring year‑round access, confirming movable rights of way for neighboring property owners, bridge condition and required guardrail work to reach municipal standards, and tax‑assessment questions. The board did not vote on the purchase; members described next steps as further due diligence and cost‑benefit analysis prior to any formal agreement.

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