Methuen Council approves $3.25 million purchase of Searls Estate, authorizes bond

The Methuen City Council voted unanimously on the second read to approve the city’s purchase of the Searls Estate for $3,250,000 and to authorize a bond to cover acquisition and short-term operating needs.

Councilors approved a motion to waive the council’s one‑year bar on reintroducing defeated measures and then unanimously voted to reconsider the Aug. 5 rejection of TR24‑51. On the reconsideration and final votes the tally was recorded as 8–0 in favor. The CAFO told the council acquisition plus immediate operating and security costs would total roughly $3,500,000; staff estimated principal and interest on a 20‑year bond at just under $4,800,000.

The council’s action followed about two hours of public comment from residents, historians and civic groups who urged purchase and long‑term preservation. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to own and preserve this unique, irreplaceable and historically significant property,” said Kenneth Doherty, a member of the Methuen Historical Commission. Supporters cited tourism and events as potential revenue sources.

Administration officials framed the purchase as a preservation-first…