Committee defers decision on odd-shaped Lot G, asks staff to contact landowner and get subdivision cost

Tracy, town real estate staff, presented Lot G, an L-shaped remainder parcel that abuts properties on Surfside Road. Several abutters have already acquired adjoining 'halves' of paper roads, leaving Lot G as a leftover piece. Staff recommended releasing a request for proposals (RFP) to allow all interested abutters to bid; committee members raised concerns that selling Lot G intact could create an oddly shaped parcel that, depending on the buyer, might enable future subdivision or produce zoning nonconformities.

Committee members discussed alternatives: divide Lot G into two rectangular pieces (G1 and G2) to avoid awkward shapes, or release the RFP with careful language to prevent new nonconformities. Members repeatedly said the committee should first confirm whether landowner Barbara Osborne truly wants to keep or decline the parcel; one member urged obtaining a written declination. Members also asked staff to obtain a fee estimate from Bracken — the firm that prepared the plan — for splitting Lot G, and to consider direct outreach to neighbors.

Lee Saperstein moved (and another member seconded) to defer action on Lot G until staff (1) gets clearer documentation of the landowner’s wishes, including a written declination if appropriate, and (2) obtains a Bracken cost estimate for subdividing Lot G into two parcels. The motion passed by roll-call vote with members present voting aye.

Committee members emphasized practical next steps rather than immediate sale: confirm the landowner’s position in writing, seek a precise cost to subdivide, and if the town proceeds with an RFP ensure its terms prevent creating new zoning nonconformities. The committee did not approve conveyance or select bidders at this meeting; the matter remains pending further information.