Select Board discusses Abbott Farm upkeep and deed restrictions after inquiry from an heir

Select Board members used the April 21 meeting to review the condition and management options for Abbott Farm, a roughly 120-acre property the town now holds. A board member said an heir had inquired about buying the property; staff reviewed the town's status and constraints.

Town staff said the property was tax-acquired and became town-owned after three years, at which point it was designated open space. Staff described the property as largely wooded with a field that could be mowed and suggested mowing and targeted cleanup this year; there is an overgrown cemetery area at one edge of the property that will need attention. Staff also recounted a recent basement flooding incident at the house and said the building is old and in limited condition.

On potential disposition, staff told the board at least one deed restriction remains that allows only one additional house to be built on the 120-acre parcel; changing that restriction would require legal action by the party who placed it or a court process. The board was warned that selling the property could trigger liens and that proceeds might need to be applied to state liens or other encumbrances. Board members said they had previously discussed keeping the property for open-space and recreation uses; they asked staff to consult the town's attorney if the board wants to consider other options.

Attribution: Staff provided the factual summary of the property and constraints; board members raised process and policy questions. No sale motion was made at the meeting.