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Westborough staff say Otis/Oda Street sidewalk work is funded but one easement may require eminent domain
Summary
Community development director Fred Lonardo told the Advisory Finance Committee the Otis/Oda Street sidewalk project has funding secured (estimated $6.5–7 million) and most easements; one owner has declined to sign an easement, the town is ordering an appraisal and may seek eminent domain if negotiations fail.
Fred Lonardo, the town’s community development director, briefed the Advisory Finance Committee on Feb. 9 about the Otis/Oda Street sidewalk and road project (Article 24).
Lonardo said the project’s total cost is about $6.5–7 million and that the town has secured the majority of required easements through negotiations and is advancing construction procurement. He identified two parcels owned by the same owner (John Parsons) as outstanding easement negotiations. "We don't really have a lot of time to waste," Lonardo said, explaining the town placed an article on the March warrant to keep the schedule if negotiations are not complete.
Lonardo said the town will obtain an appraisal for the parcel and try to incorporate acquisition costs into grant funding where possible. He emphasized the town will continue negotiations before pursuing eminent domain, but that initiating an appraisal is a necessary step if voluntary conveyance is not achieved.
Committee members asked about whether the town would bear easement acquisition costs; Lonardo said other property owners had agreed to grant easements at no cost, and this owner is the first to raise the issue. If the town must acquire the easement, there will be a cost; Lonardo said staff are exploring grant eligibility for appraisal and acquisition expenses.
The committee did not take a vote on the matter that night but received the update as part of annual warrant and budget planning.
