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Setback dispute prompts debate over ‘non‑pursuit’ letter; board to seek legal guidance in executive session
Summary
Select Board members split over whether to issue a written 'non‑pursuit' letter to clear title for a property built too close to a lot line or to require the property owner to exhaust the Zoning Board of Appeals process; the board asked staff to research legal implications and added an executive session for June 16.
A contentious dispute over a recent development that sits too close to a property line prompted heated debate at the Bridgton Select Board meeting June 2, with members divided over whether the town should issue a letter promising not to pursue enforcement or require the parties to move through the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
One select board member argued a written 'non‑pursuit' letter would allow owners and banks to move forward with sales and avoid costly litigation, noting prior municipal oversights. Other members said issuing such a letter without the ZBA process would undermine the town’s ordinances and set a damaging precedent.
Board members agreed they need legal research before taking action. Because the item also touches on a library‑related event and licensing that the board cannot discuss in open session, members asked the manager to add an executive session on June 16 to review legal options and associated personnel or licensing matters.
Public comment raised the risk that a non‑pursuit letter could expose the town to litigation if the abutting owner later sues, amplifying the need for counsel. The board did not make a final decision but directed staff to research legal exposure and possible ZBA pathways ahead of the June 16 meeting.
