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Harrison approves narrow authority to decline tax-acquired property when town liability would be excessive
Summary
After residents raised concerns about fairness and environmental cleanup costs, voters approved Article 17 authorizing the treasurer, after a board finding, to waive foreclosure and decline town acquisition under 36 MRS §944 when taking ownership would be contrary to town interest.
Voters approved Article 17, authorizing the treasurer to waive foreclosure of a tax-lien mortgage under 36 MRS subsection 944 when the select board finds taking ownership would be contrary to the town's interest.
The article prompted extended public comment. Tara Reynolds said she did not understand the statute and asked what "contrary to the town's best interest" would mean in practice. Speakers warned that leaving the choice to local officials could be inconsistent: one resident described a contested property that required expensive cleanup after the town took title in the past and urged a consistent policy that treats all owners similarly.
Supporters said the waiver is a risk-management tool that allows the town to decline title to properties that would impose disproportionate cleanup liabilities and costs—examples included junkyards and contaminated parcels. The transcript records that the select board and town staff explained state processes and environmental specialists would inform such decisions; the board would still make the call in public hearings.
The motion carried with 63 yes votes recorded in the transcript. The select board and town manager flagged the need to ensure clear, consistent criteria and public hearings when the town considers declining tax-acquired property.
Next steps: Select board to develop/communicate consistent criteria and to rely on environmental specialist evaluations when contamination or cleanup liability is a factor.
