Council approves $500,000 purchase agreement for Bristol Foam parcel, avoids condemnation

The Town Council adopted resolution 414-2026-8 on April 14 to authorize execution of a negotiated purchase agreement to acquire the parcel informally called the Bristol Foam property for a purchase price of $500,000, avoiding a condemnation proceeding.

Town legal counsel Alex Bowman told the council the town had previously taken preliminary steps toward condemnation for right-of-way realignment, but negotiations produced an arms-length purchase agreement. "We've been able to negotiate a purchase agreement at that $500,000 amount in lieu of condemnation," Bowman said, and the seller had already signed the copy attached to the resolution. The resolution authorizes execution of the purchase agreement and commencement of standard diligence, with the caveat that diligence could reveal issues that affect closing.

Councilmembers asked clerical questions about the seller's signature block, since the seller signed as a "member" of an LLC rather than using an officer title; Bowman explained that the LLC representative had represented authority to sign and that the town relies on that representation.

The council voted in favor of the resolution and authorized the town to proceed with diligence and execution, with the intention of acquiring the parcel if no material issues are found. Bowman also told the council that a similar resolution concerning a right of first offer and utility easement for the 14 Shore Manor property would be before the council on Thursday.

The action will allow the town to acquire property needed for a public improvement or realignment without initiating court condemnation, subject to successful diligence and standard closing conditions.