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Board hears animal-control hoarding case has generated roughly $17,000'$18,000 in legal bills
Summary
Selectmen were told the town's animal-control and hoarding case, which includes civil and criminal aspects, has produced about $17,000'$18,000 in unpaid legal bills; town attorneys and the resident's counsel will be asked to meet to seek resolution and limit further uncontrolled legal spending required by statute.
The Andover Board of Selectmen discussed an ongoing animal-control matter on April 13 that town officials described as involving hoarding conditions, sanitation and safety issues and both civil and criminal proceedings.
Town staff reported that legal bills tied to the civil proceedings total "about $17,000 to $18,000," and that the town needs to find a way to manage or limit continuing expenses. The board said it had contacted its attorneys (Sage & Howerin were named in the packet) and intended to arrange a meeting between the town's counsel and the resident's attorney to pursue a negotiated resolution and curtail future legal spending.
Town officials characterized the situation as difficult because the town is not in full control of filings and negotiations; they said state statute drives part of the process and that ongoing legal obligations could push the legal line item significantly over budget.
Why it matters: The case has already resulted in material legal costs and poses a budgeting challenge for the town. Board members said they are seeking ways to gain control over litigation and expense exposure while complying with statutory requirements.
Next steps: The board directed staff and counsel to set up a meeting with the resident's attorney to explore settlement options and ways to limit further legal spending. The town will allocate legal costs through the treasurer and the board will review budget impacts.
