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Finance Committee debates possible purchase of Otis Poultry Farm ahead of Town Meeting
Summary
Members of the Otis Finance Committee split over Warrant Article 13, a possible town purchase of the Otis Poultry Farm. One member opposed citing existing town land, another warned maintenance staff lack capacity, and a third urged that voters decide. The committee approved May 1 minutes.
The Otis Finance Committee discussed Warrant Article 13 — a potential town purchase of the Otis Poultry Farm — during its May 5 meeting, with members expressing differing views but taking no formal action on a purchase.
Jim Crandall said he opposed acquiring the Poultry Farm, arguing the town should make greater use of land it already owns. Crandall told the committee the town owns "approximately 450 acres" and uses only about 50 of those acres, and he urged prioritizing existing holdings over adding new parcels.
Lisa D'Orazio raised operational concerns, reporting feedback from maintenance staff who told her they are worried the department lacks sufficient personnel to take on additional upkeep in the next fiscal year. She framed her remarks as a capacity and budget concern should the town assume new property responsibilities.
Terry Gould presented written notes supporting consideration of the Poultry Farm and said the ultimate decision should rest with town voters. "It is up to the residents to decide," Gould said, urging that the issue be resolved at the Town Meeting rather than by committee action.
The committee did not vote on Article 13 or make a recommendation; the discussion remained exploratory and focused on questions of land-use priorities and maintenance capacity.
Votes at a glance: - Approval of May 1 minutes: Lisa D'Orazio and Jim Crandall voted to approve; Terry Gould did not vote because she was not present at the May 1 meeting. Outcome: approved.
The Finance Committee adjourned at 11:35 a.m. The Warrant Article 13 purchase proposal will next be decided by voters at the Town Meeting unless the committee takes further action before then.
