Recreation staff flags unexpected DCR lease increase for 09/11 Field

Department staff informed the Recreation Commission that a state lease invoice for the 09/11 Field arrived later than usual and for a higher amount than budgeted, creating the possibility that the department will need a reserve fund transfer to close out FY26.

Travis told commissioners the DCR invoice “came back about $1,300 higher than what it was last year,” and that staff had not received advance notice of the increase. He said he had contacted the revenue director at DCR and would work with town finance (Brian and Mark) to determine whether the town can increase the offset or reallocate operating funds before a reserve fund transfer is required.

Commissioner Don provided historical context on the lease and town accounting, explaining the lease and the state “pilot” payment are often structured so the town receives a related pilot payment that effectively neutralizes the net cost: “In the fiscal year '26, Southborough received, or was due to receive $383,000 as a pilot payment from the state for all of that land,” Don said, describing why the town’s net position can be neutral even when invoices fluctuate. He also noted the lease term was extended in past years by legislative action and that the current lease runs to about 2032.

The commission did not make a formal financial decision at the meeting. Staff said they will retrieve and review the lease in detail, follow up with the DCR revenue director about why the invoice increased, and coordinate with town finance on whether a reserve fund transfer will be necessary.