Select Board tables barge permit over Libby will concerns; town counsel to review

The Wolfeboro Select Board on Tuesday deferred action on a barge permit after questions arose about whether commercial use of the Libby Museum shorefront conflicts with the donor's will.

One trustee read portions of Doctor Libby's testament noting that "no building or superstructure or obstruction of any nature shall ever be erected, maintained, or permitted on the aforesaid land in front of the museum or in the waters abutting thereon so as to mar or interfere with a beautiful view from the museum or from its shorefront." The trustee said the language did not explicitly allow commercial operations.

Board members noted the town's historical use of the dock area for both public and commercial activity and that the charitable-trust division has previously reviewed records related to how funds were handled. The board agreed to ask the town attorney to consult the Charitable Trust Unit (CTU) and provide a legal opinion before issuing or denying any new commercial barge permits for the Libby dock.

Select Board Chair moved to table the Wolfeboro Dock Company's 2026 barge permit application pending a legal ruling; the motion passed by voice vote. Board members said existing permits that had already met criteria and been fully authorized would not be abruptly revoked while the town seeks counsel.

Planning items tied to Libby trustees were placed on the calendar: the board scheduled Libby trustee public hearings for August 5 and August 19 on questions about the museum building and related use.

What's next: Town counsel will be asked to review the will's language and advise whether commercial barge permits are consistent with the Libby trust; the board will revisit any affected permits after counsel and the CTU respond.