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Residents press for documentation on trust funds as Audubon plans house sale
Summary
Residents asked how Millicent Hamilton’s restricted trust money and any proceeds from a house sale would be handled; Audubon said the funds are restricted to Hamilton and estimated an appraisal and annual spending figures but agreed to provide documentation.
Several homeowners pressed Maine Audubon for clarity on the donor‑restricted funds that support Hamilton Sanctuary and on how proceeds from any sale of the house would be used.
A resident who said they had reviewed the will noted the donor provided a $50,000 gift and suggested more of the residuary estate may have gone to Audubon; they asked whether proceeds from a sale could be diverted elsewhere. Audubon representatives said the will and related documents keep proceeds and restricted funds designated for Hamilton and that the organization has been spending more on the sanctuary than the restricted drawing provides.
Audubon gave an appraisal estimate for the house parcel of roughly $400,000 and estimated annual maintenance and program costs at about $30,000. "Millicent left us about $50,000 to manage not just the house but the property," said Michael Petanya, and Audubon staff said those funds would stay in an account earmarked for Hamilton but would likely need augmentation from other organizational funds to cover ongoing expenses.
Residents requested the trust and will language be made available for review; Audubon said the will is a public document and agreed to provide details at the follow‑up meeting.
