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Residents, former pool operator and commissioners discuss Papa Squash land donation and dam history
Summary
The commission discussed a potential donation of the Papa Squash property (several acres with wetland, riverfront and a dam) and heard public comment from a longtime volunteer and former pool operator who urged preservation and offered historical context; the commission also moved forward an associate member nomination.
Members discussed taking ownership of the Papa Squash property, described as two parcels totaling roughly 2.9 acres with wetlands, riverfront and floodplain constraints. Staff said the donation paperwork and tax considerations were being coordinated with the Board of Selectmen and the Town Administrator. Commissioners noted potential liability related to a dam on one parcel and said they were gathering more information.
A local former vice president and longtime pool operator, Rich Gunther, told the commission he could provide historical paperwork and said the property has wildlife and community value. "It's a great resource...You have turtles...There's a sandy area where they lay their eggs...It's a great resource that way too," he said, urging preservation and volunteer cleanup projects.
Separately the commission accepted Mark Diamante as an associate member and the Chair said the nomination will go to the Board of Selectmen for formal recommendation. Diamante introduced himself and told the panel he wanted to be more involved in town government.
