Conservation commission votes 6–0 to spend $585,000 to buy 43‑acre Walker parcel

The Hollis Conservation Commission voted 6–0 Aug. 5 to approve spending $585,000 from its conservation fund to buy a 43.282‑acre parcel owned by Clifford Walker and Ellen Jones Walker at Pine Hill and Naartoff roads. Chair Joe moved the expenditure after a public hearing the commission opened and then closed the same evening.

“This is why we’re here. Permanent conservation of this parcel, which is almost entirely wooded,” Chair Joe said during his presentation, highlighting the property’s long use as a tree farm and its contiguity with other conserved land. Commissioners described intended uses as passive recreation and trail access, and said timber harvests would continue under a licensed forester while explicitly banning athletic fields, motorized bikes, overnight camping and target shooting on the property.

The commission noted the $585,000 figure covers the purchase price but that closing typically adds fees. Members discussed auxiliary costs such as transfer, title and recording fees and attorney fees, estimating roughly an additional $10,000–$20,000 in soft costs. The commission approved related near‑term steps: a $3,000 appraisal expected by early October and a title search not to exceed $3,000 with Sweeney & Sweeney of Nashua.

Actions recorded in the meeting minutes included a motion to expend $585,000 to purchase Map 032 Lot 009 (43.282 acres) and subsequent unanimous roll‑call approval (6–0). The public hearing was opened in accordance with state statute language read aloud at the meeting and then closed after no members of the public came forward to comment.