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Special Town Meeting Vote In Favor of 290 Acre Land Purchase
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Sunday,
December 12, 2010
At a Special Town Meeting on December 6, the Town of Belchertown supported an appropriation of $750,000 to pay for 290 acres of Holland Glen Forest for conservation and recreation purposes. The Finance Committee was split on this Warrant Article voting 2 for and 2 against.
Two thirds of the total cost of the property will be paid for by a state grant awarded to the town. Selectman James Barry stated that the town has had its eye on the property. “This particular property has been on the wanted listed for a number of years,” said Barry adding that the state grant and the economy makes this the most opportune time to acquire the parcel.
Some questioned where the remaining $250,000 would come from to pay for the parcel.
Belchertown Conservation Administrator LeeAnne Connolly said that it is the intention to apply for $175,000 from Community Preservation Act funds. She also explained that she is working with the Kestrel Trust to raise the final $75,000.
Speaking in support of the appropriation, Edwina Cruise said that the Article was more about acquiring more land for Belchertown. “This is not just a piece of land…this one of the most breathtaking and beautiful sections of Belchertown,” she said.
Bill Huber of the Board of Assessors spoke against the Article. “It’s time to say no to certain things,” he said. He explained that the market value of the property is $1,060,600 an that is currently being taxed on a $60,900 because of its Chapter 60B status, a tax status that allows for reduced assessed value for landowners who wish to preserve their property for natural, wild or open space. Huber explained that more money could be generated for the town if it was developed. “The town should not be involved in becoming a real estate magnate,” he said. He also reminded voters that CPA is a tax. “It’s not a free ride, it’s a tax on a tax,” he said.
Board of Selectman Chairman Ronald Aponte argued that the value of the land is actually $750,000. “The value of the land is $750,000. That is what the Seller is selling. There is a bona fide Purchase and Sale (Agreement) that states that the value of the land is $750,000,” said Aponte. He also explained that Town Meeting will also have to vote to approve $175,000 in CPA funds in May. He also reminded voters that there are safeguards in place protecting the town if CPA funds and fundraising goals cannot be realized, the Board of Selectmen is not obligated to proceed with the purchase.
Video of Special Town Meeting Debate
Editor's Note: The author of this article and Publisher of Belchertown-News.com is licensed real estate broker.
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