Massachusetts House Bill H4701

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/30/24
• Engrossed: 5/30/24
• Engrossed: 7/31/24
• Enrolled: 7/31/24
• Chaptered: 8/7/24
• Passed: 8/7/24

Caption

Authorizing the commissioner of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance to convey certain parcels of land in the town of Lancaster

Impact

The bill notably bypasses standard regulations outlined in chapters of the General Laws regarding state land conveyance. The town of Lancaster is not restricted in its usage of the land post-conveyance unless it chooses to impose such restrictions later on, which could lead to varied municipal developments. For a nominal fee of one dollar, Lancaster will acquire ownership of the parcels, thus providing the opportunity for various uses which may serve the interests of the local community, given that they are compliant with applicable laws.

Summary

House Bill 4701 provides for the conveyance of certain parcels of land located in Lancaster, formerly known as the Lancaster Industrial School for Girls, from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the town of Lancaster. This bill is characterized as an emergency law, intended to facilitate the immediate transfer of these parcels to preserve public convenience. The sections of the bill outline the specific parcels to be conveyed, the consideration for their transfer, and stipulations regarding their use and potential future disposition.

Contention

One point of contention arises from the provisions concerning the sale or lease of any portions of the conveyed parcels. The bill mandates that any net proceeds from such transactions be shared equally between the town and the Commonwealth, though there is a provision for the Commonwealth's share to be reduced to encourage expedient sales. This sharing arrangement along with the additional costs the town must bear for sales processes may raise concerns about the long-term financial impact on municipal resources.

Summary_conclusion

Overall, House Bill 4701 represents a significant legislative action that impacts land management and local governance in Lancaster. The ability for the town to acquire these properties without extensive restrictions opens new avenues for community development, while the collaborative revenue-sharing model from potential land transactions introduces a financial stake for both local and state interests.