Massachusetts House Bill H4120

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/31/23
• Refer: 8/31/23
• Refer: 10/2/23
• Refer: 12/28/23
• Report Pass: 7/30/24
• Refer: 7/30/24

Caption

Authorizing the county of Nantucket to convey certain land situated in the town and county of Nantucket for purposes of conveyance to the town of Nantucket

Impact

The passage of H4120 would streamline the process by which the county can transfer ownership of land to the town. It exempts the conveyance from certain laws, specifically Chapter 30B of the Massachusetts General Laws and rights of first refusal under Section 14 of Chapter 34. By doing so, the bill is expected to expedite the conveyance process, allowing the town of Nantucket to act more swiftly in land management matters and implement local planning initiatives without the typical delays associated with formal bid processes.

Summary

House Bill H4120 seeks to authorize the county of Nantucket to convey certain parcels of land to the town of Nantucket. The bill is primarily procedural, facilitating the transfer of land ownership between government entities without additional regulatory hindrances. This action is seen as a way to enhance local governance and address specific local needs regarding land management. The land parcels in question are detailed in a plan filed with the Nantucket County Registry of Deeds, highlighting the precise areas that will be impacted by this legislation.

Contention

While the bill received local approval and is largely viewed as a technical adjustment, there could be concerns among stakeholders regarding the terms of the land transfer. Local governments typically have the authority to impose conditions on such conveyances, and any restrictions or easements retained post-conveyance might be contentious if they inhibit future development or use of the land transferred. Nonetheless, this type of legislative action is common in managing local government property and is aimed at fostering greater collaboration between county and municipal authorities.