Faced with increasing development pressure and an overwhelming desire by town residents to protect open space and water resources, the ACC has proposed a $6 million bond warrant article to enable purchase and conservation of open space in town. The proposal, Article 22, allows the purchase of up to $2 million of open space per year. Properties will be selected based on specific criteria, and will not be purchased until approved by the ACC, the Planning Board, and the Board of Selectmen after multiple public hearings. No money will be appropriated, and there will be no tax impact, until a property is approved for purchase. The annual property tax cost to the average home is $40 (based on a 20-year bond, 3% interest). The article will require a 60% "yes" vote in order to be approved.
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