The most notable topic at the meeting was the rejection of a proposal from the King family, who offered to purchase a three-acre parcel on Hannes Road for $4,000, falling short of the assessed value of $104,860. The trust members expressed concern over the offer not meeting the minimum criteria established by the RFP. A motion to reject the proposal was introduced and passed following a roll call vote.

The discussion surrounding the proposal highlighted the disappointment of receiving only one bid and raised questions about the timing and criteria of the RFP. Members contemplated whether the current minimum threshold should be adjusted to attract more bids. Suggestions included revisiting the assessed value and possibly conducting perk tests to make the land more appealing to developers. These tests, although costly, were seen as a potential way to stimulate interest and provide assurance to prospective builders about the land’s viability.

Concerns were raised about the declining housing market potentially deterring builders from new projects, with one member noting the risks involved in land development without concrete assurances. This led to a broader discussion about the timing of future RFPs, with a consensus forming around the idea of delaying further actions until after the holiday season. Members believed that revisiting the RFP in January, when market conditions might stabilize, could yield better results. The holiday season slowdown in business activity was recognized, and it was suggested that a revised RFP could be more effective if released around Martin Luther King Jr. Day, allowing potential bidders time to plan for spring development.

The meeting also covered the recent signing of a timber harvesting contract with Anderson Timber. This contract involves selective cutting and establishing a landing zone for equipment, with the anticipated revenue earmarked for the Townsend Affordable Housing Trust. This initiative could provide funds for future projects, such as the proposed perk testing on town-owned parcels. Members emphasized the importance of notifying abutters about the timber harvesting activities to maintain good communication and avoid surprises.

As the meeting progressed, potential future meeting dates were considered. While a brief meeting on November 22 was discussed, the consensus leaned towards delaying until January, aligning with the strategy to release a revised RFP after the holidays. The feasibility of conducting a meeting over Zoom was also explored, considering the unpredictability of winter weather.

A motion to adjourn was proposed and seconded, concluding the meeting with a commitment to reconvene with fresh ideas and strategies in early January.