Commissioner may transfer former school land to towns and utilities

The capital assets commissioner may convey two parcels to Bolton. The parcels are a former school campus corner that extends into Bolton and the Bolton dam. The commissioner sets their exact boundaries after a survey. Bolton may make an agreement to buy or lease the parcels, or acquire rights to them. The price must reflect fair market value based on an independent appraisal. The inspector general must review and approve the appraisal. The deed must limit use to general town purposes. If that use stops, the Commonwealth may reclaim the land after giving Bolton reasonable notice and time to fix the problem.

If Bolton does not complete its purchase, the commissioner may sell, lease, or otherwise transfer the parcels or parts of them to others. This applies to the parcels or portions described for Bolton's possible purchase. The commissioner must use competitive bidding and publish notice at least 30 days before offers are due. A lease may last up to 99 years, including renewals and extensions. Transfer documents must state that the Commonwealth has no liability for claims about the land's condition or its transfer. Buyers and lessees pay related costs, including survey and recording costs. Bolton has 180 days from the act's effective date to complete its purchase, unless the town and commissioner agree to a later date.

The commissioner may convey part of the former school campus to either town or a local utility to protect wells. The land may be any portion of the former Lancaster Industrial School for Girls property described in the listed deeds. The commissioner sets the terms of the transfer. The commissioner may set a nominal price if the commissioner considers the transfer necessary for housing development at the former campus. Lancaster may own land conveyed under this section even if it is in Bolton.