Minutes
Selectmen’s Workshop / Site Walk
March 22, 2007
Members Present: Mary Bonser, Peter Bock, Bill Netishen, and Town Administrator Charles Brown.
Also present: Attorney Chris Boldt, Peter Landry, Jonathan & Paige Witham, Cliff Bullock, Charlie Garland, Deb Stevens, John Fernald III, Regina Splaine, and Joe Welch.
The group gathered near the mid point of the square on Ledge Farm Road.
1:04 PM, Mr. Bock opened the site walk and recognized Attorney Boldt who began by explaining some landmarks that his client feels define the Nottingham Town Square.
Mr. Bock asked what prompted this issue. Mr. Brown explained that the definition of “Parcel A” and note 5 on Mr. Witham’s subdivision plan is what prompted him to start asking questions. It has been the opinion of numerous individuals that this is not an accurate representation of the “square”. Much discussion followed regarding the physical boundaries such as stonewalls and each sides’ (The Town and the Witham’s) interpretation of the boundary and possible benchmarks. At this point, the group broke into smaller groups and then regrouped several minutes later to review the carriage shed and the surrounding area. There was discussion regarding the actual age of the shed. Mr. Bock asked Mr. Garland to dictate his positioning of the line. Mr. Boldt indicated his client feels
the shed is on the Witham property. Mr. Witham explained his hopes are that the boundary would start 14’ from the Rte 156 side of the building. There were numerous questions and responses as to reasoning behind this request. There are many unanswered questions as what was built, when and where. Mr. Welch and Mr. Boldt discussed their thoughts on what is realistic. The Board members and Mr. Boldt walked back to Ledge Farm Road. They continued to discuss possible solutions and how to apply fairness to all. Mr. Welch suggested that the Town engage counsel and a surveyor as well in this matter. Mr. Boldt continued to say that a boundary line agreement would be a positive solution to this issue and also to define the other 4 corners. Mr. Bock stated that the Board of Selectmen will make a decision at some point, and they will consider the input from today’s site-walk while making their decision. Again, Mr. Brown, Mr. Witham and Joe Welch stated their opinions. Mr.
Witham feels that any statements by the Fernald siblings are not historical facts. The group moved to the Dave Fernald property. Mr. Garland pointed out monumentation / landmarks that he feels are relevant to his interpretation of the “square”. Much discussion followed about the Planning Board acceptance of the subdivision with conditions i.e. the line is under dispute. This item will be on the agenda for the April 16th meeting of the Board of Selectmen. Mr. Boldt hopes the Town will expedite their engagement of Counsel and a surveyor. Mr. Bock explained the Board must approve any proposal and the process will continue. Ms. Bonser asked Mr. Boldt to provide information to Mr. Brown for Town Counsel review. There was some discussion about additional notification to abutters.
2:30 PM Motion: Netishen, second Bonser to adjourn.
Vote: 3-0 in favor.
Respectfully Submitted,
Charles A. Brown Approved as corrected
Town Administrator 4/30/07
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