The Town of Milton has acquired a residence at the cost of $150,000. The legislative process was secretive and the method of closed door discussion was approved by the town solicitor. The solicitor stated this was to enable the town to obtain a fair price.

The sales price of the property had been previously reduced. Obviously, there were no offers to buy the property. Why the secrecy? As to the purchase for providing space for future growth, that in itself is a laugh.

The current town hall was acquired at a cost of $658,804 with an additional cost of $161,304 to furnish and bring the property up to the Fire Marshal’s requirements. One of the requirements was a fire escape from the second floor. Other costs to the new structure would have to include amenities such as a sprinkler system and smoke alarms, ADA approved access and bathrooms, upgraded wiring and additional furnishings, as well as the possibility of an HVAC system.

The intelligent course of action would have had a professional review of the potential costs of rehabilitation prior to an offer to purchase.

Will the taxpayers have a sense of déjà vu?

Norman R. Lester
Milton