Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4037

Introduced
8/3/23  
Refer
8/3/23  
Refer
11/13/23  
Engrossed
11/27/23  
Engrossed
7/30/24  
Refer
7/30/24  
Chaptered
8/7/24  

Caption

Relative to certain parcels of land in the town of Cohasset

Impact

The implementation of this legislation will lead to significant changes in how local land is managed and designated in Cohasset. Specifically, it grants the select board broader authority to utilize town-owned land for various municipal functions, which includes the leasing of said land for telecommunications purposes. The ability to lease for extended terms may attract more telecommunications providers, enhancing services within the town but also altering the traditional use and management of public parks.

Summary

House Bill 4037 aims to authorize the town of Cohasset to transfer certain parcels of land for specific municipal purposes, including telecommunications leases and easements. The bill allows the town's select board to manage the care, custody, and control of a portion of Wheelwright Park, facilitating its conversion from park purposes to general municipal uses. This transfer is to include leasing arrangements that may extend beyond 30 years, thus empowering the select board to make decisions deemed beneficial for the town's interests.

Contention

While the bill received local approval, it has stirred some discussion about its potential implications for community usability and public parkland. Opponents may argue that converting portions of parks for leasing purposes could diminish available recreational spaces for residents. The balance between fostering economic opportunities through telecommunications and preserving public spaces is likely to be a central point of contention as Cohasset moves forward under the provisions of this bill.

Companion Bills

MA H4645

Similar To Authorizing the town of Nantucket to convey a certain parcel of land situated in the town of Nantucket held for park purposes to the Nantucket Conservation Foundation Inc. for open space, recreational, and conservation purposes

MA H4965

Similar To Authorizing the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to convey a certain parcel of land in the town of Stoneham

MA H4966

Similar To Authorizing the commissioner of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance to convey a certain parcel of land in the town of Tewksbury

MA H4964

Similar To Authorizing the town of Westford to release agricultural preservation restrictions over land owned by Westford Gateway, LLC.

Previously Filed As

MA H3894

Authorizing the town of Cohasset to issue five additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises in the town of Cohasset

MA H4561

Authorizing the town of Cohasset to grant five additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA S276

Authorizing the town of Cohasset to issue five additional licenses for the sale of alcohol to be drunk on the premises

MA H3352

Relative to a certain parcel of land in the town of Norton

MA H4660

Relative to a certain parcel of land in the town of Norton

MA H4739

Relative to the operation of the municipal light plant in the town of Hull

MA H4992

Authorizing the Barnstable county and the town of Bourne to convey certain parcels of land and certain interests in land in the town of Bourne

MA H3346

Authorizing the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance to dispose of certain parcels of land in the town of Bolton

MA H4071

Relative to authorizing the conveyance of certain parcels of land in the city of Fall River

MA H1024

Authorizing the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority to provide sewer services to a certain parcel of land in the town of Sharon

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.