Bill > LD50

This bill establishes a new right of first refusal for municipalities when quasi-independent state entities (such as the University of Maine System) want to sell real property located within their boundaries. Under the proposed law, before selling any property, the state entity must first have an independent appraiser determine the current market value and then notify the municipal officers in writing about the property's value and the municipality's right to purchase it. The municipality then has 30 days to send a written notice invoking its right of first refusal, and if it does so, it must complete the purchase within three months. If the municipality fails to send notice within 30 days or fails to complete the purchase within three months (unless the delay is caused by the state entity), its right of first refusal expires. The goal of this legislation appears to be giving local governments the opportunity to acquire potentially valuable or strategically important property within their boundaries before it is sold to other parties, ensuring that municipal interests are considered in such transactions.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=50&snum=132