Bill > H2887

This bill clarifies the process for selling off surplus state property by requiring the commissioner to notify host municipalities (cities or towns where the property is located) within 10 days of initiating the surplus process, informing them about the property and its potential sale. Host municipalities are then granted a "right of first refusal," meaning they have the first opportunity to purchase the property. If the purchase is for direct public use, the municipality can buy it at 50% of its fair market value; for other uses, it's at full fair market value. The municipality has 210 days to declare its intent to buy and an additional 180 days to finalize the purchase, with potential extensions if a debt exclusion vote is held. The bill also allows municipalities to assign this right to a non-profit organization for public use, with specific timelines for the non-profit to act. If the property is acquired for open space, a conservation restriction will be retained by the state. For former state hospital or mental retardation facilities, at least 15% of any developed housing must be affordable for clients or former clients of those departments, or if no housing is developed, at least 25% of the sale price must support affordable housing for these individuals.