Bill > H4521

This bill authorizes the Commissioner of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance, in consultation with the Department of Conservation and Recreation, to sell a 0.43-acre parcel of land in New Salem to David Briand, which is currently managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation for watershed and water supply protection. The sale is permitted despite existing laws that generally restrict the transfer of such land, and it specifically excludes certain rights of way. The purchase price will be the greater of the land's full market value or its value in use, determined by an independent appraisal reviewed by the Inspector General, who will then report their findings to legislative committees. Importantly, all proceeds from this sale will be deposited into the Conservation Trust and used by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to acquire new lands for similar watershed and water supply protection purposes, ensuring no net loss of protected natural resources. David Briand will be responsible for all costs associated with the conveyance, including surveys, appraisals, and deed preparation, as well as any future liabilities related to owning the land.