Board agrees in principle to boundary‑line swap with Swanton and to draft letter of agreement

Town representatives outlined a proposed boundary‑line adjustment and land swap that would clarify access and ownership at the boundary between Swanton and school property. Presenters said the parcel in question was landlocked, had a tax‑sale history, and could benefit both the town and the school district if reconfigured: the district would receive roughly two acres, and the town garage area would gain about three‑quarters of an acre.

Presenters described an agreement in principle that would split survey costs and legal fees among the three parties — the town, the landowner (Brian Rowe) and the district — and would specify road maintenance responsibilities and right‑of‑way access. One presenter noted the town had already spent $6,000 and estimated an additional $4,400 for final survey documentation.

Board members emphasized the need for clear legal language protecting the district from future maintenance obligations if the road were upgraded for development. A board member suggested that the right‑of‑way grant be written to reflect the road “as it is now,” with any future developer‑required upgrades to be negotiated separately.

The board approved a motion instructing administration to move forward with a proposed letter of agreement based on the map and survey and with intent to share survey costs with the town and the adjacent property owner. The board’s approval authorizes staff to draft the agreement and return it to trustees for final approval once legal language is reviewed by counsel.

What the vote means
The approval is an authorization to proceed with drafting and negotiation rather than a final land conveyance. Any finalized boundary‑line adjustment will require formal agreements, possible town approvals and recording by a surveyor.

Quotes from the meeting
"We'd like to get a letter signed before we go back to the survey that we're all in agreement in principle," a presenter said, urging a prompt exchange of drafts among the parties.

Next steps
Administration will prepare a draft letter of agreement and circulate it to the town and property owner; legal counsel will review language on access, maintenance and future upgrades before the board considers final approval.