Selectboard advances MOU with Putney Historical Society to support Town Hall renovation and fundraising

Town Manager Karen Astley presented a draft Memorandum of Understanding between the Town and the Putney Historical Society (PHS) that would lease the second floor of Putney Town Hall and set terms for renovation work and preservation obligations. Lyssa Papazian, representing PHS, said the society needs the MOU to begin fundraising and requested it be ready by Aug. 5. The Selectboard and PHS discussed donor anonymity: PHS said it could preserve donor anonymity while Town donors cannot.

Howard Fairman recommended PHS retain an attorney to review easement and property-rights issues that may be conceded in an agreement; the Selectboard agreed the Town attorney will review the final MOU before authorization. The board expects a final MOU for Selectboard approval at its Aug. 5 meeting.