The Planning Board meeting held on May 21, 2025, in Charlton, Worcester County, focused primarily on a property title dispute that has previously been brought before the board. The applicant, Mr. Hanson, presented a title search conducted by his attorney, asserting that he is the sole owner of the property in question. However, the board expressed concerns regarding the clarity of the title and the delineation of the property boundaries, particularly in relation to a proposed subdivision of Lot 5 into two separate lots, designated as Lot 5A and Lot 5B.

During the discussions, Mr. Hanson emphasized that he had fulfilled the board's requests by obtaining a certificate of title, which he believed confirmed his ownership. He expressed frustration over the board's insistence on further clarification, questioning the board's jurisdiction in denying his application based on ownership issues. The board's attorney indicated that while Mr. Hanson’s title search confirmed ownership, it did not address the original boundary lines between Spencer and Charlton, which remain a point of contention.

The board members deliberated on the implications of the title search and the necessity of a clear understanding of the property boundaries before proceeding with the endorsement of the subdivision plan. They acknowledged that ownership disputes typically fall outside the planning board's jurisdiction, suggesting that any aggrieved parties could seek resolution through land court.

Ultimately, the board decided not to entertain the approval of the application at this meeting, pending further clarification of the title and boundary issues. The next steps involve Mr. Hanson potentially submitting additional documentation to address the board's concerns, as they seek to ensure that all legal and procedural requirements are met before moving forward with the subdivision proposal.