The Community Preservation Committee discussed outstanding items for an application to accept and steward a donated fire truck, focusing on affidavit language and supporting documentation.

Committee members told the applicant team they need an affidavit that clarifies ownership (the committee favored town ownership or equivalent control), preserves public access to the vehicle, and specifies insurance responsibilities. One member summarized the core concerns: “One of the things that the affidavit is that the Association… the town would retain the… ownership truck,” and committee members repeatedly asked for language ensuring public access for display or events.

Staff reminded the committee that nonprofit recipients of public funds must meet public‑benefit requirements consistent with the state’s anti‑aid doctrine; committee counsel and staff will confirm whether the affidavit suffices or whether a grant agreement and additional due diligence are required. The applicant was asked to include a storage/maintenance letter from the fire chief (the applicant said such a letter exists), photographs of the truck, and a second cost estimate (the committee had approved the application previously with only one estimate). Insurance coverage was described as the responsibility of the association that would store the vehicle, and the committee asked that this be documented in the revised application.

Committee members asked staff to work with the applicant (Ben referenced in the meeting) and Town Counsel to draft the affidavit and incorporate any mandatory language to demonstrate public benefit. The committee will vote on the affidavit in a future meeting once revisions and the updated application packet are circulated.