Select Board — July 13, 2026
Legal grievances and tax base concerns dominate Bradford Select Board meeting
The meeting was marked by high-stakes public grievances involving legal allegations and disagreements over land use, though the board's voting remained steady.
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Significant issues regarding town administration and long-term fiscal planning were at the forefront of the July 13 Select Board meeting.
A resident, Steve Patton, filed a formal grievance against Town Administrator Scott Butcher, alleging that Butcher violated his civil rights by attempting to trespass him during a tax deed auction. Patton also claims the town is attempting to disqualify his $6,000 winning bid in retaliation for his conduct. The Board has not taken disciplinary action, stating they are currently awaiting a legal opinion from counsel.
The discussion also turned to the former Cressy-Sims property. While there is interest in placing the land under a permanent conservation easement, residents argued that the town should instead consider mixed-use development to ensure residential growth and a stable tax base. Concerns were raised that failing to follow state statutes regarding the sale of town-owned real estate could lead to legal challenges. The Board has deferred this matter to the Planning Board.
Finally, community members raised concerns about the accuracy of public records related to Twigs Fire and the lack of a formal policy for handling anonymous complaints. The Board noted that no such policy currently exists but stated that one would be developed soon.
Public impact
Decision on whether to convert town-owned land to permanent conservation or allow residential growth.
The board deferred the discussion to the planning board.
The matter may be referred to the planning board for determination.
Topics discussed
The board reviewed and approved the minutes from the previous meeting.
The minutes were accepted as written.
A resident raised concerns about logging activities affecting roads, leading to a discussion on road bonding and legal requirements.
The board suggested contacting a state investigator regarding logging infractions.
The Tax Collector provided an update on outstanding taxes, upcoming lien executions, and election responsibilities.
The Tax Collector presented the financial standing and election schedule.
Board members must be available for elections on September 8th and November 3rd.
Chris Foss proposed forming an ad hoc committee to reimagine community spaces using the BACC and the former Norton property.
The board approved the formation of the ad hoc project team.
A project launch event is planned for early September.
The committee reported on the success of the Fourth of July event and discussed future fundraising through merchandise.
The committee reported the event results and upcoming plans for more community engagement.
The committee intends to plan additional events, such as a Christmas parade.
The Conservation Commission discussed a potential conservation easement on the Sherman Field property.
The board suggested waiting for formal maps and paperwork before formalizing an agreement.
A resident expressed concerns regarding the lack of transparency in public records for Twigs Fire and requested a formal policy for handling anonymous complaints.
The board noted that no formal policy on anonymous complaints currently exists; a board member stated one would be developed soon.
A formal policy regarding complaints is expected to be developed by the board.
A resident presented arguments for considering mixed-use development for the former Cressy Sims property rather than permanent conservation easement. Michael Carter addressed concerns regarding business operations at Twigs and expressed interest in the former Cresty/Sims property.
The board deferred the matter, suggesting the discussion be passed to the planning board. The speaker presented his position for the record.
The matter may be referred to the planning board for determination.
A resident filed a formal grievance against the Town Administrator following an incident at a tax deed auction.
The board stated they have sent the matter to legal counsel and are awaiting a legal opinion.
The board will provide a response once they receive the legal opinion.
A staff member reported on recent expenditures for swim supplies and proposed the purchase of a new grill for French's.
The board expressed no objection to the purchase of the grill.
The staff member will order the grill and seek volunteers for installation.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Tax Deed Auction Grievance
Land Use of Former Cressy-Sims Property
Community vs. board tension
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
Member positions
Positions marked ~ are inferred from context and may not reflect the member's explicitly stated position. UNCLEAR means the vote was split but the record did not name how this member voted — it is not a “yes.”
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xai.grok-4.3, gemma-4-26b, grok-4.20-0309-non-reasoning, grok-4.20-0309-reasoning · analyzed 2026-08-01.
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