State continues PILOT listening sessions

The Commission on PILOT for State-Owned Land is continuing its series of listening sessions this fall to solicit feedback on the state program.

The commission hosted five in-person sessions in July, and will host three more in September, along with two virtual sessions in October.

The Commonwealth owns more than half a million acres of land, including state parks and forests, wildlife management areas, beaches, and military training facilities. Because this property is exempt from local property taxation, the state administers a program that provides payments to municipalities in lieu of taxation.

The commission is seeking input from municipal leaders, residents and other interested stakeholders, and findings from the listening sessions will inform the commission’s recommendations.

In-person sessions will be held as follows:
• Sept. 15, 6-7:30 p.m., Orange Town Hall
• Sept. 22, 2-3:30 p.m., Sterling Town Hall
• Sept. 24, 2-3:30 p.m., Groton Center

Virtual sessions will be held on Oct. 1, 5-6:30 p.m., and Oct. 6, 3-4:30 p.m.

Registration is available online, though walk-ins are welcome.

In advance of each session, the commission will send out materials that provide an overview of the PILOT program. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions during the session.

Those unable to attend are invited to share their thoughts with the commission using an online form.

Gov. Maura Healey established the Commission on PILOT for State-Owned Land last August through Executive Order 645.