While the state has a critical role in land acquisition, many critical parcels are purchased by municipalities or local land trusts.  These “on-the-ground” entities have more access to knowledge about when parcels might become available and which are more vulnerable to development pressures.  With sufficient resources, these local entities can act quickly to take advantage of opportunities as they arise.  However, this swift action is rare.  Municipalities, in particular, are hampered by a lack of resources and cumbersome approvals for open space purchase.  Land trusts and conservation organizations may be able to act more quickly, but may lack the legal standing of municipalities to purchase Chapter 61 land before it goes on the market.  

Municipalities can overcome some of these challenges by adopting the Community Preservation Act, which increases the resources available for open space acquisition and streamlines the use of those resources through a Community Preservation Committee.  Municipalities can also partner with land trusts, by assigning their right of first refusal, or by asking land trusts to hold parcels until municipal funding is allocated. 

7.a    Municipalities should adopt the Community Preservation Act

7.b    The legislature should adopt legislation to support adoption of the Community Preservation Act and ensure that an adequate state match is preserved

7.c    Municipalities should assign Chapter 61 right of first refusal to a land trust where appropriate

7.d    Municipalities should participate in existing funding programs for open space acquisition

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