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H 3282

An Act authorizing the town of Westford to release agricultural preservation restrictions over land owned by Westford Gateway, LLC

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jim Arciero

Allows Westford to remove agricultural preservation restrictions on land owned by Westford Gateway, LLC, enabling alternative development use of previously protected farmland.

New draft substituted, see H4362
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Bill Summary · H 3282

Legislative bill overview

H 3282 authorizes the town of Westford to release agricultural preservation restrictions on land owned by Westford Gateway, LLC. The bill allows the municipality to remove deed restrictions that protected the land for agricultural use, enabling alternative development or use of the property. A substitute bill (H 4362) with amendments has been recommended by committee.

Why is this important

Agricultural preservation restrictions are permanent or long-term legal protections intended to keep land in farming use and prevent sprawl. Releasing such restrictions fundamentally changes what a parcel can be used for and represents a significant shift in local land-use policy. This decision affects both immediate property values and the town's long-term character and open space planning.

Potential points of contention

  • Loss of agricultural land: Removing protections eliminates permanent farmland preservation, contributing to regional loss of agricultural capacity and open space
  • Developer benefit vs. public interest: The restriction release benefits a specific private entity (Westford Gateway, LLC), raising questions about whether this serves broader community interests or primarily commercial development
  • Precedent concerns: Releasing agricultural restrictions may encourage similar requests and weaken the enforceability of preservation tools town-wide

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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