Douglas Open Space Committee Approves Donation Account Wording, Plans Landowner Outreach

DOUGLAS -- March 10, 2026, Douglas Open Space Committee approves donation account language and plans large-parcel landowner outreach event. The committee voted unanimously March 10 to approve wording for a new donation account that will allow residents to contribute directly to open space efforts, pending Select Board approval to formally open the account. Chair Sue Perkins reported that the town assessor has provided a list of 273 property owners holding 10 or more acres in Douglas, and the committee began planning a Thursday-evening event, tentatively in May, running roughly 7 to 9 p.m. to present land protection options including Chapter 61, conservation restrictions, and the state conservation land tax credit. Vice Chair Lisa Moszinski agreed to lead the presentation, and the committee discussed incorporating a UMass Extension webinar series as a centerpiece. A separately proposed municipal information kiosk, estimated at $179 to build, was shelved for lack of both funding and town approval.