Warrant Committee - September 3rd 2026

The Milton, Massachusetts Warrant Committee met on September 3rd, 2026, to discuss several key issues including the potential purchase of the Laboreet property and a citizens petition regarding surveillance technology. The primary procurement discussion centered on the proposed $11.75 million purchase of the Laboreet land, which is being considered as a solution to school overcrowding and as a strategic town asset. Committee members debated the valuation process, zoning restrictions, potential alternative uses, and the need for a clear exit strategy if the school plan does not proceed. The select board and school committee support the purchase, emphasizing the opportunity to control a rare land parcel and potential long-term cost savings compared to the existing Guile Road school project. However, concerns were raised about the lack of detailed plans, the compressed timeline, and the need for more comprehensive information before a vote. The committee decided to defer voting until the next meeting to receive additional data, including appraisal details and the school committee's formal position. Additionally, the committee discussed a citizens petition requiring public approval for surveillance technology use in town, with plans to further explore the issue in the upcoming meeting. No votes were taken on procurement matters during this session, but action items include gathering more detailed financial and planning information for the Laboreet purchase and preparing for the surveillance technology discussion.