Groton Open Space Association

Groton Council Has “Strong Interest” In Thamesside Tract

GROTON–The Town Council unanimously expressed interest Feb. 8, 2005, in purchasing a 29.7-acre property overlooking the Thames River, The Day reported.

The newspaper said the Council at its committee of the whole meeting didn’t make a decision to buy the so-called Copp/Burrows property but did ask town staff to explore funding possibilities, to refer the matter to the Planning and Conservation Commissions, and to come up with a schedule for a possible referendum later this year.

The tract is situated east of Military Highway and North of the Odd Fellows property, on the opposite side of the Thames from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, the paper said. Warren B. Burrows II, who represented the owners, said the property has attracted much interest from developers, including one offer close to the $2 million asking price. Sources pointed out that the cost to the town could be lower because of tax advantages to the owner that could flow from a sale at a below-market price.

The Day reported that Councilor Paulann H. Sheets said, “It’s not a gift, but in a way it’s a gift the way you [Mr. Burrows] came to us. It will be a treasure and a gem.”