Officials in Bourne have expressed concern over a request to remove several acres of land from conservation.
The Bourne Conservation Commission was recently called upon for support to shift several acres of town-owned land out of Article 97 protection for a new fire station.
The land is located off Shore Road south of the Cape Cod Canal. Commission members have questioned what the town will offer as mitigation land, under Massachusetts law.
Under the state constitution, Article 97 establishes the right to a clean environment, and includes natural, historical, and other qualities for residents.
The removal request goes before voters at Town Meeting next month.
(Photo by DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: DAVID GRAY / AFP / Getty Images