Good morning, Hopkinton! Welcome to the daily update we call Hopkinton Today — a quick recap of yesterday’s news, highlights of what’s on tap, and a photo of the day.

Commission hopes to work out deal with Deerfield Estates for property

The Historical Commission on Tuesday discussed the future of the McFarland-Sanger House as the process to sell the property continues.

Chair Michael Roughan informed the commission that Deerfield Estates, a condominium project near the property on Lumber Street, might consider an arrangement with the town.

“I think they were very interested in the arrangement that the [Hopkinton Center for the Arts] has with the town where it’s a $1 lease for 99 years,” said Roughan.

The historic house, considered one of the oldest properties in Hopkinton, is owned by the town. The Select Board in September approved issuing a request for proposals to seek a buyer for the property. Grading and sewer system issues at the site make it difficult to rehabilitate.

The owner of Deerfield Estates previously expressed no interest in buying the property, which would come with historic preservation restrictions.

Roughan added that such an arrangement would “absolve them [of] some of their concerns for liability.”

Commission members discussed maintaining and updating the house if Deerfield were to take over the governance of the building. Roughan stated that the Historical Commission previously had committed to use Community Preservation funds to restore the property.

“I see no reason why we wouldn’t continue even if Deerfield were to consider either ownership or a lease,” he said.

“There’s no reason we can’t go to the state … and try to dip into some of the available funding,” added member Scott Knous.

Member Brian Collela inquired about another potential buyer that had expressed interest in the property. Roughan responded that it would “behoove” the commission to work out a deal with Deerfield because the complex could restore the property’s sewer connection.

— NICK SCHOFIELD

Latest News

At the Select Board meeting Tuesday night, individuals claimed during public comment that the town failed to adhere to policies regarding the process for common victualer license renewals.

Members of the Select Board voiced concerns over the benefits tax increment financing for Open Play Pickleball & Padel Club would bring to the town during a review of a draft agreement on Tuesday.

This week’s Police Log features three arrests, along with reports of a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident, a fight on Main Street and a masked individual playing loud music during a Hopkinton High School basketball game.

Mary Scott-Everett, 81, of Hopkinton passed away Dec. 20.

Town meetings tonight include the Open Space Preservation Commission (7) and School Committee (7).

Photo of the Day

Snow covers the island at Hopkinton State Park on a recent day.

PHOTO/AMIT JAGDALE