GRAFTON – The town wants to explore whether they can get more PILOT money from Tufts University.
During the Select Board meeting on June 20, board member Ray Mead led a discussion on the current payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement with Tufts, which operates the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine on Westboro Road.
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine is New England’s only veterinary institution. It is certified by the American Animal Hospital Association, and it treats domestic and wild animals in need.
Cummings School offers a four-year professional doctor of veterinary medicine program, combined doctor of veterinary medicine/master’s degree programs, singular master’s and doctorate degree programs, as well as signature opportunities and electives.
Seven hospitals and clinics deliver care for companion animals, horses, livestock and wildlife, offering training and research opportunities for veterinary students, interns and residents.
Both the Henry and Lois Foster Hospital for Small Animals and the Hospital for Large Animals serve as important referral centers, providing tertiary care and 24/7 emergency services for the region’s veterinarians and their clients.
The campus includes about 500,000 square feet of office and facility space on 350 acres in Grafton and 140 acres in Westborough.
The current PILOT agreement, which went into effect in 2015, is set to expire on June 30, 2025. The town is scheduled to receive $71,321.15 for 2023.
In addition to the payments, Tufts helps develop content for regional first responder training with the town’s police and fire departments.
Mead noted that the other three communities where Tufts has campuses — Somerville, Medford and Boston. Each community receives about $500,000 in PILOT payments from the university.
“I really want Grafton to get their fair share,” said Mead.
Chair Matt Often said comparing the communities was akin to “comparing apples to oranges.”
“It’s a false comparison,” he added, pointing out that Tufts has been a good neighbor.
The board agreed to form a subcommittee with Mead, Mark Alimo and Town Administrator Evan Brassard to explore the issue further.
Correction: An earlier version of this article stated that Mathew Often was going to be on the subcommittee; Mark Alimo will be on the committee. We regret the error.
