Bethlehem Farmland Lease Acreage, Terms Undisclosed | The Locally Times
The Town of Bethlehem accepted applications for 2026 farmland leases, but records do not specify acreage, terms, or the process for awarding these public assets.
The Town of Bethlehem accepted applications for 2026 Farmland Agricultural Use Leases and seasonal hay harvesting licenses until 3:00 pm on Friday, March 13, 2026. According to the Town of Bethlehem's March 13, 2026, meeting record, these opportunities cover farmland located in both Glenmont and Selkirk. ## Lack of Transparency The Town's records do not disclose the total acreage of farmland available for lease or hay harvesting. The specific terms, conditions, and duration of these agricultural use lease agreements and seasonal hay harvesting licenses have also not been made public. The criteria and process by which the Town evaluates applications and awards these leases and licenses are not detailed in the available records. Additionally, the expected revenue or financial benefit to the Town from these farmland opportunities is not mentioned, nor is the number of applications received by the deadline. This lack of public information prevents residents from understanding how the Town allocates these public assets. The Town of Bethlehem has not provided details on the outcomes of the application process. Future Town Board meeting records may provide further information regarding the awarded leases or financial terms.