Town Wants Their Cake And Eat It Too.

Hello everyone,

I’m seeking legal advice regarding my waterfront property in Maine. About 35 years ago, there was a road between my property and the lake. The town removed the road but never properly went through the discontinuance process. For decades, the town believed it retained ownership of that strip of land.

Two years ago, the town conducted a legal review and concluded it did not actually own the disputed area. As a result, my property assessment was doubled, and so were my taxes. I accepted the increase because it recognized my ownership of the waterfront strip and raised my property’s value.

However, despite the town’s findings, they have not updated the tax maps or amended the deed to reflect my ownership. I’m now trying to sell or refinance (and possibly rebuild on) the property, but the official records still show the town—rather than me—as owning the waterfront. The town has refused to correct these records. I have lost out on two sales opportunities, and one business loan.

Has anyone faced a similar situation or have any advice on how I can get the town to update the tax maps and deed to accurately reflect my ownership? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!