RFP for Caretaker/Tenant Mordecai Lincoln Property

The Town of Scituate, Massachusetts is requesting proposals for a caretaker and tenant at the historic Mordecai Lincoln Property cottage in Scituate, with sealed proposals due September 22, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. EST. The lease will cover one year with an option to renew for up to two additional one-year terms by mutual consent, each with a 3% annual rent increase.

The caretaker must occupy and maintain the historic two-story cottage (approximately 1,000 square feet, circa 1800) located on the 62 Mordecai Lincoln Road property, which is listed as a significant historic site. The Town's purpose is to advance historic preservation through on-site caretaking and facilitate public access. Core tenant responsibilities include weekly inspection of the property and trails with reporting to the Facilities Department, daily exterior building inspections for security, and maintaining the cottage in good condition without structural or cosmetic alterations without prior written approval from the Facilities Director. The tenant must assume responsibility for snow and ice removal from access paths and parking areas and pay all utilities (electrical, oil, cable, and broadband). The tenant must obtain and maintain renter's insurance naming the Town as additional insured.

Qualification requirements include being at least 18 years of age, ability to perform core functions including walking and standing, no prior criminal record (subject to CORI background check), and a commitment to being cordial with public visitors who may access the property from dawn to dusk. Evaluation criteria include ability to monitor buildings and grounds with preference for seven or more years of property management experience, stewardship of the historic property, snow and ice removal capabilities, and interview performance.

Fair market rent is $2,250 per month, payable in advance on the first of each calendar month. No electronic or faxed submissions are accepted. The complete RFP Package is available on the Town's website at www.scituatema.gov under Available Bids. Award will be made to the responsive and responsible proposer deemed most advantageous to the Town, subject to successful lease negotiation.