Title
Resolution to Approve Participation in the Purchase of a Conservation Easement on the Rosko Property in Scio Township, Approve a Participation Agreement with Scio Township and Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, and Appropriate $244,000.00 (8 Votes Required)
Memorandum
This resolution approves a participation agreement with Scio Township and Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission for the purchase of a conservation easement on approximately 72.5 acres of property owned by Andrew and Anna Rosko in Scio Township. The resolution also appropriates $244,000.00 (33% of purchase price) from Open Space and Parkland Preservation Millage proceeds for the purchase.
The landowners applied to the Scio Township Purchase of Development Rights Program and the Township has been the lead agency in the negotiations with the landowners. The Township commissioned an appraisal, completed in January 2021, that determined the fair market value of a conservation easement on the property to be $733,000.00. The Township is the lead agency and will be the holder of the conservation easement. In addition to the acquisition costs below, the Township will cover due diligence and closing costs.
Rosko Property, Scio Township
The property is approximately 72.5 acres and is located in Section 35 of Scio Township with legal access from Knight Road. It is owned by Andrew and Anna Rosko. The conservation easement will cover approximately 72.5 acres of the property, which contain 22.5 acres of forest and 70 acres of prime, unique or locally important soils. The property is located adjacent to the Washtenaw County's Scio Woods Preserve. The Greenbelt Advisory Commission considers this parcel a priority for acquisition due to its natural features, proximity to other protected properties, and possibility to leverage funds with township and County funding. The Commission recommended approving the participation agreement and funding at their March 4, 2021 meeting.
Propo...
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