Title
Resolution to Approve Participating with Legacy Land Conservancy for the Preservation of the Charles Botero Property in Northfield Township and Appropriate Funds Not to Exceed $15,000.00 from the Open Space and Parkland Preservation Millage Proceeds (8 Votes Required)
Memorandum
Attached for your review and action is a resolution to approve participating with Legacy Land Conservancy for a conservation easement on the Charles Botero property in Northfield Township and to appropriate $15,000.00 to cover the closing, due diligence and stewardship costs for the property.
Mr. Botero is donating the value of the conservation easement to Legacy Land Conservancy, who has requested assistance from the City to cover the closing, due diligence, and stewardship costs for the property.
The 30 acre property is located within the Greenbelt District and within one of the Greenbelt Strategic Plan focus areas. The property preserves open space and provides scenic views along US-23 and E. Northfield Church Road. The property is in proximity to several properties already protected by the Greenbelt program.
Following is the estimated budget for the acquisition:
Closing Costs $1,500
Due Diligence $5,500
Endowment funds: $8,000
At its September 14, 2011 meeting, the Greenbelt Advisory Commission recommended participating with Legacy Land Conservation and expending up to $15,000 in purchasing the conservation easement at the Charles Botero property.
Staff
Prepared by: Ginny Trocchio, The Conservation Fund
Reviewed by: Sumedh Bahl, Community Services Area Administrator
Attachment: Location Map
Body
Whereas, Chapter 42 of the Ann Arbor City Code establishes the Greenbelt District and enables the City to purchase development rights on property within the district;
Whereas, Chapter 42 of the Ann Arbor City Code specifically authorizes City Council to enter into agreements for joint acquisition of land in the Greenbelt District with other government agencies;
Whereas, Purchase of Development Rights may be funded through the Open
Space and Park Land Preservation Millage Proceeds;
Whereas, There are sufficient funds in the Open Space and Parkland Preservation Millage Proceeds available for the expenditure; and
Whereas, The Greenbelt Advisory Commission supported approval of participating with Legacy Land Conservancy for the purchase of development rights on the Botero property and expenditure of funds in an amount not to exceed $15,000.00 at its September 14, 2011 meeting;
RESOLVED, That the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized and directed to execute the Participation Agreement defining each party's interest in the acquisition and if required, any supplemental documents necessary to document the appropriation of funds for the purchase of development rights on the Botero property, after approval as to form by the City Attorney; and
RESOLVED, That $15,000.00 be appropriated for the purchase of development rights for the Botero property from the Open space and Parkland Preservation Millage Proceeds for the life of the project without regard to fiscal year.