Title
Resolution to Approve the Purchase of Development Rights on the DeVine-Koselka Farm Property in Scio Township, Approve a Participation Agreement with Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation, and Appropriate Funds, Not to Exceed $575,367.00, from the Open Space and Parkland Preservation Millage Proceeds (8 Votes Required)
Memorandum
Attached for your review and action is a Resolution to Approve the Purchase of Development Rights on the DeVine-Koselka Property in Scio Township, Approve a Participation Agreement with Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation, and Appropriate Funds, Not to Exceed $575,367.00, from the Open Space and Parkland Preservation Millage Proceeds
On November 10, 2016 (R-16-430), City Council approved a grant application to the NRCS - Agriculture Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) for the Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) on the DeVine-Koselka Farm in Scio Township. Subsequently, on September 18, 2017, City Council approved the acceptance of grant funds in the amount of $320,950.00 towards the purchase of the development rights on the tract (R-17-344). These funds will be reimbursed to the City by NRCS-ACEP after the project closes. Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation approved the contribution of funds in the amount of $131,000.00, or 20% of the Fair Market Value, towards the purchase of the development rights on the tract, which decreases the City of Ann Arbor's share of the purchase price to $203,050.00, or 31% of the Fair Market Value.
Suzanne DeVine - John Koselka Farm, Scio Township
The property is approximately 100 acres and consists of approximately 55 acres of active farmland, 40 acres of forestland, and wetlands. The property is considered large enough to sustain agricultural production. It is adjacent to the County's DeVine Preserve and within one mile of another property already protected by the Greenbelt Program. It is located in the Huron River watershed. The property received the highest score of all Greenbelt ap...
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