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HomeMy WebLinkAboutbocc.packet.10222014 - Schumacher Trail EasementMEETING DATE: AGENDA ITEM TITLE: AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY October 22, 2014 AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF PITKIN COUNTY, COLORADO AUTHORIZING ACQUISITION OF THE SCHUMACHER PROPERTY STAFF RESPONSIBLE: Dale Will and Matthew F. Adeletti SUMMARY OF ISSUE: Should the BOCC ratify a contract to purchase two adjacent parcels comprising approximately 70 acres located between Coal Creek and Coal Creek Road and adjacent to the in Redstone Coke Ovens Open Space? BACKGROUND: Judy and Lee Schumacher desire to sell the County two adjacent parcels of approximately 35 acres each. The property is contiguous on its southeast border to Redstone Coke Ovens Open Space and Coal Creek meanders in and out of the property's northern border for approximately one mile. The property is approximately 50% irrigated meadows and 50% native forested areas. There are significant water rights included with this purchase; 1.3 c.f.s of the Beaman Ditch. The property is zoned AR-10 with a few acres zoned RS-30; therefore the potential for development could be five or possibly 6 residential lots. Avalanche Outfitters at Redstone Stables operates equestrian trail riding and guided hunting tours from this location which is leased from the Schumachers. There is a single family residence, 5 outbuildings and a horse corral that are used for the Outfitters operations. The Open Space program may again lease this property following an assessment of the property condition and natural resources. The Open Space Board of Trustees recommends this $1,800,000.00 purchase. There are no immediate maintenance needs, and future uses will determined by Open Space staff pursuant to a Management Plan. The Healthy Rivers and Streams Board also desires to contribute $250,000 to this purchase, or approximately 14% of the total purchase price. This contribution is to facilitate the potential for a water quality enhancement project along the Coal Creek. This HRSB project would seek to remove sediment from Coal Creek above the confluence with the Crystal River. The financial contribution is tied to access to the land needed for this project. LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN: This project strongly supports the Strategic Plan Goal to "acquire and/or preserve lands with significant recreational, wildlife, agricultural, access, scenic values, and wilderness qualities." KEY DISCUSSION ITEMS (ALTERNATIVES): The Property is currently for sale. If the County does not purchase the property, it will be sold in two parcels on the private market. BUDGETARY IMPACT: The purchase price and transaction costs are well within the available capacity of the Open Space Fund. RECOMMENDED BOCC ACTION: Staff recommends that the Board of County approve the attached Ordinance on first reading, and set for public hearing on November 5, 2014. ATTACHMENTS: Map