Marshfield, WI (OnFocus) The Board of Public Works renewed discussion over the fate of a City-owned property at E. 8th Street and Hemlock Ave. during its Monday meeting.
Sale of the property was last considered in October, when the Common Council voted to table disposition of the lot for at least one year.
The corner property has seen heavy use as a parking lot during events at Beell Stadium. While football games will move to the high school starting this fall season, sports activities will continue in the area with the middle school athletic upgrades. These include the addition of 89 grass parking stalls, according to the initial rendering.
The usage of the property for parking is expected to drop this upcoming season.
“The intensity and the usage of that site will be significantly less compared to the football stadium,” said Development Services Director Josh Miller. “You’ve got the capacity for thousands of people versus a few hundred people…I don’t think it hurts to wait to see how that’s going to be utilized as a soccer field and a track.”
The future of the property has been discussed since 2016. Council directed City staff last August to seek proposals for the 8th and Hemlock property, receiving one from Marshfield Area Habitat for Humanity.
The 1.125 acre site was brought back for discussion before the board based on results from the 2019 Housing Study, which indicated a strong demand for single-family homes priced below $200,000 and in good condition.
[Related: Study Identifies Housing Needs in Marshfield]
City staff recommended selling the property as one large parcel to allow a developer to subdivide it as desired, potentially up to three lots. Sewer and water service available off Hemlock Ave. can only serve two lots, meaning the third lot would need a sanitary sewer main extension off of Felker Ave.
The board voted 3-2, with Aldermen Chris Jockheck and Ken Bargender voting no, to hire a realtor to sell the property. The matter will continue before the Common Council.
Council Delays Sale of 8th and Hemlock Property, Approves Challenge Grant for New Pool
Council to Further Discuss City Property Sale at 8th and Hemlock
http://focusonmarshfield.com/citizens-express-frustration-with-property-sale-on-8th-street/
Author: News Desk
This piece was posted by our news team! Contact us or submit stories at [email protected].
