City will pursue purchase of two properties

(Above) Expansion of the Clear Lake Public Library has “not been on the radar” for the City, but Council members called the opportunity to purchase the former Woodford-Wheeler building too good to pass up.-Reporter photo.

by Marianne Gasaway

The City of Clear Lake is considering the purchase of two properties to allow for future expansions to the Clear Lake Public Library and a park.

At its Monday night meeting the City Council set a public hearing for Dec. 7 on a proposal to issue general obligation bond debt, not to exceed $600,000, for land acquisition for two projects.

“The relocation of the Woodford-Wheeler lumberyard from downtown Clear Lake to 7th Avenue North has presented the City with an opportunity to acquire that property for a future library expansion project,” stated City Administrator Scott Flory.

The park expansion project is to acquire the property on South 15th Street currently utilized by Cerro Gordo County for its Clear Lake Secondary Roads department.

According to Flory, it is not anticipated that the property acquisition would take place until the Spring 2021.  The property would be used for the future “Everybody Plays Playground Project.”

As reported in last week’s Mirror-Reporter, that project has reached its initial funding goal (funds are still being raised for additional amenities) and will break ground in the spring.  Inclusive playgrounds go  beyond Americans with Disabilities accessibility compliance. They are designed to provide children and families of all

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physical, mental and social abilities and ages an opportunity to play together in an integrated, sensory-rich environment without the barriers that traditionally exist on a playground. The nearest similar playgrounds are located in Cedar Falls and Ames.

Sunset School area

In other business Monday, the Council conducted the second reading of an ordinance establishing the Sunset School Urban Revitalization Plan Area.  The Urban Revitalization Plan would enable the affected property within the Urban Revitalization Area to be eligible for a partial property tax exemption of 80 percent for a period of five years.

Dolly James LLC, of Cedar Falls, has been interested in the property for residential housing.  The plan would enable the city to possibly offer incentives to develop the property.

According to City Administrator Scott Flory, this is a plan that establishes an opportunity for an economic development incentive.  It is not a zoning hearing.  The final reading of the proposed ordinance will be held in the coming weeks, possibly as early as a special meeting on Nov. 30.

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