04/28/1975 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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w. E. Sweetland, 42 Ridgewood Drive, objected to use of the Morse property for a (2022) city park.because of the cost involved and because he felt there was adequate poten- tial park land or partially developed parks in that general area. now (the proposed .. ridgeline area and Amazon rark). He said the buildings on the site were not proper ~, for park purposes and would have to be remodeled at considerable expense to the city. Also, he said, playground areas of three schools in that vicinity were available. In addition, there was nothing about the Morse property of particular scenic value such as streams, waterfalls, etc., that would attract people. He felt the majority of people would rather go to a state park where swimming facilities were available, fishing streams, vast open spaces, etc. He felt the city would be receiving a "white elephant" if it accepted the park, and he urged the Council to withdraw any support it had given to acquisition of the property for park purposes. George Boehnke, 3120 Agate Street, agreed with Mr. Sweetland. In addition, he.said, the maintenance costs should be considered. He thought the estimated annual mainte- nance cost could pay for about a third of the priority tiems listed in this year's city budget. And in view of the dedicated park land already available, he felt this was one place where the city's expenses could be cut. Councilman Keller supported the positions taken by Mr. Boehnke and Mr. Sweetland. In addition, he looked at that property as a beautiful piece of land and said he doubted it would be maintained as a "low use" park. He was sure the road leading to it would have to be improved, that parking problems would be created, and he found it difficult to support a measure that he anticipated would cost the people a tre- mendous amount of money in the future. Councilwoman Shirey emphasized that money for the park should the Legislature approve its acquisition would come from the parks and recreation division of the State High- way Department. She wanted to clarify that the uses of highway department money, made ~ up of gas tax and vehicle license revenues, park use fees, etc., were for a variety of things besides acquiring and building roads. She said the Morse property would fit into the state parks and recreation program and would be a unique addition for the state and nation, as wel~ as Eugene. She felt the impact of its cost would not be too great. Also, that the $100,000 estimate for maintenance cost for the city was a top figure, that a more definite estimate was not possible until a more specific type of use for the property was determined. .She said that the significance of the Wayne Morse name would no doubt bring help from other agencies in the maintenance of the property. She mentioned monies were available for the purchase from the Federal government through the National Historic Register, and Lane County might also share as well as the state in sue of the buildings by the University. In addition, funds have already been donated from pr~vate sources, so she .felt the potential was there for maintenance as park property. Mrs. Shirey continued with regard to the proximity of school playgrounds that the Morse property would enhance them, not replace them, and because of its historic value it would be a park not duplicated anyplace else. She wondered if those objecting to its acquisition had ever closely examined the trails on the property. And the buildings, she said, were in excellent condition. Also, there would be great educational value in Mr. Morse's work and papers gathered over his many years in public office. She felt the potential was there and invited people to actually view the property with the realization that the proposal for its acquisition had been examined closely and not jumped into on the spur of the moment. Councilwoman Beal was not concerned about upkeep on the park because she felt the maintenance cost would be in direct proportion to how it was developed and used. Councilman Haws said he had the same concerns expressed by Mr. Keller, and asked staff if the city would be morally or legally obligated should the committee action be approved to spend money for upkeep of the property should it be acquired. Also, he asked ~f there was a breakdown of maintenance costs according to park areas that would give an idea of park monies that were now going into that section of the city. .- 4/28/75 - 24.. 2'2..Cf