LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Springfield OKs purchase of Saxer Avenue property
SPRINGFIELD » Commissioners handled their agenda prior to a robust public comment period on an issue unrelated to routine business. But first two items stood out as actions which will substantially enhance the community.
The board approved a resolution to purchase property listed as 510 Saxer Ave. at a cost of $615,000. The township will receive slightly more than 25 percent of the amount through a Delaware County open space funding grant. The 2.1-acre parcel, owned by sisters Mary and Pearl Jamgochian, has a stately home and garage with apartment dwellings. It had been on the market for $699,000.
Commissioner Paul Wechsler, liaison to the Planning Commission, reviewed the history of attempts to develop with a variety of residential schemes. The owners appeared before planners in 2006 requesting the necessary approvals for 14 building lots on a cul de sac. The application was denied due to increased density over the permissible amount.
“Two to three years later another application was made for 11 homes, all on Saxer Avenue,” said Wechsler. “That was also denied and the township recommended still fewer home. The final application was for seven homes, which was also turned down. The owners appealed that decision to the county and won.”
Wechsler said the parcel had some storm water issues. Whether that was instrumental in subsequent activity or not, the owners “haven’t been able to get a buyer,” Wechsler said. “The township has been looking for a way to purchase the property for open space, with a goal towards an additional park.”
Township officials were creative in realizing they could condemn the property and take it by eminent domain. By doing so, the township would not have to pay transfer tax. The condemnation required a resolution that was unanimously approved by commissioners.
According to township Manager Lee Fulton, this will be a long-term project with no decisions yet made on the exact use. He noted, however, it was too small for playing fields.