Redlands City Council approves $100K deal with Meritage Homes to preserve historic orange grove

The City of Redlands City Council made a significant move towards preserving its agricultural heritage during the January 21, 2025 meeting by approving a purchase and sale agreement with Meritage Homes for the England Grove property. This 6.84-acre site, located at the southeast corner of Palm and Alvarado, is set to be transformed into a permanent agricultural reserve, specifically for orange groves.

Assistant City Manager Boatman highlighted the importance of this agreement, noting that it includes the replanting of 7,184 new trees and the installation of a modern fan jet irrigation system, replacing the outdated flood irrigation method. This upgrade is crucial for maintaining efficient water use and ensuring the grove's long-term viability. The city will pay $100,000 for the property, funded by proceeds from a previous land sale dedicated to citrus preservation.

The council's decision reflects a commitment to agricultural sustainability, as the city currently manages over 200 acres of citrus groves. The integration of the England Grove into the city's farming operations is expected to bolster the local economy and preserve Redlands' identity as a citrus-producing region.

Public support for the initiative was evident, with members of the Citrus Preservation Commission actively involved in the discussions. The council's unanimous approval signals a strong community backing for preserving the grove, which has historical significance and contributes to the city's agricultural landscape.

In addition to the grove agreement, the council also discussed various other items, including amendments to operational agreements and updates to water service policies, but the preservation of the England Grove stood out as the highlight of the meeting, reinforcing Redlands' dedication to its agricultural roots.