Committee directs sale or removal of buildings at Duncan Road parcel but retains land ownership amid landfill proximity concerns

The Marathon County Human Resources, Finance and Property Committee directed staff to dispose of the residence and other sellable improvements at a county‑owned parcel on Duncan Road adjacent to the Bluebird Ridge Landfill, but it declined to sell the underlying real estate.

Dave (solid waste staff) told the committee the county purchased a roughly 40‑acre parcel about 10 years ago that contains an old farmhouse, a barn and a shed. The structures have been vacant and are requiring maintenance. "We're at the point where do we start replacing these items?" Dave asked, noting the farmhouse roof and hot water heater need attention and that the county has not identified operational uses for the house.

Committee members raised risk‑management concerns about selling property directly adjacent to an active landfill because of potential future groundwater impacts and liability. Corporation Counsel and staff said the county's pollution liability insurance provides some protection but cannot guarantee zero future exposure. "There's just a level of unknown about what the future would hold," a county official said.

After debate, the committee approved a motion directing staff to dispose of sellable improvements (the house, shed and barn components) but to retain the underlying land and stop ongoing maintenance costs for the vacant structures. Members discussed options including selling the house for removal, salvaging usable structures, or demolishing and burying materials in the county landfill if removal is not feasible.

The motion authorizes staff to pursue sale or removal of improvements and to return with details; proceeds from any sale were indicated to be deposited to the solid waste reserve.

Chair Gibbs made the motion to dispose of improvements and cease maintenance; Supervisor Hart seconded. The motion carried on a voice vote.