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College Park approves purchase of 5021 Lakeland Road for restorative-justice planning
Summary
The City of College Park voted to adopt Ordinance 25‑007 to acquire 5021 Lakeland Road for about $200,000 so the municipality, together with Lakeland residents, can plan restorative-justice uses for the site.
The College Park Mayor and Council voted to adopt Ordinance 25‑007, authorizing the city to acquire 5021 Lakeland Road for a purchase price of approximately $200,000 plus settlement costs.
The vote followed a public hearing in which Lakeland residents urged the council to buy the vacant corner lot and hold it for community-driven restoration. Robert Thurston, president of the Lakeland Civic Association, told the council the lot has “been sitting in the description … for well over 2 years” after a storm-damaged house was demolished and that community control would help preserve Lakeland’s historic character. Resident Ruth Murphy said she was “super, super grateful” the city was considering the purchase and asked that future use be consistent with the Lakeland restorative-justice plan.
Resident Dave Dorsch urged caution, noting additional costs beyond the purchase price — demolition of remaining foundations, site remediation, mowing and maintenance — and asked why the city should use tax dollars to buy a small single-family lot that he said might be bought and redeveloped by a private owner.
City Manager Bill Young staff introduced the item, telling council members the city would pay about $200,000 plus settlement costs and that staff recommended the acquisition to support restorative-justice efforts in the Lakeland community. Council members who spoke in favor cited the city’s earlier commitments to Lakeland and the site’s proximity to two historic churches. Council member Rigg said the purchase is “a small piece of the puzzle” in restoring Lakeland and praised residents’ advocacy. Council member Whitney noted the lot sits across from Embry AME Church and First Baptist Church of Lakeland and described the acquisition as an opportunity to “build this community anew.”
The council voted on the ordinance after public comment and discussion. The motion to adopt Ordinance 25‑007 passed by voice vote; the transcript records unanimous “ayes” with no roll-call breakdown provided.
Next steps outlined by staff and council include coordinating with Lakeland residents and civic organizations on plans for the site and reporting back to the council on costs for demolition, short-term maintenance and longer-term programmed uses.
