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OSMP revisits legacy residences: staff propose pilot disposals for properties with no program use
Summary
Staff told trustees they have reviewed 41 residential structures on OSMP‑owned lands, identified about five with no current programmatic use, and are proposing a research‑ and due‑diligence‑backed pilot to subdivide and dispose of up to one property in 2026 to generate one‑time revenue for capital projects or acquisitions.
Open Space and Mountain Parks staff updated the Open Space Board of Trustees on July 9 about an ongoing review of residences that accompany some OSMP land acquisitions. The department has assessed 41 structures that were acquired over decades and identified a small group of residences with no current programmatic use.
Lauren (OSMP staff) described the history: when OSMP acquired resource parcels — sometimes to protect habitat, ditches or wetlands — a residence came with the land. Over time some houses were placed into programmatic use (agricultural tenant housing, farm headquarters, rental occupancy and field staffing). Other structures have deteriorated or have no identified future program use.
What staff reviewed and the pilot concept
Staff used a 2016 facilities‑condition assessment, combined it with current condition, resource values, facility use, deed restrictions and real‑estate considerations, to classify properties. For most residences the department found viable programmatic uses; for about five parcels it determined no current programmatic use exists.
OSMP staff proposed a cautious pilot approach in which the department would conduct standard due diligence (appraisals, title research, necessary notifications and county subdivision exemptions where applicable) and, if appropriate, subdivide off a limited area containing the residence for market sale. Staff said prior examples exist when the department acquired properties where OSMP created and sold subdivided house lots (Coleman & Suits and Woodley properties in earlier years).
Staff emphasized principles and constraints
Staff said any disposal or sale would be managed to preserve the conservation values of the remaining open space. Proceeds would be treated as one‑time revenue for capital projects or future acquisitions rather than used to plug operating deficits. Trustees asked for full property reports before any sale, including condition assessments, agricultural or cultural resource impacts, access changes, and legal restrictions.
Timing and next steps
Staff said the packet includes revised recommendations and that the department will continue due diligence; if a pilot disposal is proposed it would come back to the board for review in 2026. Lauren stressed the process will follow applicable county land‑use rules (e.g., subdivision exemptions in Boulder County) and city/charter disposal policies where relevant.
Ending: Trustees welcomed the inventory and said they support disposing of assets that no longer serve OSMP’s program needs but asked that staff bring forward full documentation and options before any final action.
