Board reviews option to purchase 80 acres adjacent to commerce park; public hearing set for April 20

Economic development staff told the Northampton County Board of Commissioners on April 6 that the county has the option to purchase 80 acres on Lebanon Church Road (parcel 0101817, informally called "Robinson Farms") adjacent to the county commerce park. The proposal sets a purchase price of $4,500 per acre ($380,000 total) and a 12-month option with a $19,000 option fee; that fee is refundable during the first 90 days and becomes non-refundable thereafter, but would be credited against the purchase price if the sale is executed.

Staff said a public hearing must be held before the county can enter a formal agreement and that the hearing is scheduled for the board's April 20 meeting to meet statutory posting requirements. The board was shown GIS maps and an older survey of the 80-acre parcel; staff noted the board does not have to vote on the option that evening and will receive citizen input at the April 20 hearing before deciding whether to execute the option.

No purchase vote occurred on April 6. Economic development staff indicated the $19,000 option fee is due within 90 days of the effective date and will fund due diligence; after 90 days the fee becomes non-refundable. The presentation emphasized the property would expand the existing commerce park for economic development purposes. The board invited questions and staff said the signed option agreement and related materials were included in the board packet.

The county will take public comment at the April 20 hearing before any final decision to proceed with the purchase or to execute the option agreement.