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Donor asks county to preserve farmland; commissioners authorize negotiations
Summary
Barbara Jean Brimer told the commission she wants to donate farmland to White County with deed restrictions preserving agriculture and wildlife; commissioners authorized county attorneys to negotiate final terms and the motion passed unanimously.
White County — Barbara Jean Brimer addressed the White County Board of Commissioners to offer farmland to the county for preservation as agricultural land and wildlife habitat. Brimer told the commission she wants the land maintained, kept largely for cattle or crops, and not developed with buildings; she said she expects deed restrictions to reflect those wishes and requested a plaque recognizing the donation.
County staff explained the resolution before the board (Resolution 16-04-2026) would authorize the county and the donor’s attorney to negotiate and finalize deed restrictions and other legal terms. The resolution authorizes the county attorney to complete terms with the donor’s attorney; commissioners voted unanimously to approve the negotiation authorization.
County representatives said, if finalized, the deed would include restrictions consistent with the donor’s requests and staff would coordinate with the school system’s 4-H and the UT Extension Office on any educational or stewardship programming tied to the land.
What happens next: County attorneys will negotiate the specific deed restrictions and return to the commission if attorneys propose changes that differ from the terms discussed in the meeting. Staff listed a follow-up timeline to present final language to the board prior to acceptance of the gift.
