Commissioners consider surplusing High Top property after multi‑phase plan proves costly

Jackson County commissioners on March 9 reviewed a multi‑phase concept plan for the county-owned High Top property and discussed whether the county should continue to hold the parcel or market it for private or state use.

Staff recapped the property acquisition (October 2021) and summarized a four‑phase concept packet included in commissioners’ materials: a first phase with campground, general store and basic infrastructure (packet listed a phase-one estimate in the range of $78,000–87,850), a second phase for trails, parking and playgrounds (about $590,900), a third phase with road and event-center construction (approximately $6,936,250) and a final phase for an amphitheater and view improvements (about $668,750). The packet’s total projected cost if all phases are completed was presented as $17,600,000.

Several commissioners said the county lacks the fiscal capacity to pursue a project of that magnitude while road and infrastructure needs remain pressing. One commissioner recommended engaging a realtor to market the property and to explore interest from state agencies that might use the land for trails or recreation; other commissioners favored finding an investor or hospitality operator able to shoulder development costs. The commission agreed to research market interest and return findings at a future meeting rather than move forward with county-funded development.

No formal surplus or sale motion was taken on March 9; commissioners instructed staff to report back with market research and potential agency interest.