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Merrick explores reclaiming Verizon easement for small playground near Papes Park
Summary
Officials reported Verizon has agreed in principle to return a small parcel of green space adjacent to Papes Park; the village would clear antiquated junction boxes and consider buying playground equipment with parks trust funds, pending title confirmation and counsel review.
Village officials told the board Verizon has agreed to return a small parcel of green space adjacent to Papes Park on Madison Street, which the village would clean up and convert into a small playground if title and liability issues are cleared.
Chief DeRuzzo said Verizon’s equipment dates to the mid-1990s and the parcel has flooded multiple times. "They have agreed to give us that property back," DeRuzzo said, noting the company asked the village to accept the parcel and to remove old junction boxes and site equipment. Village parks staff would handle demolition/cleanup and trustees discussed using money from the parks and recreation trust fund for one or two pieces of playground equipment.
Trustees asked for a title search to confirm Verizon’s ownership and directed counsel (Bob, as referenced in the discussion) to review the draft agreement. If title and liability language are acceptable, staff will return the issue to a regular meeting for formal acceptance and any necessary resolutions.
