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Caro City committee directs appraisal, park inquiry for Van Geisen Road subdivision
Summary
At an Aug. 5 Committee of the Whole meeting, Caro City councilors directed staff to determine whether a neighborhood park exists on the Van Geisen Road parcel, obtain a third‑party appraisal or broker price opinion and prepare an RFP before moving forward with a 12‑month purchase agreement.
The Caro City Council Committee of the Whole discussed a proposed purchase of the Van Geisen Road subdivision property at its Aug. 5, 2025, meeting and directed staff to take three next steps before any formal sale or development proceeds.
Mayor Karen Snider opened the committee meeting at 5:30 p.m. and noted city officials and staff present, including City Manager Scott Czasak, City Clerk Rita Papp and City Attorney Laura Genovich (virtual). During the public comment period, Kory Batschke expressed support for the development proposal, and Danielle Rolando asked whether neighboring property owners would be offered the opportunity to purchase lots.
City Manager Scott Czasak presented appraisal assessment information from the city assessor and introduced the proposed transaction to the council. City Attorney Laura Genovich reviewed the draft purchase agreement and advised the council to obtain a professional appraisal or a broker price opinion. Genovich characterized the draft as a 12‑month purchase agreement that is not binding to develop the property and said the city’s options included counteroffering, listing the parcel or soliciting bids.
Councilors offered initial positions. Councilor Jill White commended the city manager for bringing the proposal; Councilor Doreen Oedy voiced support for pursuing the opportunity; Councilor Charlotte Kish said she supported development but that the opportunity should also be offered to other developers.
During discussion, summer intern Chris Cumper recommended adding a contingency clause to the purchase agreement specifying what types of development would be allowed and suggested updating or drafting the city’s own agreement. Resident Tanya Batschke asked whether the city could consider housing options and expressed support for development.
Following discussion, the committee instructed City Manager Scott Czasak to have the city attorney first determine whether the parcel contains an existing neighborhood park, to obtain a third‑party appraisal or broker price opinion, and to work on a request for proposals (RFP). Mayor Snider also suggested holding an open house before any public hearing on the property.
The meeting concluded with a motion by Councilor Doreen Oedy, seconded by Councilor Jill White, to adjourn; the meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m. and the motion carried.
The committee did not take a final vote on sale or development. The city’s next procedural steps are the attorney’s park‑status determination, a third‑party appraisal or broker price opinion and the issuance of an RFP, after which the council would consider further public outreach or formal action.
