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Property owners and neighbors object to 'slum and blight' designation near Wapsinonoc Creek
Summary
At the June 16 meeting, Kim Gaskill spoke for property owner Katherine Gaskill asking the City to remove her mother's property from a slum-and-blight designation, saying the land is used for rental income and easements; another resident, Sally Peck, said the designation could hurt property values.
Two residents addressed the West Branch City Council about a recent slum-and-blight designation that includes property along the Wapsinonoc Creek.
Kim Gaskill, speaking on behalf of her mother, Katherine Gaskill, asked the City to remove the family property from the designation, saying the parcel is used for rental income and grassland easements and that the owners do not want to be included in a plan to facilitate development. Mayor Roger Laughlin said the City would like to plan a trail along the creek; according to the transcript, Ms. Gaskill replied, “no bike trail will be allowed.” Councilmember Colton Miller asked whether the family would consider selling land for a trail; Ms. Gaskill said they would be willing to discuss options with the Mayor at a future date.
Sally Peck of 223 N. Downey Street also spoke, stating she objects to the slum-and-blight designation because she believes it will affect property values. The council did not take a formal vote on removing the property at the meeting; the comments were recorded during the public-comment portion of the agenda.
