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Committee recommends lease allowing developer-built Melrose pools, township to buy amenities for $4.5 million
Summary
The building and zoning committee unanimously recommended the Board of Commissioners approve a ground lease with Melrose Pool LLC that lets the developer build pools and related amenities on township-owned land; the township would buy the completed amenities for a stated $4.5 million, with a target opening of Memorial Day 2027.
The Cheltenham Township Building and Zoning Committee voted unanimously to recommend the Board of Commissioners approve a ground lease that would allow Melrose Pool LLC to construct swimming pools, a pool house and related amenities on township-owned land donated from the former Melrose Country Club redevelopment site.
Solicitor Diazio said the lease gives the developer the right to enter the township parcel to construct the amenities, with the township purchasing the completed facilities at a stated price of $4.5 million. “Once the construction is complete, the township will purchase those amenities at a at a stated price that is that is in the lease agreement of $4.5 million,” he said.
Diazio told the committee the lease is intended to let the developer secure bank financing, begin detailed design and order materials. He said the pool is scheduled to open for Memorial Day 2027 and that the lease is a first step to allow the developer to proceed. “That is the framework of how the construction will take place,” he said, adding that staff and counsel can provide additional information before the full board votes.
Resident Jamie Woodyard asked for clarification about who is building the pool. “So is Melrose Pool LLC the developer? Is it Sheltonham Township the landlord and then the Melrose Pool LLC is given access for purposes of them building the pool?” she asked. Solicitor Diazio confirmed Melrose Pool LLC is an LLC established by the developer’s team to carry out the project and that the township would be the landlord; the developer will build the amenities and the township will buy them under the lease terms.
Committee members expressed support for the plan and moved to recommend approval; the recommendation passed by voice vote. The committee’s recommendation will go to the Board of Commissioners for final consideration; Diazio said staff can supply any additional requested information before the board’s hearing on the item.
