Commission discusses Maple Ridge 120-acre offer; life estate and grant options on table

Commissioners discussed a potential 120-acre addition to Maple Ridge Park during the May 26 meeting, including the landowner’s interest in a life estate and a preference to avoid demolition of the on-site house.

Staff and Commissioner Carol Urness reported conversations with the landowner and noted potential engagement with the Trust for Public Lands and the possibility of pursuing a Scientific & Natural Area (SNA) grant. The SNA grant would require a 50% match; staff said the match could potentially take the form of a landowner donation but no funding commitments were made at the meeting.

Commissioner Luke Merrill said he did not favor acquiring the house, citing concerns about investing county funds in structures. Commissioner Bill Berg raised the possibility of generating revenue from the house through short-term rental to offset costs. Director Barry Wendorf said he would discuss options with the property owner and report back to the commission.

No formal motion was made to pursue acquisition of the Maple Ridge property during the meeting, and the commission took no binding action on the matter.