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Jamestown council revisits park expansion, lot sale and sidewalk repairs for local business
Summary
Council members discussed restarting plans to expand a local park and considered buying adjacent land; they also addressed a pending sale of a lot to a local business owner (Shelley) and the city’s responsibility for sidewalk repairs that currently delay a business opening.
Council members returned to discussion of expanding a city park and whether the town should pursue purchasing an adjacent lot to secure additional space. A council member who later moved on ordinance business urged that someone begin contacting owners and researching the feasibility of buying land, noting the county’s plans for a sports park could affect how much additional local parkland is needed.
Speakers emphasized the importance of perfecting title before acquisition. One participant explained that if multiple heirs or claims exist, the city could use court procedures to establish rightful ownership and rely on an honest appraisal to set a purchase price. "If you get... you have a good, honest appraisal," a participant said in describing how the city would proceed if heirs appear.
The conversation shifted to a particular lot adjacent to the park that a local business owner (Shelley, identified in the transcript) is interested in buying. Council members agreed sidewalks are the city’s maintenance responsibility and discussed whether the city should do a comprehensive sidewalk replacement if it retains the lot or allow the buyer to address the sidewalk if the lot is sold. Chair comments and staff input indicated the city will obtain cost estimates before making a final decision.
Members also discussed technical details—curb adjustments, wheelchair ramp placement, and railings—and the need to consult engineers or local contractors. The council asked staff to collect quotes, check deed restrictions and auction/sale rules, and return with estimates and options for how to proceed.
No formal vote on the lot sale or park expansion appears in the transcript; the discussion ended with a direction to gather quotes and have staff return with recommendations.
