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Council backs official support for Kitson Hot Springs community‑forest effort
Summary
Councilors voted to officially support a community‑forest effort to keep Kitson Hot Springs in public or conservation hands as partners pursue fundraising and grants. The property owner listed a $2.5 million asking price and partners seek grants and donor commitments to complete the purchase.
Presenters asked the council to endorse the Kitson Hot Springs community‑forest project so the city’s name and logo could appear among project supporters while partners pursue financing and grants. The presenter described the property as roughly 158 acres with five creeks that feed the Hills Creek reservoir and said the seller’s asking price was $2,500,000.
"They want $2,500,000," the presenter said when describing the market offer; staff explained timber alone had been appraised at roughly $1,300,000 (timber‑value, not a preferred outcome). The city’s presentation emphasized using a Trust for Public Land partnership, pursuing a $600,000 USFS community‑forest grant, and working with local conservation groups that have contributed to due‑diligence costs.
Councilors moved to "officially promote" the Kitson Hot Springs Community Forest project and the motion carried on a roll‑call vote. Supporters said the purchase would protect public access and preserve a recreational and ecological resource that draws visitors.
The council asked staff to continue due diligence and to return with any formal financial commitments before the city provides funding. The purchase remains contingent on fundraising, grant awards and donor actions; the presenter noted an option to put an additional $25,000 earnest payment on July 1 to extend due diligence time.
