Residents, business owners urge sale of Recycle Center; Board rejects $220,000 offer

Public commenters representing L.A. Gymnastics and NorthStar Athletics urged the Kalkaska County Board of Commissioners to approve the sale of the county'owned Recycle Center property to allow expansion of youth gymnastics programming in Kalkaska. Aimee Bissonette said the business had a documented plan and argued the sale would provide local economic value and space for youth activities. "Addressed Board regarding the purchase request for the Recycle Center for NorthStar Athletics (evolving from L.A. Gymnastics), noting her history with the community, need for local businesses, additional economic value and resources offered in community; noted need for youth activities, need of proper space and equipment; noted long term goals, provided documentation of Business Plan and mission; requesting Board to support the sale."

Realtor Bonnie Garrett briefed the board on a $220,000 offer for the property and discussed outstanding items needed before closing, including environmental testing, an electrical inspection because power had been shut off, and a buyer request for a higher commission. Garrett also noted an earlier appraisal revision from $499,000 to $449,000 and cautioned that additional inspection and repair costs could affect net value to taxpayers. "Realtor Bonnie Garrett: Addressed Board noting offer from Aspire North Realtors for the Recycle property of $220,000.00; noted prior offer of $200,000.00; noted need for environmental testing and request from buyer's agent for 4% commission vs 2.5 offered..."

After discussion about inspection costs and commission levels, the Board voted on a motion by Commissioner Robert Baldwin to reject the $220,000 offer from The Difference Real Estate; the motion carried on a roll-call vote (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent). The Board directed staff to seek inspection quotes and indicated a possible special meeting to review inspection results and related documents before any future sale decision.