Trout Lake Care proposes senior center on park land; council asks county to clarify deed

Trout Lake Care (TLC) told the Trout Lake Community Council it plans two listening sessions—Jan. 17 at 3:30 p.m. at the grange and a virtual session Jan. 19 at 2:00—to gather community input on senior services and a possible senior center.

"TLC is planning a couple of community listening sessions: January 17th at 3:30 in the grange, as well as a video meeting on Sunday the 19th at 2:00 for those that can't make the in-person meeting," said Joanna Turner of Trout Lake Care. Turner said TLC would like to propose that roughly 10% of the park be set aside for a senior center and that the descendant of the family who dedicated the park is willing to explore changing the deed to permit that use.

Council discussion focused on legal and title complications. "The deed is short and not clear," Turner said; Dave Wampler noted the warranty deed lists two people and that a March 1962 Board of County Commissioners resolution references the plat and its uses. Pat Arnold suggested county review: "The Prosecuting attorney could have a land use attorney look at it."

After the discussion, Joanna Turner moved and Lucas King seconded a motion asking the county to clarify the park deed, its current status, and any potential to change permitted uses. The council recorded that the motion passed, with the council stating "all in favor" except Pat Arnold, who abstained. The motion asks the county to provide a legal determination before TLC and the community proceed with planning.

The proposal raises questions about site alternatives and costs: Turner said TLC is also exploring properties closer to downtown with parking and appropriate zoning; Zoe Wood has been assisting with site searches and the Coate family has indicated a willingness to deed a parcel to TLC. The council agreed to gather community feedback at the listening sessions before pursuing further steps.