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Stancil noted that staff recently received a new VAD application but had to delay <br />processing the materials because the 80 acres of land were not contiguous. <br />In terms of new initiatives for advisory boards, Stancil noted that the BOCC is <br />scheduled to have their annual retreat in February. <br />b. Updates on Land Acquisitions <br />Stancil reported that the Blackwood farm acquisition is close to being finalized <br />and handed out a press release. The APB discussed the background of the <br />property including the history of the house and Blackwood family. Several ideas <br />for the use of the property were discussed, but the idea of some type of park or <br />farm museum remaining the most popular choice. Funding sources include part <br />of the 1997 park bond, school park reserve (co- located with schools and parks <br />for sharing facilities), subdivision payment in -lieu funds, and the new bond <br />money. There has also been some discussion of the possibility of constructing <br />limited playing fields on the two open meadow areas. Other use ideas include <br />low impact recreation trails, farm museum, and picnic areas, leaving visible <br />areas intact for protection of natural resources. After the use discussion the APB <br />decided to form a subcommittee to draft a formal request to the BOCC to protect <br />the agricultural aspect for the property. In addition, the members suggested <br />inviting Commissioner Jacobs to the next meeting. Morrow suggested that the <br />Blackwoods write a letter to the APB stating preservation suggestions that they <br />would like to encourage for the property. Discussions included a letter to the <br />BOCC about the concerns of preserving the farmhouse and buildings, <br />maintenance and security, participation of the APB in the process of decisions <br />for use of the property. Staff to generate language expressing these concerns <br />and everyone to bring their ideas to the next meeting for inclusion. Mandell <br />asked for topo map of the property at the next meeting. <br />MOTION: Kleese made a motion for a subcommittee to draft a letter of <br />concerns, vision outline and proposal for use of the Blackwood property to the <br />BOCC, participate in the decision making process, and consider appropriate <br />uses for the homestead including a potential agricultural center. Seconded by <br />Strayhorn. <br />VOTE: Unanimous. <br />Subcommittee: Morrow, Mandell, Strayhorn, Recor and staff. <br />ITEM #5: Holiday Social <br />ITEM #6: . Adjournment <br />The APB adjourned at 9:50 p.m. <br />2 <br />