HOISINGTON — The city of Hoisington received very good news for the community when 6.7 acres of land were donated for residential development to its land bank, the Hoisington City Council learned at its recent meeting.
The old Hoisington mobile home park, owned by Wyoming V LLC, is located north of Hoisington, according to City Manager Jonathan Mitchell. He said that a portion of the property is located in the flood plain, but two-thirds is available for development.
The land is totally cleared, has a road and other infrastructure available. The council, who sits on the Hoisington City Land Bank Board, hasn’t decided what the next step will be, but the city will take possession on March 1, 2012 after they voted to accept the land.
"They could choose to do a free lot program like those that have been seen in several other communities around us," said Mitchell. "Or, if we found a developer that was interested in coming in to set up housing opportunities, there could be an opportunity there."
The city is responsible for cost of appraisal and title search. Mitchell said the county appraisal was $30,00, but that he expected private appraisal to be higher.
In other business, the council accepted bids to raze two properties. They are for 223 E. First and 469 W. Second, unless significant progress is made on improvements.
Violations have been issued beginning in 2008 on the property at 469 W. Second. The property at 223 E. First has a garage that leans and could damage a power pole. A hearing for Feb. 27, 2012 has been set for the property at 264 W. Railroad Ave. to determine if it is unsafe or dangerous.
The council discussed infrastructure improvements to Main Street. The council is considering replacing the water mains on Main Street between Third and First because of age. It would require pulling up the brick. The council will accept bids.
In final business, the council:
•Approved end of the year transfers.
•The city will host a League of Municipalities meeting in Hoisington on Jan. 20, a first for the city.
