2005-54 VACATING PORTION OF STREET - EAST HALF OF 900 BLOCK EAST ORCHARD STREET

Home Browse Search

Excerpts of the Decatur City Plan Commission June 2, 2005 Cal.No. OS-18 Petition of DECATUR PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT 61 to vacate the portion of East Orchard Street located 167 feet west of North Calhoun Street. Mrs. Joselyn Stewart was sworn in by Ms. Jesse. Mrs. Stewart gave the recommendation of staff: In 1983 the west half of the 900 Block of East Orchard Street was vacated and in 1987 the 1000 block of East Orchard Street was vacated. North Railroad Avenue between Marietta and East Condit Street is vacated as well as the alley ways in this block. It is anticipated that a park will be developed in this area. Utility letters have been received stating that they have reviewed the plat and are in agreement with the proposed vacation. An easement will be reserved for utility access. The School District and The Decatur Housing Authority owns all the property adjacent to the right of way. An appraisal was submitted by the petitioner with an estimated market value of$1,500 ($0.15 per square foot). A second appraisal is not required. The petitioner will pay the City of Decatur$1,500 for the vacated street. Staff is of the opinion that the best interests of the City of Decatur would be served by approving the request to vacate the street right of way. Staff recommends approval of the petition. The Administrative Policy of the City of Decatur requires that property vacation requests be submitted for a public hearing. Although a Plan Commission recommendation is not required, a motion to forward the request of Cal. No. OS-18 to the City Council with a recommendation of approval is suggested. Mr. Mike Sotiroff, representative for petioner, was sworn in by Ms. Jesse. Mr. Sotiroff stated that the Decatur School District was wanting to use the area for sports fields for the new school. There were no objectors present. It was moved and seconded(Smith/Stewart)to forward Cal. No. OS-18 to the City Council with the recommendation for approval as submitted by petitioner. Motion carried unanimously.