Agreement with Door County Land Trust

Welcome to the Notes from the Grove, providing Liberty Grove residents and visitors tid bits of information about goings on in town government.

• On August 16 at 7 pm in the Town Hall, Kevin Mesarik of UW-Stevens Point will present the results and answer questions about the recent well testing program in Liberty Grove. Over 80 wells were tested, and well owners have been contacted by UW-Stevens Point with the results of their individual wells.

• Baudhuin Incorporated has completed the Exterior Survey on a three-rod roadway from Porcupine Bay Road into the Grandview Condominiums.

• During the “open book” for the week of September 19 is an opportunity for property owners to meet with the Town Assessor to discuss a property value assessment. The Board of Review is scheduled for September 28. Anyone with questions should contact Dave Dorschner at 920.854.7436. The town is currently undergoing a revaluation.

• On recommendation from the Parks and Properties Committee the Town Board has approved the Memorandum of Agreement between the Door County Land Trust and the Town of Liberty Grove. This was a required step in the acquisition of the approximately 16 acres on the Ellison Bay Hill known as the Grandview Property. The Land Trust has received grant monies and private donations to purchase the property. Once the acquisition is complete it is the intent of the Land Trust to donate the parcel to the town.

The purpose of the agreement is to establish a Site Management Plan that will serve as a guide to making decisions on issues affecting the property. Public use of the property will be governed by Town Park Ordinances, and a site plan will be developed to meet the requirements of the granting agencies. The plan details land restoration and land management goals and guidance for the property. In addition, an Accommodations Plan details the steps and actions to be undertaken in order to help ensure the privacy of adjoining property owners. The agreement is permanent and the Land Trust will make a financial donation to help implement the plan.

The property will be permanently protected and maintained as a passive multi-use recreational park and scenic overlook. A trail system for hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing will be established. Vehicular traffic will not be allowed on the trails. The upper four acres of the property will remain as a mowed scenic overlook with a viewing platform and informational kiosk. A rustic parking area will be provided off Hillside Drive. A privacy fence will be installed along the western property line to protect the Grandview Condominiums. The remaining acreage will be managed and restored. There are several small ponds on the property. Access to the upper portion of the property will be through the Liberty Grove Historical Society.

A copy of the agreement is available for reading at the Town Office.