Council hears proposed changes for lake lot leases
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In the early 60s, when Vandalia Lake was made, lots were divided around it and leased to residents who built homes and other improvements. That original lease expires as of 2067 and lending institutions are getting increasingly skittish about making loans for the sale of these homes. As a result, those who live around the lake approach Vandalia’s city council for potential solutions to the problem.
Attorney Matt Hortenstein was hired by the city to help, and he told the council there were three solutions to the problem.
“The first is that residents do nothing, staying within their current leases,” he said. The second is for them to sign a new lease for 60 years, with an option of three, 20-year extensions. The third solution is for residents to outright purchase their respective properties for an appraised value.
With the option of purchasing their lots, residents would not be required to annex into the city.
Vandalia Mayor Ricky Gottman agreed. “It would be cost prohibitive to bringing these properties into the city for police and fire coverage.”
It was recommended by Hortenstein that the city hire three out-of-area appraisers to do the job, so that no Improprieties could be alleged in these dealings.
The council agreed these options would be best for all parties involved.
Other business
In other business the council:
• approved and swore in LaTisha Paslay as city treasurer;
• approved several resolutions of employment contracts for various employees;
• approved an ordinance amending salaries for the upcoming year;
• approved D. Wayne Swofford to the Planning Commission;
• rejected a fire call bill to Dustin Murray, who requested the bill be reduced to $500, from just under $1,500 for insurance purposes;
• accepted a bid for the 2000 Ford Cutaway Vehicle;
• approved the ordinance calling for the lake lot lease change proposals;
• heard from Mayor Gottman he remained disgruntled with the gas prices in town. He also reminded the council that as president of the Illinois Municipal League, it was his job to host the board of directors, at their meeting in July. Nearly 100 mayors and spouses will be meeting and staying in Vandalia.
• heard from Ken Barker that street crews have repaired the sidewalk at Sixth and Gallatin, and have been fixing an higher than normal amount of water leaks;
• heard from Bret Brosman that pumps needed to be repaired at the final sewer substation before the plant, and that the bill would be a bit costly, and
• heard that the Fourth of July Fireworks is on for this year at the lake, as well as the Lions Halloween Parade.