By 1808Delaware
In a significant move for community development, Powell City Council has voted to enter into a real estate purchase agreement for the historic Bennett Farm property. This 32-acre parcel, located along State Route 750, has been a part of Powell’s landscape and history for decades, operated by the family of long-time resident Marjorie Bennett, who passed away last year at the age of 97.
Preserving History and Planning for the Future
City Manager Andrew White shared insights on the acquisition process, explaining, “Earlier this year, the family determined they would like to sell the historic property through a private sale via competitive sealed bids. We met with the family’s real estate agents to discuss land use and community interest. It was crucial to establish site control to preserve the integrity of any future development and ensure robust community engagement.”
The acquisition of Bennett Farm aligns seamlessly with the City Council’s goals for 2024, which focus on improving the lives of residents and businesses in Powell. The Council’s objectives include:
- Maintaining Infrastructure: Reducing traffic congestion and increasing downtown parking options.
- Enhancing Parks and Recreation: Expanding bike and walking path connections and increasing recreational spaces.
- Ensuring Safety: Keeping residents and businesses safe.
- Expanding Downtown: Increasing walkability and amenities in the downtown area.
- Supporting Businesses: Retaining existing businesses and encouraging new ones.
- Improving City Operations: Enhancing efficiency, financial management, and communications.
A Vision Rooted in the Comprehensive Plan
The 2015 Comprehensive Plan initially contemplated the redevelopment of the Bennett Farm property, envisioning it as open space and recreational land based on conservation principles. However, limited resources at the time delayed this initiative. The overwhelming voter support for the May 2021 income tax restructuring ballot initiative created new opportunities for the city, allowing the Council to consider broader initiatives and strategic acquisitions.
“When the residents approved the income tax restructuring in 2021, this charted a new path forward for our community,” said White. “It has enabled the city to address deferred maintenance and to make strategic acquisitions like this for the benefit of our residents.”
Community Input and Future Planning
Currently, the city is collaborating with MKSK on a Parks Master Plan to update Powell’s existing parks assets. This plan is being developed with extensive public input to ensure that the community’s needs and desires are reflected in future projects.
“This represents an ideal time to partner the effort with a supplemental planning project specific to the Bennett Farm property,” White added. Preliminary discussions have begun regarding pedestrian infrastructure improvements along SR 750, as well as green space expansion and potential recreational projects.
Moving Forward with Community Engagement
The acquisition of the Bennett Farm property marks a significant milestone for Powell, reflecting the city’s commitment to preserving its history while planning for a future that enhances the quality of life for its residents. With community input and strategic planning, the city aims to create a vibrant and sustainable space that honors its past and looks forward to future growth and development.
Source, Image: City of Powell
