MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Morgantown residents calling into WAJR’s Morgantown AM showcased heavy opposition of the proposed $5.2 million purchase of Haymaker Forest.
Several Morgantown residents called into Tuesday’s program, ahead of a court hearing and scheduled Tuesday night vote, to express their concerns regarding the City Council’s decision to purchase the 40-acre forest.
Some concerns raised involve the high price, potential for tax raises, and the lack of attention to existing parks in the area.
“This is a crazy purchase and if you all vote to accept this contract at $5.2 million when the appraisal came in at $2.5 million you’re all nuts,” said caller Joyce. “I think that this is ill advised, and I think that they’re getting carried away by (Deputy Mayor) Mr. (Mark) Brazaitis’ decision.”
With the price tag set at $5.2 million, City Council members have made statements about the potential increase of user fees and sales tax to pay for the purchase. Some taxpayers are concerned for their ability to afford the increases.
“It’s very difficult to keep absorbing everything that they want to spend,” said Rebecca. “They said they’ll raise taxes ’til they get the city that they think their constituents want. Well, how much can you raise the user fee? How much can you raise property levies and everything?”
Others are confused over the need for a new park when existing parks lack the funding to be cared for.
One resident, a builder and developer for more than 40 years, questioned the need for acquiring the $5.2 million property when White Park, a 170-acre park with five miles of walking trails, is located just over 2 miles down the road.
Along with the general concern among taxpayers who will, more than likely, be funding the purchase, some are just disappointed with the city council and feel that their voices are not being heard.
“They don’t seem to care about the residents, it’s all about making money downtown,” said Jim.
“The bottom line here is I’ve watched for the decades the city just steamroll over people’s wishes, their petitions and even the votes,” Carl said. “So if they want it, they’ll probably get it.”
A public hearing will be held Tuesday at City Hall ahead of the scheduled vote. Any resident with strong opinions for or against the purchase of the Haymaker Forest is encouraged to attend.
The meeting will also be live streamed on WAJR.com.
Story by Hannah Williams