Dear Editor:
I am writing in reference to the Bryan Times article dated December 30, 2020, concerning Montpelier councilman Willis’ rejection of another new park in Montpelier.
Out of the 122 acres referred to, 120 acres were owned by Ray Shaull, my grandfather, where he operated two gravel pits.
Located on the west side of the four and five hundred blocks of Mill Street with boundaries to the center of the river and the old channels, to County Road K. Two gravel pits occupy the land, leaving 65 acres of flood plain.
Because of the water depth, and steep banks, one could deem this parcel very dangerous and a huge liability. As for the flooding issue, any Mill Street resident can attest to the fact the flood waters have risen as high as four feet causing an enormous amount of cleanup after the water recedes.
As if the flood issue is not enough, this land has a history of trespassers, marijuana harvesting, trash dumping and is non-buildable.
My mother inherited this land, selling it to a farmer, relieving herself of the headaches and liability. The farmer sold it, claiming it was not farmable.
By purchasing this land, the village will merely ensure high insurance costs due to liability and a need to continuous patrol. The railroad runs through the acreage for which there is no right-of-way.
It is very concerning the three readings for public input of this matter were waived. I also understand that Black Swamp Conversancy will not allow changes to the landscape.
I stand with Mr. Willis. Montpelier does not need another park, particularly on 122 acres inundated with liabilities.
It seems the taxpayers of Montpelier would be better served using the money for future maintenance of the existing parks/pool we already enjoy.
Bill Peters
