Council ponders land swap proposal

Though the Sundance City Council is not particularly interested in a land swap proposed by a private landowner, it’s not an idea that has been dismissed out of hand.

The proposal was brought to council members during last week’s work session by City Attorney Mark Hughes. As he represents both sides of the question, he stressed that he was not offering an opinion and was only providing information.

One of the two small parcels is described as being located at the post office end of town, the other near the old daycare.

The issue, said Council Member Joe Wilson, is that the two parcels are not the same size.

In the past, he said, the city has generally considered equal plots for exchanges, but “this is not”.

Mayor Pro Tem Brad Marchant agreed, noting that the city would potentially see a decrease in value.

“I don’t see where it benefits the city that much,” he said.

At first look, “I’d say no,” concurred Council Member Callie Hilty, as it would not provide additional benefit to the city such as, for example, increased access to or use of its own property.

Council Member Randy Stevenson, however, saw an opportunity. Noting that the city is in a particularly tight financial situation right now – something the council has been aware of since the loss of the Specific Purpose Options Tax (SPOT) after the recent elections – he asked if it would be possible for the private citizen to offer payment for the difference between the land values.

It would be likely that there would be a difference, he said, because the city plot is, “At least three times the square footage.”

Hughes confirmed that Wyoming statutes allow the city to sell or trade land, but reminded the council that it would be necessary to appraise the land, advertise the swap or sale and hold a public hearing.

The city would be remiss to miss out on a potential opportunity, Stevenson said.

With this in mind, Wilson said he was still not really in favor but would be willing to entertain the idea – and would want Public Works Director Mac Erickson to look into potential issues, such as rights-of-way.

The issue was tabled for a month to allow Hughes to take the council’s thoughts back to the landowners.