City's Land Swap Deal with Fire District May Have Simpler Solution

At last week's Board of Aldermen work session, the board was asked to renew an agreement with the Wentzville Fire District that the city hopes will put the deed for Fireman's Park back in the city's hands.

Mary Jo Dessieux, Parks Director gave the board some background, explaining that the city has maintained the park since the 1960s, but found out in 2005 after receiving a grant for a new playground that the park actually belongs to the fire district.

"The Fire District doesn't want to be in the park business," Dessieux said. 

An agreement was reached for the city to locate and purchase two acres of ground suitable for a new fire station, which they would then swap with the fire district for the 4.7-acre park. 

The fire district asked that the site be in the northwest quadrant of the city—the Peine Road/North Point Prairie area.  

"We're stubbing our toe on that issue," said Community Development Director Doug Forbeck. "We have limited options."

The board was asked to grant an extension to that agreement until an acceptable site could be identified.

Alderman Sonya Shryock made a suggestion. "I'm not opposed to extending the contract, but what if we just wrote them a check?"

Alderman Cheryl Kross agreed, saying that the city was spending money to find the property, have appraisals done, hiring attorneys to write, review and negotiate contracts. 

"Allow the fire district to negotiate their own property," she said.

City Administrator Mike McDowell said that wasn't the original terms, but "you never know 'til you ask."

The board approved the extension but directed staff to look at alternatives.