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Boise City Council to consider $100,000 contribution for southeast Boise land purchase

Boise City Council to consider $100,000 contribution for southeast Boise land purchase
Posted at 10:42 AM, Sep 15, 2017
and last updated 2017-09-15 12:42:25-04

On Tuesday, Sept. 19th, the Boise City Council is scheduled to consider contributing $100,120 toward the purchase of approximately 25 acres in the foothills above the Barber Valley. The parcel, currently owned by Joe Ramaker and Missy Olson, is referred to as the Ramaker property.

If council members decide to enter into the agreement, the city’s contribution to the land purchase would come from the 2001 Foothills levy fund for conservation efforts, according to Boise City Parks and Recreation spokesperson Bonnie Shelton. “There is about $645,000 in that fund right now,” she said.

Fundraising for the 25-acre parcel, which costs about $400,000 in total, has been led by the Barber Valley Neighborhood Association. Through collaboration with neighbors, the Idaho Shakespeare Festival and local non-profits and donors, the BVNA raised 75 percent of the money needed to purchase the land, Shelton explained.

Nearly three-quarters of the purchase price was raised from private donations by 100 individuals and businesses. The Land Trust of the Treasure Valley provided $25,000 from a gift made possible by the estate of Bev Miller, Shelton added. 

“We recognize the value of this parcel and its proximity to wildlife habitat and corridors to the river,” said Boise City Foothills Superintendent and Open Space Senior Manager Sara Arkle. “It’s remarkable to see so many citizens, wildlife groups and nonprofits come together to make this conservation purchase a possibility.”

The parcel sits adjacent to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Management Area.  

If Boise City Council approves the purchase agreement, the City of Boise will take over ownership and management responsibilities. 

City staff would then begin working on plans for allowing public access and creating a trail through the area in the future.