Patchwork Farms
This is a December 2013 map of the Patchwork Farms development. Northport Holdings will now occupy a portion of the property formerly owned by the Board of Education.
During Monday night's meeting, the City Council took several steps forward in the development of Patchwork Farms.
"What it comes down to is that we are selling real estate to get the highest and best use for this property and an economic return that pays for itself," City Manager Jeff Downes said.
At a previous council meeting, the city approved the purchase of 22 acres of land on Patchwork Farms that was previously owned by the board of education.
Originally, Northport Holdings occupied seven acres of land across from Lifetime Fitness. Tonight, the council approved the relocating of Northport Holdings to an area within the 22 acre development. Downes said that Northport Holdings has agreed to keep the long term vision of the property, which calls for a "village-feel."
"Moving Northport Holdings to the new location opens up the area for retail development," Downes said. "It allows for other uses that could generate income."
The city also approved a resolution selling a portion of Patchwork Farms to Cameron General Contractors, Inc. for $2.2 million. The area will be used for upscale senior housing. The council also authorized a sale of the portion of the property to Daniel Corporation for approximately $4 million, which will be used for retail development.
"An idea is just an idea until you have the money to accomplish it," Downes said.
In other news, the council:
- Proclaimed August 2014 as Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month.
- Approved a resolution accepting a bid for construction of a pedestrian bridge and trail expansion at McCallum Park.
- Approved a resolution electing to provide a one-time bonus to city retirees pursuant to Alabama. It will pay the bonuses to retirees in October 2015 and allow cities to pay back the employer contribution throughout the next fiscal year. The estimated cost for the city is $57,646.
- Approved a resolution for a 2 percent increase in salary and wages for employees effective Oct. 1, 2014.
- Approved a resolution authorizing the mayor and city manager to execute and deliver an agreement for insurance brokerage services.