Land donation would create public scenic lookout

Council is to discuss a donation of land from County businessman and entrepreneur Michael Hymus for the purpose of creating a scenic lookout off Highway 49.

A report of the Community Development Department shows the 5.21 acre property at Green Point in Sophiasburgh, indicates the need for a bylaw authorizing an Agreement of Purchase and Sale to transfer the deed for the two parcels of land on Highway 49.

The transfer, at a cost of $2, would be in exchange for a charitable donation receipt equal to the fair market value of the property, set at $175,000.

As a condition of the donation, a plaque recognizing the donor and signage recognizing
businesses that contribute to the open space maintenance would be required when the
municipality establishes the scenic lookout.

Staff is recommending council accept the offer, made in July, for future public use as a scenic observation and rest area with historical interpretation opportunities with wayfinding signage and information for visitors arriving to the County via Highway 49.

The report notes the eventual reconstruction of Highway 49 may provide the County with an ideal opportunity to develop the property as open space.

Hymus, in the fall, donated $100,000 to the Picton Splash Pad project, and in January, opened a public skating rink downtown Wellington on his property, the location of the former Midtown Meats factory, in memory of his father, David.

Council meets today at 7 pm at Shire Hall.