‘Back to the Drawing Board’ for Arlington’s North Tract?
At least it’s back to the ‘negotiating table,’ according to a story written by Scott McCaffrey that is posted at the online Sun-Gazette. According to McCaffrey’s story, “County government officials said on Sept. 8 that they would reopen negotiations with Monument Realty LLC, which in July 2005 tentatively agreed to give the county government $25 million as part of a property exchange in Crystal City. Given changes in the state of the real estate market, Monument wants changes to the agreement before a final deal is inked.”
McCaffrey explains, “The deal would increase the North Tract recreation site from 28 to 30 acres. Monument agreed to give the county government $25 million as part of the deal, which was slated to augment $50 million in bond funding already approved by voters to develop the North Tract facility.”
Last year’s County Board chairman, Jay Fisette said at the time, “This is a monumental day for Arlington and a real win-win for everyone involved,” according to this county press release. In fact, the County Manager lists the land swap as #8 among the county’s “Top 10” accomplishments of 2005.
Seems the County Poohbahs need to learn how to make their bank deposits before writing the press releases.