University Place City Council To Discuss Land Donation

A University Place man wants to give a parcel of land to the city, and officials are scheduled to discuss the proposed donation tonight.

Sven Oldfelt asked the City of University Place last week whether it would be interested in receiving a charitable donation of a .6-acre parcel at 8902 65th Street West.

The University Place man has been trying to sell the land for years but has been unsuccessful, according to the city.

“He is moving to Sweden this week and would like to donate the property with the intent of claiming a charitable donation for tax purposes,” wrote David Swindale, director of planning and development services for the city, in a report to the City Council.

The acquisition would require a commitment from the city, but it would also be beneficial. UP would be on the hook for maintaining the property, but it provides access to another city-owned property that is landlocked to the south.

Swindale says the city needs to perform its due diligence before a deal is made, including a title report to insure the property is “free of any encumbrances,” and an appraisal.

According to the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer's Office, the lot is 26,247 square feet and is paved. Power, sewer and water are available. This year, the property’s taxable and assessed value was $127,100. In 2012, the value dropped to $103,100.

Tonight's meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., at University Place City Hall, 3715 Bridgeport Way West.