Letters to the Editor
Strange Thing to Say
In a recent newspaper article concerning the purchase of the Modroo Farm in Russell Towship, Judge Grendell is quoted as saying, “Personally, I would prefer to see it not be developed, if it can be purchased at a reasonable price and maintained in a nondeveloped way.”
What a strange thing for him to say:
• Considering that his questionnaire to potential park commissioners seems to be a litmus test to weed out applicants with an interest in or background in natural areas, farmland protection or conservation.
• Considering that virtually all his park district commissioner appointees have had no background or past evidenced interest in natural areas or farm protection.
• Considering that the only two of his park commissioner appointees with an interest and background in natural areas were promptly fired by the judge before completing their terms.
One may well wonder what the good judge means by a “reasonable price?” It’s his idea of reasonable 25 percent of the appraised value? That’s not going to happen.
The Modroo Farm property was appraised at least twice by one of the most respected appraisers in the state of Ohio. To my knowledge, this certified appraiser has never had his appraisals questioned or found to be improper in any way.
Likely, the good Judge will never find agreement with any purchase arrangement, for to do so would mean loosing support from the tea party, which feels all public property should be put up for sale to the highest private bidder.
John G. Augustine
Parkman Township
