(5/25) The Carroll Valley Borough Council continues work towards its goal of reducing the number of borough-owned lots. During their May meeting, the council accepted bids for the following properties and minimum bids based on their appraised value: 6 Bonnie Trail, $19,000; 6 Fir Trail, $22,000; 68 Hilltop Trail, $25,000; and 29 Oak Ridge Trail, $8,000.
The borough owns many parcels that were part of the ill-fated mid-20th century Charnita development that led to the borough's creation in the 1970s. Pennsylvania law mandates public property be sold at a public auction with the sale price determined by an appraisal.
All properties, except for 29 Oak Trail, have passed a perc test, according to borough officials. A perc test determines if a lot’s soil will absorb water at the necessary rate. If a perc test fails, a septic system cannot be installed on the property.
Sealed bids are due to the borough office 11 a.m., July 9. Hazlett suggested the council accept bids beyond the traditional 30 days since these lots are worth more money and may garner additional interest.
The properties are the second batch of lots the borough plans to sell this year. The board unanimously approved selling 23 Pinehurst Trail to Michael Stahl Jr. for $7,100 and 50 Ringneck Trail to Dawson Sanders for $6,000. Borough Manager Dave Hazlett said 29 Oak Trail was included in that batch but received no bids. If the borough does not receive bids for 29 Oak Trail during this round, the borough can sell the land to whoever it wishes at a price both parties deem acceptable. Hazlett said a neighboring property owner who previously expressed interest did not submit a bid.
The borough is selling lots to fund a new park along Route 16.
An ad hoc community is exploring what to do with the 50-acre lot, near Frontier BBQ. The committee will meet with companies that submitted proposals on June 5 and 12 at 6 p.m.
A survey completed in 2024 showed residents have high interest in the park containing walking/running paths, a dog park, a bicycling path, fitness trail, and food truck court. An indoor sports complex, picnicking areas, sports courts, nature center, and playground are also desirable, the survey results show. Cross country skiing areas and rental space are least desirable, according to those who completed the survey.
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