THE BRIGHT SIDE
The Hillmoor Property, located at the east entrance to Lake Geneva, has been the topic of many conversations around the city.
The property was once a popular golf course and a favorite destination to so many people. After years, following the former private owner running off and with no maintenance, and no access to the public, the property was bought by a developer with the hopes of developing it. That move, and the kind of development planned, enraged much of the community. Residents and city officials spoke of the potential for a park and the green space the city needed to retain. The group called The Friends of Hillmoor was organized and, after countless meetings and countless public comments assembled many citizens in opposition to any development on the property.
The project was never approved, and the property lay fallow and uncared for once again. The developers, White River Holdings members, were not happy and threatened to sue the city. The city pushed back and the only solution in the city and the public’s minds was to purchase the land. The threat of a lawsuit in many ways was a blessing in disguise. City Officials and the public came to gather almost all in favor of the $6 million dollar purchase. The room was filled with cheering and even some tears of joy over the decision.
The last city council meeting cinched the decision, with a unanimous resolution awarding closing the sale for $6,150,000.00. Hillmoor is to be used for general obligation parks and public grounds bonds, series 2022A. The purchase of the Hillmoor property and the cause it has become is coming to positive resolution, and the people, almost one and all, are happy.
Place of the Week
The City of Lake Geneva Fire Department is one of the best around. The community is fortunate to have such great first responders to keep everyone safe.
