Buzzy's purchase idea receives recommendations

A proposal for Carson City to purchase a large chunk of east side land for $7.5 million could be in front of elected officials this summer following recommendations by resident panels.

But the city still must find the money.

"We're seeking additional grant funding to help pay for the land purchase," said Juan Guzman, the city's open space manager, about the potential purchase of the area known as Buzzy's Ranch.

The current appraised worth is $3.5 million for the 86-acre Andersen parcel and $4 million for the 397-acre Jarrard property. Three years ago, Andersen was worth $625,000 while the Jarrard portion was valued at $1.8 million, he said.

Open Space Advisory Committee members recommended the city make the purchase, as has the Carson River Advisory Committee. The Board of Supervisors could consider it in late July or early August, when the amount of grant money available to help the city make the purchase becomes more evident, Guzman said.

For example, $300,000 is expected from the state to offset the cost of Andersen but the city is increasing its grant request to $1.75 million. City staff is searching for grant money to pay for the Jarrard portion, Guzman said.

Purchase of Buzzy's Ranch by the city "is a very high priority," said Howard Riedl, an open space committee member.

This property is north of Silver Saddle Ranch and south of Riverview Park. It's one of the last, large agricultural sites in the city. It's within a flood plain, but has been eyed by developers for years.

Buzzy's provides within its borders wetland, wet meadow and riparian habitat. While it supports a variety of creatures and plant life, it's especially important to birds because the river there maintains trees and willows they need to survive.

"These two pieces of property are key to preserving that river corridor," Riedl said.

It's possible the city would end up not purchasing all of the land for sale. A 25-acre section of Jarrard land, near Pinion Hills, is being sought by another party, Guzman said.

Money for these types of purchases comes from a source independent of most other city expenses and operations: A tax approved by voters in 1996 called Question 18, the Quality-of-Life Initiative. The initiative also funds parks and recreation improvements and maintenance on those facilities created under the open space program, Guzman said.

• Contact reporter Terri Harber at tharber @nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111, ext. 215.