Board asked to review $2.5 million Heler Homestead proposal; members raise budget priorities

Board members discussed a site-improvement proposal for Heler Homestead that was recently presented to council and asked for a formal presentation at their next meeting so they could provide oversight and feedback.

The proposal described in the packet — a roughly $2.5 million plan — includes stabilization of the historic barn, new parking, a pavilion and an elevated plank boardwalk with stairs connecting to Skibo Road and a new trailhead. Members expressed differing views about the scope and timing of such an investment, given competing priorities raised in recent community surveys.

One member said the barn needs stabilization and supported further investment in the historic site; others urged caution, noting that residents across parks have prioritized basic amenities such as restrooms. Several members asked the proposers to present full plans and grant strategies at a future meeting so the board could evaluate whether grant funding could offset local budget impacts.

The board asked staff to request that the group behind the Heler Homestead proposal present the plan at the next meeting and to provide cost breakdowns, grant strategies and a timeline to inform budget prioritization.