Sherwood buys 4.609‑acre Howitt parcel to extend Miller Pond trail using TID funds

The Village of Sherwood moved forward on trail expansion in late 2010, approving purchase of a 4.609‑acre parcel (Tax ID #13429) on Pigeon Road to extend the Miller Pond trail.

The Parks, Recreation & Urban Tree (PRUT) Board had recommended acquiring the Howitt parcel as a connector that would fill a gap between Miller Pond trail segments and planned future trail extension along Golf Course Road. Board materials show the PRUT board discussed trail alignment, easement needs and an appraisal before forwarding a recommendation to the Village Board.

After closed‑session negotiations to consider terms and price, the Village Board approved Resolution #17‑2010 (Nov. 22, 2010) authorizing the purchase with TID funds. Minutes record Board direction that the acquisition be used to connect trails and that engineering and title work be completed per usual municipal practice. The recorded vote carried with a majority of trustees in favor.

Why it matters: The acquisition is a small but tangible use of TID cash‑on‑hand to expand public recreation infrastructure. The parcel purchase was presented as part of the Village’s multi‑year capital plan for park and trail improvements and will require integration into PRUT’s trail construction schedule, restoration and maintenance plans.

Next steps: Staff will complete closing steps, record required easements, and integrate the new parcel into PRUT’s schedule for trail construction and maintenance planning in the 2011–2014 capital plan.