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Dunedin To Get Appraisal on Weaver Land

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By Mark  Schantz | The Suncoast News

Published: November 16, 2007

DUNEDIN, Fla. - DUNEDIN, Fla. - Even with a lower estimated cost on the waterfront Weaver property, a majority of the City Commission couldn't work up a lot of enthusiasm Thursday night about buying the land for a park.

Commissioners did, however, vote to pay $6,500 for the two appraisals the city would need to seek a state land-conservation grant to help with the purchase.
City Manager Robert DiSpirito explained the potential grant of up to $4.5 million from the Florida Communities Trust would provide half the matching funds to purchase the northern end of property.

The city's grant request ranked high on the FTC list, according to the city manager.
If it decided to buy the land it would have to apply next year for a second grant of a like amount to help pay for the southern portion of the Weaver property, which straddles Alt. 19 near Pershing Street.

The land's eastern property line abuts the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail.

The appraisals will determine the maximum approved purchase price for the state grant, DiSpirito explained. The FCT will not dole out more in grant funds than appraisers say the property is worth.

A lot has transpired since the Weaver property was appraised at $18 million more than a year ago. For one, the market for waterfront property has cooled considerably. In addition, the city has learned it already owns a swath of land running through the Weaver property.

This has convinced some Dunedin officials buying the land would cost the city considerably less than $18 million.

Mayor Bob Hackworth, for one, said Thursday he thinks the land could be had for around $5 million.

The mayor was the only commission member who seemed eager to pursue the land deal.
Having the pair of appraisals performed would provide both sides of the potential land deal the "information that will be critical in the decision making process," DiSpirito said.

Last week, Allison Blair, a Tampa real estate agent representing property owner J.C. Weaver, declined to discuss the city's contention the land is now worth considerably less than the initial $18 million appraisal.

If there is a deal between Weaver and the city, the price for the property would be based on the two appraisals conducted as part of the FCT grant applications, said Blair, who is with ERA -The Polo Group.

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