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December 4, 1992 <br /> Dan E. Neal <br /> 1361 Pearl Street <br /> Eugene, Oregon 97401 <br /> Dear Mr. Neal: <br /> I am responding to your letter of 11/5/92 containing an offer to purchase a <br /> portion of Hendricks Park for a homesite. After reviewing your proposition <br /> with staff I must decline your offer. The fact that the portion of the park <br /> you cite appears to not be enjoyed by hikers and joggers does not suggest <br /> that it be considered surplus. The area is listed as a natural resource area <br /> and has public value even if people haven't created access to it. <br /> Access to this area apparently did exist at one time. A trail, perhaps once <br /> a road, ran northwesterly from where the path leads into the park off of <br /> Highland Drive. A long time Eugene resident explained to parks planning <br /> staff that a fire watch tower existed on this promontory at the west end of <br /> the park. He claimed the footings are still there and suggested that a rep- <br /> lica of the original be constructed. Perhaps a future generation not operat- <br /> ing in the context of Eugene Decisions will be able to pursue that if we <br /> preserve the opportunity. <br /> The City has a stewardship role for such public assets with future genera- <br /> tions in mind. Given the past history, its value in the natural resource <br /> system and its topographic prominence, I feel it is important to retain this <br /> area in public ownership. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> Micheal Gleason <br /> City Manager <br /> cc: Bob Hammitt <br />