Political intrigue is being cultivated in Columbus, Wi with a fight to save the historically significant Dingee Farm from demolition and redevelopment. Last year the City Council met in a series of closed sessions to purchase the property after two local residents were in the process of negotiating its purchase and preservation. The funding for the City’s purchase reportedly came from ARPA funds that were intended to stimulate the economy during the pandemic. Now the City is faced with the decision on how best to proceed with development of the property. The former City Council narrowly voted to proceed with a housing development plan over a plan to preserve the farm despite widespread opposition from the community. But with new elections for City Council, it seems possible that a new vote on development plans could change that decision. Jesse Pycha-Holst, a Madison based realtor, joins the 8 O’Clock Buzz in the studio to talk about efforts to preserve the farm. Stay tuned.
Photo by Tomasz Filipek on Unsplash
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