Cache Open Space Advisory Committee Meeting – 03-02-2026

- The committee approved the agenda and prior minutes without objection, then moved quickly into land conservation business and project updates. - Members discussed a proposed acquisition of 18.18 acres of former gravel pit land in Sardine Canyon for $160,000, with additional closing/title costs expected. The committee unanimously recommended waiving normal process rules and approving up to $175,000 in bond funds for the purchase. - Staff and committee members emphasized that the Sardine Canyon parcel is essential to connect existing county-owned open space, improve access, and protect scenic views along the highway. They also noted it could support future trail development, parking, and possibly restroom facilities as part of a larger recreation plan. - The committee heard a pre-application from the Polson family, who want to place a conservation easement on roughly 174 acres of long-held family farmland in the Petersburg/West Side area. The family’s goal is to preserve the land from development, keep it in agricultural use, and potentially fund fencing and other protection measures. - Members advised the Polson family to submit the simple round-one application and consider working with a land conservation organization for paperwork and additional funding sources. They explained that county support often covers about 25% of easement value, while other funding can come from state, federal, or private sources. - The group reviewed a new spreadsheet tracking all bond-funded open space and trails projects, including applications, approvals, acreage, costs per acre, and outside funding. Members said the tool will help compare projects, improve transparency, and support future planning and council discussions. - Discussion focused on how smaller parcels may be better suited to quicker county-funded easement deals, while larger or more complex projects may require additional state or federal funding and take much longer. Members also suggested the spreadsheet could be reorganized into clearer categories for completed projects and active applications. - Staff reported that public mailers promoting COSAC opportunities are going out imminently, with project-specific language made more generic to protect applicant privacy. They also noted strong interest from a recent presentation to farmers and ranchers, including several attendees who expressed interest in applying. - Members discussed outreach and education next steps, including a possible landowner workshop later in the year and continued follow-up on a vacant committee seat. Staff also raised tax and audit considerations for conservation easements and grants, noting that applicants should understand potential income tax impacts.