Warm Springs Preserve becomes a reality
KETCHUM, Idaho – The purchase of Warm Springs Preserve is ahead of schedule. City Council approved an Apr. 14 closing date and $47,525 to fund operation expenses to care for the property through the end of this fiscal year.
With over 1,000 donations from generous members of the community, the city will purchase 65 acres of Warm Springs Ranch for $8 million and keep the property as open space in perpetuity.
Priorities for the Preserve include off-leash dog access, creek and habitat restoration, new water-conscious irrigation system, walking trails, informal gatherings and activities, Nordic ski and snowshoe trails, and public restrooms. Development, organized sports and reserved private or commercial events would be restricted.
It’s not too late to participate. There is still $350,819 left to raise to meet the campaign goal of $9 million, which includes $1 million for a new irrigation system and essential site improvements. Donors of $1,000 or more will be recognized on the donor wall.
The city is now taking next steps to establish the Warm Springs Preserve, detailing a master plan that will guide the final locations of the bathroom, benches, and signage related to donor recognition.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the many people who made Warm Springs Preserve a reality,” said Mayor Neil Bradshaw. “From property owner Bob Brennan’s offer to the city to purchase the land, to City Council accepting the offer, to the Spur Community Foundation’s careful management of the donors and funds, and to the amazing community support through their generous donations, we will be able to preserve this land as open space for our residents and visitors.”
The Community Library is hosting Appreciate Our Past, Honor Our Present, Create Our Future on Tuesday, Apr. 26, from 6 to 7 p.m. Wendolyn Holland, author of Sun Valley: An Extraordinary History, will share the history of what most remember as Warm Springs Ranch. Warm Springs Preserve committee member Ali Long will share the process and plans for the future of the 65-acre parcel.
On June 21, the city will officially thank the community while it celebrates the Summer Solstice at the Preserve. The day will be filled with music, food, fun for the kids and a silent auction. More information will be coming out soon on the details of the event.
For more information and to find ways to give, visit www.warmspringspreserve.org.
If you have questions about the fundraising campaign or the city’s plans for the property, please email warmspringspreserve@gmail.com.
