The inventory of SK Northwest
includes Sea-Doo and Ski-Doo watercraft and snowmobiles. He wants to relocate to the Willamette River's east bank - precisely into part of the short gap that remains in the popular trail for bicyclists, runners, skaters and walkers.For his part Karambelas wants to get away from his present land-locked location and buy privately owned property on the Willamette.[...]
The city's Bureau of Development Services last month denied SK Northwest's proposal to construct a building, an outdoor work area, a dock and parking, plus landscaping on part of the 1.8-acre site. Among the city's reasons: The applicant's description of the proposed structures and activities failed to give enough information, and because SK Northwest declines to draw in a trail.
And despite the city's insistence, he says he does not plan to build a link in the trail. His stated reasons range from keeping trail users safe - keeping cyclists clear of his forklifts and trucks - to the costs of giving up part of his prospective land and installing a paved trail. He also says that his piece, even if built, would complete only part of the gap that remains.So we have the classic confrontation that has led in other cities to the abuse of emminent domain. The city is more concerned with the benefits of the public use than his private property rights.
Karambelas says "If they wish to have something they can go out and buy it like the rest of us do."
To this writer, this conflict should be resolved with a checkbook not a court calender.
Go buy the property. Don't resort to blackmail!
BTW, I do not know Mr. Karambelas, nor do have any monetary interest in any property referred to in this post. I have riden my bicycle from the Eastside Trail to the Springwater Trail.
City of Portland Shawn Karambelas Eastside riverfront Trail Mover Mike
