Thursday, April 12, 2001 8:15 AM MST

Blufftop park is a step nearer

By NEIL BOYLE/Of the Advocate

Noyo blufftop purchase

The council unanimously voted to support the purchase of two scenic blufftop parcels for $525,000 on the south side of the Noyo River. The parcels, owned by Wellesley Kimes, are located at the end of Cliff Way.

The vote will likely be confirmed in a formal resolution at the council's next regular meeting on April 23. City Attorney Adam Lindgren asked for Monday night's preliminary vote because the California Coastal Conservancy is expected to consider funding for the purchase at its April 26 meeting. Other funds for the project will come from Caltrans, which was assessed a $1 million mitigation fee by the Coastal Commission for scenic views expected to be lost when the new Noyo Bridge is constructed.

Lindgren said the purchase of Kime's property is contingent upon the city's further inspection of the property, including required environmental and hazardous waste inspections. Realtor Andy Johnston of Mendo Realty said the two parcels included in the purchase have always been free of hazardous substances.

The purchase agreement has been reviewed and approved by Kime, Lindgren said. The planned purchase of a third, connected blufftop parcel from another owner is still being finalized, he added.