Ridgefield City Council approves land transfer settlement for Onslow Nature Play Area

The Ridgefield City Council approved a settlement to resolve an encroachment issue involving the Onslow Nature Play Area last week during a meeting, Thursday, Aug. 8.

The playground, built in 2021, slightly extends onto a neighboring parcel owned by the Sanfilippo family. The city will pay $11,207.09 to the family for the transfer of 894 square feet, with closing costs estimated at a maximum of $25,200.

Council member Lee Wells expressed concern over the high valuation for the relatively small piece of land. Mayor Ron Onslow acknowledged the lengthy negotiation process, which had been ongoing for over a year.

“The individual involved is reluctant to deal and has high expectations as to the value of this piece of land,” Onslow said.

City staff will work with the Sanfilippos to finalize the boundary line adjustment and complete the land transfer through escrow by the end of August. This will ensure the Onslow Nature Play Area is fully contained within the city-owned property.