Cherry orchard offered as Crescent Bar solution

CRESCENT BAR - A real estate agency has sent a letter to the judge in the Crescent Bar island lawsuit suggesting the cherry orchard there as a possible solution that could satisfy the needs of the residents and the Grant County PUD.

The orchard is owned by the Schroeder family and is an operational farm. It had one of its better crops this year. It is located between the Crescent View condominiums and Tower business complex on the south and Sunserra Homes on the north.

In his letter, Alan G. Beidler, of Sage Real Estate Services, mistakenly describes the 31.9-acre property as being south of the RV park and condos on the island. It is north of the island, on the east side of Crescent Bar Road.

"The property has panoramic views, and the proximity to other Crescent Bar amenities would make this site desirable to the homeowners of the RV park units," Beidler wrote.

In a phone interview, Beidler didn't suggest what kind or arrangement should be made, only that the property would be for sale. He said the Schroeders are open to suggestions.

In the letter, filed with the U.S. District Court District of District of Eastern Washington on Oct. 1, Beidler wrote that the Schroeders would be open to a small down payment and 30-year contract with the PUD. On the phone, he said it would be up to the PUD to work out deals with the individual residents.

On the phone, Beidler said the Schroeders have made their offer in case it is determined by the court the residents must move. He said the Schroeders realize many of the RV homes are not in condition to be moved long distances.

"This property would be easily accessible and be minimal wear and tear to the units being transported to the site," Beidler wrote.

On the phone, Beidler wasn't sure if such a court filing is common. He doesn't have any idea how Judge Justin Quackenbush will react. The Schroeders simply wanted to make the suggestion, he said.

"We are aware that nothing as been settled in this litigation and the outcome may be protracted in time," he wrote.