Garden City Debates Land Use and Costs for St. Paul’s Property

A discussion is underway in Garden City regarding the St. Paul’s property, which was acquired by residents and trustees in 1993 for about $7.3 million. The property is the subject of a Landmark Plan, estimated at $10 million, and an alternative proposal to demolish the building and create a park, which is estimated to cost over $32 million. The property is noted for its open space and connection to Garden City’s history.

The debate centers on municipal fiscal responsibility, contrasting the substantially less expensive Landmark Plan with the high cost of the demolition and park proposal. The proposals involve significant public borrowing, with the higher-cost option requiring more than three times the borrowing needed for the Landmark Plan.