The Mount Vernon Municipal Planning Commission approved the Liberty Crossing major subdivision Phase 1 final plat during its September 11 meeting. The approval followed discussions regarding toxic weeds and potential farming on a section of the property.
According to the planning commission's meeting agenda, Steve Linker of McDaniel Development said that this phase includes 54 single-family lots and 19 patio homes. He noted that approximately 60% of the pavement work for the first phase was complete, with an expected completion within 90 days. Patio homes will be located on Fippeny Place, while single-family lots are situated on Appleseed Way.
Walt Sperry, owner of the farm south of Liberty Crossing, expressed concerns about toxic weeds, specifically Johnson Grass, which grows on the development site. According to Sperry, it spreads easily through seeds and rhizomes, with animals further dispersing the seeds into adjacent cornfields. He mentioned that McDaniels sprayed the growth on September 11 and suggested that farming the area where it grows would be an effective solution for managing the weed.
Linker indicated he became aware of the Johnson Grass issue on September 11, with McDaniel learning about it a day earlier. He said that the subdivision's Homeowners Association (HOA) will own the property and believes they would be interested in allowing farming to address the weed problem.
The agenda also highlighted that ten acres of property on its south side have significant restrictions. These restrictions were so stringent that planned bike paths had to be abandoned to maintain a more natural state in that area.
City Engineer Brian Ball reported no engineering concerns, stating permits were issued for all required utilities. Law Director Rob Broeren did not identify any legal issues.
