Gilbert awaits appraisals of controversial land purchases

With an administrative audit and external review complete, Gilbert officials are waiting on an appraisal of two dairy properties purchased in 2009 to see how much, if at all, the town overpaid for designated future parkland. The retrospective appraisal is being conducted by Tempe appraiser Dennis Lopez, whose 32 years of experience includes residential, commercial and industrial properties as well as vacant land. Gilbert expects to pay Lopez $16,000 for appraisals on eight parcels in all, including 142.5 acres of dairy land and other rights of way or easements, town spokeswoman Beth Lucas said. The appraisals are expected to be completed early this month and will be part of a public presentation at a Town Council meeting, likely on Jan. 13 or Jan. 27.

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