for a few years, i've been contemplating how amazing it could be to have the vacant lot by our house transformed into a space people on our block could enjoy. my thoughts have mostly been centered around turning it into a community garden.
i've had moments when i've shared this rumination with neighbors or friends and even SUP students spent some time on it one year.
but it's mostly just been put on the back burner.
one of the neighbors i've told has been asking more about this recently and i talked to a person that manages the property (government worker) so there's been a little more energy about the possibilities.
i also asked at one of our recent summer block parties if everyone there would be interested in that potential use for the lot. there was a unanimous yes.
so, i have some more partnership, some accountability and a free afternoon.
i emailed a friend who works on the non-profit level in doing something similar. he's given us some ideas.
i did some online research to see who owns the land and got an answer.
but here's the most interesting part of this vacant property.
there are rumors about it.
one longtime neighbor said there never was a property there. one says there was asbestos poisoning. another says there was lead poisoning and that a child died in the house that used to be there.
here's where the mystery comes in.
according to county records, there is a house on this land that was built in 1915, complete with 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, garage square footage and all.
according to my observations and historical knowledge for the past 20+ years, there is no house.
perhaps it is invisible?
needless to say, the county assessor's office was quite perplexed, saying they would notify me if there is further information about this mystery.
this community collaborative project is unearthing all kinds of possibilities and mysteries.
stay tuned for more!
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