PORT ALLEGANY — Port Allegany is taking a good look at whether Indian Echo Golf Course can be purchased at a “reasonable” price and whether the 15 acre facility in the Allegheny River flood plain can be an asset to the community.

Borough officials Wednesday evening seemed sure the club could be an asset, but had reservations about the cost and future use.

After hearing Mayor Joe DeMott and Borough Manager Dick Kallenborn put forth their case, the Port Allegany Area Economic Development Corp., agreed to put $30,000 towards the cost of a feasibility study to determine the recreational value of the property.

While there seemed general agreement that the land could be put to good use, there was concern that owner Gary Herzog wanted too high a price for the club and restaurant, which have not operated for three years.

Realtor Wendall Charles has been preparing an appraisal, and DeMott and Kallenborn will approach the owner, probably next week, with an offer.

DeMott called the possible purchase “The best opportunity we’ve had in a long time,” as he and Kallenborn noted the borough would need some of the land for sewer plant expansion and land along the Allegheny for dike enlargement to protect the St. Gobain Glass Plant and the industrial zone.

The dike would also allow for the expansion of the glass plant, something Superintendent Ed Stewart said is within the ream of possibility.

The possibility of taking the land by the Imminent Domain process was mentioned, but not received with much enthusiasm.

The feasibility study, to be done by a state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources recommended consultant, would cover a number of things in addition to whether the golf course, restaurant and a rental house on the property could bring in enough income to cover expenses and possible debt service.

Among the suggestion for making the site into an all year, all-round recreational facility are the creation of a boat landing and canoe and kayak rentals, hiking and biking trails, along with cross country skiing and snowmobile opportunities.

DeMott noted that a recreational complex of the type envisioned is just what the governor has been hoping communities would bring forth as part of his Pennsylvania Wilds program.

Kallenborn added the clubhouse and the rental house are in good shape, but the swimming pool would have to be filled in and some buildings demolished.

Charles pointed out that, as the dike is now designed, two holes of the golf course would be eliminated, and that a seven hole golf course would not be a big draw.

Partial funding by DCNR and other state agencies is possible, but much will depend upon the feasibility study and what kind of purchase price can be negotiated.

While no figures were given, indications were the two parties were fairly far apart.

Much will depend upon the results of the study and negotiations.

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