ORANGE PARK – Town officials reviewed having more events for adults at Tuesday night’s council meeting, in addition to discussing purchasing two pieces of property for conservation.

Town council members and staff have set aside $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act relief funds for stormwater-related projects.

There are 3.26 acres near Park Avenue and Elbow Road, which town staff identified because of its proximity to Johnson Slough. It was appraised at $49,000 and the town has made an offer, according to town documents.

Another property was a 5.3-acre parcel that borders Clarke Park, as well as Miller and Solomon streets. The town sought the property due to its access to the creek system near the park. The appraised value is $55,000 and there is about $614 of property taxes owed on it.

Town Manager Sarah Campbell said an offer has been made on the parcel near the slough.

“I expect it will be a while before we receive a response on that parcel,” Campbell said.

Campbell asked for a motion to authorize negotiations on the Solomon Street parcel and they later did by a unanimous vote. Council Member Susana Thompson asked about the purpose of buying the land and if town staff could alleviate homeowners by removing downed trees.

Campbell said the land is near the pond of Clarke Park and acquiring it could help with maintenance.

“It’s conservation first and foremost,” Campbell said.

In other business, Mayor Randy Anderson said entertainment was a hot topic during previous visioning meetings. He said singing or open mic nights were possibilities with local entertainment.

“I think we need to start this out slow and maybe do something once a quarter, or until we get it up and moving,” Anderson said.

Council Member John Hauber said people could get to know their neighbors better and express themselves.

“This would be a good opportunity for them to do so,” he said.

Thompson said Green Cove Springs has well-attended events and Orange Park can do something similar with its local artists and vendors. Vice-Mayor Eddie Henley asked when the last time a standalone concert was organized by the town.

“I think we shouldn’t have to drive north, drive south. There’s a lot of local talent within our county, within our town of Orange Park as well,” Henley said.

Council members voted unanimously to direct staff to research holding events for adults once a quarter.