CARBONDALE - A playground in the city will remain in the community for at least two more years, according to court papers.
The White Bridge Playground at 10 Hemlock St. was purchased by Carbondale resident Michael Staples in a judicial sale earlier this year for $1,836.80.
Residents thought the park was a public parcel, but after the sale, officials were unable to provide documentation that the park was city property, according to Ron Koldjeski, Lackawanna County deputy director of tax claims.
County Judge Terrence Nealon ordered Monday that the property remain a playground for a term not to exceed the next two years while Mr. Staples and the city of Carbondale continue to negotiate an "amicable resolution."
During that two-year period, which began Monday, the city will lease the playground from Mr. Staples for $500 per year, provide insurance coverage for Mr. Staples and maintain the property.
At a council meeting Monday, city solicitor Frank Ruggiero announced the latest details and added that all parties had been cooperative.
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