Siskiyou Pines to be razed

Daniel J. Mancuso
IVN staff

The concrete structures standing in the subdivision named Siskiyou Pines off Sawyer Ave. in Cave Junction will be razed in the near future to make room for new homes.
The real estate and construction industry often incur formidable challenges. Those who disregard the rules may find themselves facing unexpected setbacks. The story of Siskiyou Pines illustrates this reality well.
The saga began with Larry Osborne’s initial development efforts before the housing bubble burst in the early 2000s.
In 2016 the properties were purchased by David and Nancy Garcia with the idea of building single family homes. However, the project soon faced difficulties attributed to many as the perceived incompetence of Dave and Nancy Garcia. Two lawsuits, DEQ fines, water and sewer theft were amongst the issues.
Eventually, the property went into foreclosure. Now, Jeff Bloom and his company, Blum Family Dynasty, are stepping in to address the issues and aim for project completion. “I was extremely disappointed in (the Garcias’) handling of the property,” Bloom expressed.
Enter Barb Howard and her husband, Stacy Grabarz, both from the subdivision known to locals as Pomeroy Estates. Howard outlined the first priority: Bringing everything up to code and leveling the incomplete structures left by Garcia. “We’ll also be renaming it Laurel Pines,” she added.
The challenges are significant. There are cracks in the concrete, double water meters needing easements, and electrical transformers that are more than 4 feet undergrade. “We must resolve these issues before we can begin constructing a new subdivision like Pomeroy,” Howard stated.
She detailed a list of past mistakes that require correction. “Garcia got a little too ambitious. Following the rules is essential. If you don’t, you end up in trouble,” she noted. Howard has always maintained a good relationship with the building department and has never encountered issues. She believes that adhering to regulations will be key to the success of Laurel Pines.
Howard’s track record includes completed or ongoing projects in Medford, Cave Junction’s Pomeroy Estates, and the recent progress on phase three of Seacrest Estates in Brookings. She plans to build up to 100 homes on the newly named property, which is zoned for single-family residences.

The focus is on addressing existing problems and creating new homes that the community can take pride in. “We’re looking at open floor concepts and will start with our Aspen and Oak models. They’ve been our two most popular designs, along with the Redwood, which requires a larger lot,” Howard explained.

Currently, the Aspen model in Pomeroy generates $470.50 in taxes for the city. With 100 homes, that would provide $47,050.00 in much-needed revenue. Howard is excited to take over the project. “I love what I do. There are good days and bad days, but my passion drives me.”

Her husband, Grabitz, is adjusting to the demands of the business. “He’s learning quickly and is a valuable asset,” Howard remarked.

“The path ahead is clear. Address the issues, respect the rules, and build a community that meets the needs of its residents,” added Howard.