Maui Sands public hearing has been set

PERKINS TWP. — The ultimate fate of the Maui Sands water park remains uncertain. But Perkins Township trustees have set a date for a public hearing on whether to demolish the structure. The public hearing has been set for 8:30 a.m. on July 18, at a trustees meeting at Township Hall, 2610 Columbus Ave., Sandusky, according to trustee Jeff Ferrell. "The date may be changed depending on the availability of all involved," Ferrell said. Township trustees have used the threat of demolition to try to force the water park's current owners, Sinmier LLC of Farmington, Michigan, to secure the property, which has had repeated incidents of trespassing, vandalism and burglary. On May 23, trustees voted to proceed with demolition, although they didn't immediately set a date for a public hearing on the matter. Sinmier's attorney, Richard R. Gillum III of Sandusky, has said that Sinmier is attempting to sell the property. There's still no word that the property has been sold, said Jason Hinners, an assistant prosecutor for Erie County who serves as the attorney for the township. Hinners said talks that could avert the demolition have continued between Gillum and himself. The two are still trying to find a solution that will satisfy both township officials and the water park's owners, Hinners said. Trustees voted on May 23 to proceed with demolition because they were dissatisfied with the latest offer from Sinmier but have said the door remains open to an agreement if it's fair to the township. The dilapidated property, closed for years, is on Milan Road (U.S. 250) just north of Ohio 2.