City leaders have officially voted to buy The Quail Valley Country Club through eminent domain, to convert it into a city park. City officials sought to acquire the country club because of fears the owners would close the club and redevelop the property into apartment complexes whic concerned local residents. If the club was closed, city officials and many residents feared property values in the city would plummet.

During a special session the council agreed 7-0 Thursday to pay $3.1 million for the 390-acre of the Quail Valley development. A three-member commission appointed by Judge R.H. Bielstein set the appraisal price in a hearing at County Court in Richmond.

The city will take possession of the property as soon as the money for the club is deposited with the court. The club will be closed during the next few days to allow for a transition, then reopen by the July 4th weekend. Mark Voltmann, president of Renaissance Golf Group expects the club to operate as usual until further instructions are given by the city.