Colleges and Communities Clash: When Town-Gown Relations Sour

Historically, colleges and the communities that host them have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship. Institutions of higher learning contribute to local economies, provide cultural opportunities, and drive workforce development. Although, this symbiotic connection can fray, leading to disputes over land use, signage, and other issues. Recent conflicts in Pennsylvania and Colorado illustrate how quickly harmonious relationships can turn contentious.

Eminent Domain Dispute in Pennsylvania

Valley Forge Military College in Radnor Township, Pennsylvania, is facing a potential land seizure by local officials. Radnor Township has initiated the process of taking 17 acres of the college’s property through eminent domain, intending to build a recreational center. College leadership strongly opposes the move, arguing the land is integral to campus operations and not for sale.

John English, chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Valley Forge Military Foundation, likened the situation to a controversial proposal by former President Donald Trump to acquire Greenland, stating the land is “not for sale.” The targeted parcel includes essential facilities like the health center, gym, and dining hall, crucial for the college’s 100 students and its military training program. English questioned the township’s commitment to the college’s presence, asking, “Do you even want us here?”

Jack Larkin, a member of the Radnor Township Board of Commissioners, stated he believed the land was available for purchase, noting the college had previously sold other parcels and considered a developer’s offer. However, Phil Rosenzweig, a lawyer for Valley Forge, clarified at a board meeting that a $20 million offer for a different parcel was not pursued. Larkin suggested the college is “trying to weaponize the media” to secure a better price.

Valley Forge has appealed to local and federal officials, emphasizing its unique role as a small, private military college offering a fast-track program to commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. English informed the U.S. Army about the situation, stating, “we are under attack.”

Signage Battle in Colorado

In Fort Collins, Colorado, Colorado State University’s installation of electronic billboards, prohibited by city ordinances, has sparked outrage and prompted legislative action. The university has used the billboards for advertising sporting events, local businesses, and even weather advisories. At least eight of the twelve planned billboards have been installed, with some reaching 11 by 22 feet and visible off-campus.

While the university is legally permitted to install the billboards on state-owned land, State Sen. Cathy Kipp has authored a bill to prevent further signage. Kipp cited complaints about the billboards and noise from campus events, particularly football games, as the impetus for the legislation. The bill would require CSU to adhere to local ordinances but allow for potential waivers.

Colorado State officials expressed hope for a compromise, stating they have been in dialogue with Sen. Kipp. However, they also warned that the bill “would set a concerning precedent for the management of state lands throughout Colorado,” negatively impact the regional economy, and compromise “public safety infrastructure.” A hearing for Kipp’s bill was scheduled for Friday.

Repairing Town-Gown Relationships

Stephen Gavazzi, a professor at Ohio State University specializing in town-gown relationships, compares these connections to a marriage – one that’s hard to dissolve. He identifies “edge and wedge issues,” such as student behavior and land use, as common flashpoints. Disputes often center on university land becoming untaxable.

Gavazzi emphasizes that repairing strained relationships requires good-faith collaboration. He cautions against fatalism, suggesting that proactive efforts to maintain strong relationships are crucial. When breakdowns occur, leaders must be willing to compromise to avoid further deterioration. “Campuses and communities can obtain themselves out of binds if they can cooperate and collaborate with one another, even in the midst of a crisis. But it’s very difficult to do,” he said.