Overall the current economics of it sucks and land values have declined, which may make it a good time to enter.I understand that it would be capital intensive and it would not be a get rich quick scheme; but for me it would be very enjoyable being a miniature timber baron so to speak.

I suspect this is the beginning of the end of economic growth possibly the decline of the housing is at kiddy corner.

Equally as important was the decline of the city.

The timber/paper industry's decline has hit those areas really badly.

It sounds like when you talk to them on the phone and explain what you want they are not that interested.Some brokers/agents and even buyers avoid confrontation so hope when they ignore people they will go away naturally on their own.If the broker/agent perceives tons of work and time involved for a low return they tend to run away.Example if I had a commercial investor call me for retail value add at 1 million purchase price I would politely decline.

We have discussions with the local alderman's office to get a read on whether conversions such as you described are getting approved or declined. 

It got declined...

The 140 acres is great summer vacation history, but has an annual declining full time resident population growth.5.

By putting all your eggs in the RE basket means your risk is higher if RE experiences a huge decline for whatever reason.

It sounds like you sent a renewal which they declined.