Jarrett Farm owner hopeful to keep property ahead of looming auction

The owner of Jarrett Farm resort and event center feels confident he will be able to keep his business. A judge ruled the property would head to auction at the end of August because mortgage payments had stopped.

The property sits along Highway 75 between Tulsa and Bartlesville.

Future of Jarrett Farm becoming clearer

Dave Stewart, owner of the property, said he never intended to stop paying his mortgage. Stewart said he signed paperwork without noticing his interest rate would double, and he simply wasn't able to make the payments.

Since getting notice of the auction, Stewart has been scrambling to figure out what to do next. Stewart said a lot of investors, realtors and community members have stepped up to offer financial support after News On 6's original story.

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"We have a good strategy that I think is going to work to save the farm," said Stewart.

Stewart hopes to announce definitive plans on the property's future ahead of the August 25th auction.

Community support to save the property

Bill Payton, also known as "Chaplain Bill," is part of the community working to raise money for Stewart. He and other members of the Ochelata-based American Legion Post 450 think the property can be a perfect retreat for veterans like himself to find peace, comfort and healing.

"There's not another place doing this," said Payton.

Members even launched an online fundraiser (CLICK HERE) to raise money.

"I just feel so blessed to be a part of a community that recognizes the value of this place," said Stewart.

American Legion Post 450 is planning a dinner and pie auction on August 16th to help raise money. It will be at the Post in Ochelata.

Big vision for the property

In addition to a destination for veteran rehabilitation, Stewart said he envisions the property becoming an oasis for ministry retreats. He still believes the property could be rented out for events, too.

Stewart said he is having conversations with investors and community members about bringing a restaurant back to the property if it were to be saved. He is entertaining a potential Christmas display that he hopes will attract a lot of visitors.