In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the legal implications of a proposed vacation of city streets under RCW 35.79.035. Concerns were raised regarding the city's authority to consider such a vacation, with emphasis on the statute's disjunctive language. The statute outlines that the city must demonstrate that the property is not necessary for public purposes, including access to beaches, parks, and public views.

Council members acknowledged the need for a thorough evaluation of the application, particularly in light of the legacy plan for Edgewater, which aims to enhance public access to shoreline areas. There was a consensus among council members to explore the possibility of a partial vacation of the street, ensuring that public access to water remains unaffected while addressing existing encroachments that have caused issues for homeowners.

The discussion highlighted the importance of obtaining an appraisal to determine the fair market value of the property in question. Council members reiterated that the appraisal is not merely a procedural step but a critical factor in deciding whether to proceed with the sale of the property. They emphasized their authority to reject the application based on the appraisal's findings, underscoring the city's responsibility to balance private interests with public access rights.

Overall, the meeting reflected a commitment to resolving longstanding issues related to property access while ensuring that any decisions made align with statutory requirements and community needs.