Council approves vacation of alley between N. First and N. Second Avenues; utility easement to remain

The Stayton City Council on June 16 approved Ordinance 25‑004 to vacate an alley between North First Avenue and North Second Avenue running from East Pine to East First Streets.

Jennifer Cicliano, the city’s community and economic development director, reported that applicant James Baxter submitted the vacation petition with signatures representing more than two‑thirds of affected property owners as required by state law. The planning commission unanimously recommended approval on May 27 on the condition that a public utility easement be maintained to allow continued access and maintenance; staff concurred and also recommended emergency access gates at both ends if fencing is installed. Cicliano said public works reported no city utilities or easement conflicts and that state and the fire district did not object.

Applicant James Baxter said the alley is frequently obstructed by parked vehicles and illegal dumping; property owner Evelyn Bertolli told council she supports vacating the alley and said existing utility lines serve her properties and could be managed. "I don't like the idea of just putting in an easement just in case for anything," Bertolli said, adding she preferred the alley be vacated now that it is under private control.

Councilors moved to approve the ordinance; the vote to adopt passed 4–0. The ordinance will revert the vacated strip to adjacent property owners subject to conditions in the city’s ordinance and the required public utility easement.

Staff noted public notice requirements were met and that no opposition had been received. The planning commission’s recommended conditions — continued public utility easement and emergency access gates if fencing is installed — were recorded in the staff report and remain part of the action.