Dozens of residents of the Villages of Westlake told the Pacific Board of Aldermen on Aug. 5 they oppose a proposed emergency access that would connect the subdivision to nearby streets.
The concerns focused on safety, wear to narrow subdivision streets and the lack of clarity over the exit’s purpose. Residents also asked who — the city, the developer or a homeowners association — would pay for repairs if heavy vehicles began using the route.
The matter was raised during the public comment portion of the meeting. Resident Josh Grody said, “what is the intent of the emergency exit, and what outcomes could occur?” He told the board the subdivision’s original plan showed an emergency exit but not a roadway intended to connect to the industrial area, and he said residents want specific, enforceable language from the city lawyer.
Multiple residents described narrow streets, parked cars and turns that already challenge construction traffic. Patrick Scharf said he had “seen no credible emergency for the subdivision that that exit is gonna help,” and cited the risk of heavy commercial vehicles damaging streets and property.
Public Works Commissioner Bergman told the board he had been in contact with the developer and had compiled a list of outstanding items. Attorney Carr explained state law allows escrow holdbacks to be itemized by category and released only when a category is completed. She said detention-basin work and related storm-sewer items can be withheld as separate categories while other categories (streets, sidewalks, water and sanitary systems) are released when completed.
Mayor Filley said the city had received preliminary agreements from property owners allowing staff to pursue easements and that the city planned to work with an engineer and the city attorney on easement language if the board directs staff to proceed. He described the proposed gate as a locked, emergency-only access that would be opened by public works or first responders in the event the main entrance was blocked.
Board members repeatedly told residents the discussion was preliminary. Alderman Lesh said the board would not finalize any engineering or legal documents without further public input and suggested residents coordinate with their homeowners association to present a clear position to the council.
What happens next: the board asked Public Works Commissioner Bergman to continue discussions with the developer and to report back before any formal easement or engineering work is approved. No ordinance or final approval was made at the Aug. 5 meeting.