Council approves ordinance to close 20‑foot utility easement at 1547 Echota Avenue

The Tahlequah City Council approved an ordinance to close a 20‑foot utility easement at 1547 Echota Avenue after staff reported that utility providers had reviewed and agreed to the closure because utilities run around the building rather than underneath it. Planning and Development Director Kate Harjo said the easement closure is a procedural step that must appear before council twice before the applicant may seek a judicial vacation in district court. “If we approve that request, they will then file a lawsuit in Cherokee County District Court and serve us with notice of it,” Harjo said, explaining the administrative process. Harjo said she had communications from Cox (telecom), TBWA (telecom contractor), and the gas authority indicating no objection because utilities are routed east of the building and to the sidewalk area. Councilors moved and approved the ordinance; staff said the closure is intended to make the parcel conforming and would not disrupt service.