Board of Public Works approves easement agreements allowing fences at two Great Forest Drive properties

The City of West Bend Board of Public Works approved two agreements that allow existing and proposed fences to remain within municipal stormwater easements at 2702 and 2642 Great Forest Drive. Max (city staff) told the board the fence at 2702 was not previously permitted to be within the easement and staff examined stormwater infrastructure beneath the easement and concluded the existing fence does not interfere with a deep stormwater pipe. Max said the agreements are based on the city's template and clarify rights and responsibilities if the city must access the easement for repairs. When Alderman asked for a plain-language clarification, Max said the property owner will be responsible for removal and replacement if the city needs to service the underground pipe: "Ultimately the property owner is responsible for any removal or re Maintenance ... and replacing it after we're done," Max said. The board approved both agreements by voice vote. The item follows standard practice for private items located in municipal easements: staff reviewed utility locations, recommended approval with a written agreement that preserves the city's access and clarifies cost responsibility, and presented the signed, template agreements to the board for acceptance.