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Board raises concerns about off-road vehicle access, fences and trail protection near Lost Dog and Palisades areas
Summary
During the observations item board members described repeated off-road vehicle incursions, a damaged fence and concerns about developer proposals that could affect established trails. Members asked staff to follow up on fence repairs, clarify ownership of access roads and monitor motorized-vehicle use in conservation areas.
Board members used the observations agenda item to flag recurring problems in open-space areas: off-road vehicles entering city and conservation lands, broken or bypassed fences enabling UTV access and proposed subdivisions that may affect long-standing trails.
Members described an ATV that became stuck on Blue Moon Trail in the State Park after entering from an access road created for ponding and maintenance near MLK; they said fencing in that corridor has been breached repeatedly. Members asked staff to identify the responsible maintenance authority (El Paso Water, city real-estate or another entity) and to address fence repairs.
Members also raised the Ocotillo Unit 6 subdivision (on the City Plan Commission agenda) and said public records sometimes incorrectly show State Park ownership in property maps; they said parcels that appear to be state park land may actually be privately owned and subject to development. Board members asked staff to monitor the postponed subdivision and to work with Planning staff to preserve trail corridors, such as the Clydesdale (Mike's) Trail, that provide established access to South Franklin Peak.
Ending: Staff agreed to follow up after the meeting with precise parcel ownership information, the location of the broken fence near MLK and options for fence repair and enforcement to deter motorized incursions.
