Council vacates unimproved street stub to formalize Las Casitas park

The Tualatin City Council on April 28 adopted Ordinance 1498-25, approving the vacation of a 4,959-square-foot unimproved right-of-way identified as the northerly stub of Southwest 60th Avenue so the tract can be used as part of Las Casitas Park.

City planner Madeline Nelson told the council the tract was dedicated to the city in the 1977 Stoneridge subdivision plat and has been used informally as an extension of a nearby city park. "To formally use the area as a park site, the right of way would need to be vacated and then reconveyed to the city," Nelson said.

Nelson said statutory and notice requirements under Oregon Revised Statutes were met and that the public interest would not be prejudiced because the property will be used for a city-owned park. The council voted on first and second readings by title only and then adopted the ordinance in a roll-call vote.

The measure passed unanimously; the council recorded an aye vote from all members present and the chair. The ordinance also authorizes the city manager to take any actions necessary to implement the vacation and reconveyance.

Background: Oregon Revised Statutes governing street vacations require notice, consent of owners where applicable and a finding that the public interest is not prejudiced. Because the city initiated the vacation and intends to use the tract for park purposes, staff recommended approval and the council concurred.

The action clears a legal step so the narrow parcel can be formally added to the park’s holdings; any further changes (improvements, facilities) would require separate approvals and budgeting.