Council authorizes resolution of necessity to begin property acquisition for Burlingame–Parklawn connection

The Midwest City Council approved a resolution of necessity authorizing staff to begin the legal process that would allow the city to acquire property on Parklawn Drive if negotiations with property owners fail, officials said.

The property in question is tied to a revised design that now extends Burlingame to Parklawn (previously planned as a trail), which staff and council said will improve access for Ridgecrest residents, provide a direct path to a stoplight and improve public-safety response routes.

Why it matters: The change in design shifts the purpose of the parcel from a pedestrian trail to a vehicular street extension; that in turn changes the rationale for acquisition and raises the potential need for condemnation under state eminent-domain law.

Council discussion and staff comments: City staff described the item as a procedural resolution required under state law to start the acquisition process. Staff said they are currently negotiating with affected property owners to acquire the parcel without litigation. Several council members emphasized they preferred negotiated settlements and said they would be reluctant to use eminent domain except when necessary for a clear public benefit. The city attorney and staff could not confirm from memory whether a subsequent council vote would be required before filing condemnation paperwork; staff said they would check and report back.

Outcome and next steps: Council approved the resolution. Engineering and legal staff will continue negotiations; if negotiations fail, staff said they will follow state procedures for condemnation and bring additional information to council as required.