Planning commission tables lot-split for 1722 Highway N over access easement questions

The Planning and Zoning Commission of Pacific, Missouri, on the public hearing for PZ2025-14 moved to table consideration of a lot-split plat for property at 1722 Highway N until access is resolved.

The applicant, Gwendolyn M. Sage, asked to split the existing lot into two parcels so a roughly 2-acre portion could be sold. Commissioners and planning staff questioned how the rear parcel would be accessed because Smith Lane is a private road and the commission did not find a recorded easement for access to the back parcel.

Justin Smith, a resident of 1821 Smith Lane who spoke on behalf of his family, said, “That was our question where the easement was gonna come into play because at this time, there is no recorded easement for excess off of that property from”. Staff and commissioners explained two options: obtain written permission from the Smith family and record a formal easement with Franklin County so vehicles can legally use Smith Lane to reach the new parcel, or create and record an easement across the applicant’s own property from Highway N back to the rear lot.

Planning staff advised the applicant to work with a surveyor to document an easement and to have any agreement recorded with Franklin County so the rear parcel is not landlocked. Because the ownership of parts of Smith Lane resides with the Smith family, commissioners said the family’s written consent is required if the new parcel will access Smith Lane.

Commissioner Weimer moved to table PZ2025-14 until an agreement with the Smith family is worked out; Commissioner Kelly seconded. The commission voted in favor (Aye); the public hearing was closed and the item was tabled.

Next steps identified by staff: the applicant should secure a written easement or record a surveyed access easement, return the recorded documentation to planning staff, and then the commission will consider the lot split at a later meeting. No final plat action was taken at this meeting.