Bellevue authorizes eminent-domain proceedings to secure easement for Quail Creek lift station expansion

The Bellevue City Council on Jan. 20 authorized the city attorney to proceed with eminent-domain proceedings to acquire easement interests in Outlot 1 in the Quail Creek subdivision to allow expansion of a sanitary lift station.

Councilman Casey moved, and Councilwoman Collins seconded, the motion to authorize eminent-domain action; the motion carried by voice vote.

Dave (city staff) explained the need: the lift station that serves the area sits off Amos Gates Drive on an outlot currently owned by a private individual. The city’s engineers determined the lift station needs upgrades and an expanded footprint to proceed to bid and construction. The outlot originally had been an SID property; for unspecified reasons it was sold privately and the lift station now sits within that privately held parcel. The city has an existing easement but requires additional area to complete the project.

City staff said they obtained appraisals and made offers; negotiations included a request by the property owner that the city buy the entire outlot rather than grant a smaller easement. The owner also sought reimbursement for tree-removal costs related to prior code enforcement actions. Staff said the project timeline is time-sensitive — delays could affect contractor availability and the ability to bid and begin work in spring — and that the cost of delay might exceed the additional acquisition expense. The council authorized the city attorney to proceed with condemnation so staff could secure the easement necessary to advertise and bid the lift-station work.

The action authorizes legal proceedings; compensation for the property interest will follow appraisal and statutory procedures for eminent domain.