Seabrook council approves start of process to abandon Bay Vista Drive and allow gated private street

The Seabrook City Council voted unanimously Dec. 3 to authorize staff to begin the legal and administrative steps necessary to abandon Bay Vista Drive so adjoining property owners can convert it to a private, gated street.

Steve Belmonte, speaking for the Bay Vista property owners association, asked council to allow the abandonment so owners could install a gated entrance, handle maintenance and security themselves, and control traffic and late-night disturbances. Belmonte said the association had funding contributions and asserted owner support, telling council there are about 17 lots in the neighborhood with roughly 10 existing homes.

City staff explained the abandonment is a multi-step process that requires an appraisal, a public hearing and negotiation for purchase of the right-of-way; staff clarified that public utilities located in the corridor would remain with the city and that easements would be required for access and maintenance. "You can't gate a public street," staff advised; a formal abandonment is required before any gate may be installed.

Council questions focused on drainage, documentation of owner support, maintenance responsibilities and the cost implications for the city and property owners. Belmonte said residents expected to assume maintenance and security costs and had a portion of funding available from a prior donation.

Outcome: Council authorized staff to proceed with the abandonment process under City Code Section 7,529 (closing streets and alleys). If the abandonment moves forward, the city will require an appraisal and acquisition; the city will retain utility easements and maintain utilities while property owners would assume surface maintenance and security.

Next steps: Staff will present appraisal information and schedule required public hearings; no transfer or gate installation can occur until the legal abandonment and purchase processes are complete.