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Commission approves 4‑foot fence for Century Harbor condos, requires screen and gate orientation
Summary
The Middleton Planning Commission approved a specific implementation plan allowing a 4‑foot fence at Century Harbor Condos, requiring wood or vinyl construction and that the gate open onto the new sidewalk rather than into the park, after public testimony from a condominium representative about hedgerow loss and trespass.
The Middleton Planning Commission voted unanimously May 27 to approve a modified specific‑implementation plan for a fence at 2841 Century Harbor Road, allowing a 4‑foot tall fenced enclosure conditioned on wood or vinyl construction and a gate that opens onto the new sidewalk rather than directly onto the adjacent park.
Michael Williamson, speaking for the Century Harbor condominium association, told commissioners the city’s water‑main project had cut a decades‑old arborvitae hedge and left gaps that allow trespassers to access private patios. "We’re looking at a $9,000 expense now that we wouldn't have had to make had it not been for the water project," Williamson said, explaining the association sought a taller, low‑maintenance fence for resident safety.
Staff noted the city’s fencing standards generally do not permit visible chain‑link fencing in street/front yards but that the property’s PUD zoning allows some discretion. Planning staff and parks officials said a decorative wood or vinyl fence would be preferable for aesthetics and sight‑lines to the lake. Commissioners and staff discussed placing any chain link behind the shrub row and using screening where needed.
The commission first considered a motion to approve a 3‑foot wood or vinyl fence but, after discussion about security and sight‑lines, amended the substitute motion to permit a 4‑foot fence with the gate oriented to open onto the new Lake Street sidewalk and requiring wood or vinyl materials. The amended motion was seconded and passed unanimously by voice vote.
The approval lets the Century Harbor association choose a fence option that balances cost and screening while preserving views where possible; staff stressed that screening and setback decisions will be enforced in the SIP conditions.
