Commissioners discuss Parks & Rec request for easement over Kennedy property irrigation line

Assistant county counsel Brian Lavelle told the Crook County Board that Parks & Recreation has expressed interest in an easement for a 6-inch irrigation water line that runs from the Crooked River pump house across the Kennedy property to the RV park and the canal pedestrian bridge.

"Some time ago, our parks and rec department had installed a 6 inch irrigation water line that runs from the Crooked River pump house ... to the RV park," Lavelle said, showing commissioners a map of the line.

Commissioners questioned why the district would seek an easement if the pipeline sits on county-owned land and worried the current alignment bisects the Kennedy parcel, potentially constraining future development. "If we decide to do a structure on there ... the way that aqua line goes, it just pretty much cuts the whole property," one commissioner said.

Staff and commissioners discussed options including documenting the easement but preserving relocation rights. County counsel and another commissioner suggested a revocable license could give Parks & Rec water access while allowing the county to relocate the line if future development requires it. "If it's an easement, it gets difficult with us trying to cancel it or change the location," one commissioner said. Another recommended returning a proposed easement document for review; Parks & Rec had only expressed interest and had not yet provided a draft.

Commissioners asked staff to consult with Parks & Rec and report back; there was no motion and no vote at the meeting.

Ending: Staff will follow up with Parks & Rec and the lessee (Kennedy property) to develop language that preserves county flexibility while ensuring park access to water.