Public Works committee backs release and reconfiguration of utility easements in Pheasant Crossing

The Middleton Public Works Committee on Aug. 11 voted to recommend that the Common Council approve Resolution 2025-40, which would release existing public utility easements and create new easements in the Pheasant Crossing development. Staff said the changes are primarily administrative and will relocate easement areas from the sides of lots to the rear lot lines.

Ben, a public works staff member who introduced the item, told the committee the easements being released do not contain water mains, sanitary sewer or storm sewer lines and that the developer prepares the initial easement plats before city review. “These easements will not have public utilities in terms of water mains, sanitary sewer, or storm sewer,” Ben said, adding that the developer’s plats are reviewed by city staff, the planning commission and the council.

Committee members asked for a map showing the prior and proposed easement locations; staff confirmed the city attorney has reviewed the changes. A citizen member asked whether easements are permanent; staff explained that permanent easements can be released and recreated and that temporary or fee easements may be used for construction or leasing purposes.

Mary moved the resolution forward and an unnamed committee member seconded the motion; the committee voted to recommend approval to the Common Council and recorded the motion as passed.

Next steps: the recommendation will go to the Finance & Personnel Committee and the Common Council for final action.