The Harney County Court on Jan. 7 discussed an applicant request to grant a 30-foot access easement across county-owned property on Sod House Road so the Johnson family can access a landlocked parcel.

Attorney Colby Marshall, representing the Johnson family, summarized a newly completed survey and said the family is prepared to cover survey, legal description and filing costs and to present a “reasonably priced” offer for an easement. Marshall said the proposed easement would run along the east side of the county landfill area and noted the parcel has historical ties to the family.

County counsel explained that, under statutes governing the county court, the court may convey an easement if it determines the conveyance furthers the public interest and receives value. Counsel recommended title and deed research to ensure the county has authority to convey the easement and said the court should receive an offer and negotiate value (monetary or nonmonetary consideration).

Officials noted the county parcel has landfill/DEQ constraints that likely limit other uses and that the easement may be of limited ongoing county value; the court asked staff to invite and accept an offer for consideration and to return with findings on title and public-interest determination.

The applicant indicated willingness to submit an offer for the court’s consideration.