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Shelton seeks railroad access and sheriff/Navy cooperation for coordinated encampment cleanup
Summary
City staff are working with Puget Sound and Pacific Railway, surveyors and the sheriff's office to clarify property ownership and permissions for large‑scale encampment cleanup along tracks; the sheriff confirmed written Navy authorization to enter some Navy property but multi‑party agreements are needed before enforcement and equipment access proceed.
Shelton staff briefed council on efforts to coordinate cleanup of encampments along railroad property and other parcels near the tracks. Staff said they have asked Puget Sound and Pacific Railway and surveyors for title information and to determine whether the railway or other entities control underlying parcels that would affect access for cleanup equipment.
Councilors were told that legal and operational questions remain: even if the railway grants access, the city must be sure it has authority to enforce or remove people from private or federal property. The sheriff’s department has provided written authorization from the Navy allowing entry and enforcement on Navy property, the council was told, but staff emphasized that any cleanup must be coordinated so people are not simply moved a short distance onto another parcel.
Mark Sigler said the city will continue to press for title reports and permission to ensure cleanups can be conducted safely and lawfully, and noted staff hopes to hear back from railway legal counsel within about two weeks on access and easement questions.
No cleanup timeline was set at the study session; staff said they will return with property determinations and a proposed coordinated plan for enforcement and cleanup if access is granted.
