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Council delays action on right‑of‑way license for landlocked parcel, directs staff to draft access agreement
Summary
After multiple residents raised safety, maintenance and property‑value concerns, the Lucas City Council took no motion on a requested license to use a 30‑by‑1,320‑foot right‑of‑way to access a landlocked parcel; the council met in executive session for legal advice and directed staff to work with the applicant and neighbors on a draft access agreement.
The Lucas City Council declined to act on Sept. 4, 2025, on a request by property owner William Wade Shipley (represented by real estate agent Chris Blackman) for a license to use a 30‑foot by 1,320‑foot right‑of‑way to provide access to a landlocked tract east of 2515 Orr Road.
Development Services Director Joe Hilburn reviewed the history: the right‑of‑way was originally dedicated for a planned extension of Forest Grove Road but the extension was removed from the thoroughfare plan in 2022, leaving the parcel without public vehicular access. Hilburn said the city had notified nearby property owners; an earlier, similar request had been considered and declined when ownership changed.
Multiple neighbors testified with concerns. Randy Hora (250 Doris Drive) asked how the proposed dimensions would affect adjacent yards and said residents currently maintain the right‑of‑way behind their properties; he asked whether the city would continue maintenance. Scott Clinch (200 Doris Drive) described family safety concerns if a road were placed behind backyards, including limiting children’s outdoor play. Mike McLean (330 Doris) said he had built structures that may be within the easement and asked whether fencing, surfacing and maintenance responsibilities would be required. Jared Smotherman (290 Doris) echoed neighbors’ concerns.
Applicant representative Chris Blackman said he had worked to find alternatives and that the property currently offers little market value without access; he said the owner is willing to consider compromises including reducing the width and contributing to beautification.
Councilmember comments emphasized the number of residents with questions and the need for more detail on surfacing, speed controls and maintenance. The council convened into executive session for legal advice under Texas Gov’t Code §551.071 and returned without making a motion. The mayor directed staff (including Mr. Woodsell and the city attorney) to draft an access agreement addressing materials, screening and maintenance responsibilities and bring that agreement back for public discussion.
