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Mayfield discusses White Hills access, asks county guidance and considers signage
Summary
Councilors discussed blocked public access via private gates near the old dump site in the White Hills, reviewed county-right-of-way determinations and considered town signage to reinforce legal public access.
Councilors reviewed longstanding public-access issues to the White Hills area south and east of town, including an old dump site and gated private access. Staff said county records show a 14-foot adjudicated right-of-way and that state rules permit private property owners to install gates but not to keep them locked where public access rights exist. Residents described hazardous glass and past dumping at the old dump site and urged the town to maintain the right-of-way and clarify access.
Council discussed options including contacting county officials (staff said they had already contacted Andy Lyon) and posting town signage to indicate the legal access gate. Residents suggested the town take turns using the access so the route does not fall into disuse, which could invite permanent closure. Councilors noted property owners may be able to temporarily secure gates for limited periods (for example, 24 hours) in certain circumstances but emphasized that permanent locked access would conflict with adjudicated public rights.
Staff said the town owns roughly 20 acres adjacent to the access and will coordinate with the county on enforcement, cleanup of the old dump area and possible town signage to encourage lawful use of the gate. The council characterized the matter as an ongoing issue that will require periodic follow-up.
