Commission adopts resolution to designate Squaw Creek Road as County Road 502

The Natrona County Commission on March 17 adopted resolution 11‑26 to establish County Road 502 (Squaw Creek Road) as a county highway by prescription after a public hearing and outreach to affected property owners.

County Attorney Ashley reviewed notices and outreach: 57 notices were mailed, 34 were tracked as delivered, 19 were returned undeliverable and two objections were in the packet. During the hearing one resident, Condo Edwards, asked whether the change to a "highway" would alter the road’s legal status or permit other agencies to use the road. Ashley replied that the phrase "highway" reflects state statute terminology and does not itself change road width or day‑to‑day maintenance rights.

Residents raised questions about easements, pipeline crossings and whether record maps would change property tax assessments. Commissioners and staff said the county would not widen the road and that the assessor’s mapping group would evaluate any material tax implications; staff also said property owners had been offered opportunities to stage equipment on private frontage during construction and that the county planned to maintain existing drainage and fence lines.

After public comment and staff responses, the commission moved and approved resolution 11‑26 by voice vote, formalizing the county’s recorded right‑of‑way for Squaw Creek Road. Staff noted the designation will enable better access and maintenance for affected properties and that construction and right‑of‑way work would be subject to later design and budgeting decisions.