Council approves Josephville Road Phase 1 after split votes over property access

The St. Charles County Council voted 5-2 on Jan. 26 to approve the Josephville Road Phase 1 project, a roadway realignment intended to straighten a sharp curve and improve sightlines, after a contested debate over property access for owners affected by the changes.

Councilman Dave Hammond moved to table the Josephville Road Phase 1 item, saying he was concerned about whether agreements had been reached with property owners who would lose access under the proposed design; Acting County Counselor Rory O'Sullivan told the council his office was still negotiating and was awaiting a call from the property owner's lawyer. Hammond's motion to table, seconded by Councilman Tim Baker, failed on a 4-3 vote (Hammond, Brazil, Baker in favor; four opposed).

County Engineer John Lyons described the project as a safety improvement that 'straightens a sharp turn and improves sightlines.' Councilman Matt Swanson said the project was 'a massive safety project that needs to move forward' despite the impasse with the property owner. Swanson moved to approve the item; his motion, seconded by Councilman Terry Hollander, carried 5-2, with Baker and Hammond voting no.

The council did not adopt a substitute motion or a condition requiring finalized property-access agreements before approval. Rory O'Sullivan had indicated negotiations were ongoing but did not report a completed agreement during the meeting.

Next steps identified in the meeting record include proceeding with the project contract and coordinating with counsel on outstanding negotiations; the transcript does not specify revised timelines or compensation arrangements for affected property owners.