Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Right Of Way Abandonment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Libby council votes 4–2 to begin abandonment process for Colorado and Coupney Streets
Summary
After a staff presentation detailing infrastructure constraints and projected tax impacts, the council voted to proceed with the public‑notice and petition process to abandon Colorado and Coupney Streets and an adjacent alley; staff noted a possible $159 annual tax loss and estimated a 500‑ft water main extension could cost about $165,000.
The Libby City Council voted to begin the formal abandonment process for Colorado and Coupney Streets and an adjacent alley, moving the matter to a public hearing and notice step. Staff presentation explained that utility lines and existing infrastructure make portions of the parcel effectively unbuildable and outlined the procedural steps required to proceed.
Staff presentation and financials: City staff (identified in the transcript as Mr. Saxs) walked the council through slides breaking down current infrastructure, easements and property ownership. He said power lines cross the center of the parcel, sewer and water mains run nearby, and a parcel that appears on city tax rolls is actually county property and will be reconciled with the department of revenue. Staff estimated the city would lose roughly $159 per year in current city taxes on the parcel if it is abandoned and conveyed, but noted the land could become buildable with lot‑line adjustments and future development could restore tax revenue.
Costs to serve future development: Council members asked about extending water service for future development. Staff provided a ballpark estimate for a roughly 500‑foot water main extension: engineering about $10,000; mobilization $25,000; asphalt and traffic control cost components; pipe and valves; and a fire hydrant; the total estimate given in the meeting was about $165,000 (noted as approximate and subject to licensed contractor and DEQ approvals).
Council action: A council member moved to advance the petition/abandonment process, a second was recorded, and the council approved by voice vote that the item move forward to the public‑hearing stage. The chair announced the result as 4–2 in favor. The decision to move forward authorizes the city to publish notices and schedule the required hearing; final abandonment would require subsequent public hearings and a final council vote.
Quotes: “I would make a motion that we approve that,” said a council member moving the petition process. Staff described tradeoffs: “So that's my little report on this, Madame Mayor.”
Next steps: Staff will publish required public notices and the item will return to council for public hearing and final action. The transcript indicates additional paperwork and notation will be filed with the clerk as the process proceeds.
