Commission rescinds stewardship authority for Church’s Ferry parcels, orders removal of no‑trespass barriers

The commission voted to rescind a prior decision that had authorized Paul Christensen to act as steward for certain parcels in the former city of Church’s Ferry, citing staff reports that barriers and 'no trespassing' notices were obstructing Third Street, a valid roadway.

Mr. Olson, who introduced the item, recommended against a direct sale of three county‑owned Church’s Ferry parcels and urged any sale be conducted publicly to secure maximum value. Olson then described recent actions he said had raised legal and equity concerns: he reported observing a barrier that prevents public access to Third Street and told commissioners that obstructing a roadway can be a misdemeanor under Century Code. "That barrier prevents the general public from accessing that road, which...provides access to the lake," Olson said, and recommended immediate rescission of the stewardship authorization.

Commissioners discussed community complaints that some people were being allowed access while others were not, raising concerns about unequal treatment. The commission approved a motion to rescind the authority granted to Mr. Christensen and also approved a motion directing the county highway department to remove no‑trespass signs and physical obstructions effective immediately. Olson offered to draft and have the sheriff serve a letter communicating the commission’s determination. Commissioners instructed staff to return with any further information about road condition and whether signage such as "no motor vehicles" should be posted for safety reasons rather than total closure.

The motions passed unanimously; county staff said the highway department would remove signs and barriers and that the sheriff’s office would assist with service of notice to Mr. Christensen.