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Richmond weighs easement requests and hookup costs for 205 Jericho and 72 Tilden
Summary
Property owners asked the commission for water curb stops and a sewer hookup tied to a waterline replacement; commissioners asked staff to itemize costs after residents said initial estimates rose from about $500 to as much as $1,500 and possibly $10,000 depending on sewer work and easement needs.
Commissioners on Oct. 20 reviewed a property-owner request tied to the Tilden Avenue/Brick Street/Cochran Road waterline replacement that would supply 205 Jericho Road and an adjacent parcel (referred to as 72). The owners asked for one or more curb stops and a sewer hookup to enable a camper and possible future housing development.
Staff said engineer Tyler Billingsley provided initial cost estimates; the memo in the packet lists a figure of about $5,000 but staff and commissioners agreed to verify whether that number included sewer work. Commissioners noted residents had expected a lower out-of-pocket figure and asked the town to clarify billing options in future notices.
During discussion, several residents and commissioners described confusion about earlier communications: one attendee said earlier conversations suggested roughly $500 per connection, but Tyler’s estimate and the scope described in the packet showed higher costs. Bard recommended clear communications when bills are issued so property owners understand the difference between a corporation-only tap and a full curb-stop installation.
Mary Hull relayed a neighbor’s concern about the process and rights-of-way: "She felt like she was being pushed around," Hull said, describing Mrs. Polley's worry that the easement negotiation could displace or unduly burden adjacent residents. Staff confirmed the right-of-way for access is privately held and said the town’s plan aims to avoid digging through Mrs. Polley’s private garden where possible.
Commissioners also discussed zoning and whether multiple ADUs on the parcel are feasible under current rules; staff advised property owners to consult zoning because state and local rules limit how accessory units are treated. Commissioners requested a return agenda item with clearer, itemized cost estimates (water curb stops, sewer stub installation, excavation costs) and suggested comparing those totals to alternatives that keep work in the public right-of-way.
No final decision to approve or deny hookups or sewer service was made; staff will confirm whether the $5,000 estimate includes sewer, prepare an itemized cost breakdown, and bring the issue back to the commission.
