Taylor council denies request to buy portion of Maverick Lane right-of-way

Taylor Town Council voted to deny a request to sell a portion of the Maverick Lane right-of-way after members raised concerns about preserving land for future utilities and access.

At the Feb. 5 meeting, property owner Jared Hatch asked the council to approve either roughly half of a 400-foot by 50-foot strip along Maverick Lane or, alternatively, to allow adjacent owners to buy the full right-of-way while the town retained a 20-foot center strip for future utilities. Hatch said he wanted a “win‑win solution” and stressed preserving the green belt and maintaining space for future needs.

Mayor Shawn Palmer cautioned against selling land the town might need later, quoting an old law manual: “don’t sell land you might regret needing in the future unless the financial benefit clearly outweighs strategic use equity considerations.” Several council members said a 20‑foot corridor could be insufficient for future roads, sewer lines or bridge work.

Council Member Jason Brubaker moved to deny the request and asked Hatch to return with a revised proposal; Council Member Lynn Dewitt seconded. The motion passed, with six in favor and one opposed. The council did not record individual votes by name in the minutes.

Council discussion highlighted alternatives to outright sale, including land swaps, easements that preserve town access, and using proceeds to create public amenities such as a walking path. Staff and the requester were directed to continue negotiations and clarify property lines and potential impacts on sewer and other utilities.

The council’s decision leaves the town’s rights-of-way intact for now; Hatch may return with a new proposal for council consideration.