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Council tables Smith’s Bridge easement and compensation requests after resident objections
Summary
Council heard public opposition to a proposed temporary grading easement tied to Smith’s Bridge and tabled two related items (7c and 7d) to allow staff to clarify MDOT-required redesigns and property impacts; the Weitz Landing board said it would not sign a temporary easement for $29,000.
During public comment and the new-business portion of the March 16 meeting, residents and council members raised concerns about easements and compensation tied to Smith’s Bridge construction. Stan Sturck, speaking for the Weitz Landing board, urged council not to approve item 7c, saying "we are not interested in signing an easement for $29,000" and warning that moving parking and infrastructure could permanently remove century-old trees and bring permanent change to their property.
Staff explained the easements were requested by MDOT as part of the bridge design process and that MDOT had identified grading easements on the north and south sides of the bridge; staff said they had met with north-side property owners earlier and would follow up with the south-side owners who raised objections at the meeting.
Council members asked staff for more explicit clarifications from MDOT about the need for redesign and the specific property impacts; one council member raised concerns that proceeding without clearer information could lead to an eminent domain situation. The council voted to table item 7c to allow staff to provide the requested clarifications.
A related item (7d), compensation to Adam Wirtz for a grading permit related to the same bridge, was also tabled after staff reported additional property-owner questions and recommended follow-up. Council voted to table item 7d to allow staff to continue discussions with impacted property owners.
Next steps: Staff will seek clarification from MDOT and return to council with more detailed information on the specific easement needs, property impacts and alternatives before council takes further action.
