Neighbors say clearing on Lovers Lane is disrupting yards and access; town to investigate

Several residents told the Trappe Town Council on Feb. 4 that activity on a property on Lovers Lane is disrupting neighboring yards and public access.

Resident Tish Blessing said she and neighbors are concerned the property owner, identified in the meeting as Mr. Morrison, is removing trees, parking construction equipment that blocks the road during school hours, allowing people to be on the property after dark, parking in front of her house and blocking access to a fire hydrant, and creating ruts when vehicles turn around. "They are parking in front of her house, blocking her driveway, blocking access to a fire hydrant and creating ruts in her driveway when they turn around," Blessing said on the record. Matt Dunn said he had been told storage units would be placed on the property and that is why the woods were being cleared.

Town Attorney Lyndsey Ryan said Mr. Morrison had come to the Planning Commission about two years earlier with an idea to subdivide the property but "nothing ever came of it," and that the Town has not received current documentation regarding the property or Mr. Morrison’s plans. Sgt. Aita asked residents to call police when the road or driveways are blocked or when they feel uncomfortable about people on the property after dark; the sheriff’s department will respond to address issues it can.

President Newnam said the Town will look into the reported work, possible violations and whether permits are required for the activities described. The council did not take formal enforcement action at the meeting; residents were advised to report incidents to law enforcement so deputies can respond in real time.