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Neighbors urge formal access protections for trail crossing proposed McGann lot
Summary
Multiple adjacent landowners told the Fayston DRB the recreational trail that runs through the McGann parcel is used by the community but exists only by landowner permission; they urged a permanent easement or other written protection to avoid losing access.
During the March 4 meeting, several neighbors told the Development Review Board that a frequently used recreational trail crosses the McGann parcel and exists only through the landowner’s permission.
Gunnar McCain, speaking for the applicant, said, “The trail is there by Dorothy McGann’s permission and she could at any time retract that permission.” Neighbors, including Dave Grimason and Andrew Tenney, said the trail provides important access for bicyclists and walkers and urged the board and applicant to find a way to memorialize continued use.
Board members and the zoning administrator clarified that absent a recorded easement or written agreement, access across private land is not a town guarantee. Neighbors suggested community funding or other steps to secure permanent access; the applicant indicated uncertainty about whether the landowner would be willing to grant a binding easement and noted easements can affect lot value.
The item was not decided at the meeting; the board continued the subdivision review and asked the applicant to provide additional mapping for the continued hearing and site visit.
