Commissioners approve temporary vacate of Willard Canyon trail right-of-way, require relocated route

The Box Elder County Commission approved a proposal to vacate a portion of the trail right-of-way on the north side of Willard Canyon and direct staff to prepare an ordinance to formalize a temporary relocation of the trail to the south side.

Planning staff explained the vacation was requested to protect public safety while the Wells family conducts mining operations on adjacent property and described an agreement among the county, Willard City and the Wells family that assigns who will construct and maintain the relocated trail. "The trail currently is located on the north side of the canyon... the proposal is to vacate that, for public safety purposes while the landowner is doing some mining in that area," planning staff said during the hearing. The planning commission recommended approval before the county commission held the hearing.

Representatives of the Wells family and Willard City said the agreement preserves public access while protecting private-property rights. Brad Wells, speaking for his family, thanked the commission: "The easement provides public access across our property while protecting our rights as property owners." Members of the Willard Canyon Access Coalition praised restoration of access but raised concerns about the proposed 3-foot easement width and a narrow crossover at the trailhead; Lynn Murphy said a 5-foot easement would be preferable for maintenance and safer passage. BJ Wells responded that the family chose a 3-foot width specifically "we didn't want any motorized vehicles up there," to prevent future motorized access.

Commissioner Perry moved to approve the vacate as discussed and to instruct planning and zoning staff to prepare an ordinance for adoption; Commissioner Bingham seconded. The motion passed by voice vote. The commission directed staff to return an ordinance at a future meeting to formalize the relocation and related commitments.