County Council Approves Controversial Road Right of Way Vacation

During a recent council meeting, members discussed and ultimately approved proposed ordinance O2024-547, which involves the vacation of an undeveloped road right of way in South Unincorporated Pierce County. The right of way, acquired by the county in 1981, was deemed unnecessary for the county's road system by the county engineer, who recommended granting the vacation in the public's best interest.

The application process included a $1,500 fee from the applicant, who also paid an $11,525 appraised value payment to the county, fulfilling the necessary requirements. An equity analysis was conducted and included in the council's packet, and a public hearing held on August 27 resulted in a recommendation for approval.

Council members raised questions regarding the applicant's ownership of adjacent parcels, which are larger and controlled by a company associated with the applicant. However, no site plans for development on these parcels have been submitted at this time.

Following a public hearing, which saw no comments from attendees, the council proceeded to a roll call vote, resulting in unanimous approval of the ordinance with seven votes in favor and none against. The council then moved on to the community forum segment, allowing public input on other topics affecting Pierce County.