Hearing set in Othello

Public comments gathered on street vacation June 25

OTHELLO — The Othello City Council discussed a request to hold a public hearing to vacate a portion of Curtis Drive during their meeting Tuesday night.

Lad Irrigation Company made the request to expand their facilities to create a campus atmosphere.

According to city documents, the city staff did not support the action because it can limit future growth and expansion.

City Administrator Ehman Sheldon said the roadway is one of two access points to the surrounding area.

Councilmember Ken Caylor said the roadway could eventually be a pass through leading to other roadways, but vacating would prohibit the expansion.

Mayor Shannon McKay was opposed to holding a public hearing because the vacation may eliminate future developments for the area near Curtis Drive.

The majority of council was opposed to the public hearing request until councilmember Marc Spohr provided an alternative viewpoint.

He said although he is against the vacation, a public hearing should be held to hear evidence from citizens regarding why the vacation should or should not occur. Viewpoints not considered by the council may be brought forward, he said.

"I think we should have some public input," Caylor agreed.

Caylor made the motion to accept the public hearing request and Spohr seconded the motion.

Councilmember Dale Wyman opposed the hearing request.

Spohr asked if the planning commission should be notified of the action and request.

City Attorney Jim Whitaker said notification is not necessary because it is a legislative issue.

The hearing is scheduled for June 25 during the 7 p.m. council meeting.