Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2024-048 authorizing the release, abandonment, and termination of certain beautification easements and agreements; and take appropriate action.
Body
BACKGROUND:
Several beautification easements were dedicated to the City of Farmers Branch between 1977 and 2000. Individual landowners dedicated these easements via separate instruments to beautify key corridors, particularly along Valley View Lane. The agreements allow the City to install, maintain, and remove landscaping on private property within the easement areas. Currently, the City does not maintain landscaping within any of the easements.
Most beautification easements are located in the "Four Corners" shopping center at the intersection of Valley View Lane and Josey Lane. However, two additional sidewalks and beautification easements were dedicated at the intersection of Tom Field Road and Valley View Lane, allowing for hardscape and sidewalk improvements and landscaping. While the City does not currently maintain landscaping on these properties, a portion of the public sidewalk does fall within the easement areas.
Recently, City staff received a petition from a resident seeking to relinquish an established "sidewalk and beautification" easement encumbering their property. The City Council can authorize the release or modification of this specific easement through a separate instrument, allowing the "beautification" component of the easement to be released while maintaining the "sidewalk" portion and the City's ability to install and maintain the sidewalk within the easement.
In considering the potential adjustment or release of an easement for an individual resident, staff recommends the release of all other existing beautification easements as the City is no longer utilizing the easements, and such encumbrances can unnecessarily burden the affected properties. It is important to note that these beautification easements solely confer upon the City the right ...
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