Giving It Away
They say there are three ways of doing everything, your way, my way and the right way. Take a look below at what has transpired here in the City of Georgetown. I have also included my suggested solution. Let me know what you think.
The issue at hand is regarding the Right of Way for the section of Cannon St between Front St. and the Sampit River. Previously, the width of the ROW was 75 feet. A typical right of way includes the paved area in the center, typically 20 to 24 feet along with room on either side for the installation of utilities. The problem with this end of Cannon St is; the historical house on the right (west) side at some point in time built a porch, brick walls and brick walkways in the right of way. On the left (east) side is the Historical Red Brick Warehouse developers have purchased and plan to convert into residential units. The existing Right of Way goes right up to the edge of the warehouse so there is no room for a stoop and stairs.
The city’s solution was to grant easements on both sides, basically, giving the land away. First, they are granting an easement to the historical residence, allowing all existing structs to remain. Secondly, the city is granting a 20” easement measured from the edge of the Red Brick structure toward the paved area in the center. By doing this, the Right of Way that is still accessible is reduced to less than 25 feet.
First, I have no problem with the city working out a deal to keep the historic structures in tact or making allowances to add stoops and stairs. My solution which is based upon current city regulations, would be to reduce the right of way to 40’ which is allowed for a short dead-end street. (Land Development Regulations, 401.4 Street Widths). The 40 feet would start at the edge of the brick work for the historical house and go across. This would leave the developers over 9’ of space to build stoops and stairs. The developers would be required to remove the utility poles and place the new electric and communication lines underground in the new, smaller, right of way. As a condition of the reworking of the ROW, the parties on both sides would be required to purchase the land from the city. This would not be a large amount of money; the cost would be based on comparable prices for land sold in the area.
With this solution the city would still have a legal Right of Way and all parties would win including the citizens of Georgetown. With the city’s solution the developers are the only winners and they win big!
My question is… how can the city cry poor and raise utility rates on its citizens, greatly impacting people that can least afford it, while at the same time give away valuable property to the people that can afford it? On November 4th, 2025 you can voice your opinion by voting for a fairer, more compassionate mayor and city council.
Jay Doyle