One topic of discussion at the City Council meeting was the proposal to vacate the right of way on 3rd street between the CP railroad tracks and Lea Street. Christ’s Family Church, represented by Pastor Paris Pasch, is exploring expansion and connection of the parking lots currently owned by the church. The church building is located on land that is divided by 3rd Street, with partial parking areas on both sides of that division. John Hinzman, Hastings Economic Development Director, explained the current function of the street.
A resident, Clarence Chapman Jr., shared his concerns with the proposal.
East Hastings resident Harold Christensen also had questions about the safety of any closure of the street with possible need by emergency services. Angie Barber, also a resident east of the railroad, expressed her concern with a locked gate, currently preventing traffic at that location.
The council spent several minutes discussing the possible alternate routes to access east Hastings should the vacation be approved. Councilman Balsanek stressed flexibiliy in a solution with Dana Elling-Schultz asking whether specific plans can look at changes as the project evolves. The discussion concluded with a motion to approve vacation dependent upon easement language that would assure emergency access. It should be noted, that Christ’s Family Church has no immediate plans for building expansion or a timetable when this decision will need further clarification.
