Mapleton homeowners push back against proposed road threatening farms, homes

MAPLETON — Several Mapleton homeowners are voicing frustration and fear after learning a proposed road expansion could cut directly through their private property—including a 20‑acre farm that a family says is their "serenity."

The potential extension of Maple Road is included in Mapleton's update to its 2010 Master Transportation Plan, which is now under review.

But for Jen and John Stubbs, the possibility of a road carving through their farmland has triggered what they describe as anxiety, sleepless nights, and deep concern for their family's future.

A family's fear: "It's my everything"

Standing on their property, Jen Stubbs became emotional describing what the farm means to her.

"You could be out there for four hours, and it doesn't feel like that," she said. "It is my serenity. It's my everything. My land is not for sale."

She and her husband have spent the last four years building the farm, where they care for Texas longhorn, horses, chickens, and even mini-donkeys, who all have names.

"I've got Marilyn, Monroe, Richard, Dorothy, Janis, Jack-Jack," Jen said.

And different personalities.

"Marilyn, she's full of sass," she said.

It's also a special place that supports their extended family.

Her husband, Jon Stubbs, said the farm has been especially meaningful for relatives with autism.

"We've got a couple nieces and nephews who have autism," Jon explained. "Our 8‑year‑old son, he's had chores to do; he learns responsibilities. It's helped him so much, and it's been so good for our marriage."

The couple believed their land was protected under a multiyear easement.

"We've got 75 years left of this easement. This land is protected," Jen said.

Survey stakes, and no warning

The Stubbs say they were shocked to find survey stakes placed across their private property, markings they claim were made without the city notifying them or obtaining permission.

When asked about the survey, Mapleton's newly elected mayor, Therin Garrett, said he did not know about that and wanted to get to the bottom of it.

"I don't know if I can speak to that. I don't know any information about whether that was done," he said.

Garrett emphasized that the City Council is reviewing all available information, including historical records. He intends to speak with affected homeowners before making any final decisions.

"For a couple decades, there's been a potential road shown on our transportation study," the mayor said. "We'd rather take some time and get everybody's perspective on this."

City leaning towards against the road, decision coming soon

According to Garrett, the council is currently leaning against approving the road extension.

A final vote is expected between late February and early March.

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