HomeMy WebLinkAboutPZ - Public Testimony: Meridian Southern Rim CoalitionTO: Planning & Zoning
FROM: The Meridian Southern Rim Coalition
DATE: September 21, 2017
SUBJECT: Position Statement Regarding Public Hearing for 2017 Comprehensive
Plan Text Amendment (H-2017-0113) by City of Meridian
The Meridian Southern Rim Coalition is comprised of neighborhood representatives and
HOA liaisons representing hundreds of residents from the general vicinity of the
Southern Rim near Locust Grove, Eagle, Lake Hazel, Amity and Victory Roads.
Since its inception in April 2017, the Coalition has advocated special amendments, such
as those presented for your approval this evening, which would enhance and protect the
identity of the Southern Rim, mirroring in many ways the amendments that the City has
approved for the North Rim in and around Spur Wing. We wish to express our gratitude
for Staff’s recognition of the Southern Rim in its proposed amendments; we believe
these amendments support the City’s stated objectives, as defined in its comprehensive
plan and summarized by the Mayor in her recent letter regarding the 2017 community
survey.
As stated in Staff’s Draft Existing Conditions report (emphasis mine):
“While development is expected within the Area of City Impact, a maze of
monotonous development is not desired, either. City leaders and citizens focus
on trying to balance open spaces and Meridian’s agricultural heritage with
development and growth. Development in Meridian which expresses concerns
and appreciation for the aesthetic qualities of the physical environment should
be encouraged.” (5-1)
The Southern Rim is a geological feature that not only provides stunning views of the
Boise Range and Owyhee Mountains, it is firmly established and cherished by its
residents as a semi-rural sector of the City, where open spaces and trails are valued
and considered integral to its quality of life. “A maze of monotonous development”
would be an insult to the rim’s natural beauty.
The Coalition believes the aesthetic qualities of Meridian’s Southern Rim are a valuable
asset to the City and its residents, thanks to its natural beauty, proximity to the
Interstate, Meridian and Boise city centers, and hospital and medical services. To
ensure the Southern Rim’s enduring identity and lasting value, the Coalition supports
stringent review of each and every development application, with adherence to the
FLUM and attention to the desires of every stakeholder in our community.
Therefore, the Meridian Southern Rim Coalition is pleased to support Staff’s proposed
amendments to the Comprehensive Plan; we respectfully ask for your approval.