HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC - Commission Recommendation and Staff Report
City of Meridian | Department Report I. Project Overview
HEARING
DATE:
12/3/2024
TO: Mayor & City Council
FROM: Linda Ritter, Associate Planner
208-884-5533
lritter@meridiancity.org
APPLICANT: Ella Passey, The Land Group
SUBJECT: H-2024-0016
Baratza Subdivision – AZ, PP
LOCATION: Located at the southeast corner of N.
Black Cat Road and W. McMillian Road
in the North ½ of the NE ¼ of Section
34, Township 4N., Range 1W. Parcels:
S0434212920, S0434212922,
S0434212957, S0434212965,
S0434212971, S0434212975,
S0434212976, S0434223150,
S0434212923 and S0434212917
I. PROJECT OVERVIEW
A. Summary
The applicant is proposing to annex, zone and preliminary plat 80.3 acres of land to R-8
and R-15 zoning districts with 377 lots (347 residential, 29 common and 1 right-of-way)
on land that is currently zoned RUT.
B. Issues/Waivers
• Applicant is requesting a waiver for block length on six (6) street segments that exceed
the maximum 750-foot block length requirement.
• School District states the elementary and high school are over capacity. Pleasant View
Elementary School has no room to put another portable or space to create another
classroom within the existing building, the children in the area will need to be bused to
another school that does not have the capacity.
• Increase in traffic for this area with no immediate roadway improvements listed in
ACHD’s CIP or IFYWP until 2029 or later.
C. Recommendation
Staff: Staff recommends approval of the requested annexation, zoning and preliminary plat with
the conditions noted in Section IV. per the Findings in Section V.
D. Decision
Select: Pending.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT REPORT
City of Meridian | Department Report II. Community Metrics
II. COMMUNITY METRICS
Table 1: Land Use
Description Details Map Ref.
Existing Land Use(s) Agriculture -
Proposed Land Use(s) Single-Family Residential -
Existing/Proposed Zoning RUT VII.A.2
Future Land Use Designation Medium Density Residential VII.A.3
Table 2: Process Facts
Description Details
Preapplication Meeting date Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Neighborhood Meeting 4/30/2024
Site posting date 9/22/2024
Table 3: Community Metrics
Agency / Element Description / Issue Reference
Ada County Highway District IV.H
• Comments Received Yes, Staff Report -
• Commission Action Required No -
• Access W. McMillan, N. Grand Lake Way, N. Black Cat Road and
W. Quintale Street
-
• Traffic Level of Service Better than “E” -
ITD Comments Received Yes/Letter IV.I
Meridian Fire Distance to Station:1; Response Time: 5 minutes IV.C
Meridian Public Works Wastewater Distance to Mainline: Available at the site0; Impacts or
Concerns: See Public Works Specific conditions
IV.B
Meridian Public Works Water Distance to Mainline: Available at the site; Impacts or
Concerns: See Public Works specific conditions
IV.B
School District(s) West Ada School District IV.G
• Capacity of Schools Pleasant View Elementary: 625
Star Middle School: 1,000
Owyhee High School: 1,800
-
• Number of Students Enrolled Pleasant View Elementary: 735
Star Middle School: 996
Owyhee High School: 1,904
-
See City/Agency Comments and Conditions Section and public record for all department/agency
comments received.
City of Meridian | Department Report II. Community Metrics
Figure 1: One-Mile Radius Existing Condition Metrics
Notes: See Additional Notes & Details for Staff Report Maps, Tables, and Charts
1,759
2,229
Parcel Count
1,351.
1
605
Parcel Acreage
City Limits
Not City
31%
Infill Indicator:
Surrounding Area
Not City
- 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000
Population
Households
Household & Population Growth
2020
Growth
41.6%
Household Change
Population Change: 28.5%
(Household and Population Change
since 2010 Decennial)
Reference Parcel: S0434212917 Date Retrieved: 2024 / 10 / 25
97%
3%
Residential Addresses
94%
3%
3%
All Addresses
Single-family
Multi-family
Use Types
Commercial
0 500 1000 1500
Approved
Pending
Proposed
Preliminary Plats (last 5-years)
0 200 400 600
Approved
Pending
Proposed
Conditional Use Permit (last 5-years)
Single-family Multi-family
City of Meridian | Department Report II. Community Metrics
Notes: See Additional Notes & Details for Staff Report Maps, Tables, and Charts
Figure 2: ACHD Summary Metrics
Notes: See Additional Notes & Details for Staff Report Maps, Tables, and Charts 0.
City of Meridian | Department Report II. Community Metrics
Figure 3: Service Impact Summary
Notes: See Additional Notes & Details for Staff Report Maps, Tables, and Charts.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
III. STAFF ANALYSIS
Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code (UDC)
A. General Overview
This property is designated Medium Density Residential on the City’s Future Land Use Map
(FLUM) contained in the Comprehensive Plan. This designation allows for dwelling units at
gross densities of three to eight dwelling units per acre. Density bonuses may be considered with
the provision of additional public amenities such as a park, school, or land dedicated for public
services.
The proposed land use of single-family residential is consistent with the recommended uses in the
FLUM designation. The proposed project has a gross density of 4.32 du/ac, meeting the required
density range listed above. Therefore, Staff finds the proposed preliminary plat and requested R-8
and R-15 zoning district to be generally consistent with the Future Land Use Map designation of
Medium Density Residential.
The City may require a development agreement (DA) in conjunction with an annexation pursuant
to Idaho Code section 67-6511A. In order to ensure the site develops as proposed with this
application, staff recommends a DA as a provision of annexation with the provisions included in
Section IV. The DA is required to be signed by the property owner(s)/developer and returned to
the City within 6 months of the Council granting the annexation for approval by City Council and
subsequent recordation.
The R-15 zoning designation, which allows for reduced lot sizes down to 2,000 square feet,
provides flexibility for developers to support a diversity and variety of housing types. This can
create a dynamic, multi-generational community where residents can transition through different
stages of life (known as aging in place) while remaining in the same neighborhood.
This type of zoning in conjunction with other designations should be used to support a diverse
housing mix that supports long-term residency and continuity within the community, promoting
stability and a sense of place for residents throughout different stages of life.
Staff recommends that the applicant provide a mix of dwelling type such as single family
attached or townhomes within Block 5 (lots 2-15), Block 12 (lots 1-12), and Block 13 (lots 1-12)
of the proposed development as allowed by the Comprehensive Plan within the R-15 zoning
district.
Table 4: Project Overview
Description Details
History AZ, PP (H-2021-0074)
Phasing Plan Phases: 5
Residential Units 347
Open Space 19.3 acres of qualified Open Space (24%)
Amenities Required: 16/ Proposed:
Physical Features Lemp and Creason Lateral run along the western property line, Lemp
Lateral also runs along the northern property line.
Acreage 80.3
Lots Building Lots: 347/ Common Lots: 29
Density Gross: 4.32/Net: 5.65
B. History and Process
AZ, PP - H-2021-0074
Baratza, formerly known as Jamestown Ranch, requested to annex into the City and subdivide eighty
(80) acres of land with R-8 zoning into 294 building lots and 25 common lots. The proposed
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
development was denied by the City Council on April 19, 2022. Council stated the reason for denial
was that the proposed annexation is not in the best interest of the City and would be detrimental to the
community for the following reasons:
• The proposed development would generate additional traffic on W. McMillan Road and N. Black
Cat Road.
• W. McMillan Road, from N. Black Cat Road to N. Ten Mile, will not be widened to three (3)
lanes until 2031 at the earliest.
• N. Black Cat Road, from W. Ustick Road to W. McMillian Road, will not be widened to five (5)
lanes until 2031 at the earliest.
Comments submitted by Ada County Highway District (ACHD) in 2021 and 2024 showing the
following:
Recent comments from ACHD staff show the following traffic counts:
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
Per the ACHD staff report, McMillan Road west of Ten Mile Road is anticipated to exceed ACHD’s
acceptable Level of Service Planning Thresholds in the PM peak hour as a 3-lane roadway under
2025 total conditions but meets ACHD’s acceptable Level of Service Planning Thresholds in the
shoulder hour under 2025 total conditions.
Shoulder hour is defined by ACHD as one hour before and one hour after the peak hours during
which traffic is rising toward or decreasing from peak, and congested conditions are infrequently
occurring.
McMillan Road, west of Ten Mile is facing a significant challenge in handling the traffic demand. The
Master Street Map limits the road to three lanes, but the projected level of service (LOS) for the area is
expected to degrade to an "F" due to the proposed and entitled developments. A LOS of "F" indicates
heavy congestion, with traffic moving very slowly or stopping frequently.
While mitigation measures are in place, they may not be sufficient to significantly improve traffic flow,
as the road cannot be widened to accommodate the additional volume.
A traffic impact study (TIS) was prepared by CR Engineering, Inc. in 2021. A new TIS was not required
as the increase in the number lots for Baratza Subdivision was considered minimal.
Staff is requiring the plat be revised to ensure adequate right-of-way (100 feet in total) for the future
expansion of W. McMillan Road is preserved per the direction of the City Council.
C. Site Development and Use Analysis
1. Existing Structures/Site Improvements (UDC 11-1):
The current use of the property is agricultural with two (2) residential properties existing
adjacent to W McMillan Rd.
• The 4375 W McMillan Rd property consists of one home, three outbuildings, one silo,
and two grain storage bins.
• The 4023 W McMillan Rd property consists of one home and one outbuilding.
All structures at both 4023 and 4375 will be removed and existing wells and septic systems
will be abandoned as required.
Based on the proposed development, ACHD is requiring the applicant to do the following
improvements to N. Black Cat Road and W. McMillan Road:
• Dedicate fifty (50) feet of right-of-way (ROW) from the centerline of N. Black Cat Road
abutting the site
• Improve McMillan Road with seventeen (17) feet of pavement and a three (3) foot gravel
shoulder, a twelve (12) foot wide gravel irrigation access road, as proposed and a ten
(10) foot wide multi-use pathway abutting the site and tie into the existing improvements
east of the site.
• Construct a dedicated westbound left-turn lane on McMillan Road when Grand Lake
Way is constructed to intersect with McMillan Road. Dedicate ROW as necessary to
accommodate the left turn lane.
• Improve Black Cat Road with seventeen (17) feet of pavement from centerline, a three (3)
foot wide gravel shoulder and a five (5) foot wide concrete sideway, as proposed, located
a minimum of forty-seven (47) feet from centerline abutting the site and tie into the
existing improvements south of the site.
• Other than specifically approved with this application, direct lot access is prohibited to
McMillan Road, Black Cat Road and Grand Lake Way and should be noted on the final
plat.
The Master Street Map identified a new multi-lane roundabout at the intersection of N.
Black Cat Road and W. McMillan Road that is offset to the north. The construction of this
roundabout has been delayed until 2029.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
Therefore, there are no scheduled immediate improvements to the roadways in this area.
2. Proposed Use Analysis (UDC 11-2):
The applicant is proposing single-family detached dwellings which are listed as a principal
permitted use in the R-8 and R-15 zoning districts in UDC Table 11-2A-2. The future land use
map identifies this area as medium density. This designation allows for dwelling units at
gross densities of three (3) to eight (8) dwelling units per acre.
Per UDC 11-2A-7, R-15 is considered Medium High Density. Per the Meridian
Comprehensive Plan, this designation allows for a mix of dwelling types including
townhouses, condominiums, and apartments. Residential gross densities should range from
eight to twelve dwelling units per acre. These areas are relatively compact within the context
of larger neighborhoods and are typically located around or near mixed use commercial or
employment areas to provide convenient access to services and jobs for residents.
Developments need to incorporate high-quality architectural design and materials and
thoughtful site design to ensure quality of place and should also incorporate connectivity with
adjacent uses and area pathways, attractive landscaping and a project identity.
Staff recommends that the applicant provide a mix of dwelling type such as single family
attached or townhomes within Block 5 (lots 2-15), Block 12 (lots 1-12), and Block 13 (lots 1-
12) of the proposed development as allowed by the Comprehensive Plan within the R-15
zoning district.
3. Dimensional Standards (UDC 11-2):
The preliminary plat and future development are required to comply with the dimensional
standards listed in UDC Table 11-2A-6 for the R-8 and R-15 zoning districts. All proposed
lots and public streets appear to meet UDC dimensional standards per the submitted
preliminary plat. This includes minimum lot sizes of 2,000 - 4,000 sq. ft., and required street
frontages of at least forty (40) feet. The subdivision is proposed to develop in five (5) phases
as depicted in Exhibit VII D, Figure 3. The first phase will include all perimeter, arterial
roadway frontages with multi-use pathways, the N Grand Lake Way collector, four (4) public
street connections, and the primary common area amenity lot. Development of the
subdivision is required to comply with the subdivision design and improvement standards
listed in UDC 11-6C-3.
Seven (7) common driveways are proposed with this subdivision. The applicant has provided
common drive exhibits which demonstrate no more than three (3) units are served whereas a
maximum of 4 units are allowed. The common driveway meets the minimum width of twenty
(20) feet and does not exceed the maximum length of one hundred and fifty (150) feet. Solid
fencing adjacent to common driveways is prohibited, unless separated by a minimum five (5)
foot wide landscaped buffer.
D. Design Standards Analysis
The proposed plat and subsequent development are required to comply with the dimensional
standards listed in UDC Table 11-2A-6 and 11-2A-7 for the R-8 and R-15 zoning districts. The
proposed lots comply with the dimensional standards of the above-mentioned districts.
1. Existing structure:
The current use of the property is agricultural with two (2) residential properties existing
adjacent to W McMillan Road. The 4375 W. McMillan Road property consists of one home,
three outbuildings, one silo, and two grain storage bins. The 4023 W. McMillan Rd property
consists of one home and one outbuilding. All structures at both 4023 and 4375 will be
removed and existing wells and septic systems will be abandoned as required.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
2. Qualified Open Space & Amenities (Comp Plan 2.02.00, Comp Plan 2.02.01B, UDC 11-3G):
Based on the standards in UDC Table 11-3G-3, a minimum of 15% (or 12.05-acres) of
qualified open space is required to be provided within the development. An open space
exhibit was submitted as shown in Section VII.F, that depicts 23.76% (or 19.08-acres) of
open space that meets the required quality and qualified open space standards. Based on the
standards in UDC 11-3G-4A, a minimum of sixteen (16) amenity points are required to be
provided. The amenities proposed are a barn style, open air gathering space with restrooms;
open grassy play areas; natural play areas; picnic areas; open space commons shelter;
playground; sports field; pedestrian and bicycle circulation; large pond water feature; and
meandering pathways are planned within the centralized amenity area. All common open
space areas are required to be landscaped with one deciduous shade tree for every 5,000
square feet of area and include a variety of trees, shrubs, lawn or other vegetative
groundcover per UDC 11-3G-5B.3.
The applicant needs work with the irrigation district and enter into a license agreement to
provide some type of landscaping other than gravel in the open space area on the southern
part of the property. The applicant will need to revise the landscape plan accordingly with
the understanding that trees will not be allowed in the area but grass and shrubs may be
allowed to be negotiated within the agreement if maintained by the homeowner’s association.
3. Landscaping (UDC 11-3B):
i. Landscape buffers along streets
UDC 11-2A-6 requires a twenty-five (25) foot wide buffer along arterial roads (N. Black
Cat Road and W. McMillian Road) and twenty (20) foot wide buffers required along
collector roads (N. Grand Lakes Way). The landscape plan reflects a buffer from N.
Black Cat Road edge of pavement ranging in width from between seventy (70) feet from
the south to ninety-seven (97) feet in width at the north. The Creason Lateral and the
Lemp Lateral as well as a maintenance road are both located within this buffer. Along W.
McMillian Road to the north, there is a buffer shown with a width of one hundred and
one (101) feet from the edge of pavement. The Creason Lateral is also located in this
buffer; there are landscape strips of at least twenty-five (25) feet in width between this
lateral and the exterior property fences. Both arterial buffers meet the minimum
requirement for at least one tree per thirty-five (35) feet in width; the areas containing
laterals are shown to be sod. Buffers of at least thirty (30) feet in width are provided
along N. Grand Lakes Way (twenty (20) feet is required). Eight (8) foot wide landscaped
parkways are provided along most of the internal local streets. All required buffers must
comply with UDC 11-3B-7C.
The applicant is proposing no mow grass within the landscape buffer along McMillan
Road and Black Cat Road. Staff is requiring the applicant to change this to regular sod
as from past experience, once the area has been transferred to the homeowner’s
association this area will be mowed as the perception will be it looks and feels
unmaintained.
ii. Parking lot landscaping
Per UDC 11-3B-8, the applicant shall provide perimeter and internal parking lot
landscaping to soften and mitigate the visual and heat island effect of a large expanse of
asphalt in parking lots, and to improve the safety and comfort of pedestrians. A five (5)
foot wide minimum landscape buffer adjacent to parking, loading, or other paved
vehicular use areas.
The applicant is proposing parking lot landscaping for the parking lot adjacent to the
club house.
iii. Tree preservation
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
Per UDC 11-3B-10, the applicant shall preserve existing trees four-inch caliper or greater
from destruction during the development.
The applicant is states there are four (4) trees for removal and will replaced with thirty-
one (31) trees equaling the same caliper as those removed.
iv. Storm integration
An adequate storm drainage system is required in all developments in accord with the
City’s adopted standards, specifications and ordinances. Design and construction shall
follow best management practice as adopted by the City as set forth in UDC 11-3A-18.
v. Pathway landscaping
Landscaping for pathways shall meet the requirements outlined in UDC 11-3B-12.
Staff finds the landscape plan shows the applicant meets the requirements of UDC 11-3B-
12 for pathway landscaping.
4. Parking (UDC 11-3C):
Off-street parking is required to be provided for each home based on the total number of
bedrooms per unit as set forth in UDC Table 11-3C-6. On-street parking is also available on
the proposed streets.
i. Residential parking analysis
The proposal will be required to meet the standards for parking as set forth in UDC 11-
3C-6.
5. Building Elevations (Comp Plan 2.01.01C, Architectural Standards Manual):
Five (5) conceptual building elevations were submitted for the proposed subdivision as
shown in Section VII.J. The applicant states the housing products throughout the
development are single-family detached units featuring a variety of regionally appropriate
designs. Per the applicant, the project site’s unique history of agriculture is captured within
the site design and building design. The homes are planned as one- and two-story, single-
family detached homes. The homes will be designed in a traditional modern farm and ranch
theme and will be constructed using a variety of high-quality materials.
Buildings shall be designed with elevations that create interest through the use of broken
planes, windows, and fenestrations that produce a rhythm of materials and patterns. Design
review is not required for single-family detached structures. However, because the rear
and/or sides of homes facing N. Black Cat Road, W. McMillan Road, N. Grand Lake Way, W.
Quintale Street, N. Bartok Avenue, and W. Viso Street will be highly visible, Staff
recommends a DA provision requiring those elevations incorporate articulation through
changes in two or more of the following: modulation (e.g. projections, recesses, step-backs,
pop-outs), bays, banding, porches, balconies, material types, or other integrated
architectural elements to break up monotonous wall planes and roof lines that are visible
from adjacent public streets. Single-story homes are exempt from this requirement.
Design review is required for single-family attached and townhomes. Design review will
have to meet the requirements outlined in the City’s Architectural Standards Manual.
6. Fencing (UDC 11-3A-6, 11-3A-7):
All fencing is required to comply with the standards listed in UDC 11-3A-7.
The fencing plan shows a six (6) foot tall open vision wrought iron fence along the common
open space areas and six (6) foot tall solid vinyl privacy fencing along the northern and
southern boundaries of the site.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
7. Parkways (Comp Plan 3.07.01C, UDC 11-3A-17):
Per Comp Plan policy 3.07.01C appropriate landscaping, buffers, and noise mitigation with
new development along transportation corridors (setback, vegetation, low walls, berms, etc.)
is required.
Per the UDC the minimum width of parkways planted with Class II trees shall be eight (8)
feet. The width can be measured from the back of curb where there is no likely expansion of
the street section within the right-of-way; the parkway width shall exclude the width of the
sidewalk. Class II trees are the preferred parkway trees.
The applicant is proposing parkways along the internal roadways of the subdivision.
E. Transportation Analysis
1. Access (Comp Plan 6.01.02B, UDC 11-3A-3, UDC 11-3H-4):
W. McMillian Road along the property frontage is two (2) lanes with no curb, gutter or
sidewalk. N. Black Cat Road is 2 lanes with a five (5) foot detached pathway on the western
side (Oak Creek Subdivision).
This development proposes five points of access. The primary access will be a collector street
off W. McMillian Road (N. Grand Lakes Way) towards the northeast side of the property
through the property and connecting into Quartet Northeast No. 2 at the southeast corner of
the property. The other three accesses would be local streets - one is a western access to N.
Black Cat Road which aligns to W. Quintale Street, an eastern access which connects to W.
Viso Street from the Volterra Heights Subdivision, and an additional southern access which
connects to N. Bartok Avenue, also in the Quartet Northeast No. 2.
Per the ACHD staff report, due to high water table in this area, permeable pavers may be
necessary internal to the site to accommodate high ground water. Permeable pavers are
allowed, provided they are designed in accordance with ACHD policy and best management
practices.
2. Multiuse Pathways (UDC 11-3A-5):
Multiuse pathways shall be constructed in accord with the city's comprehensive plan, the
Meridian Pathways Master Plan, the Ada County Highway District Master Street Map and
Roadways to Bikeways Master Plan. A ten (10) foot wide detached pathway is reflected along
W. McMillian Road which is consistent with the alignment shown on the Pathways Master
Plan. There is a ten (10) foot wide detached sidewalk along both sides of N. Grand Lakes
Way (the internal collector) which connects to the W. McMillian Road pathway. Several
micro-pathways are reflected providing connectivity to internal portions of the development.
As mentioned in the Comprehensive Plan analysis above, to improve more direct pedestrian
connectivity, staff is recommending additional micro-pathway connections.
3. Pathways (Comp Plan 4.04.01A, UDC 11-3A-8):
A 10-foot wide detached pathway is reflected along W. McMillian Rd. which is consistent
with the alignment shown on the Pathways Master Plan. There is also a 10-foot wide
detached pathway along one side of N. Grand Lakes Way (the internal collector) which
connects to the W. McMillian Road pathway. Several micro-pathways are reflected providing
connectivity to internal portions of the development.
4. Sidewalks (UDC 11-3A-17):
Five-foot detached sidewalks are proposed along internal streets in accord with the
standards listed in UDC 11-3A-17 (except for a 10 ft. wide pathway along one side of N.
Grand Lakes Way). There is also a 5 ft. wide detached sidewalk provided along N. Black Cat
Road This 5-foot width is consistent with the width of the sidewalk along N. Black Cat Road
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
provided by Quartet Northeast No. 2 to the south as well as the Daphne Square Subdivision
to the north.
5. Subdivision Regulations (UDC 11-6):
i. Dead end streets
No streets or series of streets that ends in a cul-de-sac or a dead end shall be longer than
five hundred (500) feet except as allowed in subsection (b) of this section. The City
Council may approve a dead-end street up to seven hundred fifty (750) feet in length
where an emergency access is proposed; or where there is a physical barrier such as a
steep slope, railroad tracks, an arterial roadway, or a large waterway that prevents or
makes impractical extension; and where a pedestrian connection is provided from the
street to an adjacent existing or planned pedestrian facility. Cul-de-sac streets may serve a
maximum of thirty (30) dwelling units.
The applicant is proposing two (2) dead-end streets that do not exceed the maximum five
hundred (500) feet in length.
ii. Common driveways
Per UDC 11-6C-3D, common driveways shall serve a maximum of four (4) dwelling
units. In no case shall more than three (3) dwelling units be located on one (1) side of the
driveway.
The applicant is proposing seven (7) common driveways that meet the dimensional
requirements as outlined in the UDC.
iii. Block face
UDC 11-6C-3- regulates block lengths for residential subdivisions. Staff has reviewed the
submitted plat for conformance with these regulations. The intent of this section of code
is to ensure block lengths do not exceed 750 ft, although there is the allowance of an
increase in block length to 1,000 feet if a pedestrian connection is provided. In no case
shall a block face exceed one thousand two hundred (1,200) feet, unless waived by the
City Council.
The applicant is requesting a waiver from Council for six (6) streets that exceed the 750
ft block length.
The following streets exceed the maximum block length:
• Street I, Block 3 (776’): Added a mid-block pedestrian pathway with bulb out to the
park area (Block 4), increasing the allowable block face to 1,000’.
• Street I, Block 1 (776’): Requesting a waiver of dimensional standards as we are
26’ above the maximum block length. We have increased pedestrian connectivity
and traffic calming along this segment by adding a mid-block bulb out and
pedestrian crossing to connect with the pathway created for Street I, Block 3.
• Street M, Block 14 (778’): Requesting a waiver of dimensional standards as we
are 28’ above the maximum block length. We have four pedestrian crossings
at intersections and two traffic calming elements along this segment to improve
the flow of pedestrian and car traffic.
• Quintale St, Block 3 (776): Added a mid-block pedestrian pathway with bulb out
to the park area, increasing the allowable block face to 1,000’.
• Quintale St, Block 4 (776): Added a mid-block pedestrian pathway with bulb out
to the park area, increasing the allowable block face to 1,000’.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
• Street F, Block 4 (776): Added two pedestrian pathway connections and
four pedestrian crossings to this segment, increasing the allowable block face to
1,000’.
F. Services Analysis
1. Waterways (Comp Plan 4.05.01D, UDC 11-3A-6):
All irrigation ditches crossing this site shall be piped or otherwise covered as set forth in
UDC 11-3A-6B.3. Per the applicant’s narrative, the Lemp Canal adjacent to W. McMillan
Road will be piped and an easement (what size easement) granted. All work on the Lemp
Canal has been coordinated with the Settlers Irrigation District (how big is the easement).
Required irrigation district easements will be granted within a common lot. Irrigation district
easements exist for the Lemp Canal and the Creason Lateral adjacent to N. Black Cat Road.
These easements exist within a common lot. Maintenance roads are indicated along both
laterals. Coordination will be ongoing with the irrigation districts managing the waterways
to meet their requirements.
2. Pressurized Irrigation (UDC 11-3A-15):
Underground pressurized irrigation water is required to be provided to each lot
within the subdivision as set forth in UDC 11-3A-15. The Applicant’s narrative states
the pressurized irrigation system for this development will be privately owned and
operated by the HOA. The system will utilize a pond as a reservoir with surface water
delivery from Settlers Irrigation District. The secondary source for landscape
irrigation will be a potable connection with the City of Meridian municipal water
system.
3. Storm Drainage (UDC 11-3A-18):
An adequate storm drainage system is required in all developments in accord with the
City’s adopted standards, specifications and ordinances. Design and construction
shall follow best management practice as adopted by the City as set forth in UDC 11-
3A-18. A Geotechnical Evaluation and geotechnical groundwater monitoring report
was submitted with this application.
4. Utilities (Comp Plan 3.03.03G, UDC 11-3A-21):
Connection to City water and sewer services is required in accord with UDC 11-3A-
21. Existing water services are directly adjacent to the project in W. McMillan Road
to the north, N. Black Cat Road to the West, stub streets to the south and W. Viso
Street to the east. Existing sewer services are directly adjacent to the project in N.
Black Cat Road to the west and in W. Viso Street to the east. The utilities proposed
for this project are consistent with the City of Meridian Water Master Plan,
Wastewater Master Plan and Facilities Plan.
City of Meridian | Department Report IV. City/Agency Comments & Conditions
IV. CITY/AGENCY COMMENTS & CONDITIONS
A. Meridian Planning Division
1. A Development Agreement (DA) is required as a provision of annexation of this property.
Prior to approval of the annexation ordinance, a DA shall be entered into between the City of
Meridian, the property owner(s) at the time of annexation ordinance adoption, and the
developer. A final plat will not be accepted until the Annexation ordinance and
development agreement are approved by City Council.
Currently, a fee of $303.00 shall be paid by the Applicant to the Planning Division prior to
commencement of the DA. The DA shall be signed by the property owner and returned to the
Planning Division within six (6) months of the City Council granting the annexation. The DA
shall, at minimum, incorporate the following provisions:
a. Future development of this site shall be generally consistent with the
preliminary plat, landscape plan, phasing plan, and conceptual building
elevations for the single-family dwellings included in Section IV and the
provisions contained herein.
b. The rear and/or sides of 2-story structures that face N. Black Cat Road., W.
McMillian Road and N. Grand Lakes Way shall incorporate articulation
through changes in two or more of the following: modulation (e.g. projections,
recesses, step-backs, pop-outs), bays, banding, porches, balconies, material
types, or other integrated architectural elements to break up monotonous wall
planes and roof lines. Single-story structures are exempt from this requirement.
2. Provide a mix of dwelling type such as single family attached or townhomes within Block 5
(lots 2-15), Block 12 (lots 1-12), and Block 13 (lots 1-12) of the proposed development as
allowed by the Comprehensive Plan within the R-15 zoning district.
3. The Preliminary Plat included in Section VII, dated 5/17/24, is approved with the following
revisions:
a. All utility easements reflected on the utility plan shall be included on the final plat.
b. All pathways and micropathways shall be within a separate common lot or easement as
required per UDC 11-3A-8.
c. Direct lot access to N. Black Cat and McMillan Roads is prohibited.
d. The plat shall be revised to ensure adequate right-of-way (100 feet in total) for the future
expansion of W. McMillan Road be preserved.
4. The Landscape Plan included in Section VII, dated 8/22/24, shall be submitted for review and
approval with the following revisions prior to final plat approval:
a. Work with the Irrigation District to enter an agreement to provide some type of
landscaping other than gravel in the common open space area on the southern part of the
property. The applicant will need to revise the landscape plan accordingly with the
understanding that trees will not be allowed in the area but grass and shrubs may be
allowed to be add if negotiated within an agreement with the Irrigation District.
b. Remove the no mow grass and add regular turf along Black Cat Road and McMillan
Road.
c. Add grass in the barrow ditch area along Black Cat Road.
City of Meridian | Department Report IV. City/Agency Comments & Conditions
5. Prior to signature on the final plat by the City Engineer, the applicant shall submit a public
access easement for the multi-use pathway along W. McMillian Road and N. Grand Lakes
Way to the Planning Division for approval by City Council and subsequent recordation or
unless required by ACHD.
6. The applicant shall construct all proposed fencing and/or any fencing required by the UDC,
consistent with the standards as set forth in UDC 11-3A-7 and 11-3A-6B, as applicable.
7. The development shall comply with standards and installation for landscaping as set forth in
UDC 11-3B-5 and maintenance thereof as set forth in UDC 11-3B-13.
8. The ditches to the west, south and north shall comply with the provisions for irrigation
ditches, laterals, canals and/or drainage courses, as set forth in UDC 11-3A-6.
9. Pathway and adjoining fencings and landscaping shall be constructed consistent with the
standards as set forth in UDC 11-3A-7A7, 11-3A-8 and 11-3B-12C.
10. The development shall comply with all subdivision design and improvement standards as set
forth in UDC 11-6C-3, including but not limited to driveways, easements, blocks, street
buffers, and mailbox placement.
11. Off-street parking is required to be provided in accord with the standards listed in UDC Table
11-3C-6 for single-family detached dwellings based on the number of bedrooms per unit.
12. All common driveways shall meet the requirements of 11-6C-2-D including a perpetual
ingress/egress easement being filed with the Ada County Recorder, which shall include a
requirement for maintenance of a paved surface capable of supporting fire vehicles and
equipment.
13. A Certificate of Zoning Compliance and Design Review application shall be submitted and
approved for the proposed gathering barn and pool area prior to submittal of a building permit
application. The design of the site and structures shall comply with the standards listed in
UDC 11-3A-19; the design standards listed in the Architectural Standards Manual.
14. A Design Review application shall be submitted and approved for the single-family attached
and townhomes. The design of the structures shall comply with the standards listed in the
Architectural Standards Manual.
15. The Applicant shall have a maximum of two (2) years to obtain City Engineer’s signature on
a final plat in accord with UDC 11-6B-7.
16. The Applicant shall comply with all conditions of ACHD.
17. Staff’s failure to cite all relevant UDC requirements does not relieve the applicant from
compliance.
B. Meridian Public Works
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/browse.aspx?id=362279&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
C. Meridian Fire Department
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/browse.aspx?id=362279&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
City of Meridian | Department Report V. Findings
D. Meridian Park’s Department
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/browse.aspx?id=362279&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
E. Irrigation Districts
1. Settler’s Irrigation District
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/browse.aspx?id=362279&dbid=0&repo=Meridia
nCity
F. Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/browse.aspx?id=362279&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
G. West Ada School District (WASD) or Other District/School
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/browse.aspx?id=362279&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
H. Ada County Highway District (ACHD)
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/browse.aspx?id=362279&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
I. Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/browse.aspx?id=362279&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
V. FINDINGS
A. Annexation and/or Rezone (UDC 11-5B-3E)
Upon recommendation from the commission, the council shall make a full investigation and shall,
at the public hearing, review the application. In order to grant an annexation and/or rezone, the
council shall make the following findings:
1. The map amendment complies with the applicable provisions of the comprehensive plan;
Commission finds annexation of the subject site with an R-8 and R-15 zoning designation is
generally consistent with the Comprehensive Plan MDR FLUM designation for this property,
if the Applicant complies with the provisions in Section IV.
2. The map amendment complies with the regulations outlined for the proposed district,
specifically the purpose statement;
Commission finds the lot sizes and layout proposed are not consistent with the purpose
statement of the residential districts in that housing opportunities will be provided consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan.
3. The map amendment shall not be materially detrimental to the public health, safety, and
welfare;
N/A
City of Meridian | Department Report VI. Action
4. The map amendment shall not result in an adverse impact upon the delivery of services by
any political subdivision providing public services within the city including, but not limited
to, school districts; and
The school district states the proposed development would result in elementary students
being bussed to Star or East Meridian area schools due to possible enrollment caps. Portable
classrooms may be placed on the property at the Middle or High School. The option of
adding a portable is not applicable at Pleasant View Elementary due to space constraints.
5. The annexation (as applicable) is in the best interest of city.
Commission finds the proposed annexation is not in the best interest of the City if the
property is developed in accord with the provisions in Section IV.
B. Preliminary Plat (UDC-6B-6)
In consideration of a preliminary plat, combined preliminary and final plat, or short plat, the
decision-making body shall make the following findings:
1. The plat is in conformance with the comprehensive plan and is consistent with this unified
development code;
Commission finds the proposed plat is generally in conformance with the UDC if the
Applicant complies with the conditions of approval in Section IV.
2. Public services are available or can be made available ad are adequate to accommodate the
proposed development;
Commission finds public services can be made available to the subject property and will be
adequate to accommodate the proposed development.
3. The plat is in conformance with scheduled public improvements in accord with the city's
capital improvement program;
Commission finds the proposed plat is in substantial conformance with scheduled public
improvements in accord with the City’s Capital Improvement Program.
4. There is public financial capability of supporting services for the proposed development;
Commission finds there is public financial capability of supporting services for the proposed
development.
5. The development will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or general welfare; and
Commission finds the proposed development will not be detrimental to the public health,
safety or general welfare.
6. The development preserves significant natural, scenic or historic features.
There are several laterals along the property that will be piped, but are not natural features.
According to the landscape plan, there are five (5) trees that require mitigation. The
applicant is proposing to provide a total of seventeen (17) trees to replace the trees removed.
VI. ACTION
A. Staff:
Staff recommends approval of the requested annexation, zoning and preliminary plat with the
conditions noted in Section IV. per the Findings in Section V.
City of Meridian | Department Report VI. Action
B. Commission:
The Meridian Planning & Zoning Commission heard these items on October 3, 2024. At the
public hearing, the Commission moved to recommend denial of the subject annexation, zoning
and preliminary plat requests.
1. Summary of Commission public hearing:
a. In favor:
b. In opposition: None
c. Commenting: None
d. Written testimony: The City received 12 written comments from the following individuals:
Katey Roundy, Lisa Brittain, Shawn Freeman, Carma Wallace, Carrie Hovey, Cherri Starr,
Danelle and Eric Williams, Nolan Halterman, Ritchie and Meagan Abromeit, Stephanie
Mathis, Brittany and Dave Williams, Matt Calvert, Patti Phipps, Craig Block. All opposing
the proposed development for the following reasons: insufficient roads, over crowed
schools, in conflict with the goals of the comprehensive plan, request for higher density
zoning
e. Staff presenting application: Linda Ritter
f. Other Staff commenting on application: None
2. Key issue(s) of public testimony:
a. Roadway capacity, traffic, school capacity and density
3. Key issue(s) of discussion by Commission:
a. Schools over capacity and busing is not in the best interest of the families, traffic cannot
sustain the existing infrastructure, proposed density is too great for the space
4. Commission change(s) to Staff recommendation:
a. Commission recommended denial of the applications
5. Outstanding issue(s) for City Council:
a. None
C. City Council:
Action Pending.
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
VII. EXHIBITS
A. Project Area Maps
(link to Project Overview)
1. Aerial
2. Zoning Map
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
3. Future Land Use
4. Planned Development Map
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
5. Map Notes
Nearby Recent Preliminary Plats (within last 5-years)
H-2019-0146 H-2020-0004 H-2020-0125 H-2021-0018 H-2021-0080 H-2022-0047 H-2022-0068
CR-2022-0006 H-2022-0074 H-2022-0087 H-2023-0016 H-2023-0026 H-2023-0035
Nearby Recent Conditional Use Permits (within last 5-years)
H-2018-0018 H-2019-0074 H-2020-0032 H-2020-0017 H-2020-0018 H-2020-0101 H-2021-0056
H-2021-0088 H-2018-0088 H-2018-0004 H-2022-0006 H-2022-0025 H-2020-0047
B. Subject Site Photos
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
Black Cat Road
McMillan Road
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
C. Service Accessibility Report
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
D. Preliminary Plat (date: 8/22/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
E. Landscape Plan (date: 8/22/2024)
F. Landscape Buffer Detail (date: 5/17/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
G. Qualified Open Space Exhibit (date: 8/22/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
H. Amenities Exhibit (date: 5/17/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
I. Block Face Exhibit (date: 5/17/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
J. Common Drive (date: 5/17/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
K. Building Elevations (date: 5/20/2024)
Traditional
Farmhouse
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
Farmhouse
Farmhouse
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
Next Generation Farmhouse
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
L. Annexation Legal Description & Exhibit Map (date: 5/2/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
M. Rezone Legal Description & Exhibit Map (date: 4/19/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VIII. Additional Notes & Details for Staff Report
Maps, Tables, and Charts
VIII. ADDITIONAL NOTES & DETAILS FOR STAFF REPORT MAPS, TABLES, AND CHARTS
(link to Community Metrics)
A. One-Mile Radius Existing Condition Notes
This data is automatically derived from enterprise application and GIS databases, and exported
dynamically. Date retrieved notes generally reflect data acquired or processed within the last 30-
days. Analysis is based on a one-mile radius from the centroid of the identified parcel. Parcel
based data excludes certain properties and represents land as it exists now. Properties considered
are only those with a total assessed value greater than 0 (i.e. excludes most HOA area, transitional
development, government, and quasi government facilities). The following values also constrain
included property acreage to reduce outliers and non-conforming instances from distorting
averages: R-2 < 5.0; R-4 < 2.0; R-8 < 1.0; R-15 < 0.5; R-40 < 0.25.
Conditional Use Permits and Preliminary plat data likely include duplicate project submittals as
they may be for the same project, approved at different times through multiple application types .
Consider each independently or review prior application approvals. Some approved entitlements,
and particularly older ones, may be constructed.
Decennial population counts and household counts are based on the most recent Decennial
Census. Current population and current household values are COMPASS estimates, usually for
the year previous, and are based on traffic analysis zone boundaries (TAZ’s).
B. Service Assessment Notes
This data is derived from enterprise application and GIS database, and exported in dynamic
reporting. The system references the most recent available from a variety of sources including
sewer main lines, sewer trunksheds, floodplain, fire service areas and response times, police
crime reporting, pathway information, existing and planned transit, existing and planned roadway
improvements, school proximity, park proximity, and other resources.
The overall score represents the total points scored using weighted criteria (it is not a ranked
order), and the percentile score is relative comparison value of the parcel being considered versus
every other parcel in the City (the higher the better). This tool was developed as a City Council
prioritized outcome of the 2019 Comprehensive Plan.
C. ACHD Roadway Infographic Notes
The Ada County Highway District utilizes a number of planning and analysis tools to understand
existing and future roadway conditions.
• Existing Level of service (LOS). LOS indicator is a common metric to consider a
driver’s experience with a letter ranking from A to F. Letter A represents free flow
conditions, and on the other end Level F represents forced flow with stop and go
conditions. These conditions usually represent peak hour driver experience. ACHD
considers Level D, stable flow, to be acceptable. The LOS does not represent conditions
for bikes or pedestrians, nor indicate whether improvements: are possible; if there are
acceptable tradeoffs; or if there is a reasonable cost-benefit.
• Integrated Five Year Work Plan (IFYWP). The IFYWP marker (yes/no) indicates
whether the specified roadway is listed in the next 5-years. This work may vary, from
concept design to construction.
• Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The CIP marker (yes/no) indicates whether the
specified roadway is programmed for improvement in the next 20-years.