HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-08-12 Regular
City Council Regular Meeting
City Council Chambers, 33 East Broadway Avenue Meridian, Idaho
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Minutes
ROLL CALL ATTENDANCE
PRESENT
Councilman Doug Taylor
Councilman John Overton
Councilwoman Anne Little Roberts
Councilman Brian Whitlock
Councilwoman Liz Strader
Mayor Robert E. Simison
ABSENT
Councilman Luke Cavener
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
COMMUNITY INVOCATION
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
PUBLIC FORUM – Future Meeting Topics
DEPARTMENT / COMMISSION REPORTS \[Action Item\]
1. \[Added to Agenda\] Public Works Fiscal Year 2026 Republic Services Annual Rate
Adjustment for Solid Waste Collection Services
2. \[Added to Agenda\] Public Works Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Billing
Change
3. Modified Final Plat for Southridge South (MFP-2025-0002) to change the fencing
type along the Ridenbaugh Canal from black wrought iron as required by City
Council, to black open vision vinyl-coated chain link with posts installed in sleeves
for easy removal as required by Nampa Meridian Irrigation District (NMID), by The
Land Group, Inc., generally located on the south side of W. Overland Rd.,
approximately 1/4 miles east of S. Ten Mile Rd. Approved
Motion to approve made by Councilwoman Strader, Seconded by Councilman Overton.
Voting Yea: Councilman Taylor, Councilman Overton, Councilwoman Little Roberts,
Councilman Whitlock, Councilwoman Strader
4. Proposed Updates to Meridian City Code Title 8 Regarding Addressing
ACTION ITEMS
5. Public Hearing for In-N-Out Burger (CR-2025-0002) by In-N-Out Burger, located
at 5985 & 6037 N. Ten Mile Rd.
A. Request: Council Review of the Planning and Zoning Commission's decision of
denial on the conditional use permit (H-2024-0058) for a drive-through
establishment within 300 feet of another drive-through facility, existing residences
and a residential district on 2.22 acres of land in the C-G zoning district. Public
Hearing re-noticed for September 9, 2025
6. Public Hearing for Touchmark (H-2025-0012) by The Land Group, generally
located on the south side of E. Franklin Rd. and the north side of I-84, midway
between S. Eagle Rd. and S. Cloverdale Rd.
A. Request: Modified Development Agreement to update the conceptual
development plan for the overall site, which consists of approximately 121.50
acres of land to consolidate the existing agreements (AZ-99-021 Touchmark
(recorded in 2001, Inst. #101048096); April 2001 Addendum (Inst. #
101048097); May 2003 Addendum (Inst. #103137119); AZ-02-018 (Bair
Property AZ-02-018, Inst. #102143308); MI-07-006 (Meadowlake Village
North 3rd Addendum, Inst. #108022885) into one new agreement that
replaces all previous agreements. Continued to September 2, 2025
B. Request: Rezone of 63.34 acres of land from the L-O to the C-C (55.17 acres)
and C-G (8.17 acres) zoning districts.
C. Planned Unit Development Modification (Meadowlake Village CUP-03-005)
to update the concept/use plan and include 4.6 acres of additional land, a
deviation to the maximum building height allowed in the C-C district from
50ft. to 64ft. for the hotel and inclusion of 2 and 3 story townhome dwellings.
Motion to continue to September 2, 2025 made by Councilwoman Strader, Seconded
by Councilman Overton.
Voting Yea: Councilman Taylor, Councilman Overton, Councilwoman Little Roberts,
Councilman Whitlock, Councilwoman Strader
7. Public Hearing for Proposed Fall 2025 Activity Guide Fee Schedule of the
Meridian Parks and Recreation Department
8. Resolution No. 25-2531: A Resolution Adopting the Fall 2025 Activity Guide Fee
Schedule of the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department; Authorizing the
Meridian Parks and Recreation Department to Collect Such Fees; and Providing an
Effective Date
Motion to approve made by Councilman Whitlock, Seconded by Councilwoman Little Roberts.
Voting Yea: Councilman Taylor, Councilman Overton, Councilwoman Little Roberts,
Councilman Whitlock, Councilwoman Strader
9. Public Hearing for UDC Text Amendment (ZOA-2025-0001) by City of Meridian
Planning Division, located citywide. Approved as Amended
Application Materials: https://bit.ly/ZOA-2025-0001
A. Request: UDC Text Amendment to revise certain regulations, add new
definitions, figures, and update specific use standards throughout Chapters
1-5 of the City's Unified Development Code (UDC).
Motion to approve made by Councilwoman Strader, Seconded by Councilman Overton.
Voting Yea: Councilman Taylor, Councilman Overton, Councilwoman Little Roberts,
Councilman Whitlock, Councilwoman Strader
ORDINANCES \[Action Item\]
10. Ordinance No. 25-2095: An Ordinance (Meridian Food Bank H-2024-0065) for
rezone of parcels of land located in the northeast quarter of Block 5 of the West
View Addition to Meridian and also J.M. Anderson’s Second Addition to Meridian,
located in the north half of the southeast quarter of Section 12, Township 3 North,
Range 1 West, Boise Meridian, City Of Meridian, Ada County, Idaho, more
particularly described in exhibit “A,” rezoning 1.72 acres of land from I-L (Light
Industrial) zoning district to the O-T (Old Town) zoning district in the Meridian
City Code; directing city staff to alter all applicable use and area maps as well as
the official zoning maps and all applicable official maps depicting the boundaries
and the zoning districts of the City of Meridian in accordance with this ordinance;
providing that copies of this ordinance shall be filed with the Ada County Assessor,
the Ada County Treasurer, the Ada County Recorder, and the Idaho State Tax
Commission, as required by law; and providing an effective date. Approved
Motion to approve made by Councilman Taylor, Seconded by Councilwoman Little Roberts.
Voting Yea: Councilman Taylor, Councilman Overton, Councilwoman Little Roberts,
Councilman Whitlock, Councilwoman Strader
FUTURE MEETING TOPICS
EXECUTIVE SESSION \[Action Item\]
11. Per Idaho Code 74-206 (1)(c): To acquire an interest in real property not owned
by a public agency.
Motion to enter executive session made by Councilwoman Strader, Seconded by Councilman
Overton.
Voting Yea: Councilman Taylor, Councilman Overton, Councilwoman Little Roberts,
Councilman Whitlock, Councilwoman Strader
Into session: 9:22 PM
Out of session: 9:35 PM
ADJOURNMENT 9:35 PM
Meridian City Council August 12, 2025.
A Meeting of the Meridian City Council was called to order at 6:05 p.m., Tuesday, August
12, 2025, by Mayor Robert Simison.
Members Present: Robert Simison, Liz Strader, John Overton, Doug Taylor, Anne Little
Roberts and Brian Whitlock.
Members Absent: Luke Cavener.
Other Present: Chris Johnson, Bill Nary, Caleb Hood, Bill Parsons, Brian McClure, Garrett
White, Shawn Harper and Dean Willis.
ROLL-CALL ATTENDANCE
X Liz Strader X Brian Whitlock
Anne Little Roberts X John Overton
_X_ Doug Taylor Luke Cavener
X Mayor Robert E. Simison
Simison: Council, we will call the meeting to order. For the record it is August 12th, 2025,
at 6:05 p.m. We will begin tonight's regular City Council meeting with roll call attendance.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Simison: Next item is the Pledge of Allegiance. If you would all, please, rise and join us
in the pledge.
(Pledge of Allegiance recited.)
COMMUNITY INVOCATION
Simison: Okay. We didn't have anyone signed up under the community invocation.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Simison: So, we will move on to adoption of the agenda.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: We do need to amend the agenda as we stated in our last meeting. So, Item
31 and Item 32 from the work session will become the new Items 1 and 2 in this evening's
regular meeting agenda and everything else will just move down.
Overton: Second.
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August 12,2025
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Simison: Have a motion and a second to amend the agenda by adding Items 31 and 32
from the workshop. Is there any discussion? If not all in favor signify by saying aye.
Opposed nay? The ayes have it and the agenda is agreed to as amended.
MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
PUBLIC FORUM — Future Meeting Topics
Simison: Next up is Public Forum. Mr. Clerk, do we anyone signed up under public
forum?
Johnson: Mr. Mayor, we do. Excuse me one moment. First we have Doug Humphrey.
Simison: Good evening. State your name and you will be recognized for three minutes.
Humphrey: Yes. Hi. I'm Doug Humphrey. Thanks for letting me speak tonight. I'm trying
to get this to the right image.
Johnson: Try the arrows on the keyboard.
Humphrey: Okay. Hi. Thank you for letting me speak --
Simpson: If you can speak into one of the mics.
Humphrey: Okay. Resident in the Paramount Subdivision and this is regarding the
Sagarra development at Orchard Park, specifically the Grandview townhomes called the
Duette models, which you have heard discussed before, which we understood to be
limited to three stories, but which we think is clearly turning out to be higher than that.
would like to focus tonight on two questions. One what was approved for this and, two,
are they building what was approved for this? The last meeting I saw Council Member
Strader shared this exhibit, which I guess is projected now and it was also published in
the Idaho Statesman piece last week and I would like to draw your attention to the rooftop.
There is a fairly modest structure on the top that's intended to provide rooftop access
shared between two units. So, it kind of pushes the three story limit, but not too much.
How do I get to the next one here?
Johnson: Arrow on the keyboard.
Humphrey: Thank you. Anyway, that's not what they are building. The structure now is
a lot bigger. That room on the top that was fairly modest in the other image is now a lot
bigger. It runs across nearly the entire width of the roof and covers maybe 20 to 25
percent of the rooftop surface. Now, the developer was quoted in that Statesman article
that it looks like four stories from that angle, but if you go around to the other side it looks
more like three stories, but if you were in a helicopter looking down it would probably look
like one story. So, that doesn't help much. Got to get the next image, please. Anyway,
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August 12,2025
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that's just getting started. This is from the GrandView website. Now there is a pergola -
- a pergola and a pretty big one as you can see. There is an elevator shaft off to the left.
A retaining wall looks to be about three or four feet high running around the perimeter.
Really nice furniture. Big screen TV on the access wall back there -- access wall in air
quotes. So, what's it going to look like when someone decides to put a cover on the
pergola and shades or even enclose the size of it -- enclose the sides of it. This terrace
is an expensive feature and people are going to want to use it, especially on days like
today. It's a nice space. No question. I can see the appeal. But it's not just a terrace.
It's a living space. It doesn't just look like four stories it is four stories and that's not what
I understand was approved. So, this appears to be a case of* give an inch, take a mile
and it bothers us when developers are allowed to play with it. There has got to be some
kind of mechanism for holding builders accountable to do what the public was led to
expect. That's it. Thank you.
Simison: Thank you very much. Appreciate it.
Johnson: Mr. Mayor, next Jeanmarie Ambrose --Ambrosio. I apologize.
Simison: Good evening. State your name and be recognized for three minutes.
Ambrosio: Hi. Good evening. My name is Jeanmarie Ambrosio and the headline of the
recent Idaho Statesman article about Orchard Park described it as controversial and that
is an apt description. The development of Orchard Park has been problematic from the
very beginning. By problematic I refer to the developers submitting applications for
approval, obtaining approval based on those applications and, then, returning repeatedly
to Meridian City Council to request variances in zoning and building size. Right, wrong
or indifferent, the Orchard Park developers reinforced the belief that developers cannot
be trusted and that the city allows developers to build whatever they want. From the get
go it has been Paramount residents that have been the watchful eyes over what is going
on over at Orchard Park. It was Paramount residents who alerted our City Council
representative to the height of the under construction GrandView townhouses, the lacks
building practices that resulted in property damage to Paramount homeowners,
uncontrolled dust, the lack of response to residents' complaints and so on. When a
project has a history as difficult as Orchard Park why isn't the city paying a little more
attention to what's going on over there? Whatever loopholes may exist currently that
allow developers to present one thing in their applications and, then, build whatever they
want, they have got to be closed. The onus is on the city of Meridian to monitor what is
being built and to keep developers in check so we avoid such situations as what we are
dealing with right now with the Sagarra development. It is not the responsibility of the
surrounding communities -- in this case Paramount -- to play this role and if it isn't the
city's responsibility, then, who does it belong to? The residents of Paramount, we are
exhausted by Orchard Park and its developers and, quite frankly, we are fed up. Thank
you.
Simison: Thank you.
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August 12,2025
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Johnson: Mr. Mayor, Shannon McNall.
McNall: Hi. My name is Shannon McNall. Thank you for hearing me. I'm not as well
spoken as everybody who has been talking about Orchard Park, but I'm here about the
dust. I have lived in Paramount for 20 years. We were the second street built in the
neighborhood and I have seen construction through every single phase of the
neighborhood and every single development around us and we have never seen dust like
this at our house and I mean we basically had houses being built behind us and we didn't
see dust like this. I will say that I live three rows of houses in, I don't live right behind it
and we recently remodeled our home and painted. It is now caked in dust. It's ruined.
That's about 10,000 dollars in damage. We have replaced filter after filter after filter,
everything in our house from the remodel -- I'm sure that you guys, if you have remodeled
your home you know how amazing that is to have something new. It no longer feels new
and so what I would like to say is that, please, don't give up and just say -- I know
somebody said that it might be a burden on the city, but right now it's a burden on your
residents, because I am looking at civil suits in order to think about fixing this. I mean the
burden has come to me and it's come to my finances and our quality of life and I would
also like to say I know that in the article that it said that there has to be intent. I think the
second that I have texted a developer and they said we are looking into it or we are
following codes or the day that with the Facebook article -- or not Facebook -- Statesman
article that commented yesterday, if you look at that stream, that just says, well, there is
not going to be dust for very long. Just relax. That show -- and he works -- he said that
he worked for the development. So, that shows you what we are dealing with and the
fact that there is intent to ignore the damage that's being done. So, I hope that you guys
will not give up on us and possibly come up with some stricter enforcements. Thank you
guys.
Simison: Thank you, Shannon. And good luck tomorrow.
Johnson: Mr. Mayor. And Jen Card.
Card: I'm back. All right. Jen Card and I am here to talk about Sagarra and Orchard
Park. I want to give you a little bit more of an idea of what people in that neighborhood
have been through. This is a picture from my back patio. The one on the left was a
common sight. The one on the right shows the berm of dirt that lived behind my house
for over nine months that was halfway up my second story. I hope you hear my sarcasm
when I say it was pleasant to walk out there and see employees, contractors up there on
top of the berm staring at my house. My teenage daughter's bedroom is on that side of
my house. Teenagers thinking that camping out there between there was okay. We asked
them to leave. They don't leave. They started a campfire. So, we end up calling the
police. I mean those are the kinds of things. And every time the wind blew just a little bit.
We didn't just get the snow blowing around we got the dirt. So, that's just a little bit of
what it was like and I finally got a hold of Tony, who is in that article, and -- after it had
been there for nine months on spring break of this year. I said when is it going to go away
and he is like I'm working on it. Luckily I came back from spring break and it was gone.
But they would move the dirt. They would move the dirt to one side to get to something,
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August 12,2025
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they would make it higher, they would cruise over the top with their ginormous equipment
and every time that happened dust came our way. It damaged everything. You will love
this next one. So, on the left-hand side -- this is the back side of my fence. I just paid
over 4,000 dollars to have that fence replaced. You can see heavy equipment moving
dirt on a fence like that that's older and, then, having branches stuck up in there literally
moved my fence. The center picture you can see where it broke off from the four by four
and literally moved back. I was -- well, we will tell that story. And, then, the third picture
is where it's literally leaning on my shed. We have had broken boards where you can see
where my husband just put a piece of wood up over it to hold it together. I have a rescue
dog and I was terrified that if she managed to get out of there I would never get her back.
She came from a kill shelter and that just wasn't okay in my mind. So, I started calling
everybody. Got a hold of Tony and he is like, oh, yep, got it. And, then, the next time I
asked him about it he said, oh, you need to call Taylor Cook. I'm like who is Taylor Cook?
And he said, oh, he is the project manager for GrandView communities. Got a hold of
Taylor. He is like sorry* that happened I will take a look. Ah. Okay. I have a ton more
to say. I will be back and finish it up next week. Thank you.
Simison: Thank you, Jen. I said thank you.
Johnson: Mr. Mayor, I -- Tyrone Quist.
Quist: I am Tyrone Quist and I have lived on the Linder and Chinden area for over 30
years. I have seen the growth in that area my whole life. I remember when it used to all
be farm fields. So, the start of the growth there was the Paramount Subdivision. So,
would say the Paramount Subdivision development itself was the eyesore to begin with
the whole development. But that being said, I agree with the development going on in
this area and I agree that you, the Council, you are making the best decisions that you
can with what you are given, because there are going to be situations no matter what that
are going to be -- someone's going to be mad at this, someone's going to be mad at that,
someone's going to like this, someone's going to like that, so I know that in that situation
that's going on right now that there is going to be both sides. That being said I would like
to know that with that building that's being built were you guys aware of what was actually
happening? Was that actually submitted correctly? I feel like it was and that they
submitted their plans, but is that something you were aware of or are they actually, indeed,
changing stuff along the way? Thank you.
Simison: Thank you.
Johnson: And, Mr. Mayor, I had a -- never mind. Lois Collum.
Collum: Hi. My name is Lois Collum. I actually live at Linder and Meridian, so this is --
McMillan. So, this is actually quite interesting to listen to the Orchard Park situation, but
that's not why I'm here. I am a swim instructor and I have a swimming pool in my backyard
Meridian City Council
August 12,2025
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Johnson: Lois, sorry, this is actually a -- so -- this is what I was going to ask the Mayor
and city attorney about. This is related to the UDC hearing later tonight. So, I will let you
Nary: Mr. Mayor, that is a -- I mean that is a legislative action that can be commented on,
but it might be more relevant when the UDC presentation is, but, again, I don't know if
she could be here, so I guess if she wants to put her information record she can.
Column: I just want to say a positive thank you for looking at changing the code. Thank
you.
Simison: Okay. Thank you.
Johnson: That's everyone signed up.
DEPARTMENT / COMMISSION REPORTS [Action Item]
1. [Added to Agenda] Public Works Fiscal Year 2026 Republic Services
Annual Rate Adjustment for Solid Waste Collection Services
Simison: Okay. Thank you very much. With that we will move on to our Department/
Commission Reports and we will go to Item 1, which was from -- added onto the agenda,
which is Public Works fiscal year 2026 Republic Service annual rate adjustment for solid
waste collection services and turn this over to Mr. Freitag.
Freitag: Mr. Mayor, Members of Council, thank you for your time tonight. While they are
loading that I'm here to talk to you about the FY-26 solid waste fee schedule proposal
from Republic Services. Also need to touch on some billing changes we are going to
recommend for household hazardous waste as well, so -- good news is this is a very
simple discussion tonight. Republic Services is proposing a standard contractual
increase this year. There we go. Of 5.46 percent. This is in alignment with the franchise
agreement. So, just to remind everybody, our franchise agreement allows for an annual
adjustment of 90 percent of the Consumer Price Index each year. This year that
measured out at 6.07 percent, 90 percent of that is 5.46. That's how we arrive at that
number. The table you see there just kind of indicates that trash and recycling services
is what's subject to that. There is other elements that go into the overall solid waste fees.
Disposal is one. We will talk about that in just a minute. Household hazardous waste I
will address at the end. And there is an alternative fuel tax credit that we will talk about
as well. Probably important to note that staff and the Solid Waste Advisory Commission
had the opportunity to go through all this data. We presented this to SWAC at their last
meeting. They had an opportunity to ask questions and they recommended adopting the
proposed fee schedule as it is seen. I know Commissioner Cory is here if you have any
questions that you would like to address to him. Republic Services is also available if you
have got questions for them. So, looking at what this would do for just an average
customer, this table that you see at the bottom is for a standard 95 gallon customer trash
container. So, the 5.46 percent increase on the trash and recycling services equates to
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August 12,2025
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about $1.19; right? So, your current fee you see in column under the FY-25 add a $1.19
to that, that takes you out to 22.94. All right. Disposal is a pass-through cost. That's
determined by the Ada County Landfill; right? And just to give you some background on
that real quickly,Ada county just finished a cost of service study for their landfill operations
and they are in the process of updating all of their fees associated with that right now.
So, the disposal fee, which is what we refer to as the tipping fee up there, is currently 32
dollars a ton. Their cost of service study recommended a three percent increase, takes
it to 33 dollars a ton. The 11 cents you see there is what that equates to for the average
account. All right. The VTEC that you see there is the energy efficiency tax. Republic
Services operates energy efficient vehicles. The federal government gives them a tax
credit for that. They share that rebate with us and that is turned around as a discount on
the customer's bill, so -- the bottom line here really the most important thing it's $1.30
increase overall to an average customer going forward. This slide just gives you a little
more detail on some of the components of the fee. Really talked about most of this. I will
address household hazardous waste as a separate topic when we get into that piece and
we talked about the landfill. Always interesting to see how we compare. This table just
kind of shows you what the overall costs around the valley are. I always hesitate when I
show a graphic like this just to remind everybody every single city has different services.
Each contract is unique, but it does give you at least a sense of where we fall and whether
the rates are competitive or not, so -- and, then, finally, just a look at what we are doing
going forward. Not looking for any action on this tonight. This is really just informational
and make sure you don't have any questions. So, I will hold there and entertain any
questions.
Simison: Council, any questions for staff?
Simison: Okay.
Freitag: Next item is related to household hazardous waste.
2. [Added to Agenda] Public Works Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)
Billing Change
Simison: We are moving on to Item 2, Public Works Household Hazardous Waste Billing
Change. Recognize Mr. Freitag for Item 2.
Freitag: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Some background on this. So, prior to this year our
mobile household hazardous waste service was part of an overall county wide contract.
Ada county decided at the end of 2024 to terminate that agreement, go out and do a new
solicitation and went through an RFP process to pick a new service provider. At that time
they informed the city that they really did not want to be involved in the mobile site
operations, which makes sense. They don't have anything really to do with that. So, it
forced the city to go out and contract with that vendor, develop our own contract and kind
of manage that process internally ourselves. We participated in the RFP process with the
county. Selected Clean Earth -- Clean Earth as the service provider and negotiated a
new contract. That took effect at the beginning of FY-25. Today that contract is in effect.
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August 12,2025
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They bill the city directly, because we have a direct contract with them. However, we still
collect that fee through our Republic Services trash fee. That was something we
continued through this year. So, it's something that's always been there. It's an -- it's not
a new fee. It's an existing fee. But Republic Services has historically collected that fee
for us. The way we handled that this year was we simply short paid them their franchise
fee when we -- based on whatever the monthly invoicing was. The process works. It's a
little cumbersome. We want to clean it up. So, what we would like to do going forward is
we want to decouple that household hazardous waste fee from the Republic Services fee.
So, pull it out of what is the trash service fee now. It will become a standalone fee on the
utility bill on a monthly basis. The customers will see it and we will not be changing
anything in terms of service, location, contract, any of that kind of stuff, but it will just
become another city fee, managed like all of our fees, and go through the normal fee
process each year. The slide just shows you essentially what it is currently today. The
fee is 24 cents. Our contract cost divided by our number of customer accounts is how we
determine what the new fee is. It's actually just a few pennies less than -- than what it
was before. So, proposing a fee of 21 cents for FY-26. Like I said, not a new fee, but it
will show up on the bill and so that will be a change. We do recognize that people will
see that, maybe not be accustomed to that, so we do plan on a certain amount of outreach
to go through this. This is a list of some of the things that we are planning on doing. I
suspect there will be some more as well. But just wanted to make sure that Council was
comfortable with that approach. Give you a chance to ask any questions if you are
concerned and kind of keep you up to speed on that. So, I will stand for questions.
Simison: Thank you, Alex. Council, any questions? Okay. Thank you very much.
Appreciate you staying here late. Michelle owes you one.
3. Modified Final Plat for Southridge South (MFP-2025-0002) to change
the fencing type along the Ridenbaugh Canal from black wrought
iron as required by City Council, to black open vision vinyl-coated
chain link with posts installed in sleeves for easy removal as
required by Nampa Meridian Irrigation District (NMID), by The Land
Group, Inc., generally located on the south side of W. Overland Rd.,
approximately 1/4 miles east of S. Ten Mile Rd.
Simison: With that we will move on to Item 3, which is a modified final plat for Southridge,
MFP-2025-0002, and we will turn this over to Bill, who is filling in tonight.
Parsons: Thank you, Mayor, Members of the Council. You are correct, Mayor, I am filling
in for Sonya this evening, since I'm here before you to present the UDC code changes
here later on in the evening, but this first item on the agenda is a final plat modification.
Typically these aren't in front of you. Usually get put on a consent agenda, because it's
just a yes or no, but in this particular case staff wanted to bring this before you, because
the issue that would --that is part of this final plat modification this evening was a directive
by Council and it has -- specifically has to do with the required fencing along the right
Ridenbaugh Canal. So, this site is, again, part of the Southridge Subdivision. So, it's
about a quarter mile east of south -- on the south side of Ten Mile Road -- or Overland
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Road, quarter mile east of South Ten Mile Road. Final -- the preliminary plat was
approved in 2021. The final plat was approved in 2022. As this Council is aware,
Ridenbaugh is a large canal, so typically within our code we require fencing to be along
that waterway for public safety. As part of the public hearing process the applicant had
requested that they put up chain link fence to match the existing Southridge development.
Council had discussions around that particular topic and they thought -- they wanted a
more decorative style fencing and so they had required a condition of approval to put in
wrought iron fencing. Since that time the applicant is close to recording their plat, they
are in for what we call final plat signature and in order for us to recommend signature on
the plat they need to adhere to their conditions of approval and, of course, one of those
conditions of approval has to do with the required wrought iron fencing. So, staff cannot
recommend the city engineer sign off the plat until we get this issue resolved this evening.
So, the applicant has worked with the irrigation district and their fence -- fence provider
and the reason why they elected to go with the style of fencing that's currently constructed
on the site is for -- Nampa-Meridian wanted the fencing to be easily removed, so they
were requiring a fleet -- a sleep fence system, so if they had to get in there, do
maintenance on the canal, they could remove sections of the fencing and according to
the vendor wrought iron did not come that way, so that's why they went ahead and did
the black coated vinyl chain link fencing and the applicant does have a photo of that to
share with you just so you can see what's currently constructed if you have any questions
about that. So, again, in the staff report in the hearing outline before you this evening
there is some -- a recommendation to the change of that condition in front of you. So,
again, you made the decision, so if the Council is inclined to reverse that condition and
allow the existing fencing to remain, then, staff does have that condition ready for you to
take action on tonight and with that I will stand for any questions you may have.
Simison: Thank you, Bill. Council, any questions for staff? Okay. So, this isn't a public
hearing, so are we open to any input from anybody on this item, Mr. Nary -- as we have
reference to the applicant having the information is there any harm?
Nary: There is not.
Simison: Okay. Would the applicant like to come provide a visual of the information
presented?
Densmer: Yes, thank you, Mr. Mayor. My name is Jason Densmer. I'm a principal and
civil engineer with The Land Group. Our address is 462 East Shore Drive in Eagle. I
have been lucky to work with the developer of Southridge for many years now. We are
on the goal line of this first phase of the Southridge south portion of the project and Bill I
think did a great job laying out kind of our case. The -- we find ourselves kind of trapped
between a rock and a hard place here. The city of Meridian in your final plat approval --
actually I think it was the preliminary plat approval applied this condition of approval for
the project requiring the installation of a black wrought iron fence along the pathway on
the Ridenbaugh Canal. It was -- having listened to that meeting again just to refresh my
memory from 2021, it was largely an esthetic preference it seemed like from Council at
that time. We have now completely constructed the project. The -- all of the
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improvements are complete and signed off by all of the agencies and we would like to get
signature on our final plat, which is with the city today. Except for this -- this issue about
the fence type. So, what happened was that the contractor tried to execute what was
shown on our construction drawings of a removable type fence and they were not able to
do that with a wrought iron type fence, because of the -- in order to make it removable
they determined that you would have to completely disassemble the fence if Nampa-
Meridian needed access to the canal and to do their maintenance and so the contractor
looked around and there are many other nearby locations where a black vinyl coated
chain link fence had been installed, both along the Ridenbaugh Canal, around some
ACHD facilities, all within a quarter to a half mile of the project and so they are very
representative of the context that we have here and they went ahead and installed the
fence. Now we know that they should have really asked more questions about that and
gotten approval before, but that horse is kind of out of the barn. So, I wanted to come
tonight and ask for your approval to change the condition of approval to accept the black
vinyl coated chain link fence as the condition of approval, instead of the wrought iron
fence as the condition states today. Just to maybe give you a little bit more background,
I don't know that that would be a significant compromise for you. I have already explained
that the Nampa-Meridian requirements are that the fence be removable. Part of that is
so that they can complete the maintenance that they do. The chain link fence is also
much more durable when Nampa-Meridian is doing that maintenance. The wrought iron
fence is truly not wrought iron, they are mostly all aluminum these days and it's not as
resilient if the canal were to burn the weeds and do some of the other maintenance
activities that companies do. The other thing is that, you know, by being chain link it is
much more easily removable, so they can get it out of the way when they do need to do
maintenance and, then, lastly -- and this is strictly my opinion, but I do think that maybe
the black vinyl coated chain link is more esthetic than wrought iron is. The picture that's
on the screen is of the actual installed fence. It's my opinion I guess that the black vinyl
coated chain link actually kind of disappears. The fence fabric itself is much more
transparent and so as you are using the pathway you can see through it better than --
than a wrought iron fence would provide. All the, you know, numerous pickets on a
wrought iron fence are much more prominent. They catch the light. It's my opinion that
this really kind of blends in, so you only really see the posts and the top rail. So, that's
the best case I can offer. I'm asking for some relief tonight and a change to our condition
of approval so we can move forward. Do you have any questions for me?
Simison: Council, any questions? Thank you very much. This is not a public hearing, so
there is nothing open, nothing to close, said up or down on approval yes or no.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Yeah. I appreciate the explanation. I -- I would -- I would caution you it's always
better to come and ask for an approval before you build something, just as a general
matter. I understand how we got to this spot. I appreciate that it's vinyl coated. I do think
that that goes a long way toward improving the esthetics. So, with that I mean it's driven
by the irrigation district. This seems like a pretty straightforward thing that we need to do
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for practical reasons. After considering all staff and public testimony I move to approve
File No. MFP-2025-0002 as presented in the staff report for today's hearing date.
Overton: Second.
Simison: Have a motion and a second to approve MFP-2025-0002. Is there discussion
on the motion? If not, all in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed nay? The ayes have it
and the item is agreed to. Thank you very much.
MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
4. Proposed Updates to Meridian City Code Title 8 Regarding
Addressing
Simison: With that we will move on to proposed updates to Meridian City Code Title 8
regarding addressing. Mr. McClure.
McClure: Mayor and Council, thank you for having me here tonight again. City Code
Title 8 addressing code changes. This is for discussion and asking for approval tonight.
Since addressing might be newer to some on Council I wanted to provide some quick
context before the changes. Our addressing technicians do code compliance, participate
in agency reviews and there is a great deal of technical workflows not just within the city,
but multiple agencies. There exist a county wide addressing exchange known as ACX.
This is a very high level view of what those interagency systems do. There is complex
workflows that exists for Ada county and those serve as prerequisites for much of our
work. Examples of steps include recording subdivision plats, street name review and,
then, quality control checks back and forth. Most of that is 9-1-1 related. Meridian has
its own workflows, but the intent here says to show database function. Meridian's
addressing database is known as MEAD. M-E-A-D. Addressing is used by Ada County
Assessor's Office and dispatch Google ESRI. It's used for billing and asset management
and is a cornerstone of the Accela enterprise permitting system. Back to the purpose
tonight. There was a detailed memo on your packet and so I'm going to broadly cover
two topic areas and, then, we can drill in any questions if you have any. The first topic
area overlaps with Title 11. UC changes on accessory dwelling units. ADU related
changes in both Title 8 and 11 are intended to align with building code. For addressing
related changes specifically there was also some legal department-led work and this is
sort of a follow up to that. We are adding in broad definitions for single, multi and
accessory dwellings. High level. We have a term for ADU to serve general
communication, to serve for general communication. Lots of things by definition are ADU.
Planning and building also have specific standards. We are saying that if you don't meet
the standards for an ADU, not just the definition, then, you are non-conforming. You have
to meet both the standards and the definition to be conforming. What that means basically
is we are trying to define when we will address an ADU. So, if you meet the standards
and definitions we will give you an address. If you don't meet the standards and the
definitions we will not give you an address. The ADU standards here are generic as are
the definitions and, again, this is intended to work with other code -- other title codes. So,
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Title 11 UDC and, then, building code. The second group is for consistency changes. A
big one is removing a section of code from multi-family residential. The United States
Postal Service does not want that. We are not allowed to do that anymore, but our code
still references it. We used to address multiple buildings on a single lot with letter
identifiers, but, again, that's no longer allowed. That system also has a habit of breaking
when you have a partial land that subdivides later in the future, you have to readdress
everything in that apartment complex and no one likes to go through an address change
when they don't want to. There is also some additional code describing the handling of
multi-unit -- multi-unit residential apartment buildings and a new figure to help with
education and transparency and on that topic of transparency the city's not done a great
job of this historically. We have apartments that are numbered in all sorts of ways and
we don't -- we don't do that anymore. We are trying to just make sure it's clear why we
are doing it and not lose sight of that in the future. The other change is to codify current
practice for assigning suites to buildings, so not multi-family, but non-residential units.
Nothing has changed here in recent practice, but this codifies it. Emphasis again is
consistency. There are many influences in how addressing is done, including USPS, 9-
1-1 association, or NENA standards, fire and building code. Then drill down into the
weeds, but the -- in all conditions they usually emphasize consistency. New coding,
especially figures, are hopefully helpful to others for better conveying local expectations
and practice. We have been much better here than we have for apartments. There are
no process changes with any of this, it's all current standard operating process. This is
just education and transparency. We sent these proposed changes to Ada county early.
The assessor's office drives addressing for 9-1-1 and they also handle street naming and
center line data for roads and GIS and we also discussed and coordinated with the fire
department. We also presented the proposed changes to P&Z on June 26. Title 8
changes don't typically go to P&Z, but since they do on occasion have to hear appeals
for addressing issues and since it does relate to the Title 11 changes you will be hearing
later, we thought it was a good idea. They had no -- they had no concerns with any of the
changes, but there was one concern -- or one question that seemed to express concern
as to whether we tried to retroactively push old ADUs through this new system, this new
process. We are not. We will go back through and find recent and a current system
ADUs that have been approved and make sure they have an address, but we are not
going to shop that. It's just for -- if they come back in for a future building permit of some
type. That's the overview. We are hoping to bring this back to you in the future for an
ordinance. Then I'm happy to answer any questions or entertain discussion.
Taylor: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Thank you. Councilman Taylor.
Taylor: Brian, thank you. I read through your memo. It seemed like it was pretty
straightforward. The changes all worked out. But some of your comments prompted just
a couple questions maybe for my own clarification. When you were speaking about multi-
family addressing that we -- moving away from having same -- letters for buildings, we,
obviously, have that in the city. We wouldn't be retroactively going back and saying, okay,
you know, Building A, B and C here we are going to change it to an actual number. Is
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there -- is that part of some of the process or do we just say from this point forward this
is how we will be doing addressing for multi-family?
McClure: Mr. Mayor, Councilman Taylor, the latter is the correct part. We have to actually
hold a public hearing for anything over five address changes and we have no intention of
doing that. We actually had projects in the queue that have been in the queue for years
and they are still moving forward with those letter identifiers even though the USPS hasn't
allowed them for some years now. No, we are not going to change them.
Taylor: Okay. Mr. Mayor, one more follow up.
Simison: Councilman Taylor.
Taylor: Can you -- speaking of ADUs, I read through some of the changes and definitions
and how the ADUs are oriented to the street and, et cetera, but your comment about
standards also needing to be compliance with the standards for ADU, can you just give
me a little more clarification by what you mean with what are the standards that need to
be achieved for it to qualify as an ADU from the city's perspective?
McClure: Mr. Mayor, Councilman Taylor, that's a great question. I'm not super familiar
with the Title 11 standards. Bill Parsons is here if you -- if you want to go there. I can say
it speaks to some of the building code standards. One of them, for example, is that you
have to have fire separation. So, if you are a detached unit you can be an ADU. If you
are attached you can't actually have any -- there is a word for this and I can't -- I can't
remember right now. But you basically can't have any sort of a doorway. You can't move
between those two units at all. They have to be completely separated per building code.
That's just standard. So, if you -- if you build a, quote, ADU
for like a mother-in-law quarter and it has a door between them, it's not an ADU, it's just
an expansion.
Taylor: So, Mr. Mayor, quick follow up. So, in that case you just have to have an exterior
doorway to access, you can't have an internal doorway between them; is that what you
are saying?
McClure: To be an ADU and to have an address, yes, you have to have an exterior door
and no interior doorway.
Taylor: And that's an example of the standard?
McClure: Yes.
Taylor: I would appreciate, Bill, if you had some more context just to provide on what kind
of standards we are talking about. If maybe Brian captured all of it, but if there is any
more you can provide that would be helpful as I'm thinking through this.
Parsons: Mayor and Council, that will certainly be part of our discussion on the UDC
changes. We are having -- we are proposing language changes to that -- the specific use
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standards, so Caleb will go into that more detail if you could hold off. But, essentially, I
think Brian hit it on the head where he is doing -- he is taking his effort to align with building
code and we are taking our UDC standards to align with building code. So, it really is
kind of a tag team effort between the various community development departments -- or
divisions to make it all align and get a better handle on how to approve an ADU -- what
constitutes an ADU and what doesn't. So, again, if you can be a little patient tonight we
will definitely get into those details with you.
McClure: Mr. Mayor, Councilman Taylor, just as one example there is a square footage
limit for an ADU. You can't have an ADU that's bigger than the primary residence, for
example.
Simison: Council, any additional questions for staff at this time? Okay. Thank you.
McClure: Thank you.
Simison: So, Council, we will move on to our Action Items this evening.
Nary: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman -- Mr. Nary. Councilman Nary. That fits.
Nary: Mr. Mayor, Members of the Council -- and I apologize, I got some e-mails that came
in right before our 4:00 o'clock meeting that I did not see and Mr. Johnson has pointed
out to me it's a -- it's a slight error -- not a huge error, but I wanted to make sure we made
it clear on the record and I will just make a real quick comment about it that we can make
sure the public knows if there was anybody that was listening tonight for this item. But
back in May we had an item before you for a public hearing called Latitude 43. It was an
item that was a -- on Well Street. It was an application. It was H-2024-0059. It was
continued at that meeting to tonight and it was required that we re-noticed it and that the
city would pay for the re-noticing. In the interim there was a request by the developer to
continue from the August 12th meeting to a later meeting and we hadn't noticed it yet, we
hadn't sent any public notices at that particular time when that was requested. So, the
decision was made internally to add it to tonight's meeting with the acknowledgement that
a later request was made and that we would properly notice for the later date, which I
think is in September. Yeah. So, what got missed was it didn't get added to tonight's
meeting for that notification to the public that tonight's meeting would be continued. It
wasn't noticed for tonight, but it should have been on the agenda for tonight and, then,
we would have done exactly what we are doing now, which is just acknowledging that we
sent a notice for later, we are going to have it in September. The notices have been sent,
the advertising has been done, all of that's been taken care of properly. I don't know if
anyone was paying attention to tonight's meeting or intended to be here for that. But,
again, I saw some of these right before the meeting started, so I apologize, Mr. Mayor, I
should have brought this to your attention, but I thought at this point of the --of the meeting
we are right before the public hearing we should at least make note that tonight was
originally supposed to be a hearing date for Latitude 43. It is moved to September. It has
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been noticed for that date. It will be signed properly for that and everything has been
done properly for that. But if anyone was either listening tonight or here for Latitude 43 1
apologize it wasn't noticed on the agenda as it should have been, but we are going to
move it to a new date and we have addressed that part of it. So, I don't know if anyone
is here for that. I want to make you aware, Mr. Mayor, and, again, I apologize we didn't
bring it to you sooner.
Simison: Okay. Thank you, Mr. Nary. Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Mr. Mayor, thank you. Just a point of personal privilege for one moment. I do
see the gentleman that addressed us earlier has hung around and I think he would like to
chat. We are not allowed to respond --yep. You. We are not allowed to respond to public
comments, because they are not on a noticed agenda. But, sir, I wanted to let you know
I'm available to meet with you after this meeting if that's helpful if you want to ask your
questions. I just wanted to tell you that if there is time, so -- or follow up afterward.
ACTION ITEMS
5. Public Hearing for In-N-Out Burger (CR-2025-0002) by In-N-Out
Burger, located at 5985 & 6037 N. Ten Mile Rd.
A. Request: Council Review of the Planning and Zoning Commission's
decision of denial on the conditional use permit (H-2024-0058) for a
drive-through establishment within 300 feet of another drive-
through facility, existing residences and a residential district on 2.22
acres of land in the C-G zoning district.
Simison: Thank you. All right. So, with that we are not opening up any public hearing
on CR-2025-0002, but do we need to make a motion to move it or even not even doing
that, because it wasn't noticed properly?
Nary: Mr. Mayor, since it wasn't properly noticed we have actually done the proper
noticing for the next meeting on September 9th.
Simison: Okay. So, for those that were here for potentially -- or online for the CR-2025-
0002, there is no comments, conversation or actions on that item tonight either and that
will be on the September 12th date is that what you said?
Nary: September 9th.
6. Public Hearing for Touchmark (H-2025-0012) by The Land Group,
generally located on the south side of E. Franklin Rd. and the north
side of 1-84, midway between S. Eagle Rd. and S. Cloverdale Rd.
A. Request: Modified Development Agreement to update the
conceptual development plan for the overall site, which consists of
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approximately 121.50 acres of land to consolidate the existing
agreements (AZ-99-021 Touchmark (recorded in 2001, Inst.
#101048096); April 2001 Addendum (Inst. # 101048097); May 2003
Addendum (Inst. #103137119); AZ-02-018 (Bair Property AZ-02-
018, Inst. #102143308); MI-07-006 (Meadowlake Village North 3rd
Addendum, Inst. #108022885) into one new agreement that
replaces all previous agreements. Continued to September 2, 2025
B. Request: Rezone of 63.34 acres of land from the L-O to the C-C
(55.17 acres) and C-G (8.17 acres) zoning districts.
C. Planned Unit Development Modification (Meadowlake Village CUP-
03-005) to update the concept/use plan and include 4.6 acres of
additional land, a deviation to the maximum building height allowed
in the C-C district from 50ft. to 64ft. for the hotel and inclusion of 2
and 3 story townhome dwellings.
Simison: 9th. Sorry. Okay. So, with that we will actually move on to Item 6 --four on the
agenda, but six in our knowledge. Public hearing for Touchmark H-2025-0012. I will open
this public hearing with -- for staff comments.
Parsons: Mayor, Members of Council, the applicant has again requested continuance of
this item to the September 2nd hearing is what their -- their date they have requested it
to. They didn't have any represent -- representatives tonight available to attend the
hearing, but also since the Planning and Zoning Commission hearing there has been
quite a few conversations had with the residents living in Touchmark, so I believe the
applicant needs more time to address some of those current concerns with the existing
residents that live there as they transition to you on hopefully the 2nd. But that's what
staff has on this particular item this evening. Again the applicant's requesting
continuance.
Simison: Okay.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Mr. Mayor, just a question then. Is Planning recommending that we continue
this later than September 2nd in order to give the applicant additional time? I just want
to understand what that comment was about.
Parsons: Yeah. Mayor, Members of the Council, I'm -- I never discussed it with the
applicant. All I have seen is the e-mail asking for it to be continued. I can tell you I have
received multiple phone calls from the residents and they certainly want to be here on
that evening -- or a evening. I did tell them that they are -- requested the September 2nd
hearing, but it was, again, your prerogative to pick that date or grant that continuance, but
I know we can anticipate some public testimony that evening.
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Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: I guess a question for the city clerk and so that -- I mean that would give them
three weeks to try to work through some things and hopefully -- the one thing I would
caution the applicant if they watch this later is we do frown on multiple continuances,
especially when there is a public hearing involved and so if they would need an additional
continuance or to move this again that it would really be in their best interest to do that
sooner rather than later, so that we don't get members of the public very upset because
they are attending a hearing that then gets continued again. But with that my question
was just for the clerk regarding what the agenda is like on the 2nd and what that looks
like, so we know if we can fit that in.
Johnson: Mr. Mayor, Council Woman Strader, it is pretty light, so we do have a space for
that.
Strader: Fantastic. Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: So, with that I move that we continue file H-2025-0012 to September 2nd.
Overton: Second.
Simison: Have a motion and a second to continue this item to September 2nd. Is there
discussion? If not all in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed nay? The ayes have it and
the item is continued.
MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
7. Public Hearing for Proposed Fall 2025 Activity Guide Fee Schedule of
the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department
Simison: Next up is a public hearing for the proposed Fall 2025 Activity Guide Fee
Schedule for the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department. Turn this over Mr. White.
White: Mr. Mayor, Members of Council, thanks for having me tonight. In front of you are
our Fall Activity Guide fees and some of the classes that we are planning to provide for
the community. We will see some on this -- on the paper there the current fee and the
new proposed fee. Some of the increases really are just based on the number of classes
per session, if there was five Tuesdays in the month compared to four up and down. So,
that's -- that's really the changes there and with that I will stand for questions.
Simison: Thank you. Council, any questions for staff? Okay. Mr. Clerk, anyone sign up
to provide testimony on this item?
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Johnson: Mr. Mayor, there were no sign ups.
Simison: Okay. Is there anybody present who would like to provide testimony on the
item, either in the room or online you can use the raise your hand feature. Seeing no one
raising their hand or coming forward, Council, got a motion to close the public hearing?
Whitlock: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Whitlock.
Whitlock: I move that we close the public hearing on the proposed Fall 2025 Activity
Guide Fee Schedule.
Little Roberts: Second.
Simison: Have a motion and a second to close the public hearing. Is there any
discussion? If not in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed nay? The ayes have it and
the public hearing is closed.
MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
8. Resolution No. 25-2531: A Resolution Adopting the Fall 2025 Activity
Guide Fee Schedule of the Meridian Parks and Recreation
Department; Authorizing the Meridian Parks and Recreation
Department to Collect Such Fees; and Providing an Effective Date
Simison: Next item on the agenda is Resolution No. 25-2531 regarding the resolution
adopting the Fall 2025 Activity Fee Guide Schedule of the Meridian Parks and Recreation
Department.
Whitlock: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Whitlock.
Whitlock: I move approval of Resolution No. 25-2531 adopting the fall 2025 Activity Guide
Fee Schedule for the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department.
Little Roberts: Second.
Simison: Have a motion and a second to approve Resolution No. 25-2531 . Is there any
discussion? If not -- is this roll call?
Nary: No.
Simison: With that all in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed nay? The ayes have it
and the item is agreed to.
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August 12,2025
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MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
9. Public Hearing for UDC Text Amendment (ZOA-2025-0001) by City of
Meridian Planning Division, located citywide.
A. Request: UDC Text Amendment to revise certain regulations, add
new definitions, figures, and update specific use standards
throughout Chapters 1-5 of the City's Unified Development Code
(UDC).
Simison: With that we will move on to public hearing for UDC Text Amendment ZOA-
2025-0001 . We will open this public hearing with staff comments.
Parsons: Thank you, Mayor, Members of the Council. Excited to be here tonight. You
know every year we come back -- we come before you to present our year round -- yearly
code changes before. Caleb and I will be tag teaming this this evening. He will take a
portion of some of the changes and I will go over-- highlight some of the -- the other major
changes. We don't -- certainly don't intend to go through every one of them line by line
with you this evening. But I wanted to -- hopefully you all had a chance to look at these.
I know Council President Cavener wanted me to get these to you sooner rather than later
and I sent that out as I transmitted this application before the Planning and Zoning
Commission so you guys had enough chance to read through all of it. Again there is
multiple pages and as I always discuss with you every time I'm presenting the code
changes seem to grow. They start out as one focused -- a few changes and, then, by the
time I meet with the UDC focus group and other stakeholders it ends up being a lot more
robust than what we planned on, but I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing. So, Caleb
will tackle the flex space standards for you this evening and, then, also the ADUs and,
then, I plan on covering private streets, fencing and, then, the home occupation, since we
have somebody in the audience thanking you for that effort and, then, certainly highlight
-- there is a few other ones that I want to highlight, because, obviously, you guys directed
staff to -- to make those changes based on some public hearings from -- from your
previous past. So, without further ado, again, it doesn't have to be such a formal process.
If you -- stop me during my presentation if you have questions about a code change. I'm
certainly--welcome that and provide you any context on why we landed on that particular
code change. I would also mention to the City Council that last -- on August 4th I was in
front of the Transportation Commission presenting the proposed drive through changes.
It was more informational for them. Obviously they wanted to formulate a
recommendation on those changes, but, again, it was information and they didn't feel
comfortable doing that since it was new to them, but they-- again, it was shared with them
in an effort for them -- because they are dealing with some of these drive through issues
that are popping up in our community. So, I did -- did appreciate the dialog with them a
week or so ago. So, with that I will go ahead and -- a lot of these definitions were added
to just, again, align with building code. Caleb will touch on some of those as he gets to
his ADU standards. But at least something that I want to point out to Council tonight is
the fence code. I won't go through all of those changes, but it's -- it's unique to this
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Council. At least it was unique for me is because we are actually repealing and replacing
the fence code. So, because there were so many changes it was a -- it was a joint effort
between code enforcement, legal and planning. As you guys were aware we were -- as
we were -- before we move forward with these current round of code changes we were in
front of you asking you, hey, these are things that we are going to be bringing forward to
you and fencing was one of those topics and you said, yeah, go ahead and proceed,
because we were getting makeshift fences and what constituted a fence and we were
getting tarps in people's backyards and all of these weird -- public art in people's
backyards that were defined as fencing. So, we were trying to bridge that gap and help
our code enforcement partners administer the code more easily and so that's where in
our code changes we went through -- again the code -- some new items, but for the most
part it's kind of just cleaning up the fence code and, then, restructuring what we currently
had and also includes some new exhibits. So, nothing new revenue to -- to share with
you. Again there is still maximum six feet in height, eight feet in height in commercial,
industrial districts. We do get a little -- we have updated the graphics so people can look
at those -- the fencing. Our graphics are dated in the code, so I have to thank Brian for
his effort of preparing those new graphics and that will be inserted into the new fence
code as well and I will share those with you probably later in the presentation, but I don't
want to get into those details too much, but at least it goes -- coincides with why we also
changed how we measure the fencing and, then, also the new definition. Another unique
definition that we added to our code was the definition of a sidewalk and, believe it or not,
I know this Council understands it, but whenever you meet with code enforcement they
have some of the oddest stories about how people interpret -- try to interpret codes and
so, again, this was another effort that we worked with them on making sure we define
what a sidewalk is so that they can have that as an enforcement tool if people are blocking
sidewalks with fencing or basketball hoops or whatever else it may be. Trucks. Trailers.
There is a mechanism for them to do that. And that kind of segues me down to the one
item that I did want to highlight that you asked staff to work with the development
community on and that was Item 11-3A-17D. If you recall there was a project in south
Meridian where sidewalk wasn't necessarily required by ACHD on one side of the road
and we didn't have a mechanism in code to waive a sidewalk on a public street and so
you asked us to add that to our list and we did and so you can see here that's been --
been added with the word may. So, it's not a shall. You may ask that and, then, obviously,
the applicant has to give you some justification of why it's not required or necessary and,
then, I will trans -- I don't know if I will go ahead and stick with drive through since that is
a big topic in our community. As you all know I tried to present these to you last year with
our code changes and Council said pump the brakes, Bill. Go back, work with the UDC
focus group, see what we can do better. As you all know -- we all know drive throughs
aren't created equally. Some have a lot of traffic and some have no traffic. It's just
depending on -- on how you see it. So, currently the way the code works is if you are
within 300 feet of a residential district or another drive through you got to go through a
conditional use process, regardless of whether it's a bank drive through or a restaurant
drive through. It's an automatic CUP. With the standards before you this evening we are
still going to require CUPs in certain instances. It's -- again, if you are within 300 feet of
a residential residence, yes, you are going to -- or district you are going to still require that
CUP. If you are going to convert an existing drive through to a more intense drive through
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you are going to -- you are going to trigger a CUP, because, again, if it's a very easy drive
through and it's -- didn't -- it didn't have a lot of trip -- say, for example, a bank goes out
of business and, then, it's converted to a drive-through restaurant, which has occurred,
that's a different use. There is different trips. There is different ways how cars circulate
through the site. So, we felt that was appropriate. Again Old Town, you are going to get
a conditional use. And, then, also the one thing that I appreciated added to this list was -
- if you don't meet the standards you are going through CUP. So, again, we -- we have
more express standards with our drive throughs. The other -- I think the Council was
aware of the Chick-fil-A that -- that came before you recently and they asked for you to --
on that appeal, because we couldn't approve the drive through, because they wanted to
eliminate their escape lane. Like there is no way to do that. And so under this proposal,
again, if Chick-fil-A wanted to come back and take that -- have you take that under
consideration they could, because this -- this would allow them to do that, because they
did not -- they wanted to eliminate that stack -- that escape lane. That's something you
can take under advisement as you deliberate on the application. The other thing we did
with this particular code change is we broke drive throughs into different tiers and different
impacts. So, again, tier one -- I think that's something that the Council really wanted to
see. A bank and a pharmacy drive through is not the same as a Chick-fil-A or In-N-Out
or Dutch Bros. Again some of the comments -- then a tier two and a tier three, they are
primarily restaurants, but just depending on what you need to function at your restaurant.
So, it really comes down to the operational needs. It's not really a use -- a change in use,
it's just how your operations functions -- how your drive through functions from other
restaurant uses. Now, I can tell you when I was in front of the Transportation Commission
they were -- they are like what's the difference between one stacking lane or two stacking
lanes and there really isn't. A developer -- or an applicant could come in and say I can
function with one drive through and they have to prove that up and they have to meet the
standards. Again, it's really -- what are your operational needs? You show us what you
need to operate and prove it up and, then, we can determine if you are a tier one or tier
two -- or tier two or tier three. Excuse me. And, then, what we have also done is have a
minimum width for escape lanes and stacking lanes. That's something that we didn't have
clearly defined in the code. We also required minimum vehicles to be stacked. So,
again, for a tiered one -- so, you can see here for stacking lanes for tier two or tier three,
which is your restaurant use, you got to provide a stacking lane for a minimum of six
vehicles. So, essentially, that's 120 foot stacking lane for each drive aisle and then
provide that escape lane. So, that's three lanes that they would have to provide as part
of their drive through to make sure that they are not backing up on the public right away
or obstructing site circulation within a commercial development and in that tier one has
lesser standards, because the intent is, again, it would have less queuing needs and
quicker turnaround for the drive through use like a bank or a pharmacy. And, then, we
also went as far as saying that the length of the vehicle. We defined it -- we didn't want
them to come in with Toyota Priuses at a 12 foot length vehicle. We said, no, your minimal
stacking vehicle has to be 20 feet in length. So, again, I know this body has heard the
word queuing. Queuing analysis. What is that? Well, that's a --that's a purview of ACHD
and not really the city. They are the transportation authority and I think as I mentioned to
you we -- we were going to go that route and require a queuing analysis, but we are not
technical experts on that and what does that mean. What we are trying to do is just
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prevent vehicles from stacking on public right of way and that's where ACHD has that
discretion to say we think you are going to do that, provide us a queuing analysis. So, all
we have really done with our ordinance is ask for a queuing exhibit, which, again, defines
the length of the vehicle and how many you have to provide in your stacking lane. So,
that's -- that was our compromise that we made as we worked with the UDC focus group
on these changes. So, again, I think these are good changes. They are positive changes.
And I know the UDC focus group was -- was very receptive of that and we did look at
multiple jurisdictions' codes and kind of meshed that with what we currently had. So,
think it will work well and, again, I feel confident in what we have here, but certainly happy
to get any feedback from the Council on this particular topic before we transition to
anything else.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: I just wanted to compliment actually Councilman Overton. I feel like he really
raise the alarm on the need for this and I just am very appreciative of my colleague for
helping to work through this and I feel like Planning staff has done a phenomenal job of
trying to bring this concept forward. So, I -- you know, I'm very supportive of this concept
and I feel like this really takes us in a -- in a great direction where we are differentiating
the way that we should.
Parsons: Mayor, Members of the Council, I know Luke -- sorry -- Council President
Cavener was interested in maybe requiring CUPs for tier three. I didn't know if that's
something that you wanted to entertain or if you felt comfortable that -- with the design
standards we have if -- if you still want to leave that in that administrative realm if they
can meet these design standards and still allow them to go through that staff level
approval. Something that I know was brought up as well.
Overton: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Overton.
Overton: I was lucky enough to sit in on the meetings with the stakeholders and we went
over this and I appreciate what staff has done. I can't help but be just a little -- I still have
unanswered questions. For example, it just looks to me by the amount of land that's
required between a tier one and a tier three that we have got situations where we are
going to have pads approved on our development where the applicant is going to want to
put in a drive through and are we going to have the tools to say we are going to approve
that for a drive through establishment, but it will only be approved for a tier one or tier two.
But the pad's not big enough for a tier three. Are we going to have some additional
guardrails so when we see an application coming for us for a drive through on a parcel,
as opposed to the actual business coming in, are we going to have any of that additional
information just because the way these are structured for the type of businesses that
could come in -- to me it's kind of like having a roundabout versus a traditional signal.
The tier three is going to take up a little bit more real estate than a tier one and I want to
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make sure that we have some sort of parameter set as we go through and look at
applications. The other thing that concerns me -- and I just want to make sure we are --
we are always thinking about it, because I am going to be a big proponent when it's a tier
three when it's one of these drive throughs with the raging fans, I think it still should be a
CUP coming in front of us to make sure that we really dot the I's and cross the T's and we
are putting it in the right place, but I want to know if we have something in place at your
level in planning so if we have someone that might try to squeeze what would normally
be a tier three drive through in as a tier one or tier two to fit their location, do you think
you have the tools necessary to say, no, you guys are the big dogs, you are not going to
apply for a tier one or tier two?
Parsons: Mayor, Members of the Council, I think-- I think we do. It's -- like you said there
is always going to be -- I think there is always going to be somebody that tries that. I'm
not going to sit here on the -- and profess that someone won't try to do that. But, again,
like I mentioned to you, if they can't meet that requirement they can go through a CUP
and that will -- again that's going to Planning and Zoning Commission, not necessarily
City Council, because conditional use permits go to the Commission, not necessarily the
City Council. So, that's something that the Council has to be cognizant of or aware of is
that's that next level and, again, if it's -- again, that can be appealed up to you if someone
doesn't believe -- doesn't support staff's recommendation or City Council -- or the
Commission's decision. So, there is still mechanisms in code to allow that. But certainly
if -- if someone wants to meet with us and they submitted say, for example, a certificate
of zoning compliance or design review for their drive through we are like are you sure this
is going to work and we don't feel like there is, then, we ought to at least have discretion
in the code to go to the director and say, hey, what do you think, do we have enough
information to approve this drive through or should we send them through a CUP and we
try to collaborate -- we always are collaborating on those types of discussions as a
department.
Overton: Mr. Mayor, just a quick follow up.
Simison: Councilman Overton.
Overton: Bill, I appreciate that, because ultimately the goal -- and I think the goal of
everyone on Council is to make sure that we are approving the right drive through for the
right location, so it has the least impact on traffic on other collector streets or arterials and
it fits where it needs to go. I appreciate all the work you guys have done. Thank you.
Parsons: Thank you.
Simison: So, just a follow-up on what Councilman Overton said. I know we talked to our
UDC group. Have we talked to actually at restaurants that would be subject to
implementing these things to get their feedback? Like are these plausible or doable? Do
we know anything -- anyone try to lay one out?
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Parsons: The gentleman that I worked with as part of the subcommittee he has multiple
clients that he works with for fast food restaurants. That's why he and I collaborate on it
and he felt confident that this could work for them. I would -- I did share this with some
other business -- other restaurants in the community that are trying to get established
here, like -- because, again, I wanted -- I wanted them to be aware that we are changing
our code. Will this work for your business model. And they gave me feedback, but nothing
to the extent that this would be earth shattering or wouldn't allow them to conduct
business in the city of Meridian.
Simison: Thank you.
Parsons: I don't remember what the exact comments are, but, yes, I have shared it with
others for feedback.
Simison: Perfect. Thank you.
Parsons: All right. Mayor and the Council, I will go ahead and turn this over to Caleb to
refresh you on accessory dwelling units -- or currently called secondary dwelling units in
the UDC.
Hood: Well, thanks, Bill. That was my thunder you just stole. That's one of the changes.
I think you actually already covered some of this earlier. If I can get that mouse. Or you
can drive. I know that we need to go all the way back up to the definitions, but that is one
of the -- the main changes you will see throughout. We are getting rid of the term
secondary dwelling and replacing that with accessory and we are also adding primary
dwelling. So, you have a principal or primary to have a secondary accessory, so we are
just -- hopefully that's some clarifications in the definition. So, I don't want you to dwell
on that too much and that ties in with some of what Brian talked about earlier as well with
addressing ADUs. So, we will talk about that. But let's jump into the standards, then, for
accessory dwelling units a little bit. I'm not going to read everything that's -- can we fit it
all on the screen? Not quite. So, I will scroll. But this is a majority of it and I will be
honest a lot of it hasn't changed substantively. We have cleaned it up. I think we have
made it better and we will commit to you even before you approve this or don't approve
it, is we will continue to monitor this, but the reality is this is not going to solve our housing
situation, crisis, whatever you want to call our current situation. Accessory dwelling units
are not going to house everybody that wants to live in Meridian. We are trying to make
this a tool, though, that can be used more. So, that was kind of the mindset, but balancing
that, too, was I think some of that from this Council, but even previous councils, you know,
balancing the existing neighborhood character, too. So, I think there has been that
balance of -- again, we don't want to necessarily see these pop up everywhere all the
time and now you have got parking problems and you have got mother-in-law's quarters
in front of-- front yards and things like that. So, the standards I'm about ready to run you
through make it easier, but it doesn't swing the pendulum all the way to where anyone
can just put up an ADU on their property. So, I'm just being real about that. We tried to
balance that. If you want to pull any of these levers and push them a different way or
whatever, this is an opportunity, but it's kind of where the UDC focus group and even
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some of the housing committee that was meeting years prior kind of landed on this is let's
make it attainable, but, again, we are not going to be adding thousands of units to our
community is reality. So, with all that being said, again, most of the -- the first couple of
changes are more, again, administrative in nature. Definition type of a thing. You need
to get a permit. This has been talked about a little bit, too, but this coordination with the
building department, making sure we are all singing from the same sheet of music when
something comes in that kind of looks like a garage with some livable space, is that an
ADU? Communication was the word that Brian can come up with earlier. That's where
you have a connection between the two spaces. So, if you have got a slider door, window,
anything that communicates up the building code term for that it's no longer an ADU. It
needs to be stand alone separately-- yes, a separate entrance door, but even if you have
one you can't have another one that has an interior corridor that connects or not an ADU.
So, again, a lot of this coordination with legal and building and others just to make sure
when something that may quack like a duck may not actually be one if you have got some
of these design elements. If you don't have the parking -- and we get it kind of both ways.
Some people that want it and they want an address and some people that don't and you
can't mix and match, you can't have communication, but no parking and not meet the
setbacks for an ADU. You have to have all of these things present to be deemed an ADU
and, therefore, get an address. If you don't qualify as this and we will look at you, look
and review your plans as an addition to the structure or a detached structure. Maybe it's
a shop or garage or whatever. But, again, you have to have all these things present to
be processed and ultimately permitted as an accessory dwelling unit. The ones I really
want to call to your attention -- I will go down on the screen again. I think that we talked
about most are the owner occupancy requirement. A lot of communities don't have that
requirement. Again, just sort of to neighborhood character and not to stereotype. A lot of
times there is -- there is a stigma with renters and not keeping the property up and those
types of things. So, ultimately, this is where the group landed with the owner of the
property has to live on premise in either one of the dwelling units at least six months of
the year. But if you open that up you could open up more -- more housing for -- for
someone else to live there and they could live out of state. Location and setbacks. We
haven't talked about that so much I don't think together, but in the past I have had
conversations with previous councils. You know, this is -- this is a lever where if you said,
you know what we are willing to allow these to encroach into side setbacks or be put in
the front of structures or things like that, we could get more of them, but it changes your
neighborhood character. So ultimately you need to comply with the underlying zone and
there is no exceptions, if you will, for that. They would need to comply with where typical
structures would be located. Sizing that even came up a little bit earlier. We are not really
changing that. Nine hundred square feet. It does vary across the nation, but that's a
pretty standard -- you don't want to be necessarily bigger than the principal dwelling.
Again, we talked about it, but didn't change that size. Parking is another one of those.
Again if you are going to be a dwelling unit we -- as a group just have the parking to meet
the requirements. I will just also note on that, though, it is the cumulative number of
bedrooms to come up with the parking. So, in the UDC parking is tiered, if you will, with
studio and one bedrooms, just requiring one, two and three requiring two and three, four
and five requiring the three. So, if you only had a three bedroom and your -- and the --
and the ADU made it four, you may not have to add any parking. You may have enough
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already on site. But if you have four and you wanted five, you can't just convert your
garage to an ADU. You would have to come up with another place for a car park for that
ADU. So, just a point of clarification there that we are looking at the site, not for the
structure itself if you will, because it's on the same lot.
Simison: So, Caleb, do you want us to interrupt now or --
Hood: Whenever you would like, Mayor.
Simison: Just a couple comments on these two things before we go away. So, the six
month property requirement, Mr. Whitlock is going to build one tomorrow and move next
year. Next person -- someone else buys the property. Are we shutting them down? So,
I guess I look at the practice -- the practicability of doing their-- some sort of requirement,
because it's like who is going to enforce that and how do you prevent that from
happening? So, just throw that out there for -- for one thing. And, then, the second one,
because you do list ADUs only at two bedrooms. But to your point if I live in a house with
two bedrooms, I have got -- on my place I got six garages -- or six parking stalls, three in
my garage and three before, you want to limit it to do the use -- need to be limited or do
you want to limit it to the parking that's available as compared to bedroom -- you know,
every bedroom. I got a two bedroom house. Just food for thought. So, just those were
things that came to mind.
Hood: And, Mr. Mayor, if you don't mind me just responding to some of those. You know,
the six month -- this is one where I -- I get it. This is on the record and it's being recorded
and this is one more where we are bluffing a little bit; right? We aren't requiring that you
provide proof of that, but if we get a complaint we can investigate that. There are other
communities -- in fact, we have a planner on our team that the last community she worked
in that was an annual thing. You bring in your taxes or whatever from the previous year
to prove you actually lived on site for a minimum of -- I mean we go that way and have
that oversight if you really want it. This is to set it clear. This is the expectation. The
rules. We didn't dig into that to say -- and every quarter you need to submit us receipts
from a local something to show us the actual -- so, I don't want to say it's a feel good
ordinance, but that's kind of the intent with that is that's -- that's what people should be
doing to do it correctly. We get complaints. We will investigate it. It's the code. But we
don't have anything to actually proactively validate that someone is living on site for at
least six months of the year, so -- I mean if that's something Council wanted to do to put
-- you know, get rid of any potential loophole is if you want to be a legitimate ADU come
see the planning department every January, we will prove up on your residency and
reissue occupancy of your ADU annually. Could do it. And we talked about it. Just didn't
feel appropriate to do that. And, then, the parking -- not quite sure that I'm tracking. That
doesn't mean you have to have a two bedroom; right? There is both -- they are both
maximums. It's -- we will look at however many bedrooms you are proposing and how
many parking you have and make sure that that ratio is --
Simison- What this is is -- it -- no more than two bedrooms. If I have got two in my main
house, why can't I do three here if I have got five parking spaces?
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Hood: Oh. I got you. Again that's -- now which one's primary, which one's accessory?
Simison: They can be small bedrooms. I mean you can fit -- in a 900 square foot home
you definitely can do three bedrooms with one bath in that space with a small kitchen.
But I'm just asking the question if it's about parking, is it about bedrooms, what's the
driving force or factor in that conversation?
Hood: And, again, I will just say it for I think the third time today. I mean if you want to
allow -- and maybe not even talk to better than -- but it's however many want in there. I
think that -- you know, it is somewhat arbitrary, again, looking at some of these codes
across the nation, too, is like -- again, the intent is for it to be clearly incidental and
subordinate to the primary dwelling. Your situation may be a little bit different, but
generally these are the standards and clearly I don't have that many, I'm just throwing out
the -- if -- does the bedrooms equal the parking or not as a general rule or do you want a
limit it to two. Just throwing out a question. That's all.
Simison: In the community parking we do that quite a bit with the UDC focus group and
Council, too, just in general how we calculate those. Any other comments?
Taylor: Mr. Mayor?
Hood: Yeah.
Simison: Councilman Taylor.
Taylor: I had some -- question, Caleb, on the -- the living on site. Can you walk me
through the rationale of having any requirement to live on the property?
Hood: Yeah. Mr. Mayor, Councilman Taylor, again, similar thought was if you have, you
know, on site pride and ownership type of a comment, it isn't just being rented out to two,
you know, sets of college kids and, again, it generally comes back to neighborhood
character and having -- doesn't guarantee that the property owner is going to do any
better job than any renter. That's a stereotype that just doesn't apply across the board.
But that's some of the thought process. You have somebody that really has a vested
interest in sort of keeping up that neighborhood and the property in particular, renting it
out to someone else, but they are at least on premise sometime to sort of keep an eye on
things to make sure it just doesn't run amok in general.
Taylor: Is there -- Mayor, follow up? Is there any other-- besides that-- and I understand
that argument. Is there anything in addition to the argument that wouldn't make us want
to have that six months requirement? The reason I ask is just to kind of--where my head
is. If I owned a property I built an accessory dwelling unit and, then, three years later I
sold it, but I want to keep my home as an investment property to start renting it out, well,
now I can't, because I have got -- I don't live on the property. That just doesn't seem to
make a lot of sense to me. If there is a -- if there is a compelling public safety reason for
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it or there is -- if it's just for esthetics or -- I understand pride of ownership and keeping
track of it, but if I own the home -- I'm the landlord, I would still be incentivized to do it.
So, if there is -- if there is more to the reasoning behind six months I would be interested,
but other than that I -- I would -- I would rather defer to like allowing us a lot more flexibility
and freedom there, because I would personally be interested in -- in something like that
if I had these investment options with my own home that I move out of and I can now rent
it.
Hood: So, Mr. Mayor, and, again, Councilman Taylor, just kind of -- Bill and I -- I don't
remember that being in any part of the conversation with the group and I don't think I said
it before. This is not -- it's not uncommon across the nation, but it's -- not probably more
often than not they don't have this requirement. So, this is one that -- again, it's sort of
community preference. What do you want to do? This is not one. This is where the
group generally landed, but that's why I'm bringing it up. Like this is something where if
you really want to open up your housing supply you could say could -- they could both be
rentals, so --
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Yeah. I feel like the six month requirement is heavy handed and I'm wondering
if we could achieve the same thing through just kind of a registration process or something
like that where, you know, if someone wants to build an ADU -- we get a point of contact
with them at that point and, then, when they sell their ADU maybe there is a way to get
an update on who the new contact is. I feel like if anything it's just being able to know
who do we call if we -- if we have a problem; right? That's kind of what I was wondering.
Is there a different tact we can take?
Hood: So, Mr. Mayor, Council Woman Strader, I -- I will just say -- so, you can't just sell
the ADU. They got to -- it's got to be both. You got to sell your primary residence and --
if you are selling the property including both structures or if it's attached. But we do have
contact information, so I'm not worried about that. We may not have a direct phone or a
cell phone for every property owner, but we do -- through the county's records we have
contact information and we can send them letters saying, hey, weeds or cars or whatever
the code violation maybe. I'm not quite sure what you mean by registration.
Simison: As well as our utility billing. We would have contact.
Hood: Yeah. We have contact.
Simison: I guess my general -- I -- I think you know this about me, others, but I'm not a
fan of putting stuff in code that you can't enforce and that's what, unfortunately, this leads
me to in too many ways is -- I understand why, but I also don't want to -- don't want to try
to enforce this and I don't know how you legitimately can't without creating a new program.
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Taylor: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Taylor.
Taylor: Make a comment on that and, then, I want to pivot to a different question. I -- it
doesn't seem reasonable to have that requirement in there for my sake and I think you
make a good point, if we can't enforce it or don't intend to enforce it, then, what's the
point? But I do have a question, Caleb, about -- and, Bill, maybe on having a -- requiring
a permit for an accessory dwelling unit. Is -- what would be required to get the permit?
What are we sort of envisioning why we need the permit? Is it just so that we can ensure
that if they want an address that they have followed that or -- I'm trying to understand why
we would need a permit for an accessory dwelling unit?
Hood: Mr. Mayor, Councilman Taylor, it's pretty much like any other structure, I mean
there is multiple things we are looking for; right? We are going to -- we are -- as in
planning anyways we are going to validate a site plan with the building permit. So, it's
not just the actual square footage of the accessory dwelling unit, but like parking, we need
to validate that they have -- whatever the standards are. We are going to review those
and, then, work in conjunction with the building department. So, it is sort of a hand-in-
glove here where we are looking for some of the elements and they are verifying some of
the elements and, then, you can get an address. It's not -- the process -- it's not -- the
permit isn't for an address, but part of that process will determine if you get an address or
not and let's say you submit something -- a design professional submits something that
doesn't meet one of these, we will say, hey, we can't permit you as that, but if you change
it we could -- we could permit you as that. Are you okay being this? Maybe you don't
care about an address or utilities or whatever the case. Oh, yeah, we are really just a
garage, but even garages today, in addition, Planning is still looking at to verify setbacks,
heights and those other things we are looking at. So, the permit is just that -- that's pretty
standard for almost anything you build or construct.
Simison: Anything over 120 square feet.
Hood: Right.
Simison: And your backyard requires --
Hood: A shed, basically, in your backyard we don't permit, but practically anything else
you build you should be getting a permit for.
Taylor: It's a one-time permit. It's not like if I sold my property --
Hood: Correct.
Taylor: Okay.
Hood: Yeah.
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Overton: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Overton.
Overton: Sitting through the hearings of planning staff there is a lot of examples of
dwelling units that are on property that we really don't want to see happen in our city and
part of why I think you are seeing such a list of restrictions and requirements for what we
want to see to be an official accessory dwelling unit, because we want to make sure that
we just don't open the floodgates and all of a sudden we have got these all across our
city. At some point we also have to, I believe, my opinion, we have to have the respect
of the owners of the other properties that live within these developments that we are
looking out for their best interests as well by requiring all these steps for something that's
going to be put in their subdivision and there was a lot of discussion on some of these
points as we went through in the focus group on, you know, how many parameters do we
put? What kind of guardrails do we put? I think they came up with a good one. But the
six month residency was talked about quite a bit. And I don't think it's a -- it's a hill they
want to stake the whole code on, but it was definitely something to try to put some pretty
strict standards who would do this, I mean anybody, including me now -- I have an Airbnb
down the street in my subdivision and it's been invaded -- literally invaded twice that
somebody rented it and I had ten vehicles parked up and down my street -- that for two
nights. I mean you really want to try to do all you can to protect you quality of life and
your development in the city. There is a lot of stuff we don't have control over. I think we
just want to make sure when it comes to accessory dwelling units that we have got a
pretty good guidebook listed out on what we want.
Simison: I think in this context -- I mean everyone's going to be different. Appreciate you
-- you are not building this in my neighborhood. CC&Rs are going to control a majority of
these to prevent, you know, so like HOAs, hate HOAs, half to three-quarters of the
subdivisions in Meridian won't be able to make this happen quite easily without stuff that's
going to go through their neighborhood association. Doesn't mean we should -- you don't
think about these things, but it's going to be -- have several limiting factors in my opinion
before we see a lot of these being built in areas without HOAs or that -- I don't know. But
I still go back to I don't know how the situation changes, even if you were the primary
resident living and someone else is in there, you can always end up with things that
happen.
Overton: Mr. Mayor, I agree with you, but I think you would be surprised how many
developments we have in our city that have HOAs that are completely inactive and don't
have a board, don't even have any enforcement powers, don't collect any monthly
residence fees and if something like this happened they don't have the wherewithal to
take legal action against it happening. So, they are going to revert back to us to be that
guiding principle for how this occurs.
Hood: So, I scrolled a little bit further, a couple other things just to call out -- again not
running through all of them, but the design -- and this is another one that's -- I don't want
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to say controversial, but everyone's going to have somewhat of an opinion. It needs to
be generally consistent in design with the primary dwelling. What does that exactly
mean? Well, you know, I will tell you when I see it type of a thing, but that's the intent
here is that it should match and it shouldn't be way taller or whatever way means or a lot
of different color scheme and the materials should generally be the same. So, there is
another one that's going to be -- there is -- in the eye of the beholder or whoever is
reviewing the permit, but that was the intent is that -- you know. And we are a little more
explicit about roof pitch, siding color, materials and window treatments. I did want to call
out on a foundation with utilities. So, this is new. So, it's both -- L there and -- where did
foundation go? Maybe it's on the end of the section. J? I'm not seeing it, but if you say
so. Oh, yeah. Right there. Am I right over it. Constructed on a foundation with utilities.
So, I think the other point there -- so -- because we have talked a little bit about that is
that you have to be hooked up to utilities. Part of the discussion we had was do they
have to have their own meter, though, to be an ADU? And at the end of the day what we
are proposing is that you can actually share water, sewer, garbage -- if you want your
separate one it can be done, but you can actually use the same electrical service line,
however that works, but we aren't requiring them to be totally independent utilities. If you
did want to have it where you are a renter or whatever pays you can set it up that way,
but we the city are not going to require that, so -- wanted to call that to your attention,
because that is not typical of the city for a separate -- this is a -- it's an independent living
unit and we are not requiring separate utilities. But it does need to be on a foundation
with those services. You don't have that, you know, you don't meet the definition of being
this. And, then, the last one is actually what you talked about a little bit earlier and that's
back to addressing, communication between them. So, hopefully that's clear, but if we
want to talk anymore about that we address it a little bit there with a separate entrance
and no openings allowed between the units, so let's -- I would just say if there are changes
to these draft standards please take notes and make that part of your motion then. Heard
some not quite sure where it's going to land, but if there is any changes, please, just make
sure that's clear so we can get it right in -- in the record. If there is nothing else on that I
think flex space is up next. So, transitioning, then, to flex building and I think the first
place I just want to start is just with the definition in our code and there isn't any proposed
change to the definition, but I want to kind of put a pin in that thought, because maybe we
do want to change the definition. But today UDC-1143-18, which is a specific use
standards for flex based building, says the use of a building or portion thereof for small
scale warehousing -- and that was my emphasis -- small scale warehousing -- and/or light
industry with associated office and/or retail showroom space. Period. Flexibility and use
of interior spaces and low scale attractive exterior appearance characterize flex buildings.
So, again, a lot of subjective words even in the definition, but that's what our current
definition is. I also did look at other communities. The closest community, our neighboring
communities is Eagle actually. In their definition of flex space they actually cap the square
footage at 30,000 square feet. You want to be called and qualify as a flex building, it's
30,000 square feet and below. Again, we say small scale, but we don't put a square
footage on that. Meridian has Euclidean zoning, so we are basically -- you know, we are
beholden basically to the underlying zoning districts and we do generally segregate our
land uses. Flex kind of works on that -- kind of bringing those together and allowing more
flexibility in what you are allowing in that space and it's not -- we don't have a form base
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code. Others do. So, it's a little bit of apples and oranges. Like the city of Boise doesn't
even use flex in their definition. They have no such term. That doesn't mean anything to
them. You know, they do have a wholesale and a warehouse definition and, then, they
divvy that up into small and large and they break it off at 100,000 square feet. So, if you
are 100,000 square feet it's basically administrative. You go above that it's a conditional
use permit in a lot of the zones are in new -- in areas that they have. So, that's not quite
the same. And, then, in Nampa it's kind of interesting, they actually do define flex space
building as a commercial slash industrial structure that can be modified internally for a
variety of land uses, but they don't actually list a flex building in any of their schedule use
control. So, they say what it is, but they don't actually say where you can do a flex
building. I know we have some industry experts in the audience, maybe they can shed
some light on -- and maybe I would think they have done some flex type buildings in
Nampa, so maybe there is a -- but when I talk to them there is no correlation again to the
definition of what a flex building is and how you actually do that or what zones you can
do them in.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Thank you. This is -- this is an interesting one. I have been looking at this and
I think what I'm struggling with -- I would like to understand what will we -- like what are
we trying to achieve? What is the goal with having a minimum amount of office or retail?
Like was it employment that was driving that? Was it the type of -- of flex space we
wanted? Like help me understand what the goal was with that?
Hood: No. It's a great question. What problem are we trying to solve. We weren't getting
a whole lot of flex buildings, because we -- staff even recognizes that in some of those
areas it's a pretty high bar to meet. So, we weren't getting a lot of flex buildings. But
there is, in my opinion, not a whole lot of margin for error in that. The -- the zones in
which you can do a flex building are -- most of them are commercial zones. So, almost
like that neighborhood character of residential we were talking about with ADUs, trying to
maintain, if not establish the community business district is the C-C zone. That's the
name of the zoning district and we are trying to avoid a 200,000 square foot warehouse
building going in there with a little bit of an office space and calling it flex. That sets the
tone for what's likely to develop around them; right? And even in your question a little bit
there, Council Woman Strader, some of the jobs; right? We are typically -- and, again,
this is a little stereotyping of some of that industry, but typically you aren't getting as many
jobs in a warehouse distribution center as you are in some of these other zones that have,
you know, mixed employment. That's the name of the zone. The ME zone is mixed
employment and if we have 15 percent of that space being for office or a retail showroom
and the rest of it being warehousing, that doesn't -- that doesn't match up. So, that's --
but, again, we recognize that 30 percent across the board in all zones is not the answer.
That's why we are proposing a tiered approach. Well, it is still 30 in some, but 25 in your
commercial, your 20 and -- you know, so we are -- we are proposing to change that down
a little bit. So, is that a problem? We just weren't -- it wasn't getting used enough and so
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we thought, well, let's open the door a little bit more, but we don't want it to be open so
much where, again, we are getting in -- really industrial uses in our community business
districts, our retail service districts and having that type of use, so --
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Yeah. I think what I'm struggling with a little bit -- if I kind of take a step back
and sort of put on my commercial real estate hat, this is actually one of the most innovative
property types that we are seeing.
Hood: Uh-huh.
Strader: Like this is -- this is a source of a lot of innovation and it's the source of I think a
lot of employment opportunity because of its flexible nature. And so like what I'm kind of
struggling with is like what's the right minimum amount of office that makes sense? Where
it's like we are kind of meeting the market where it is, because I just don't want to have a
standard that's like so high on the minimum that we are just not going to see the kinds of
opportunities that make the most sense for us. I understand that are -- well -- and,
actually, it would be good to hear like what are our neighbors doing, for example, in
Nampa, because that's -- they have a lot of flex industrial stuff going on. Like what do we
-- know what their minimum office is? Is this kind of a benchmark?
Hood: So, again, just looking at their code, it doesn't have -- it doesn't do what we do.
Again, apples and oranges here a little bit. They don't have a percentage. Just in the
definition. So -- and this is where I think some -- we can kind of miss each other, too.
You can call it a flex building. You can market it as a flex building even. How we permit
it, though, is a different thing in our planning department. We are looking at your floor
plan and we are going to say, you know, if you are 29 percent we will try to see if there is
a hallway or bathroom or something we can include to get you know to 30 potentially;
right? But it's -- but it -- we can't -- yeah. There is different -- there is different ways we
could skin the cat. The way we have chosen to thus far do it, but I agree with your-- your
30 percent across the board currently doesn't work. So, we are proposing to change that.
But other communities don't really do this. They have flex buildings, but they don't call
them that essentially.
Strader: Right. Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Yeah. Just my -- my instinct on -- on this one is I think we do need to revisit the
minimum amount of office and I think we should consider lowering it. I'm just -- I'm a little
worried that we are going to suffocate some good opportunities if our minimums are --
are this high. So, I think maybe we need to go a bit further. It's a public hearing. I think
we are going to hear from various people on all these matters. So, if the other thing, too
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-- and maybe just a procedural point, Mr. Mayor, trying to keep track of how far are we
going to move the ball forward tonight. Are you --you know, we are going to get feedback.
I think we have given feedback on a few things. We have our City Council president who,
unfortunately, for great reasons is not with us tonight and we totally get that. I think he
has provided some feedback. Are you looking for trying to move items where we do have
consensus forward tonight in a piecemeal fashion and, then, revisit some of these other
items in a future hearing? I just kind of want to keep us on track in terms of what the goal
is for this evening.
Hood: So, Mr. Mayor, Council Woman Strader, or as the council, I mean it's an action
item. So, if you are comfortable and prepared tonight staff would love that. If we need to
come back we will do that, too, so -- but this is -- you know, if there is a continuation, you
want us to reevaluate something, I will just say that we have --we have talked about these
topics before and gotten some of that direction and back and forth with the UDC focus
group, so -- but, again, it -- the ball's -- we are kind of putting it in your court here tonight
and you can take action. This is an action item public hearing -- nothing I don't think
except for there was a woman here earlier that was going to testify on. So, if you wanted
to parse it up and some of it you want to move forward tonight, we can certainly do that.
So, if you are not you can put a pin in it and we can bring it back at a later date, too. So,
I think, again, options -- got plenty.
Simison: I think the question everyone wants to know is there anything that you don't
want to move forward as a general rule? And if everything wants to move forward I think
even if we have ability to continue it a week or two I don't think there is anything that's
time sensitive to have to be approved tonight. So, I would like -- I suggest we try to keep
it all together, instead of pulling stuff out if everything wants to move forward. If there is
something you don't want that's a different story.
Strader: Okay.
Taylor: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Taylor.
Taylor: You know, this is -- I -- I'm tracking with the arguments of Council Vice- President
Strader. This is really interesting to me, because having flexible space allows us different
users over time to use it. So, I want to try not to pigeon hole it too much, but I also can
appreciate, you know, there is probably -- let's get back to parking, which drives a lot of
what we do; right? If you have some flex space and everyone's retail, then, you have
some real parking problems. You know, somebody's wanting to use it primarily for
warehouse use versus retail I think there is some big differences. So, I would like to know
how much interaction or feedback you receive from people who sort of traffic in this type
of product and what have they provided you in terms of like this is what we see works
well, we don't like a lot of retail, because we like to have a mix or whatever that is. What
kind of feedback did you get? Because I -- I think we need something, but I kind of want
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it to be as open as we possibly can, so that over a period of ten or 15 or 20 years you can
see different users who could use it easily.
Hood: So, Mr. Mayor, Councilman -- Councilman Taylor, do have some feedback. In fact,
I was going to -- it's part of my notes -- call your attention to that. There is six letters that
are part of this. Four of them are from the same two companies, but we do have some
comments from industry experts and you have some in the audience that will want to
address you this evening. So, I'm not going to put words in their mouth, because they
have written them and they are ready to speak them. But we did consult -- and I will also
just say this -- it's a little bit of a testament to how our UDC focus group works, because
some of them aren't even part of that, but the word gets out to the rest of the industry that
there is these changes and we got comments on them, so -- and also just a plug for
Councilman Overton just sort of being there and hearing some of this, so -- not that he's
the referee or anything, but he gets to hear some of these conversations as well, so --
and I'm not going to even paraphrase, because you have conflicting comments even in
those letters. Some that want it approved as is and some that are saying it doesn't go far
enough, there is not enough -- as much flexibility. So, that's a little bit of a tough question,
but that is the type of feedback we get. It varies. Yeah. I want to just -- one -- one other
thing maybe before we jump more into this. I did meet with Will and Adler a couple weeks
ago -- three weeks ago and through that conversation I am proposing to even take down
-- so, again, 30 is our current standard across the board for any flex building in the districts
it's allowed. I still -- I still believe that leaving that percentage fairly high in some of our
community districts are high, but we can go from the uncomfortable anyways, proposing
to you tonight that we go in -- in the mixed employment from the 30 that it is, we have
proposed 25 and that's what Planning and Zoning Commission recommended, but 20
percent even in the ME that at least gives us still -- you know, that -- a fifth of a building
at a minimum to be something that's not that and, again, that's the mixed employment
designation and I'm not as concerned -- and we had a good conversation I thought
anyways in the I-L and I-H, which are industrial zones. A lot of places probably aren't
going to -- if you are really warehousing, then, just call yourself a warehouse and you
principally permitted. You don't need to call yourself a flex for us. You can market yourself
as flex if you want, but we don't -- we don't necessarily need that. But even that we could
go down to 15 percent, because you really don't need, you know, that office or showroom
component in an industrial district. That's not our concern. Also just finally D we are
proposing to leave. It couldn't go the other way. The pendulum couldn't totally swing the
other way. You are capped at 25 percent retail. Somewhat for the parking issue, but,
again, we don't want it the other way. We don't want all of our -- all of our retail to go in
industrial districts and we don't necessarily want all the commercial --you know. So, there
is a little bit of both ways -- your minimums and maximums kind of on either side.
Overton: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Overton.
Overton: I remember when the memo first came out that you are going to come in front
of us and that it -- you had most of the people in agreement with where we were going,
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because I know we didn't have a hundred percent, because anytime you put that many
professionals in a room we are going to have some different opinions. But I can't tell you
how much I appreciate what you have just said about your willingness to lower those
percentages, because I believe that was a major component of some of our stakeholders
and when we hear from them later I want to hear how they like those possible lower
amounts. I certainly have an unfair advantage on the rest on Council, because I was part
of this as it went through, but I would suggest we do not approve this this evening. At
least give yourself a couple weeks to chew on it, make recommendations back before we
move forward.
Hood: I think -- think those -- that's our highlights of the code changes that are before
you tonight. Bill, did you have anything else you needed to --
Parsons: Yeah. I will move on to --
Hood: Oh. Okay.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Private streets. Were we going to touch on that real quick?
Parsons: Yeah. Mayor, Members of the Council, I'm going to transition to the next couple
topics that I want to hit real quickly on this table and, then, we will pull up the other ones.
So, again, I appreciate having members of our community here testifying, but I did want
to just let you know that the home occupations -- we did modify those standards to allow
for outdoor swim lessons. I think that was a directive from City Council, because, again,
I think we are all aware there is not a lot of opportunities in our community to get that and
to help our children learn how to swim. So, I think that -- that was definitely an add. Staff
did take City Council's advice and we did up that to six or fewer to match -- align with the
in-house state -- in-home daycares like you had suggested. So, again, they are allowed
to operate between -- I believe May and September when it's -- and, then, the rest of the
years if it's outdoors you are not going to be doing swim lessons in the wintertime here.
So, it's -- it -- there are some months they can operate. There is hours of operation and,
again, it's six or fewer. So, those are the highlights for the -- the home occupation. I have
been communicating with Lois on a consistent basis, letting her know that we are moving
this forward. We haven't forgotten her. Things have just been a little slower than
anticipated, but that was on the radar and I -- I did encourage her to come and speak on
behalf of this topic this evening and share her support with you.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
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Strader: Yeah. I have two thoughts. One is I -- I just want to make a comment. I would
love to try to move this component forward tonight if we can, just to give some certainty
to those in that home occupation and want to say I -- it really warms my heart that the city
of Meridian will continue to be able to teach our kids how to swim in neighborhood pools.
That's how I learned how to swim was in a neighborhood pool. That's how a lot of kids
learn how to swim. Learning how to swim is really important, really a critical skill for safety
reasons and other reasons and the more accessible that it is the better off our community
is, so we don't lose a child and I just think that's great that you guys were responsive on
that and, then, I was just curious -- Mr. Mayor, do we want to consider stopping to take
public testimony on any of the topics we have covered so far or do we want to wait until
the end? Because we do have I think some people that are here for specific topics and
maybe that would be efficient for their use of time. That was just a suggestion.
Simison: I think we are on the last item for staff to share then we can do public testimony
on that.
Parsons: Yeah. We are wrapping up quickly, so --
Strader: Okay.
Parsons: The last --just --just more information for the Council. I think we are all aware
of how COVID has transformed the public hearing process. So, currently we do have
applicants that still conduct neighborhood meetings virtually and there is nothing in code
that allows that, but we -- we have kept that going moving forward since that -- since we
made that determination in 2020. So, this time we are actually getting in code that we do
allow virtual neighborhood meetings. So, that -- worked with legal on that language as
well. So, just wanted -- just more FYI for you that if that ever comes up we do allow --
hopefully with this code change we will be able to say, yes, the code does allow virtual
neighborhood meetings. And, then, I will go ahead and transition over to the private street
standards really quick. I don't need to go into all of those, but that was one that did come
up. It was -- wasn't anticipated to come up on as part of the UDC focus group and that
did come up as part of that group, because as you are aware -- and I know there has
been instances throughout the years where council's had some heartburn with private
streets connecting to public streets and there are some situations where it can work and
it doesn't work. We all can -- we all recognize that. That's why we have rules; right? We
try to prevent bad things from happening. That's why we have zoning laws and all the
rules that we have to follow. But currently the way private streets are today we try to limit
them for residential developments, either to a gated community or what we call a MEW
community and a MEW is basically homes fronting on common open space with alley
loaded units or taking access from a private street. So, again, in our discussions with the
UD -- UDC focus group we were -- we were asked by one of our development partners -
- developers how can we better use this as a tool, because, obviously, you guys have
seen multiple projects recently where maybe ACHD doesn't see a public benefit for a
public street or the applicant's trying to do a PUD and they may want gates, they may not
or they don't want a MEW, but they still want to be able to control the design of the
community through that PUD process or just maybe an in-fill project and it doesn't make
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sense -- they don't have enough land to really put in a public street. So, like anything, a
private street is one of the tools in our tool belt. Is it intended to be every project to have
private streets? Absolutely not. But we -- what we have done here is -- and it kind of
coincides with Brian McClure's presentation to you aligning that with the street naming
committee as well. So, all -- there is a whole bunch of process that goes into naming
streets and approving streets that we have tried to share just a bit of it, but it's -- it's more
complicated and I think you realize that. So, what this tries to do is it takes our current
code, it says you can do private street. We are taking out MEW and gates. You can have
those things, but it's not a requirement anymore. We are still going to discourage them
in residential developments, just because it's not -- that's not the intent here. It's to be
used in certain instances and we are going to use it as a tool to either stress the applicant
to go through a PUD process or demonstrate that it's an in-fill project and as part of that
is there going to be a justification of why the private streets are better than the public
streets in their opinion. So, again, there is -- there is going to be more justification for you
and us and the public as to why it makes sense to do public streets and they are going to
have to provide that with their private street application.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: I hate private streets. I'm sorry. I have a visceral reaction to them. I hate them.
If I could ban them in almost every instance I would. They are -- they have been nothing
but a headache for us and I have concerns about how they are going to be maintained in
the future. I understand that people want flexibility in the short term, but in the long run
they are going to be an albatross for us. My question for you -- very straightforward
question, but, okay, you know the neighborhood that's next to the Dutch Brothers off of
Ustick. Okay? That is our poster child of bad -- I'm sorry, I'm just being frank -- bad
private streets. It's -- it's been a nightmare. Would that project have been allowed to
move forward or what would have been different if we used that specific example? That
would help me kind of understand what we are proposing. How would that have affected
that project, because that one was my biggest example of the one that irritates me the
most and I'm sorry to ask it that way, but --
Parsons: Yeah. Mayor, Members of the Council, that -- this code is not going to prevent
that. I'm going to be honest with you. What I can tell you --that project had a lot of history
and a lot of different ownership changes and it's just -- it's been a mess from day one
unfortunately and we don't always control it. It was supposed to be one cohesive, well
designed mixed use project, which got broken out and developed by different people and
different HOAs, which makes it very convoluted. So, that's why we are trying to put some
better book ends on our private streets to try to prevent that from happening. So, in this
particular case, again, there is going to be more specifics to our design standards. We
want them to build them to ACHD standards. We are wanting sidewalks on them and if
sidewalks can't be part of the public street system, then, they are going to have to ask
you or present to you the hearing body why there is -- the pedestrian circulation plan is
better than having sidewalks along the streets. What makes their project unique or better
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-- their pedestrian circulation better? So, these are the things -- and we are -- and we are
making sure that their engineer certified that it meets ACHD standards, so that way in the
future if there is a possibility for those to be turned over to ACHD at least there is ways
that we can show that it does meet their standards and there is -- there is hope that they
will take it over and, then, of course, we still have the general maintenance. They have
to provide us a maintenance agreement, who is going to pay for that and how are they
going to do that over-- but it goes back to even Councilman Overton's comments -- HOAs
aren't around forever and I don't know how to fix that or solve that. I hear it all the time
as well, Councilman Overton, where people are -- they don't have an HOA anymore even
though they were required to. But I'm not -- I don't want to belabor that point. The thing
is is that Caleb and I, when we met with the UDC focus group, we recognized that we
have to be somewhat receptive of -- open to it or at least come up with standards that
allow for in-fill to happen, because it's -- if we have common drives that only allow four
units or if you have an existing commercial development and there is already a built
environment around it and you are trying to add a residential component and you need to
name a drive aisle, there is no mechanism -- you got to do a private street for addressing.
So, this is the way that we do that. This is the tool we use to get there --
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Parsons: -- and there is a process for that and that's -- that's why -- there is a public
safety component as well as more to the maintenance.
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: I get that. I may be off on my own on this one. I know I -- this is a pet peeve of
mine, so I'm going to respect my -- what my colleagues have to say and live with that
totally. But the -- I don't know how they feel about it yet. But like if this was up to me my
feedback to you would be I would challenge you to come back to me with a revision on
this that would have stopped that project from happening or that would have created a
much higher bar and if it's explicit like you must prove to the City Council that they agree
this is preferable to public streets or something like I -- maybe that would give us enough
discretion in there to -- to try to find these examples where it is -- it is -- it's something that
has to occur, like I get it, there are these cases where it needs to, but I see tons of
developers over relying on private streets and at the end of the day I'm worried it's going
to become all of our problem and it's just -- that one is a nightmare, so --
Parsons: Madam Mayor -- sorry, Mayor. Mayor, Members of the Council, there is a --
there is a caveat in this code. So, that particular one, the private street connects to state
highway. This code -- still current -- the current private streets don't allow private streets
to connect to arterials. This code would -- it does have a provision to allow that, but it
would require a waiver from City Council,just like any other access to an arterial roadway.
So, for example, in that particular case if that particular project were to come forward you
could have said, no, we don't want the private street to connect to Eagle Road. You got
to redesign your site. Same thing here. Someone comes forward and they have a private
street connection to an arterial, that's where they will ask for that waiver and we will
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provide that to you in our staff report saying, yes, we support it or we don't support it or
the applicant has requested a waiver or an access to that arterial and you can weigh in
and provide comments on that. But it's not a given by any means. Again, what are they
going to do to prove it up? Are they going to have more stacking for vehicles or -- you
know, does ACHD want it? I mean a lot of different thing -- factors go into that. But you
will have a chance to look at that and say whether or not that's a good idea or not. And,
again, one of the findings is does it impact the transportation network? I think in your
case that you bring up that probably does. But, again, moving forward we are trying not
to create that situation and doing a better job of proving that up, that they need to show
how this integrates and still does not impede circulation throughout the area.
Hood: Just real quick. The other angle I would have taken to look at -- I almost said
prohibiting that project, but at that time would not have qualified for private streets with
this code, because it's not in-fill. So, that is actually the provision in this code that would
prevent -- now, at the time that business actually went in they would have been in-fill and
if they would have proposed a new private street in that location it is in-fill at that time, but
when this was originally put in as a private street it wouldn't have qualified. So, that's the
angle I would have taken with something like that, where you have 60 acres and you are
proposing private streets versus the three-quarters of an acre and I'm constrained and I
need a private street. So, that is some of the intent behind -- it is a necessary evil. I will
also just say -- and not speaking for Council, but staff is generally of the same opinion for
private streets -- it's a tool, they want to use it wisely, because they can backfire in the
longer term. Even in the shorter term sometimes. But we are opening that door up a little
bit more, but we are also saying in the right circumstances and trying to be clear in that.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: I get it. I want to shut the door and -- and -- and I would love to see a maximum
amount of size of property or something, like -- so -- I mean that may be another way to
tackle it, like look, if, your project is larger than a certain amount I mean you may have
thought of this already, but I just -- I don't know. Anyway, I have talked enough about this.
I hate them.
Simison: Well, I'm not going to go to that level. I'm going to give a bit contrarian opinion
-- and I say it in this light -- I don't know when -- when you get together you say where do
these things work? You know, we have got a private street in Tuscany that works
extremely well. They basically function as alleys. You know, that's -- that's -- they are
your alley loaded, you know, but that's their purpose. That's their function. You know,
whereas we can also look around the city and find every place where they function poorly
or, you know, have created problems and do that. So, I don't know how-- if you guys can
like brainstorm, like think about the -- or the group says where do these things actually
work? Because I do think that there are some good places for them being and in the case
if the next Tuscany comes in in northwest Meridian you basically said, actually, we are
not going to do private streets up there, because that's not an in-fill development, but,
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quite frankly, as part of a large development it makes perfect sense to incorporate and
include them in some parts of it. So, that being said, it still doesn't get away from the
homeowner issue in the future the, HOA issue when they -- when they have to be
maintained or otherwise, which, again, I don't know how you can get away from that
totally, but I think we have seen enough instances where private streets have come back
to hurt the transportation network and, unfortunately, this -- any Council up here or any
planning and zoning or any staff, you could have a hundred people look at something and
miss it and not understand what's going to happen three to five years as other things
develop and I think that, unfortunately, that's a challenge, you know. So, if you can find a
way to -- like I say only put them in places where they won't become part of the normal
transportation network and prove that up to me, that's the basic start. So, again, food for
thought. Council, any other questions, comments at this time or would you like to hear
from our people waiting patiently? Okay. Mr. Clerk, who signed up first?
Johnson: Mr. Mayor. Sorry. First Jared Beal.
Simison: Is that Jared? What did you say?
Johnson: Jared Beal. Okay. Will -- Will Goede. Is it Goede or Goede? Goede. Well -
- okay. Thanks.
Goede: My name is Will Goede. I work for Adler Industrial. Our address is 8665 West
Emerald Street in Boise, Idaho. First thanks so much for the discussion. Thanks for being
open to -- to feedback from the development community. Caleb, thank you very much for
-- for meeting and being open to discussion. We didn't necessarily come to, you know,
agreement, but it was still a really good discussion. I still really appreciate it. Adler
Industrial is the largest industrial owner and developer in the Treasure Valley. We own or
manage about four and a half million square feet of industrial space across the valley and
about 1.4 million square feet of that is in Meridian across 23 buildings. Our portfolio is a
mix of warehouse, distribution, manufacturing and flex space. We agree with nearly all
the proposed code updates. The only one that we -- that we disagree with slightly is that
staff is proposing 25 percent office and showroom forflex space in the ME and C-G zones.
Based on our portfolio, which includes about a 500,000 square feet of flex space, 83
percent of flex tenants want less officer showroom than -- than they are currently
proposing. So, what that would mean is that four out of five of our flex tenants would
have three options. They would have to apply for a conditional use permit, which most
tenants don't want to take the risk and the time during their leasing process to do that.
Option two would be they have to overbuild their office and showroom, which results in a
less efficient space for them and a higher rent. Or option three is to look elsewhere to
any of the other adjacent cities. In our experience a lot of those tenants just take option
three. So, what we would propose is not a major change from what staff is proposing,
but to appeal to the majority of flex tenants we would request the minimum office and
showroom space be adjusted to 15 percent in the ME zone and to 20 percent in the C-G
zone. The rest of the proposal we are on board with. To be honest, you don't need any
-- any separate level for -- for I-L or I-H zones, because in those zones you would just
simply do the warehouse use. So, it's kind of pointless. So, you can leave that in, it
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doesn't matter, you might as well drop it out. But 15 percent in ME and 20 percent in C-
G, I think both of those are about five percent lower where -- than where Caleb is at at
the moment. So, we are close. But since this is a minimum requirement, the average
office and showroom will exceed these amounts and will be probably closer to 20 and 25.
This is just the lower threshold. So, I think that how this will actually develop is very similar
to what staff is proposing right now. We understand that mixed employment was
envisioned to be a transition, a buffer between industrial and the more public facing
commercial and residential uses. As was discussed earlier, adjacent cities don't have this
buffer at all. You have residential right against industrial and there are bad examples of
300,000 square foot cross-dock buildings directly across the street from school. But that's
-- that's not ideal for anyone. So, I think that I can really appreciate the -- the thought
behind this code and the mixed employment zoning. The -- the one more thing that I
would add, as I'm out of time and I have so many thoughts on this issue, keeping flex
space distinct from warehouse space is key in ensuring that the mixed employment area
develops as intended. In our portfolio most of our warehouse tenants have three to seven
percent office and showroom. So, as long as the flex requirement is higher than ten
percent I think that you are excluding the warehouse and distributed -- distribution tenants
that you don't want in your -- certainly in your C-G zone and not even really in your ME
zone. So, that's why we thought that 15 percent was still a healthy buffer between what
most warehouse and distribution tenants want.
Simison: Thank you, Will.
Goede: Yeah. Thank you.
Simison: I'm sure there will be questions, so don't go anywhere. You can come on back.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader. No. Seriously, Will.
Strader: I have a ton of questions if you don't mind, sir. Thank you.
Simison: Yeah. I was serious.
Goede: I will get to the mic up here.
Strader: That's all right. We are just notorious for questions. Mr. Mayor, if you don't mind.
I thought this was very interesting, this analysis that you have done with the 83 percent.
Could you help me understand the context of that, like this is looking out across how many
leases? This is an analysis that you did. Could you tell us a little bit more about this
analysis?
Goede: Yeah. So, for our -- for our portfolio about 500,000 square feet is what we
consider flex space. So, flex space is smaller spaces. So, all less than 30 to 35 thousand
square feet total tenant size. They typically have a public facing showroom or some sort
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of a public facing retail component and, then, the -- and office and in the back is typically
warehouse and distribution. Across -- so, for our -- this was across the valley. This was
looking at approximately 30 to 40 flex tenants that we have in our portfolio. Yeah. So,
does that answer your question?
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: I think we are getting there. Give me a flavor for some examples of flex tenants
and what space and -- how they use their space, because I think this helps to drive some
of the thinking of what we are going to end up with; right? So, I hear -- I hear you. You
are saying, look, someone who has actually got a warehouse that's more like three to
seven percent is your contention. Help me understand -- like give me examples of what
would meet this requirement in Meridian if it was the 15 percent, as opposed to, you know,
what is currently proposed in ME?
Goede: Yeah. Afew examples. In Meridian 84 Lumber is a -- what we would consider a
flex -- flex tenant. They are a building supply company, so they have kind of a showroom
component and a warehouse there. They have 12 percent office and showroom. So,
they are even a little bit lower. Cota Electric is another building that we built in Meridian.
They sell electric supply. A lot of these end up being kind of a construction and building
supply related. So, it could be stone countertops, it could be electrical equipment that
they also have a delivery. One other Motion and Flow is another one. They are 18 percent
office and showroom. Coda Electric was 19 percent office and showroom as well.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Okay. So, Motion and Flow, tell me a little bit about that. So, kind of just I -- if
we approved that, it was a while ago and I can't remember anything about it, so --
Goede: Yeah. Brad probably knows all the details, but it's irrigation supply, so I think that
they -- if you are installing landscaping a lot of the irrigation components they sell the
piping -- the tubings, the irrigation controllers, things like that out of the front and, then,
out of the back they have some warehouse and distribution space.
Strader: Mr. Mayor, one more.
Goede: No? Oh, it's hydraulic hoses.
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
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Strader: Maybe one more. So, what I'm hearing from our planning staff is a big driver of
this minimal office and showroom requirement is coming from the perspective of
employment. It sounds like a lot of what our staff has been trying to achieve is fostering
employment. Certainly City Council loves all jobs, but we love to hear about higher wage,
like family wage kind of jobs. How does that aspect fit into what you see in this landscape?
Goede: I think that -- I guess in my mind the tenants that we see -- I can understand that
they -- that staff doesn't want 100,000 square foot warehouse that has four employees,
because it's product sitting there. It's -- it's just -- it's literally storage. It's not distribution.
I think that -- I think that in these -- like I said, in flex you -- you can't do that. You are not
even close to four employees or 100,000 square foot spaces. That's not -- that's not a
flex use. So, I think that -- I think that right now the mixed employment zoning is creating
zero jobs. It's not -- nothing's developing in mixed employment zoning. The mixed
employment area is either developing as industrial and being zoned as I-L or it's not
developing at all. Nothing's really been built in a mixed employment zone. So, I guess
one thought is that -- that right now mixed employment zoning is just -- nothing's being
built. So that's zero jobs. So, I don't think that's helping. But I do think that having the -
-the 15 percent in mixed employment and 20 percent in C-G does -- it does really prevent
100,000 square foot warehouse, because 100,000 square foot warehouse -- they are not
going to build out 20,000 square feet of office, right, for their four employees. There is no
way that they can justify that. So, I think that the requirements still prevent the use of 15
and 20 percent, prevent -- prevent the warehouse use, which -- which doesn't create a lot
of jobs.
Strader: Thank you. This is very helpful.
Taylor: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Taylor.
Taylor: Well, one question just from your experience with interacting with different types
of clients who want to lease your space and things like that, yeah, I always think as a
general rule my preference would be that we don't try to solicit a certain type of employer
or job, but that we approve the uses and allow the marketplace to kind of figure out what
-- what are the kinds of jobs that are currently, you know, what the market is asking for at
that time. But I'm kind of curious from your point of view as you are interacting with
different types of clients and people who want to use your buildings, do you see big
changes in the types of users who want the space from one year to the next or is it a
pretty consistent demand from you the types of jobs or the types of employment that
would be using these types of spaces? And I hope that question makes some sense.
Goede: It does. I guess there -- right now we are seeing a large demand for small
industrial tenants and a lot of those are a flex style tenant. I think the -- I think that the --
the change in demand is there isn't -- maybe a few years ago or five years ago there was
a ton of demand for huge industrial leases. We could -- we could lease a building before
we finished building it and we would build as -- as much as we possibly could, because
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you could sign a 100,000 square foot lease, you know, 50,000 plus square foot lease all
day long. I would say those days are gone. The 50 and 100 thousand square foot plus
leases are -- are few and far between and there -- but there is still a lot of demand for
small, you know, 14 to 25 thousand square foot leases. We -- we are just about full on a
building in Boise that all of those leases are 14 to 20 thousand square feet and that's
really a sweet spot in the market, a tenant that we want to appeal to. On the -- the other
side of that we have three buildings that are finished in Meridian right now by -- by the
Tesla building we built, all of which we are struggling to lease because of this requirement
and, really, in my opinion it's a better location, but the tenants that we are seeing they
don't want 30 percent office or showroom and it's -- like I said they want 15 or 20, but a
lot of these are smaller businesses and -- and having to build out an extra 10,000 square
feet of office -- or, sorry, a few thousand square feet of office makes a big difference on
the overall rent and, then, it just pushes them to a different city.
Taylor: Yeah. And I think, Mr. Mayor, a quick follow up. Just maybe a comment. I think
that's -- I think you kind of answered the question in a way that makes sense to me,
because while I want to make sure what we are not doing is putting requirements in place
that are actually making it harder to create something here. Like we don't want to drive
them to Boise or Nampa or something where maybe they don't have those requirements.
I think -- because this type of space seems like it is sort of the entrepreneurial space of
startup opportunities and new businesses where kind of don't know what it looks like today
and maybe a year from now it looks -- your business might look different, but I think we
would be wise as a city to avoid being too overly prescriptive, because I don't want to
accidentally drive those things elsewhere. I don't want it to just be a place where people
live, I want it to be a place where people don't just work at a restaurant, but I want it to be
a place where people can start up some businesses, so -- and this is -- kind of like you
said this seems like sort of the sweet spot of, you know, just getting off the ground, getting
started. You know, I'm not going to go lease a Class A office space and I'm not going to
go, you know, a big warehouse and I don't want to do it out of my garage, because I --
you know, because of our own requirements there. This seems like we need to have
more of this type of flexible space. So, thank you. That helps.
Goede: I couldn't agree more. When companies -- when they get large, then, they have
a separate office and they have a separate warehouse and distribution. But when you
are smaller you don't have the luxury of that. You put it all into one house and you make
it fit and work the way that you can. So, couldn't agree more.
Simison: This is one of those issues that -- we have talked about this. You know, in that
context and I -- I sit there and I -- I look at the -- and I can never remember the name of
your buildings, but we will just talk about the one off the Lanark there from Eagle headed
towards Boise and you look at the existing wide variety of types of tenants that are in
those industrial locations. Just take JST as a starter. You know, when you start putting
in -- and this almost goes back to a little bit of the -- you know, ADU comments where you
got to see -- meet certain thresholds. So, someone goes into a business -- I realize this
is industrial, but JST wants to expand, but they don't necessarily want to expand their
office. They need to expand the rest of their building or to meet their customers, you
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know, bring in other types of things, because they do have a front part that feels like an
office flex space where they do their engineering and some of that, but -- but all the -- you
don't have the back -- enough in the back to do the work it doesn't matter what that front
office is doing. You know, then, you look at the others that I think the -- the filter place,
they have got a retail space that you can go in and do something, but most of it is -- you
know, it's a small counter, but it provides a valuable service. It's not one that you are
walking to, sending your normal commercial area, but most of the things that we go
shopping in Meridian are in that context. Yeah, Urban Air. So, that's just like in that area
where you got very different variety of stuff. I even touched on a few others that are there
and you look at the building to sit down on you don't own, the Sentsy owns it where you
have got, you know, K1, Line Pickle and a wood cabinet shop in there. And, again, these
are industrial. But I guess my question is when you look around our community what
doesn't work? You know, it our -- we -- we really have -- we sound like -- we talk about
manufacturing in the traditional sense in Meridian you are not getting what is traditional
manufacturing. It all integrates in ways where to your point where the market is really
driving a lot of these conversations and, frankly, if there is a desire for a certain type of
building with a certain amount of office and an equal 50-50, someone's going to build that.
You are going to put that in. You are going to make that happen. But I think the best thing
is, you know, being in the center of the valley is to make sure that we have space that's
being utilized to meet the demands of our community and not push people further out to
try to accommodate certain things because of thresholds. I understand we have zones,
we have needs, but I'm a fan of the flex and flex space just as a general rule, whatever
that comes out to for counsel viewpoint, so -- any additional questions for Will? Okay.
Thank you, Will. Mr. Clerk, anyone else signed up?
Johnson: Yes. Mike Wardle.
Wardle: Mr. Mayor, Members of the Council, Mike Wardle. Brighton. 2929 West
Navigator in Meridian. I came actually just to express support as I had at Planning and
Zoning for the private street standards. I feel a bit of a need to do some defense and in
that regard, as soon as staff gets a thumb drive in, which I did not use at Planning and
Zoning, but -- but we acknowledge the process that we have been through. I think what
we came up with in conjunction with staff and the other stakeholders is that we solved
some problems, we improved standards and restrictions and we provided clarification for
the types of things that can or should be done in a private street setting. That may not be
the right one. I -- the wrong -- the wrong thumb drive. But what I do have are some
handouts that if you Council Members would like to at least share, I am -- and when I
mentioned a specific type of project what you are looking at there in those handouts are
Cadence age qualified projects. We have done three. The first page, of course, being
the Paramount Director and you will find that as we just thumb through these Paramount
being the first, Bainbridge the second, Century Farm the third, these are projects that are
-- what I would call self-contained and off system. They are not intervening. They are
between and around collectors. But they -- they don't necessarily break the gap of the
public street system. They stand alone. They are specific living environments that people
find acceptable and I guess I would like to take you to the fourth sheet, which is a project
that's being currently held until we come up with a -- the standards that would address
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the question and this is in our Pinnacle project being subdivided as Apex. North is to the
right and if you -- that little intersection circle there on the bottom right corner of that
schematic is the centerpiece of our little commercial area with the -- a nice obelisk now
that if you have been out there you will see that there is a pinnacle literally there in that
street section. This particular project under current standards would require two
driveways or two access points on the left in this graphic, two on the right, but would not
allow one on the bottom of this particular standard and that particular one coming off
Locust Grove is a -- Locust Grove in that location is a minor arterial, but the current code
does not allowl access from an arterial into a private street system. If you will just go to
the last page of that particular handout you will see the -- the way that the projects have
been configured, first Paramount, Bainbridge and Century Farm and the fairly short point
of access, but a turning capability for people coming in that can't get through the gate,
they can turn and go out. Pinnacle coming off Locust Grove has a much deeper -- 170
foot queuing space, because it's coming off an arterial. We have -- we would have to --
under the new standards proposed have ACHD's approval to do that. So, again, we find
that the recommended amendments that are coming forth and that we support actually
do address some problems that exist currently. They do improve the standards and I
would on the record make certain that you understand that in all of these projects our
streets, though they be private, have been designed and constructed to ACHD standards.
They are the same streets that you would find in any ACHD project. So, we support the
changes, understand the concerns and certainly the world is full of bad examples of all
sorts of things, but we -- we don't think that we have provided any bad examples of what
a private street system could do for the benefit of the community and the selection of
alternative lifestyles that might be available to your residents.
Simison: Thank you, Michael.
Wardle: But we encourage your approval and the last item -- you have talked about a
little bit here -- it sounds like some items may need to be separated out and held for
discussion. I would encourage those that you are in agreement with that you move them
forward and hopefully this being one.
Simison: Thank you.
Wardle: Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Perfect. Thank you. This is helpful. And again -- so, I have found generally
your examples they seem to be working out, but there are other people's examples that
have not worked out and so we are -- let's just take a couple of these examples to --
Hood: Mr. Mayor, sorry to interrupt. But I have to. I appreciate Mr. Wardle being here.
He has a pending application on one of them, so hopefully one of the examples you don't
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want to question him on isn't one of their applications that are pending -- upcoming
hearings. So, please, don't discuss that one. The other ones that are done fair game.
Wardle: I appreciate that. Thank you.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Thank you very much for keeping us on track on that. Absolutely. So, we will
just talk in general terms. A lot of your examples that I have seen are more like senior
living communities; right? They are gated. They are -- they lend themselves to this and
the private streets are not being used to access those arterials. So, if it blew up -- okay,
I wouldn't feel like as much the city has to step in and take it over at some point in the
future, because it really is the residents kind of self-contained issue. The example I'm
thinking of I think -- hopefully you understand what I was talking about. The -- there are
-- there is a development off of Ustick Road right over by the Dutch Brothers back behind
where we were going to put an affordable housing complex that's not moving forward and
that one especially -- it's just turned into a nightmare and so I appreciate you bringing
these good examples, but help me understand some of the ways in which we are now
preventing the bad behavior that we are concerned about and can you think of ways that
we could go further to prevent the bad behavior, while still preserving this flexibility that
some people who are doing a nice job would like to maintain?
Wardle: Mr. Mayor, Council Member Strader, I'm not sure that I can. We tend to look
forward with what we are doing and not --
Strader: Sure.
Wardle: --you know, try to solve other people's problems and concerns and -- and I would
note that you just basically cited that all of these projects are age qualified.
Strader: Right.
Wardle: These are a very different product. If, in fact, they blew up and that street system
had to become public, it would become ACHD public streets and we could prove by design
and construction documents that those streets conform to their standards and there would
not be an issue. I can't -- certainly cannot speak to others with that and I apologize for
not being able to do so.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: If the purpose of private streets was further narrowed and senior living and --
and some kind of category were created as an acceptable example in a gated community,
would that achieve your goals as well or do you feel like there are other instances outside
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of senior housing, independent living, et cetera, et cetera, where you do need this
flexibility?
Wardle: Mr. Mayor, Councilman Strader, I think the staff actually added some language
and they may have to help me here, but I believe that it limited it to perhaps this type, as
well as in-fill.
Strader: Right.
Wardle: Now, in all cases I can't think of a project that would not come before either the
Planning and Zoning Commission or the City Council that could slip through and, you
know, become a problem in the future given the awareness that you seem now to have
as a group. But I think that, you know, age qualified and in-fill type projects would certainly
narrow it down, so that you can't just go out and do, you know, a large scale project stand
alone and if you look at -- I guess I better not say it, because it's -- it will be coming
forward. But all of our projects that we have done have been components of a larger
project and not the project alone.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: I actually feel like that has been part of why it's so successful, if I look at these
examples, because the examples I'm thinking of where it's not gone well it's been a project
that's been split with split ownership and multiple components, where suddenly what we
thought was a coordinated kind of planned master development has now evolved into
such differing aims that that overall coordination on the whole site itself has gone away.
Wardle: Yeah.
Strader: No. I appreciate your insight on this and it does seem like at least these changes
are an improvement. I widely acknowledged it is at least an improvement over the status
quo. It's just -- I just feel like we have been burned by so many of these that I'm -- I'm just
very skeptical of private streets at this point, although I will give it to you I will -- I will grant
you that in many of these specific examples where it's age qualified and it's part of a larger
planned project they do seem to be working okay so far in those instances.
Wardle: Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
Simison: Council, any additional questions? Okay.
Johnson: Mr. Mayor, next is Tyler Munn. We got someone on the line. Amanda McNutt.
McNutt: Hi, there. Amanda McNutt. Brighton. 2929 West Navigator.
Simison: Yes, Amanda, we hear you.
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McNutt: Great. Thank you. So, I want to piggyback a little bit on what Mike was saying.
We have worked really hard on the private street code. We have worked hand in hand I
feel like really well with city staff on these changes and I think it is important to note that
there are definitely situations that I'm aware of that are not just about age qualified
projects. For instance, if you are -- if you are trying to -- and I think Bill talked about this.
If you are trying to put in a small residential development that's in a -- basically already
developed area, especially if they are surrounding commercial and especially if it's small,
it becomes nearly impossible to put in a public street and there is a variety of reasons for
that, but primarily when you are in a commercial area and those development styles, they
typically use drive aisles or private streets to serve those commercial areas. So, then,
you are trying to connect a public street to a private drive, which ACHD will not allow you
to do and, then, you are kind of put into a bubble of how could we potentially move forward
on a project that's small and in-fill that actually, you know, fits the zone or fits the future
land use map designation of residential, but we can't put in a private street because it's
not gated, we have no ability to put a gate there and plus it wouldn't make any sense. So,
I think there are definitely other situations where we have run into this and I think there
will continue to be more as the city develops where there are just small awkward pieces
of property that are difficult to develop in any sort of manner, but especially sometimes
trying to connect those to a -- to a public street can just basically kill a project where --
where it's like -- well, there is -- if we can't put in a public street, then, we just can't do
anything with it and it kind of just sits vacant. So, that's -- that's something that I -- I just
kind of wanted to mention and add to his testimony.
Simison: Thank you, Amanda. Council, any questions? Okay. Thank you.
Johnson: Mr. Mayor, Tyler Martin.
Martin: Good evening, Members of Council. Thank you very much. Tyler Martin. I'm
with Cushman and Wakefield. I'm a commercial real estate broker. Address for Cushman
Wakefield is 999 West Main in Boise and I just wanted to speak today about updating the
code for flex buildings, the requirements for office space and how those affect the
economics of development. Pardon me. I'm great in small groups. Public is a little hard
for me. Anyways, I really wanted to speak to Council Woman Strader's comments about
employment. She had mentioned that innovative jobs, innovative employment. Recently
I did a survey of 800 square -- 800,000 square feet of industrial space in the -- in the
market and -- sorry, the cameras bother me. I apologize. Anyway. So, did a survey of
800,000 square feet. I door knocked every single tenant space in 800,000 square feet.
Had responses from 683,000 square feet. Those 26 buildings in Boise and Meridian and
spoke to 68 different tenants of those spaces and my -- my comment was how many jobs
come through this space? Because the nature of employment is changing and how I
posed the question to these folks was how many paychecks? Because when you go --
look at these buildings, especially small industrial buildings, they may have a small office,
but most of their employees are out in the field. They don't need a big space. On average,
without cutting out any of the responses, so we have a couple big tile warehouses. Geary
Pacific is on Franklin Road. They are more of an industrial storage user. The average
jobs was -- each job was -- pardon me -- there was 792 square feet of space per job. So,
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the worry of having large warehouse spaces with two or three employees on a forklift is -
- it's really not a worry in these spaces given the economics of the land prices and the
development, but to have a strict office requirement for these users is -- it affects the
economics and so these projects, to Will's point, are not being built and so right now as
an industrial broker-- and I'm not affiliated with Adler -- a lot of the clients I'm working with
right now are looking to be in Meridian. It's the heart of the valley. Highway 16. You are
going to be able to service the north side of the valley. You are going to be able to go
down into Kuna. We have a lot of folks -- and a lot of times I have no spaces to show
them at all. These aren't being built, because the economics, the cost of adding additional
office, which is not needed, is making it so these projects are not being constructed at all.
The ME zone has its own -- own issues. But I really would --just wanted to focus on the
type of jobs that are out there. You go into some of these places -- I went into one on
Ralston Street, 8,000 square feet, 55 employees and that doesn't physically work in 8,000
square feet, but outsidel sales staff, outside installation staff, they have small storage -
- you know, they are loading the trucks there and otherwise they are sending their
employees out in the field. But 55 paychecks through 8,000 square feet. Also wanted to
respond to Council Member Taylor, you had asked are the jobs changing? The nature of
the jobs. I will make this quick. I have been in town doing real estate for 20 years. For
15 of those years I was an MAI appraiser. Used to travel to New York and DC, go to these
big appraisal meetings and folks would say Boise, Idaho, see it The New York Times,
what do you all do there? What are the jobs? And I used to joke. We turn farm fields
into housing. And, really, that was -- our economy was humming when we turned farm
fields into housing and that directly impacted our industrial space. Used to go into our
industrial space -- it was a lot of tile warehouses and we still have those, but now as I go
around through the valley, you go into these spaces people are building things. There is
a lot of CNC machines. There is a lot of high tech construction design, installation and
that's what these spaces that we are talking about here with -- with Adler Group and
focused more in general on the market -- I want to see more of those in Meridian to bring
tenants to open buildings and also another point that several folks have made and Will
had made, these guys -- they are coming out of their garage, they are temporary spaces
in a lot of cases with the hope to grow, so they will go into 3,000, 5,000 square feet with
the hope of growing and employing more people. So, one thing I did want to caution
against is relying too much on the conditional use process for each user. Conditional use
process is onerous. These users a lot of times don't have a good horizon on their real
estate needs, so they are looking 90 days out. CUP takes 60 -- or, pardon me, takes up
to six months and the other thing is it's also expensive when they are planning on being
in a space for three years. So, I just want to say don't rely too much on that. I'm dealing
with a project in Nampa right now currently, which is in the GB-1 zone, I believe, and
Nampa will allow this small bay industrial product, but a lot of the uses are going to have
to be approved through a conditional use, conditional occupancy process, four to six
months. The tenants just aren't planning for that and, then, it's a significant cost hurdle
for them to go through that process for, you know, a three year or five year term and, then,
that, once again, goes back to the economics of the deal. Developers aren't developing,
because when you are looking at income statement, the cost of a property, and, then, you
are trying to plan for six months of vacancy every five years just in case you have tenant
rollover and now the city said, hey, we will approve these uses, but we need to know what
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they are doing in there, how they are doing it, how it works and so the developer is looking
at an income stream that has a six month gap every five years and all of a sudden that's
a big gap to fill this essentially vacant space, because the tenant's not going to pay for it
if they can't occupy it. So, I just wanted to caution against too much trying to get hands
on with every user, at least from my experience at Nampa, which is one of the examples
they brought up. Sorry to start so rough. I apologize.
Simison: We are good. Thank you. Council, any questions? Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Mr. Mayor, not really a question, just more of a comment. I appreciate that you
did that. Like that -- that really does help give us important information that we wouldn't
have otherwise had and so I just wanted to compliment you for doing that. I appreciate
your focus on paychecks, because I think fundamentally that --that is what we are looking
to achieve. You know, I am -- my other -- one of my other jobs I work remotely, you know.
I mean think things are changing and it's really about driving the overall employment, not
necessarily that we have butts in seats, you know.
Martin: Right. And that's how people are filling these spaces is different. Poor Bill's
heard me talk about this a lot, but the Ten Mile Specific Plan in particular was written 20
years ago from design ideas and Urban Land Institute ideas from the late '90s, where it
was all office and warehouse was different and manufacturing was heavy and so we have
evolved through that I mean space is -- really flex is a wonderful word for it. They are
flexible spaces and just because it's in, quote, unquote, a warehouse building is -- doesn't
mean that we are going to have forklifts and 80,000 square feet with three people running
around.
Taylor: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Taylor.
Taylor: Yeah. No. And I appreciate the context, too, because I think -- or the context that
you -- you provided. I think because you sort of emphasized the point I'm kind of thinking
a lot about, which is it's impossible for us to -- to really know who the tenants are, but
don't think we should try to dictate that too much by the type of use. I think in this particular
product type, you know, the more flexibility and the less burdens we can put there the
more we are going to see available for different users and the user today in five years
could be a different user, because this -- not that this is a high turnover area, but this is
the one type of a product where people can move in and out of pretty seamlessly as they
either grow or fail or whatever the case may be, but I think we would do ourselves a
disservice as we are looking at the types of jobs that we would -- could create in Meridian
to be overly restrictive and overly cumbersome with our requirements. Even though they
are well intentioned I think we would make a mistake in -- in doing that. So, I appreciate
your context in that.
Martin: Yeah. Absolutely. And -- I mean so as an appraiser for years we used to value
industrial buildings and we would actually take value off for too much office space. So, in
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all the, you know, couple thousand appraisals, couple hundred industrial appraisals, if you
got to a building that wasn't maybe a special purpose building, but you got to a building
that had 25 percent office, you were almost deducting value to come demolish that,
because the demands of the market at that point -- it's been several years since I did that
-- it was about 15 to 18 percent max. Beyond that it's -- it's additional cost that actually
comes off, because so many users don't want that much office space and so if we -- and
once again as the market's changed trying to sell a building in that -- in Boise right now I
have marketed 20,000 square foot building, 11,000 square feet of office on two levels.
Every buyer that looks at it says I have to tear all this out and so that's just a -- and it's an
old building, but it's just a function of a changing workplace. Those office employees a
lot of times now are off site and so if we require it now it's going to change. I think the
better way to do it is through design and also just pure economics. These ME projects
now -- you look at Franklin Road, industrial land all of a sudden is ten dollars a square
foot. So, you do an industrial building, a Class A, project, you have the interconnectivity
with the streets, you are putting in ACHD roadways, you are building a good quality project
with multiple fascia changes and you are going to limit -- you are going to carve out those
industrial -- the large industrial users because they are looking for a rent base under 90
cents, so building -- that project is going to cost much much more than that and so I really
think it's going to focus on --on these smaller users. So, the 26 buildings that we surveyed
-- I door knocked every single one of them -- 68 tenant spaces without me cutting out --
you know, going through and selecting the data, the average tenant suite was 11 ,782
square feet. That's an unweighted average. Total on those 683,000 square feet reported
1,252 jobs. I did take out one that was Roofing Direct, which used to be FamCo. I don't
know if you are familiar with FamCo, but on Ralston Street they used to have a couple
hundred employees and 30,000 square feet. They have now stepped back. So, we are
just under 800. Open to any other questions, but I really appreciate all your time and I
want to say thank you to Bill and Caleb, they have been amazing to work through through
this process as I have talked to them.
Whitlock: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Whitlock.
Whitlock: Just a quick question. I don't think you ever got to a number, but Will suggested
that maybe reducing the ME to 15 percent and the C-G to 20 percent. Does that work in
what you are suggesting?
Martin: Yes. And I will say all these buildings that I surveyed were mostly in industrial
zones. Most of them in Meridian. I think that works. I start doing the math on it, like I
have a tenant right now I'm working with is a major national and electrical company. One
of the buildings they are looking at is the benchmark project, one of Adler's buildings. So,
18,000 square feet, look at 30 percent, that's 5,400 square feet of office. They need
2,500. 1 think we are getting a lot closer. I didn't really want to come and speak to
specifics. I just really wanted to say how I had been out in the market just two weeks ago
door knocking all these spaces and really wanted to speak to some of the comments
about how many jobs are in these buildings and also the lack of supply. Right now when
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1 have tenants -- so, I just worked with a local group. They wanted to be around Highway
16 or in Meridian. We ended up in one ofAdler's projects at Fry Street. So, 21,000 square
feet. They have 36 employees. They are all highly paid employees, but we -- I had
nothing to show them in Meridian. Not a single option in Meridian, which was their
preferred market. Twenty thousand square feet. They ended up building out about 3,500
square feet of office, so -- do the percentage. But a lot of employees they just don't all sit
there all day. So, sorry, I can't speak directly to that. I haven't really looked at that side.
I just wanted to share the employee counts. Thank you all very much. I appreciate your
time.
Simison: Thank you. Mr. Clerk, do we have anybody else signed up?
Johnson: Mr. Mayor, that was everyone that signed up.
Simison: Okay. Right behind you. Did you want -- I know you came up earlier. Would
you like to -- yes. Would you like to -- since you stayed -- stuck around and -- yeah.
Collum: May name is Lois Collum. I live in Meridian and I'm a certified swim instructor.
I have been working with Bill a lot about, you know, the code about giving swim lessons
and I have been fortunate enough to teach two autistic kids and one Down syndrome kid
that would never make it in a public swim lesson environment. So, I do private lessons
and it's just me and the child and their parent and it's been a blessing for them to see how
much they have grown as individuals and just come out of their shell. But I had a career
as an account manager and retired and this was the joy of my life when I was a teenager
and I thought what better use of my home pool than to do swim lessons and so I do it
because I enjoy watching the kids learn and be safe in their pools. So, thank you, Bill.
Thank you, Council Woman Strader. I really appreciate it. Thank you.
Simison: Thank you very much. Mr. Miller.
Miller: My name is Brad Miller with Adler Industrial and I appreciate you taking the time
to listen to me. When Will talked it just kind of got me a little bit excited to think about -- I
have been doing this for -- I worked for Ron Van Auker for 25 years. Dealt with these
guys a lot over here and I have been with -- with Mike since he came to town over six
years ago. So, I have personally leased millions and millions of square feet. Every --
every space that Van Auker ever had in Meridian or Adler has had in Meridian -- or has in
Meridian I have leased. Just a case in point, today we showed a tool company some
buildings. There is a tool company -- I'm not going to say it, because Tyler is going to go
and try to steal that tenant from us -- potential tenant from us -- but there is a tool company
in Meridian that recently sold and they need to expand, so we showed them our
benchmark buildings, the three buildings that we have over there on Franklin and they
just need a small office, restrooms, and, then, just an open showroom area without a lid
on top, just a wall to surround it. They won't be able to go into the bench -- the two
buildings on the south side of the road, because the threshold for office is too high. So,
hopefully we are going to be able to take them across the street. They really don't need
much at all, but one of the things that we do when people come in our door is we -- we
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tell them, hey, we are going to show you a menu of options, we got more space in the
valley than anybody else and we can do whatever you want. If you want small space,
large space. One of our great success stories is Scentsy. We started them out in their
first building and we grew them from 42,000 -- that was their first headquarters. It's
actually more urban area right now. We moved Orville and Heidi in there and, then, we
expanded them into that whole building, which is 142,000 square feet and, then, they
contracted down to zero when they moved into their -- to their own campus. So, that's
one of the great things we do is we get with these small businesses and we help them
grow. I mean there is businesses all over town that we have helped grow. I just wanted
to touch on -- on a few of the different tenants that we have that are kind of interesting.
We have -- in Meridian. And I will focus just on Meridian. We have a catering company
in one of our buildings. Beth Alpaugh, who you may or may not have met. Just this go
getter of a person and she has just built this up from her own garage and now we have
got her in a nice space. She has about 30 people that work there on a routine basis. She
does -- supplied the Salt Lake Airport with all their food and we -- so that's one of the
tenants that we got. We got Zamp Racing. They do drag racing helmets and drag racing
suits. They are actually doing a new -- for the next F1 race in Miami next spring they are
--they are doing new suits for-- I can't remember which team it is, but they have designed
them and they have about a half a dozen employees there. So, we have a wide range of
employees. We have Bastian Solutions, it's a research and development facility and they
do material handling automation) and so we have got about -- we have got about three-
quarters of the space is office, but the rest of it shelf space to build that out. So, we have
got a wide range of tenants, we have a wide range of needs. Some of them are small,
some of them are large. JST I met with them last week, toured their facility. Unbelievable
what they are doing there. They are up to about 150 employees and they are running
three shifts, so -- I mean we are really glad to be able to support these businesses and
we just need to have the flexibility. So, I would strongly recommend a request -- or beg
you that we go to 15 percent on the -- on the ME and 20 percent on the C-G. Thank you
very much.
Simison: Thank you, Brad. Council, any questions? Okay. Is there anybody else that
would like to provide testimony on this item at this time? Okay. Council, I think we had a
request to take a quick break. Just stretch our legs and, then, maybe figure out how you
want to move forward on these --these items or not. So, we will take a five -- eight minute
break. We will split the difference, either come back in five or come back in ten or eight.
(Recess: 9.05 p.m. to 9.15 p.m.)
Simison: All right. I didn't -- I didn't do my math, but I think we are pretty close. Yeah.
So, we will start. Everyone's seated and people are maneuvering back around to places,
so --
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
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August 12,2025
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Strader: Okay. I think -- I think we have a good game plan of how we could try to -- oops.
I will turn my camera on. How we could try to move some stuff forward tonight, but kind
of save a few -- a few of these items that we thought were more problematic. So, I think
maybe -- could we do this as like a little show of hands as kind of an informal way of just
like -- do people have some buy in on things? That would be great. Okay. So, let's start
with flex space. I think chatting with people we feel like the rationale here is that these
flex spaces are like our business incubators and it's the closest thing that we have to like
little business incubators and that's really important. We want to support our businesses
as they are growing. So, I think what we want to propose there that would make sense
is ten percent minimum office requirement -- office and showroom requirement in the ME
zone and, then, 15 percent in the C-G zone. I think that's where we are going with it.
Could I get a show of hands if people are supportive of that?
Simison: I don't vote, but -- sure.
Strader: Yeah. That's good, Mayor. We want to hear that you are -- you do matter, not
just in tie breaking votes. Okay. That's fantastic. With that I think we would like to pull
out from this approval the ADUs and the drive throughs. Am I missing anything else that
anyone thinks we need a lot of substantive discussion on in the next couple weeks to iron
out? Okay. If it's okay, Mr. Mayor, raise your hand, please, if you are okay with removing
those two items from consideration tonight to come back in about two weeks or when staff
can -- can do that. Okay. Fantastic. Okay. Mr. Mayor, with that -- let's give direction to
staff to, please, approve the UDC text amendment --
Simison: Just the process real quick. Public hearing, what --
Strider: Oh, yeah. You are right.
Simison: So, we want to renotice it-- close this public hearing, then, renotice a new public
hearing with the other things in two weeks. How do we move something forward if we
don't have a -- I mean are we just giving this direction to staff to come back with an
ordinance next week?
Nary: Right.
Simison: So, do we want to leave the public hearing open for two weeks and come back
Nary: Probably going to be more than two weeks. I don't know what the timing was
intended for actual ordinance, especially if you cutting out pieces and parts of it.
Hood: And if I can just real quick, trying to just understand even the scope of what we
are continuing things to do, that would also impact how long it may take. So, I'm not quite
sure of those few things you listed what we are doing in the next week or two.
Simison: We will get to that.
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Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Yeah. So, I think the -- I think the direction -- what we are trying to achieve
tonight is I think we want to move everything forward, except for ADUs and drive throughs
and the reasons are that ADUs and drive throughs we feel like we would like input from
our council president, because he hasn't had an opportunity maybe to fully comment on
that. We heard some further concerns about drive throughs. It's kind of a complex topic.
I think we are close and I think ADUs is -- is very complex and it feels like the six month
requirement -- we have kind of mixed feelings about a need to suss out. So, I think the
direction to Council would be please take the next two weeks and if you have feedback,
please, for planning, if you have any issue with how those are drafted, please, provide
your feedback directly via e-mail to -- to Caleb and Bill and, then, that way they can take
that feedback and, then, they will bring those items back on their own at the appropriate
time and --
Simison: Reset the public hearing --
Strader: Yeah. Mr. Mayor. And if it's okay we could keep the public hearing open -- or a
new public hearing on those items.
Simison: I would recommend we close this public hearing, move forward everything else
and come back with a separate public hearing just on those two items.
Strader: Uh-huh.
Simison: Okay.
Strader: So, Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Okay. So, with that I would move that we close the public hearing on Item 7.
No. I'm sorry. Item 9.
Simison: ZOA--
Strader: ZOA-2025-0001.
Overton: Second.
Simison: Have a motion and a second to close the public hearing on Item 9, ZOA-2025-
0001. Is there any discussion? If not, all favor signify by saying aye. Opposed nay? The
ayes have it and the public hearing is closed.
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MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to approve File
No. ZOA-2025-0001 as presented in the staff report for today's hearing date with the
modifications that we would remove the changes proposed for ADUs and drive throughs
and that everything else would move forward as amended.
Simison: State specifically the -- in your motion the percentages.
Strader: Oh. And noting that the City Council is specifically amending the flex space
minimum office and showroom requirements in the ME and C-G zones to 12 percent in
the ME zone and 15 percent in the C-G zone. Oh. I'm sorry. You are right. Ten percent
in the ME zone. It's getting late. And 15 percent in the C-G zone.
Overton: Second.
Simison: I have a motion and a second. Is there discussion on the motion? If not clerk
call the roll.
Roll Call: Cavener, absent; Strader, yea; Overton, yea; Little Roberts, yea; Taylor, yea;
Whitlock, yea.
Simison: All ayes. Motion carries and the item is agreed to.
MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
Simison: Council, please, if you have any direct comments over the next two weeks get
that to Caleb -- actually you and Bill both on these items?
Hood: That's probably easiest. Yeah.
Simison: Okay.
Hood: Thank you.
Simison: And, then, we will bring it back around after they taken any of that feedback, so
ORDINANCES [Action Item]
10. Ordinance No. 25-2095: An Ordinance (Meridian Food Bank H-2024-
0065) for rezone of parcels of land located in the northeast quarter of
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Block 5 of the West View Addition to Meridian and also J.M.
Anderson's Second Addition to Meridian, located in the north half of
the southeast quarter of Section 12, Township 3 North, Range 1
West, Boise Meridian, City Of Meridian, Ada County, Idaho, more
particularly described in exhibit "A," rezoning 1.72 acres of land from
I-L (Light Industrial) zoning district to the O-T (Old Town) zoning
district in the Meridian City Code; directing city staff to alter all
applicable use and area maps as well as the official zoning maps and
all applicable official maps depicting the boundaries and the zoning
districts of the City of Meridian in accordance with this ordinance;
providing that copies of this ordinance shall be filed with the Ada
County Assessor, the Ada County Treasurer, the Ada County
Recorder, and the Idaho State Tax Commission, as required by law;
and providing an effective date.
Simison: Okay. With that we will move on to Item 10, which is Ordinance No. 25-2095.
Ask the clerk to read this ordinance by title.
Johnson: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. It's an ordinance related to Meridian Food Bank, H-
2024-0065, for rezone of parcels -- parcels of land located in the northeast quarter of
Block 5 of the West View Addition to Meridian and also J.M. Anderson's Second Addition
to Meridian, located in the north half of the southeast quarter of Section 12, Township 3
North, Range 1 West, Boise Meridian, City Of Meridian, Ada County, Idaho, more
particularly described in Exhibit "A," rezoning 1.72 acres of land from I-L zoning district to
the O-T zoning district in the Meridian City Code; directing city staff to alter all applicable
use and area maps as well as the official zoning maps and all applicable official maps
depicting the boundaries and the zoning districts of the City of Meridian in accordance
with this ordinance; providing that copies of this ordinance shall be filed with the Ada
County Assessor, the Ada County Treasurer, the Ada County Recorder, and the Idaho
State Tax Commission, as required by law; and providing an effective date.
Simison: Thank you. Council, you have heard this ordinance read by title. Is there
anybody that would like it read in its entirety? If not do I have a motion?
Taylor: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Councilman Taylor.
Taylor: I move that we approve Ordinance No. 25-2095.
Little Roberts: Second.
Simison: Have a motion and a second to approve Ordinance No. 25-2095. Is there
discussion? If not, Clerk call the roll.
Meridian City Council
August 12,2025
Page 60 of 62
Roll Call: Cavener, absent; Strader, yea; Overton, yea; Little Roberts, yea; Taylor, yea;
Whitlock, yea.
Simison: All ayes. Motion carries and the item is agreed to.
MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
FUTURE MEETING TOPICS
Simison: Council, anything under future meeting topics?
EXECUTIVE SESSION [Action Item]
11. Per Idaho Code 74-206 (1)(c): To acquire an interest in real property
not owned by a public agency.
Simison: Or do we -- move into Executive Session. Council Woman Strader.
Strader: Mr. Mayor?
Simison: Council Woman Strader.
Strader: I think we are past future meeting topics; right? Okay. Sorry about that. I move
that we go into Executive Session per Idaho Code 74-206(1)(c).
Overton: Second.
Simison: Motion and second to go in Executive Session. Is there any discussion? If not
Clerk call the roll
Roll Call- Cavener, absent; Strader, yea; Overton, yea; Little Roberts, yea; Taylor, yea;
Whitlock, yea.
Simison: All ayes. Motion carries and the item is agreed to. We will go into Executive
Session.
MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
EXECUTIVE SESSION: (9.22 p.m. to 9.35 p.m.)
(Motion - out of Executive session - Strader - second Overton)
(Motion to adjourn - Strader - second Little Roberts)
MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. ONE ABSENT.
Meridian City Council
August 12,2025
Page 61 of 62
MEETING ADJOURNED AT 9:35 P.M.
(AUDIO RECORDING ON FILE OF THESE PROCEEDINGS)
MAYOR ROBERT E. SIMISON 8-26-2025
ATTEST:
CHRIS JOHNSON - CITY CLERK 8-26-2025
E IDIAN;---
/hl R
AGENDA ITEM
Public Forum - Future Meeting Topics
The Public are invited to sign up in advance of the meeting at
www.meridiancity.org/forum to address elected officials regarding topics of
general interest or concern of public matters. Comments specific to an active
land use/development applications are not permitted during this time.
By law, no decisions can be made on topics presented at the Public
Forum. However, City Council may request the topic be added to a future
meeting agenda for further discussion or action. The Mayor may also direct
staff to provide followup assistance regarding the matter.
i
CITY OF MERIDIAN
CITY COUNCIL
PUBLIC FORUM SIGN-IN SHEET
Date: August 12, 2025
Please sign in below if you wish to address the Mayor and City Council and
provide a brief description of your topic. Please observe the following rules of
the Public Forum:
• DO NOT:
o Discuss active applications or proposals pending before Planning
and Zoning or City Council
o Complain about city staff, individuals, business or private matters
• DO
o When it is your turn to speak, state your name and address first
o Observe a 3-minute time limit (you may be interrupted if your topic
is deemed inappropriate for this forum)
Name (please print) Brief Description of Discussion Topic
— 0VQ (Ince—u Pn '
Y r cL- j U(b ci i v I
e aY)imczri e U
w IDIAN�
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Public Works Fiscal Year 2026 Republic Services Annual Rate Adjustment for
Solid Waste Collection Services
Mayor Robert E. Simison
City Council Members:
C�
E IIAhT Luke Cavener, President
Liz Strader,Vice President
Brian Whitlock
Doug Taylor
John Overton
Anne Little Roberts
TO: Mayor Robert E. Simison
Members of the City Council
FROM: Public Works
DATE: 8/12/25
SUBJECT: FY26 Solid Waste Franchise Rate Proposal& Household Hazardous Waste
Billing Change
REQUESTED COUNCIL DATE: 08/12/25
I. RECOMMENDED ACTION
No specific action is needed. Staff will move forward with appropriate noticing and
public hearings on the items below.
1. FY26 Republic Services Annual Solid Waste Fee Updates
2. Separation of the Household Hazardous Waste fee from current Franchisee
rate structure and add to City fee schedule
II. DEPT. CONTACT PERSON(S)
Alex Freitag—PW Business Division Manager 208-489-0376
Laurelei McVey—PW Director 208-489-0365
III. DESCRIPTION
Annually, Republic Services proposes solid waste collection rate adjustments in
accordance with Section 21 of the franchisee contract with the City of Meridian with an
effective date of October 1.
High-level FY26 Summary by Category:
• CPI Adjustment Methodology— 5.46% increase, 90% of CPI
• Disposal—3.0% increase
• Household Hazardous Waste—removed from Republic Services fees
• Recycling Service Charge—5.86% increase
• Volumetric Excise Tax Credit(VETC)—($0.12) credit
CPI Adjustment Methodology:
The franchise agreement allows non-disposal costs to be adjusted annually up to ninety
(90) percent of the net percentage change for May in the Consumer Price Index (CPI)
for Garbage Trash. This year's change in CPI(at 90%)is 5.459%. The average impact
of the CPI adjustment is $1.19 per household per month plus tax. The commercial and
industrial impact varies and is based on container size and frequency of collection.
Disposal:
Disposal rates are direct pass-through costs established by the Ada County Landfill.
Ada County Commissioners are expected to increase this rate by 3% (from $32 to $33
per ton) effective October 1 st, 2025. The average disposal increase impact is $0.11 per
household per month. The commercial impact varies and is based on container size and
frequency of collection.
Household Hazardous Waste:
Effective FY 2026, Household Hazardous Waste will no longer be part of Republic
Services reimbursement formula. This fee is proposed to be added to the customer's
bill. See next section for more detailed information.
Recycling Service Charge:
The recycling processing fee increased 5.863% (from $121.81 to $128.95)per ton and
reflects the current economic impact on the recycling sector (i.e., increased
transportation and labor costs). Republic Services sustained unreimbursed recycling
cost of$441,706.55 for Meridian City's residential recycling program over the prior 12
months(May 2025 TTM).Republic Services requests to increase the per household per
month rate for residential by $0.07. These charges include related Meridian City
franchise fees based on the total amount billed to customers.
Volumetric Excise Tax Credit (VETC) on CNG Powered Trucks:
The Federal Government once again awarded the alternative fuel tax credit for
compressed natural gas as an alternative fuel source. This tax credit is shared with
Meridian City residents as a credit to the monthly rate. The credit for the Meridian
contract was $66,752. This amount is reflected in the residential rate sheet as a credit
of$0.12 for 95-gallon, 65-gallon, and 48-gallon cart service.
III. ADDITIONAL HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE FEE INFORMATION
J
.� "Previous to FY25, Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Services for Meridian were
provided via a Countywide contract. The HHW vendor direct billed Republic
Services for this service. Billing to the citizens was provided through Republic
1 Services as a component of the Solid,Waste rate on utility bill. HHW fee was
included as a_.compon ent of the overall charge for trash services.
_-In FY24 Ada.County decided to terminate their existing contract for Household
Hazardous Waste (HHW) Services. The Meridian mobile site was covered under
/ that contract. As the County started the RFP process to select a new vendor, they
— informed Meridian they no longer wished to be involved in the Mobile Site process.
Public Works Department . 33 E. Broadway Avenue, Suite 200, Meridian, ID 83642
Phone 208-898-5500 . www.meridiancity.org
This meant the City needed an independent contract with vendor to maintain this
service for the residents.
Meridian participated in the RFP process with the County, selected a vendor and
negotiated a contract to service one mobile site for the City. "Clean Earth"was
selected. However, the vendor under the new contract with the City would not direct
bill Republic Services. As such, the City has been paying Clean Earth directly and
short paying Republic Services their franchise fee by the amount of the invoice from
Clean Earth each month.
This process has worked for FY25 to keep the site open and services working;
however, it is cumbersome and adds unnecessary administrative burden to the City
MUBS team and Republic Services.
City staff are proposing to de-couple the HHW Fee from the Trash Service Charge
portion of the bill. The HHW Fee, though not new, is being proposed to be added to
the City's fee schedule and updated annually like other fees following the City
process. Customers will see a HHW fee as a separate line item on the bill. There are
no changes to service, location, schedule or contract.
The current HHW fee (embedded in the Republic Services rates) is
$0.24/account/month. The FY26 proposed fee (de-coupled from the Republic
Services rates) is $0.21.
Annually City staff will update the HHW fee based on contractual costs with the
HHW vendor.
Formula:
(Contract Cost/Customer Accounts)/12 =Fee
$111,945/43,765 = $2.56
$2.56/12 Mo. = $0.21
Proposed Fee= $0.21 per Month
IV. IMPACT
The total proposed monthly increase for an average residential customer with 95-gallon
cart is $1.30 per month.
%tA detailed rate schedule is included in the packet.
Approved for Council Agenda:
Public Works Department . 33 E. Broadway Avenue, Suite 200, Meridian, ID 83642
Phone 208-898-5500 . www.meridiancity.org
$33
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ATTACHMENT B.Residential Collection Rates:Current&Proposed ATTACHMENT B.Residential Collection Rates:Current&Proposed
^^Proprietary"' "'Proprietary""
Residential Collection Rate Structure-FY 2025 Residential Collection Rate Structure-FY 2025
4 Wl 65-gal 95-gal 48-ee1 65-ee1 95-ee1
Service COA S Ic. S 1c. S ison sOh.Cost $15.63 $15.02 $Woo
Ada CiOurIN DI.....I E 11 E 238 E 3 Ada counNDl.ocaal $ 1 1 $ 2 8 $ 3
Transfer Station S 013 S 1.50 S 2.. Trensfer Station $ 013 $ 1.50 $ 206
VETC E 10.141 E 10 01 S 10 VETC $10.141$M141$10.141
Carts S 1.43 S 1.43 S 1.43 Cerls $ 1A3 $ 1.43 $ 1A3
Holl-ld HaurEou.Waste E 024 E 024 E 024 Ho use hold Haurdoua Waste
Rec)cllne S 1.31 S 1.31 S 1.31 R.c>•clin. $ 1.31 $ 1.31 $ 1.31
Glass E 102 E 1 E9.02 Glass S o t $ o 2 $ D
Sales tax S O.OB S O.OB S O.OB Selas tax $ 0.09 $ 0.09 $ 0.09
Cu.tpmer Rate E 1890 E 22.83 E 25.31 Customer Rat. $19.74 $22.39 $25.06
Marldian FrancM1ise Fees(B%) E 1 8 E 135 E 1 Meddlan Frenchlea Fee.(6%) $ 1 8 S 134 S 1
NO to Republic SaMces S 10.]0 S 21.18 S 23.]0 Netto Republic Services $Is I $M s $2241
NO
to State of Idaho E 1.08 E 0.08 E 1.08 Net to State of ll $ 0.08 8 coo 8 coo
Proposed Residential Collection Rate Structure-FY 2026 Proposed Residential Collection Rate Structure-FY 2026
Rats Increase on Service c- 5A. Role increase on SaMce Costs
Rota Increase on Recycle Precas.ing 11REFI Rateincrea.e on Recycle Prooe..ing ==
4B-gal 65-gal 95-gal 48-gel 65-gal 95-ge1
Service Cwl S 1640 S 16.60 $16.91 sOh.Cost $16A0 $16.60 $1681
Ada CounNDispo.al E 1 E 2 E3.58 Ada County Ol.ocaal $ 1 1 $ 2 3 $ 3
Transfer Station S 014 S 1.50 E3.02 Trensfer Station $ 014 202
VETC E 10 21 S 10 21 S 10 VETC $10.121$10.121$10.121
Carts S 1.50 S 1.50 S 1.50 Cerls $ 111 $ 1b0 $ 1S0
Recwling E 130 E 130 E 1 Recycling 8 1 8 8 1 8 8 1 ad
Glass S 0.02 S 0.02 S 0.02 Glass $ "1 $ 002 $ 002
Sales tax E ONE ONE 1 Sales fax $ 0 9 $ 0 9 $ 0
Customer Role S 20.80 S 23.56 S 26.36 Customer Rat. $20.00 $23.56 $26.36
Meridian Franchise Fees(6%) E 1 4 E 1 1 S 1.50 Meridian Frenchise F.(6%) $ 1 4 $ 1 1 $ 1S0
NMWRepubliI S.Mcas E 18] E 22.. E 24.88 NOW Raoublic Sannce. $19] $22.08 $24.88
Net to State of Idaho S 0.09 S 0.09 S 0.09 N.Ito Sfateofld.ho $ 009 $ 009 $ 009
Proposed Residential Collection Rate Structure CHANGE-FY 2026 Proposed Residential Collection Rate Structure CHANGE-FY 2026
40-pa1 6Sgal 95-gal CPI Disposal VETC HHW Recwllinp Glass Tax Total 95-ge1 48-gel 65-9e1 95-9e1
Service Coat S o.85 S 0.86 E0.80 $ ose $ 088 sOh.Cost $ O05 $ 01, $01
Ada CO DI.....I E 104 E 0 E9.11 $ oil
$ 0.11 Ada County Dlsoosal 8 004 $ 0 50.11
Transfer Station S 0.01 S 0.00 Eo.t6 $ 0.16 $ Ote Trensfer Station $ 001 $ Oo0 so.
VETC E 0. E 1 "ll' 0
$ D.12 $ 0..2 VETC 8 000]2 $ 0 $0.02
carts S 0.07 S 0.07 S o.W $ 0o7 $ 00] Carts $ $ 0] $ 00]
HousehoM HaurEou.Waste E 10.2C E 10.2C E(0.241 $ 10.241 $ C241 H....hold He-...Wa
Rec)clln. S 0.07 S 0.07 S 0.07 $ 0.0] $ 00] Recwllin. $ 00] $ 0o] $ 00]
Glass E 1o.001 E 11.01)E 11.01) $ WOW $ 10.001 GI... $M.001$M.101$I0.101
Sales tax S - S - S - $ $ Sales tax $ - $ - $ -
Cu.tomerRahe E 182 E 10 E 1 S 1.11 $ 0.11 $ 0.02 $ M-1$ 0.07 $ M.001$ $ Customer Rate $ 1 e $ 1.17 $ 1
Marldian Franchl.e Fee.(6%1 E 105 E 008 S O Meddlan Frenchl.e Fees(6%) 8 0 8 S D] $ o
NO
to Me County disposeI S 0.04 E 0] s 0.n Neap Ma Co-disposal $ 004 $ 00] $ 011
NO To Raoubllc SaM... E 0.3 E 0.0 $ o Net TO Republic$,Moes 8 dos 8 1.3 8 1.12
NO to Stele of Idaho S - S - E - Net to State of ld.h. $ - $ - $ -
NO Ph-lncrea.e 4AI'N 4A. 4.20% Net Prloa Increase 5.30% I- s2
Bureau of Labor Statistics
CPI for All Urban Consumers(CPI-U)
Series Title Garbage and trash collection in U.S.city average,all urban consumers,not seasonally adjusted
Series ID CUUROOOOSEHG02
Seasonality Not Seasonally Adjusted
Survey Name CPI for All Urban Consumers(CPI-U)
Measure Data Type Garbage and trash collection
Area U.S.city average
Item Garbage and trash collection
Link Not Available
Year Period Label Observation
Value
2023 M01 2023 Jan 570.412
2023 M02 2023 Feb 575.697
2023 M03 2023 Mar 576.773
2023 M04 2023 Apr 580.124
2023 M05 2023 May 587.431
2023 M06 2023 Jun 589.812
2023 M07 2023 Jul 596.167
2023 M08 2023 Aug 597.347
2023 M09 2023 Sep 596.997
2023 M10 2023 Oct 597.569
2023 M11 2023 Nov 601.631
2023 M12 2023 Dec 602.164
2024 M01 2024 Jan 606.773
2024 M02 2024 Feb 610.551
2024 M03 2024 Mar 610.015
2024 M04 2024 Apr 611.073
2024 M05 2024 May 609.538
2024 M06 2024Jun 611.946
2024 M07 2024Jul 614.089
2024 M08 2024 Aug 615.880
2024 M09 2024 Sep 619.640
2024 M10 2024 Oct 621.632
2024 M11 2024 Nov 627.127
2024 M12 2024 Dec 627.807
2025 M01 2025 Jan 629.803
2025 M02 2025 Feb 641.938
2025 M03 2025 Mar 642.053
2025 M04 2025 Apr 643.063
2025 M05 2025 May 646.507
Index Change 36.969
Percent Change 6.065%
Meridian Increase is 90%of CPI Impact 5.459%
Source:Bureau of Labor Statistics Generated on:June 24,2025
Attachment A: Percentage of Rate Change by System
""Proprietary""
Including HHW Fee Range
Min Max
Residential rates Overall 4.104% 5.611%
Residential Trash 5.140% 5.467%
Residential Recycling 5.446% 5.557%
Commercial cart rates (95 gallon) 5.297% 5.588%
Commercial container rates (1/2, 3, 6, 8 yds.) 4.894% 5.597%
Commercial compactor rates 5.100% 5.156%
On-call commercial container rates (3, 6, 8 yds.) 4.717% 5.471%
Commercial Recycling 5.482% 5.597%
Roll off hauling services (rent and hauling) 3.100% 5.752%
Roll off Diversion services (rent and hauling) 3.125% 5.828%
Roll off Recycling hauling services (rent and hauling) 5.137% 5.828%
Miscellaneous collection services 5.396% 5.496%
Note all changes include Ada County Disposal increase.
Excluding HHW Fee Range
Min Max
Residential rates Overall 5.199% 5.611%
Residential Trash 5.140% 5.467%
Residential Recycling 5.446% 5.557%
Commercial cart rates (95 gallon) 5.297% 5.588%
Commercial container rates (1/2, 3, 6, 8 yds.) 4.894% 5.597%
Commercial compactor rates 5.100% 5.156%
On-call commercial container rates (3, 6, 8 yds.) 4.717% 5.471%
Commercial Recycling 5.482% 5.597%
Roll off hauling services (rent and hauling) 3.100% 5.752%
Roll off Diversion services (rent and hauling) 3.125% 5.828%
Roll off Recycling hauling services (rent and hauling) 5.137% 5.828%
Miscellaneous collection services 5.396% 5.496%
Note all changes include Ada County Disposal increase.
FY26 Solid Waste Fee Schedule August 2025 Proposal
Republic Services is asking for an increase of 5.46% for FY26. This is in alignment with the contractual VETC (Alternative Fuel Tax Credit) Applied as credit to customer accountHousehold
Hazardous Waste (HHW)To be billed separatelyDisposal (ACLF)XTrash and Recycling ServicesXSubject to CPIPassthrough CostSolid Waste Rate Components 6.07% x .90 = 5.46%This year's CPI
= 6.07%The calculation is based on the published index change from May 2024 to May 2025.Allows for a 90% of Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment to rates.The City’s franchise agreement
with Republic Services allows for an annual adjustment to rate schedule. agreement. No other changes are being requested for the upcoming year.
Proposed Fee:SWAC recommends to Council to accept the fee schedule as proposed with no changes.Republic Services fee proposal has been reviewed by staff and the Solid Waste Advisory
Commission(SWAC).Total $ 25.06 $ 1.30 $ 26.36 VETC$ (0.14)$ (0.12)Through ACLF)-Disposal (Pass$
3.45 $ 0.11 $ 3.56 sServiceand Recycling Trash $ 21.75 $ 1.19 $ 22.94 FY25 FeeFY26 IncreaseFY26
FeeGallon Cart Customer Example-Residential 95
The total “Trash and Recycling Services” fee is comprised of several elements:through cost to our customers.-This is the cost RS pays to the landfill to deposit trash. A passEquates
to $0.11 increase to our customersAda County Landfill is increasing the disposal (Tipping Fee) by 3.00% per Ton from $32 to $33. associated with Republic Services fees.)Household Hazardous
Waste (Note: Beginning in FY26 to be billed as a separate line item and no longer Cart/Container RentalsOther Charges:Glass: No change, remains $0.02/mo.through cost -Recycle Processing
Fee (MRF): $0.07 increase (5.86%) passServices: collection and haulingTransfer Station: Operations to run the transfer station
Fee Comparisons:BoiseRepublic Services$31.95$34.72TR: $34.72-2 Carts TRC: $27.28 -3 Carts KunaJ&M Sanitation$28.34$29.12Trash & Recycle + $2.26 Trash only $26.86Meridian$25.06$26.36Trash
& Recycle StarRepublic Services$23.07$23.72Trash & Recycle EagleWaste Connections$21.60Still Developing Trash & Recycle Ada CountyWaste Connections$19.56Still DevelopingTrash & Recycle
Garden CityRepublic Services$19.10Still DevelopingTrash & Recycle MunicipalitiesService ProviderRate Fee FY25gallon Cart-95)Proposed(Rate Fee FY26 gallon Cart-95Trash and Recycling
Service Rates of Municipalities who Utilize Ada County Landfill
Next Steps/Timeline:Fees go into effect beginning of FY26 (Oct. 1))th Council meeting, resolution and adopt new fees (Sept. 16 rd 3)th Council meeting, Public hearing (Sept. 9 nd 2)th
Sept. 6–th week notice requirement (Aug. 25-2Public Notice of Fee change)th Council meeting, to present updated fee proposal (August 12 st 1
E IDIAN
'aAHO
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Public Works Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Billing Change
Mayor Robert E. Simison
City Council Members:
C�
E IIAhT Luke Cavener, President
Liz Strader,Vice President
Brian Whitlock
Doug Taylor
John Overton
Anne Little Roberts
TO: Mayor Robert E. Simison
Members of the City Council
FROM: Public Works
DATE: 8/12/25
SUBJECT: FY26 Solid Waste Franchise Rate Proposal& Household Hazardous Waste
Billing Change
REQUESTED COUNCIL DATE: 08/12/25
I. RECOMMENDED ACTION
No specific action is needed. Staff will move forward with appropriate noticing and
public hearings on the items below.
1. FY26 Republic Services Annual Solid Waste Fee Updates
2. Separation of the Household Hazardous Waste fee from current Franchisee
rate structure and add to City fee schedule
II. DEPT. CONTACT PERSON(S)
Alex Freitag—PW Business Division Manager 208-489-0376
Laurelei McVey—PW Director 208-489-0365
III. DESCRIPTION
Annually, Republic Services proposes solid waste collection rate adjustments in
accordance with Section 21 of the franchisee contract with the City of Meridian with an
effective date of October 1.
High-level FY26 Summary by Category:
• CPI Adjustment Methodology— 5.46% increase, 90% of CPI
• Disposal—3.0% increase
• Household Hazardous Waste—removed from Republic Services fees
• Recycling Service Charge—5.86% increase
• Volumetric Excise Tax Credit(VETC)—($0.12) credit
CPI Adjustment Methodology:
The franchise agreement allows non-disposal costs to be adjusted annually up to ninety
(90) percent of the net percentage change for May in the Consumer Price Index (CPI)
for Garbage Trash. This year's change in CPI(at 90%)is 5.459%. The average impact
of the CPI adjustment is $1.19 per household per month plus tax. The commercial and
industrial impact varies and is based on container size and frequency of collection.
Disposal:
Disposal rates are direct pass-through costs established by the Ada County Landfill.
Ada County Commissioners are expected to increase this rate by 3% (from $32 to $33
per ton) effective October 1 st, 2025. The average disposal increase impact is $0.11 per
household per month. The commercial impact varies and is based on container size and
frequency of collection.
Household Hazardous Waste:
Effective FY 2026, Household Hazardous Waste will no longer be part of Republic
Services reimbursement formula. This fee is proposed to be added to the customer's
bill. See next section for more detailed information.
Recycling Service Charge:
The recycling processing fee increased 5.863% (from $121.81 to $128.95)per ton and
reflects the current economic impact on the recycling sector (i.e., increased
transportation and labor costs). Republic Services sustained unreimbursed recycling
cost of$441,706.55 for Meridian City's residential recycling program over the prior 12
months(May 2025 TTM).Republic Services requests to increase the per household per
month rate for residential by $0.07. These charges include related Meridian City
franchise fees based on the total amount billed to customers.
Volumetric Excise Tax Credit (VETC) on CNG Powered Trucks:
The Federal Government once again awarded the alternative fuel tax credit for
compressed natural gas as an alternative fuel source. This tax credit is shared with
Meridian City residents as a credit to the monthly rate. The credit for the Meridian
contract was $66,752. This amount is reflected in the residential rate sheet as a credit
of$0.12 for 95-gallon, 65-gallon, and 48-gallon cart service.
III. ADDITIONAL HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE FEE INFORMATION
J
.� "Previous to FY25, Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Services for Meridian were
provided via a Countywide contract. The HHW vendor direct billed Republic
Services for this service. Billing to the citizens was provided through Republic
1 Services as a component of the Solid,Waste rate on utility bill. HHW fee was
included as a_.compon ent of the overall charge for trash services.
_-In FY24 Ada.County decided to terminate their existing contract for Household
Hazardous Waste (HHW) Services. The Meridian mobile site was covered under
/ that contract. As the County started the RFP process to select a new vendor, they
— informed Meridian they no longer wished to be involved in the Mobile Site process.
Public Works Department . 33 E. Broadway Avenue, Suite 200, Meridian, ID 83642
Phone 208-898-5500 . www.meridiancity.org
This meant the City needed an independent contract with vendor to maintain this
service for the residents.
Meridian participated in the RFP process with the County, selected a vendor and
negotiated a contract to service one mobile site for the City. "Clean Earth"was
selected. However, the vendor under the new contract with the City would not direct
bill Republic Services. As such, the City has been paying Clean Earth directly and
short paying Republic Services their franchise fee by the amount of the invoice from
Clean Earth each month.
This process has worked for FY25 to keep the site open and services working;
however, it is cumbersome and adds unnecessary administrative burden to the City
MUBS team and Republic Services.
City staff are proposing to de-couple the HHW Fee from the Trash Service Charge
portion of the bill. The HHW Fee, though not new, is being proposed to be added to
the City's fee schedule and updated annually like other fees following the City
process. Customers will see a HHW fee as a separate line item on the bill. There are
no changes to service, location, schedule or contract.
The current HHW fee (embedded in the Republic Services rates) is
$0.24/account/month. The FY26 proposed fee (de-coupled from the Republic
Services rates) is $0.21.
Annually City staff will update the HHW fee based on contractual costs with the
HHW vendor.
Formula:
(Contract Cost/Customer Accounts)/12 =Fee
$111,945/43,765 = $2.56
$2.56/12 Mo. = $0.21
Proposed Fee= $0.21 per Month
IV. IMPACT
The total proposed monthly increase for an average residential customer with 95-gallon
cart is $1.30 per month.
%tA detailed rate schedule is included in the packet.
Approved for Council Agenda:
Public Works Department . 33 E. Broadway Avenue, Suite 200, Meridian, ID 83642
Phone 208-898-5500 . www.meridiancity.org
Household Hazardous Waste Update:August 2025 Billing Changes and Fee Proposal
Background:of their trash and recycling service on the utility bill through the end of FY25.City began paying for service directly to vendor. Customers continue to pay for service as
a component FY25 new contract took effect. “CleanEarth” was selected (Same vendor who has provided services in the past). service one mobile site for the City.Meridian participated
in the RFP process with the County, selected a vendor and negotiated a contract to vendor to maintain this service for the residents. wished to be involved in the Mobile Site process.
This meant the City needed an independent contract with a As Ada Co. started the RFP process to select a new vendor, they informed Meridian the County no longer HHW fee was included
as a component of the overall charge for trash and recycling services.Billing (both from vendor and for customers) was handled through Republic Services.The Meridian mobile site was
covered under that contract. In FY24, Ada County decided to terminate their existing contract for HHW Services. provided through Republic Services as a component of current Solid
Waste rate on utility bill.Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Services for Meridian provided via a countywide contract; Billing
Today:and Republic Services. This process works but is cumbersome and adds unnecessary administrative burden to the City MUBS team The City short pays RS their franchise fee by the
amount of the invoice from “CleanEarth” each month.The City pays “CleanEarth” directly (Monthly) for their services.Customers pay for HHW service as a component of their service charge
for trash and recycling.Meridian maintains its own contract with “CleanEarth”, our HHW provider.
What’s Changing for FY26:fees following the City process.The HHW Fee, though not new, will now be added to the City’s fee schedule and updated annually like other No changes to service,
location, schedule or contract. Customers will see a HHW fee as a separate line item on the bill. City will collect the fee for this service on the utility bill.couple the HHW Fee
from the Trash and Recycling Service Charge portion of the bill. -De
Rate Methodology and Proposal:per Month $0.21Proposed Fee = $2.56/12 Mo. = $0.21$111,945/43,765 = $2.56(Contract Cost/Customer Accounts)/12 = FeeFormula:Then divide by 12 months to arrive
at a monthly rate.Customer Accounts = 43,765 (End of May 2025)Contract cost = $111,945Customers will be charged based on the cost of the contract, divided among the number of active
accounts.Customers will see this amount removed as a component of their service charge.Current Fee is $0.24 and is included in the service charge for trash and recycling.
Planned Outreach:.eNewsletterThere will be HHW fee information located on the September eNewsletterCity’s On the City’s website in several locations, there will be information about
the HHW fee change.Onlinewhere to find more information.On the utility bill under the HHW line item, there will be a “tag line” that will direct residents fee.Within the October
MUBS utility billing insert, there will be detailed information about the HHW MUBS Utility BillingThere will be 3 outreach outlets that Staff will use to inform residents of the HHW
Fee changes.
Questions?
W IDIAN�
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Modified Final Plat for Southridge South (MFP-2025-0002) to change the
fencing type along the Ridenbaugh Canal from black wrought iron as required by City Council, to
black open vision vinyl-coated chain link with posts installed in sleeves for easy removal as
required by Nampa Meridian Irrigation District (NMID), by The Land Group, Inc., generally
located on the south side of W. Overland Rd., approximately 1/4 miles east of S. Ten Mile Rd.
STAFF REPORT C�I
w IDIAN --
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT .►A H O
HEARING 8/12/2025 INTERSTATE1�
DATE:
TO: Mayor&City Council
— w.ovERv,No Rn
FROM: Sonya Allen,Associate Planner
208-884-5533
PROJECT '
AREA M#2
SUBJECT: Southridge South No. 1
MFP-2025-0002
LOCATION: Generally located on the south side of W. N
Overland Rd., approximately 1/4 mile
east of S. Ten Mile Rd.,in the NW 1/4 of
Section 23, T.3N.,R.1 W.
LJ
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Modification to the final plat(FP-2021-0059)approval to change the fencing type along the
Ridenbaugh Canal from black wrought iron as required by City Council,to black open vision vinyl-
coated chain link with posts installed in sleeves for easy removal as required by NMID.
II. APPLICANT INFORMATION
A. Applicant:
Macy Lui, The Land Group 462 E. Shore Dr., Ste. 100, Eagle,ID 83616
B. Owner:
Challenger Development,Inc.— 1977 E. Overland Rd.,Meridian,ID 83642
C. Representative:
Same as applicant
III. STAFF ANALYSIS
The preliminary plat(H-2020-0083) for Southridge South subdivision was approved by City Council
in 2021. At the time,the applicant proposed 6-foot-tall chain link fencing along the Ridenbaugh
Canal to preserve public safety in accord with UDC 11-3A-6C to match existing fencing in
Southridge Subdivision. There was a lengthy discussion by City Council pertaining to the fencing
type and shared opinion that chain link was not a desirable material for aesthetic reasons;therefore,
black wrought iron fencing was specifically required to be constructed adjacent to the City's multi-
use pathway along the Ridenbaugh Canal in this development.
The landscape plans submitted with the final plat(FP-2021-0059)application did not reflect the
Page 1
required fencing type;therefore, a condition of approval was included for the plans to be revised
accordingly. The final plat is now under review for City Engineer signature and cannot be signed
unless the plan is revised to comply with this condition or the condition is modified by City Council.
The proposed chain link fence has already been constructed on the site without approval from the
Planning Division.
The Applicant states in their application narrative that Nampa Meridian Irrigation District(NMID)
required fence posts to be installed in sleeves to allow the fence to be easily removed when/if NMID
needs access to their easement for the canal.A letter from Butte Fence,the Applicant's fence
contractor,was included in the narrative stating they could only meet this "removable"requirement
with chain link fencing.
The Applicant requests City Council's approval to modify final plat condition#5d, as follows:
The fencing type along the Ridenbaugh Canal shall be black open vision vinyl-
coated chain link as iaeqmh;e approved by City Council with MFP-2025-0002; depict
accordingly.
IV. DECISION
A. Staff:
Staff finds the Applicant's proposal complies with UDC 11-3A-6C,which requires open
irrigation canals to be fenced with an open vision fence at least six(6)feet in height and having
an 11-guage,two-inch mesh or other construction, equivalent in ability to deter access to said
canal. Because City Council was the decision-making body who required wrought iron fencing,
City Council should determine if the proposed change is acceptable.
Page 2
V. EXHIBITS
A. Final Plat(dated: 515125)
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Page 3
B. Proposed Landscape Plan with 6-foot-tall black wrought iron fencealong Ridenbaugh Canal
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Page 4
VI. CITY/AGENCY COMMENTS
A. PLANNING DIVISION
1. Applicant shall comply with all previous conditions of approval associated with this
development [MDA-12-009,Development Agreement Inst. #113077158(Linder 109)—
replaced#111102269; H-2020-0083 (RZ&PP); FP-2021-0059], except as follows:
Final plat condition of approval#5.d, shall be amended as follows:
The fencing type along the Ridenbaugh Canal shall be black open vision vinyl-
coated chain link as ocequh;e approved by City Council with MFP-2025-0002; depict
accordingly.
Page 5
Southridge South August 12, 2025 City Council0002-2025-MFP Subdivision No. 1
Ridenbaugh Canal Pathway Fencing be aesthetically superior.precedent in the vicinity and may coated chain link has -Black vinyl•disassembled.need to be completely wrought iron fence
that did not feasibly provide a removable Fencing contractor could not •removable.NMID required fencing to be •
E IDIAN
'aAHO
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Proposed Updates to Meridian City Code Title 8 Regarding Addressing
MEMORANDUM E COMMUNITY
N --
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT I D A H O
May 30, 2025
TO: Mayor Robert Simison
City Council Members
Planning&Zoning Commissioners
CC: Chris Johnson, City Clerk
Emily Kane, Deputy City Attorney
Bruce Freckleton, Community Development Director
Caleb Hood, Community Development Deputy Director
FROM: Brian McClure, Long-range Planning Supervisor
RE: Proposed Updates to Meridian City Code Title 8 Regarding Addressing
This memorandum serves as a request for the attached proposed changes to City Code of
Meridian, Idaho, Title 8—Public Ways and Property, Chapter 2. —Uniform Street Name and
Address Number Code (Addressing Code). Unlike Title 11, Unified Development Code changes,
there is no formal application process.
Requested Addressing Code changes cover two general topic areas; addressing accessory
dwelling units ("ADUs"); and changes to align current addressing standards and best practices in
City Code. The ADU-related changes support Current Planning efforts to clean up existing code
and better align with International Building Code by clarifying the process for assigning
addresses for ADUs. These changes include coordination with the Fire Department; addressing
also supports adopted Fire Code. These changes standardize the process so that only ADUs
meeting planning and building standards will be given an address. On the opposite spectrum, no
address will be assigned to an ADU that does not meet standards. These changes are somewhat
self-contained, working with new or old planning code.
On the "cleanup" side, all changes are intended to standardize current practice. Some of this code
is no longer relevant. The primary example is removing code that directs building letter
identifiers for some multi-dwelling buildings. The United States Postal Service has not supported
this practice for some time. The practice has also caused a great deal of confusion when property
is later subdivided. Other changes reflect current practice, generally what is already done,with
improvements to transparency and elimination of subjective criteria. For addressing, striving for
consistency is the greatest mandate across several national guiding standards and best practices.
Attachments:
• Addressing Code Changes, with strike-through and underline.
Community Development. 33 E.Broadway Avenue,Meridian,ID 83642
Phone 208-884-5533 . Fax 208-888-6854 . www.meridiancit"
Addressing Code Changes E COMMUNITY
N --
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT H n O
May 30, 2025
The following are proposed code changes to Meridian's Title 8, Chapter 2.—Uniform Street Name and
Address Number Code changes. Proposed changes are shown in s#•-ike thr-ough-(remove) and underline
(addition). Staff comments in code sections are represented by [*Text*].
8-2-3 Definition,Front Door
Description Adding a definition of"front door"
The Issue Addresses are assigned based on the named street toward which the front door faces.
Defining the term"front door"will clarify which street will be used for the address.
Proposed Code Front door means the main pedestrian doorway that fronts a street or that provides direct
(with changes) ingress to and egress from a habitable interior space from a public or publicly accessible
space.
Proposed Code Front door means the main pedestrian doorway that fronts a street or that provides direct
(Clean) ingress to and egress from a habitable interior space from a public or publicly accessible
space.
Additional See related code change for 8-2-7-E-12-b.
Explanation
8-2-3 Definition,Address sub designation
Description Simple definition cleanup
The Issue Buildings are(literally)not a type of sub designation for addressing in the Meridian
Enterprise Addressing Database.
Proposed Code Address sub-designation means the address alpha or numeric sub-designation used to
(with changes) identify individual bungs units or suites within a common complex.
Proposed Code Address sub designation means the address alpha or numeric sub-designation used to
(Clean) identify individual units or suites within a common complex.
Additional None.
Explanation
Community Development. 33 E.Broadway Avenue,Meridian,ID 83642
Phone 208-884-5533 . Fax 208-888-6854 . www.meridiancity.org
8-2-7-E-12-b Street Address Numbering Standards,Street Frontage
Description Corner lot address numbering guidelines related to the"front"of a structure
The Issue There are cases where garages and"front doors"face different streets.The current standard
practice is to use the"front door"facing a named street,rather than the garage.However,
staff are pressured to use the garage door at times due to street name preference.
Front doors are the primary point of entry for E.M.S.and where address points are located
in GIS,used in CAD by Ada County Dispatch.They are also typically where doorbell
cameras are placed,and where most packages are left.It is understandable why sometimes a
property prefers a different street name;the purpose however is first and foremost
consistent wayfinding.Property owners don't"select"their street name for any other
property type.Codifying what is already standard practice will help staff to be more
consistent by reducing external pressures.
Proposed Code Corner lots(residential).The address shall be assigned to the street en-toward which the
(with changes) front door is oriented the mainent f nee of the pfimafy s*..,.,.twe ffents.
Proposed Code Corner lots(residential).The address shall be assigned to the street toward which the front
(Clean) door is oriented.
Additional A definition for"front door"was added,to simplify this code section.
Explanation
8-2-3 Definitions,Primary and Accessory Dwelling Units
Description Define what is commonly known as Accessory Dwelling Unit(ADU)and differentiate from
other common dwelling types.
The Issue Accessory Dwelling Units or"ADU"need to be defined to better aid in adhering to Court
guidance and in better aligning with planning and building codes.What the City defines as
an"ADU",must be given an address under previous legal direction.
To align with building code and changes to planning code,the term"Dwelling,accessory",
will be used to define an ADU.
Proposed Code Dwelling,accessory shall be defined as set forth in the Meridian Unified Development
(with changes) Code.
Dwelling primary shall be defined as set forth in the Meridian Unified Development Code.
Dwelling,multi shall be defined as set forth in the Meridian Unified Development Code.
ML-
Proposed Code Dwelling,accessory shall be defined as set forth in the Meridian Unified Development
(Clean) Code.
Dwelling,primary shall be defined as set forth in the Meridian Unified Development Code.
Dwelling,multi shall be defined as set forth in the Meridian Unified Development Code.
Additional Definitions are intended to be generic and limit contradictions with other Code definitions
Explanation in other Titles.Additional changes related to addressing Dwelling,accessory(ADU)are
included in other following sections.
Attachment Page 2
8-2-7-E-11 Street Address Numbering Standards,Single-family Dwellings
Description Revise language regarding single-family dwellings to also apply to accessory dwellings.
The Issue This is the primary change related to Dwelling,accessory or"ADU".The intent is to make
it clear when an accessory unit must be given an address,and when it cannot. The context
here is that the decision is yes or no,with no grey area due to previous judicial direction.
The code is intended to align with planning and building code.In short,if it meets building
code definition for a Dwelling,accessory,then it must be addressed,and if it's some other
perhaps livable"secondary"space,not meeting the standards,it cannot be addressed.
Proposed Code Single family dwell�R�.Dwellings primary and accessory" � rt�o � ' a �»:�R Both
(with changes) primary and accessory dwelling units shall receive airindividual address numbers in
conformance with the Assessor's Street Name and Address Database,except that an
accessory dwelling unit that does not meet all applicable City standards and requirements
for such use shall not receive an address.
Proposed Code Dwellings primary and accessory.Both primary and accessory dwelling units shall receive
(Clean) individual address numbers in conformance with the Assessor's Street Name and Address
Database,except that an accessory dwelling unit that does not meet all applicable City
standards and requirements for such use shall not receive an address.
Additional Terminology is intended to be black and white regarding whether a recognized dwelling
Explanation type may be addressed or not.
Attachment Page 3
8-2-7-E Street Address Numbering Standards,Multi dwelling buildings
Description Change to reflect that letter identifiers for multi dwelling buildings are no longer used.
The Issue Addressing for multi-family buildings with letter identifiers is no longer supported by the
United States Postal Service.This primary addressing method also causes significant issues
for the City and residents where properties are later subdivided(a recent example is
Summertown on Ustick Road).Address numbers for each multi-family building regardless
of whether buildings are in common ownership or on individual parcels,are now standard
practice.
Proposed Code 2. Multifamily dwelling residential developments and multi-tenant commercial
(with changes) developments.
a. Multi dwellings buildings.The City shall assign an individual address
number to each building within a multi dwelling residential development,in
conformance with the Assessor's Street Name and Address Database with sepafate
addresses in eemmen development.When indivi&al buildings within a eeRIME)
multifamily development are assigned separate.,aa-esse . Individual unit
numbers shall also be assigned to each dwelling-trnA,with no duplication of unit
designations within each building.First floor units shall be assigned 100-series
numbers,second floor units shall be assigned 200-series numbers,and so on for
each successive floor.Basement units shall be assigned 10-series numbers if the
next higher floor is designated the first floor;or basements shall be designated 100-
series if the next level is designated the second floor.
(1) For exterior accessed multi dwelling buildings or interior access with units
on only one side of a common hallways,units shall be assigned in
increments of 1 (e.g.— 101, 102, 103,and so ongenerally from left to right
facing the frontage of the building_
(2) For interior accessed multi dwelling buildings with units on both sides of a
hallway,units shall be assigned in odd/even number parity.
b. Multifamily buildings with single address in eammen development.When
multifamily developments eensisting ef mer-e than ene(1)stmetuFe have bee
assigned a single address, each individual building shall also be assigned a letter a
address number.Unit or apartment numbers shall then be assigned to each
",elliag tmit,with no duphea4ion of unit designa4ions within eaeh building.Firs
series num0
eond 44ear-units shall be
assigned 200 series mtmon or-eaesttee0
ss",ejqeer-.Basement units
shall be assigned 10 series number-s if the next higher-fleer-is designated the fir-s
fleef;ef basements shall be designated 100 sefies if the next level is designated the
seeend fleer-.Eaeh unit number-shall begin with the let4er-assigned te the building
zn
in whieh the unit is leeated(e.g.,Unit AWO),
[*New Sub Designation Numbering Example: See Proposed Code(Clean),following.*]
Proposed Code 2. Multi dwelling residential developments and multi-tenant commercial developments.
(Clean) a. Multi dwelling buildings.The City shall assign an individual address number to
each building within a multi dwelling residential development,in conformance
with the Assessor's Street Name and Address Database.Individual unit numbers
shall also be assigned to each dwelling,with no duplication of unit designations
within each building.First floor units shall be assigned 100-series numbers,second
floor units shall be assigned 200-series numbers,and so on for each successive
floor.Basement units shall be assigned 10-series numbers if the next higher floor is
designated the first floor;or basements shall be designated 100-series if the next
level is designated the second floor.
Attachment Page 4
(1) For exterior accessed multi dwelling buildings or interior access with
units on only one side of a common hallways,units shall be assigned in
increments of 1 (e.g.—101, 102, 103,and so on)generally from left to
right facing the frontage of the building.
(2) For interior accessed multi dwelling buildings with units on both sides of
a hallway,units shall be assigned in odd/even number parity.
Figure: Multi-unit Residential
F — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — --I
Parcel of Land
#107 #108
#103
#105 a #106 #104
3
a
#103 = #104 #102
#101 �
#101 #102
4530 Meridian Blvd 4570 Meridian Blvd
Meridian Blvd
4500 (Address Range) 4600
Additional This change does two things.The first change is to reflect that original code which was
Explanation specific to projects under single or multiple ownership,is no longer relevant.As an aside,
the City generally tries to stay out of the ownership structure of projects. The second change
is to standardize City practice.Over the years multi-unit buildings for small fourplex,
"pinwheel"type developments,have not been consistent.
Attachment Page 5
8-2-7-E-2 Street Address Numbering Standards,Multitenant Buildings
Description Change to reflect standard practice by the City of Meridian and Ada County for suite
addressing. See also previous recommended changes to multi-family numbering.
The Issue The most important guidance for wayfinding and addressing in International Fire Code
(IFC),International Building Code(IBC),National Emergency Number Association
(NENA The 9-1-1 Association),and United Stated Postal Service(USPS)is consistency.
Meridian's current practice for addressing of suite numbers is to begin at 100,increase in
increments of 10,and to do so facing the building and working from left to right. This is
standard practice in the County.This change is intended to codify current best practice to
ensure consistency.
Proposed Code eb. Multi-tenant commercial building.The City shall assign a single address to each
(with changes) commercial building,in accordance with this section.The City shall assign a unit
number to each suite within a commercial building.For each building,the first
floor units shall be assigned 100-series numbers starting with 100 increasing by a
value of 10 for each additional suite,second floor units shall be assigned 200-series
numbers starting with 200 increasing by a value of 10 for each additional suite,and
so on for each successive floor.Basement units shall be assigned 10-series
numbers if the next higher floor is designated the first floor;or basements shall be
designated 100-series if the next level is designated the second floor. Suite
numbering shall be assigned from left to right either facing the frontage of the
building or from the main entry within a shared lobby.For exhausted sequences in
existing conditions,increments of 5 may be used for new suites,or for large
buildings with 10 or more suites,ranges of 1000 may be used for new buildings.In
the absence of suites,the City shall not assign suite numbers,even if multiple
tenants are co-located in a single building.
[*New Sub Designation Numbering Examples: See Proposed Code(Clean),following.*]
Proposed Code b. Multi-tenant commercial building.The City shall assign a single address to each
(Clean) commercial building,in accordance with this section.The City shall assign a unit
number to each suite within a commercial building.For each building,the first
floor units shall be assigned 100-series numbers starting with 100 increasing by a
value of 10 for each additional suite,second floor units shall be assigned 200-series
numbers starting with 200 increasing by a value of 10 for each additional suite,and
so on for each successive floor.Basement units shall be assigned 10-series
numbers if the next higher floor is designated the first floor;or basements shall be
designated 100-series if the next level is designated the second floor. Suite
numbering shall be assigned from left to right either facing the frontage of the
building or from the main entry within a shared lobby.For exhausted sequences in
existing conditions,increments of 5 may be used for new suites,or for large
buildings with 10 or more suites,ranges of 1000 may be used for new buildings.In
the absence of suites,the City shall not assign suite numbers,even if multiple
tenants are co-located in a single building.
Attachment Page 6
11-3A-7. - Fences
A. Purpose: The purpose of these standards is to regulate fences in order to:
(1) Provide safety and security for private property;
(2) Enhance the visual appearance of the built environment in the city;
(3) Establish an attractive streetscape;
(4) Ensure visual compatibility with public and private spaces; and
(5) Promote street and neighborhood character.
B. Standards for all districts
1. No person shall install a fence or allow a fence to be installed without first obtaining a
fence permit, except that a fence installed in conjunction with a building permit for a principal
use shall not require a separate fence permit.
2. All fences shall be measured from the back edge of the sidewalk. In cases where no
sidewalk exists, the measurement shall be taken from the property line.
3. No person shall install, keep, or allow to be installed or kept a fence which includes or
incorporates any of the following components:
a. Electric wire.
b. Barbed or razor wire , except in the M-E, I-L, and I-H districts when such barbed or
razor wire is shown by the property owner to be necessary for securing the property,
and the lowest barbed or razor wire is located a minimum of six feet (6') above grade.
c. Boxes, sheet metal, tarp, fabric, broken masonry blocks, rotting wood, or damaged,
discarded, or unsightly materials.
d. Any protruding staple, spike, nail, barb, or element that presents a safety or health
hazard.
4. Where screening is required in this title, chain-link fencing with or without slats shall not be
used as a screening material.
5. No person shall install, keep, or allow to be installed or kept on his or her property a
fence within three feet (3') of, or that otherwise obstructs access to, any utility box, meter, or
other infrastructure.
6. No person shall install; keep; extend from his or her property; or allow to be installed, kept,
or extended from his or her property; a fence or any portion of a fence which encroaches on
a sidewalk.
7. No person shall install; keep; extend from his or her property; or allow to be installed, kept,
or extended from his or her property a fence or any portion of a fence which encroaches on
the public right-of-way; except under the terms of a valid license agreement from the
transportation authority.
8. The property owner shall keep all fences free from advertising and graffiti.
9. The property owner shall maintain in good repair all fences delineating private property
and a publicly accessible area. A fence shall be deemed not in good repair if it has missing or
broken boards or other components, or if it constitutes a public nuisance or safety hazard.
10. The natural grade of a property shall not be artificially modified to increase fence height,
except as allowed in this section and subsection 11-31-1-4(D). Fence height must be measured
from the existing, unaltered grade at the base of the fence. An exception to this standard is
permitted for fences located along designated collector and arterial streets. In such cases, the
combined height of any berm and fence shall not exceed eight feet (8'), as measured from the
centerline of the adjacent street.
11. For property abutting a pathway or publicly accessible open space (public or private
school or public park), the property owner may install a fence only where such fence complies
with one of the following standards:
a. An open vision or semiprivate fence up to six feet (6') in height,
b. A closed vision fence four feet (4') in height or a closed vision fence four feet(4') in
height with an additional two feet (2') in height of open vision fencing at the top of the
fence,
c. If fully visible from a public street, a closed vision fence up to six feet(6') in height.
12. See subsection 11-3A-6(C)(2) of this article for additional fencing requirements along
irrigation ditches, laterals, canals, and/or drains.
C.Additional standards in the C-N, C-C, C-G, M-E, H-E, I-L, and I-H districts.
1. The maximum fence height shall not exceed eight feet(8').
2. All fences adjoining an alley, whether such alley is on the rear or side yard, shall be open
vision and be set back a minimum of five feet(5') from the alley(measured from property
line).
D.Additional standards in the R-2, R-4, R-8, R-15, R-40, L-O, O-T, TN-C, and TN-R districts.
1. The maximum fence height shall not exceed six feet(6'), subject to the provisions set forth
in subsections (D)(2) and (D)(3) of this section.
2. The maximum fence height in any required street yard shall be three feet (3') for a closed
vision fence and four feet (4')for an open vision fence. See figure 2 of this section.
3. On corner properties, one of the following shall apply:
a. Where the sidewalk is attached to the curb, fences located on the street side yard
must be set back a minimum of five feet (5') from the back of the sidewalk.
b. Where the sidewalk is detached from the curb (i.e., separated by a parkway), the
fence must be set back a minimum of two feet(2') from the back of the sidewalk.
4. Decorative panels and trellises adjacent to fences are permitted, provided the following:
a. They are not physically connected to or used to extend the height of the fence
structure;
b. They are used for the purpose of supporting vertical landscaping or decorative
features;
c. They do not exceed eight feet (8') in height; and
d. They do not extend more than fifty percent (50%) of the required yard.
5. Where the rear yard of one (1) property adjoins the front yard of another property, the
fence along the rear and side yards where they adjoin the adjacent front yard shall be flush or
angled at forty-five (45) degrees to provide continuity with the adjoining fence and property
line. See figure 3 of this section.
6. Side yard fences that delineate the boundary of the side yard shall only be allowed in the
street yard where the side setback is five feet(5') or greater. In the R-15 and R-40 zoning
districts, no side yard fence shall be allowed in any street yard unless it is explicitly reviewed
and approved as part of the subdivision application.
7. Side yard fences that extend from one (1) building to an adjoining building are allowed
where the adjoining dwellings have use easements on the side yard area. Such fences shall be
set back a minimum of two feet (2') behind the enclosed portion of the front of the building
adjoining the fence.
8. Side yard fences that extend from one (1) building to an adjoining building that are greater
than three feet(3') in height and constructed of wrought iron or similar material shall provide
a gate for emergency access to each side yard.
9. The property owner shall comply with the following standards for all fences in the side and
rear yards:
a. Fences shall not exceed six feet (6') in height in the side and rear setbacks. If there
is a grade difference between two properties, the common fence must be no higher
than six feet (6') above the highest grade measured within five feet of the common
boundary line. (See below)
.x
•-Fenn.
5'upslopt
G�mrnnr1 Boundary Line
b. Only one fence shall be allowed in the side setback, including the fence delineating
the boundary of the side yard. Only one fence shall be allowed in the rear setback,
including the fence delineating the boundary of the rear yard, except as noted in D(5).
10. All fences within the required rear yard of alley accessed properties shall comply with the
fencing standards in accord with subsection 11-3A-7(B)(9). Fences shall be set back a
minimum of five feet (5')from the alley(measured from property line).
11. Additional height shall be allowed for arbors, arches and/or other architectural
appurtenances that are coterminous with gates and/or other fence openings. Such
appurtenances shall not exceed five feet (5) in width and/or eight feet (8') in height.
12. The Director may consider deviations from the fence requirements through the
alternative compliance provisions as set forth in Section 11-513-5 of this title.
FIGURE 1
FENCE REGULATIONS
E.G.,5 112"picket
.� E.G.,S 1(2"spacing
n n n n n
6'Semiprivate
6'Open Vision
2'Open Vision
4'Closed Vision
FIGURE 2
FRONT YARD FENCE
,
6'maximum at front setback
/ 3'maximum closopeed vision
equired front yardvis,on in
FIGURE 3:
FENCE REGULATIONS ON CORNER PROPERTIES
6'maximum at
front setback
3 maximum closed vision
4'maximum open vision in
45'angle /' required front yard
Utility boxes and meters must
lofeer m property line be outside of fence enclosure
6 feet maximum Property line
Title 11-UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE
CHAPTER 3. - REGULATIONS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE F. PRIVATE STREET REQUIREMENTS
ARTICLE F. PRIVATE STREET REQUIREMENTS
11-3F-1. Purpose.
The purpose regulations of this article are to pFeVide better support the City's transportation goals by
ensuring safe and adequate circulation within commercial, industrial,mew, multi family develepmeRts and ga"
residential developments by establishing a clear emergency vehicle travel lane and for private street name
addressing purposes. Private streets serving single-family, duplex and townhouse developments may be permitted
at the discretion of the decision-making body in cases where the project qualifies as an infill or planned unit
development,where compliance with public safety and access requirements can be demonstrated.The Fire
Marshal may require that a private street be designated within an existing or proposed development where
necessary to facilitate emergency response and ensure public safety.theeth than these that create a cernmen
Fnew through the site design or that propose a limited gated resideRtial development.The pli -bility Fnay be
exteRded where the director or fire Fnarshal deteFFniRes that private streets vVill enhance the safety of the
development.The fire marshal may requiFe designation of a private street within existing developments where it is-
V n the best inteFest ef the publie safety and health W he able te better lecate a given propeFty in the eve.nt ef-an
(Ord. 10-1463, 11-3-2010,eff. 11-8-2010)
11-3F-2. Applicability.
The provisions of this article apply to any existing or proposed properties that do not have frontage on a
public street or where frontage is not required.The applicability may be extended where the director or Fire
Marshal determines that private streets or conversion of drive aisles are necessary for wayfinding or other public
safety considerations.
(Ord.05-1170,8-30-2005,eff. 9-15-2005)
11-3F-3. Process.
A. An application and fees, in accord with chapter 5, "administration",of this title,shall be submitted to the
director on forms provided by the Planning Department.The application may be reviewed on its own or
reviewed as part of a concurrent hearing level application.
B. Upon tentative appFe al of the app ^,+^^ review and approval by the director subject to any applicable
conditions of approval and the regulations of chapter 5, "administration",of this title,the applicant or owner
shall have ene �two 2 -years,or as otherwise established as part of a concurrent development application,
to complete the following tasks:
1. Ada County Highway District(ACHD)Compliance:
a) Obtain approval from the Ada County Street Name Committee for a private street name(s);
2-. r^^ta�t the transp^rtat;^^autheFity(ACHD)tei!nstall an approved street name sign that complies
with the regulations of the Ada County uniform street name ordinance.
Meridian, Idaho,Code of Ordinances Created: 2024-12-05 16:55:20 [EST]
(Supp. No.10)
Page 1 of 5
c) For residential private streets,submit a statement from a registered professional engineer stating that
the street complies with the ACHD structural standards and is constructed consistent with the Cit -
approved set of construction plans.
23. Create a perpetual ingress/egress easement or a single platted lot for the private street to all
properties served by such private street.
34. The applicant or owner shall provide documentation of a binding contract that establishes the party or
parties responsible for the repair and maintenance of the private street, including regulations for the
funding thereof.
4§. Upon completion of the items noted above,the director shall issue a letter stating that the private
street has been approved. No building permit shall be issued for any structure using a private street for
access to a public street until the private street has been approved.
(Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005,eff. 9-15-2005) (Ord. 10-1463, 11-3-2010,eff. 11-8-2010)
11-3F-4. Standards.
A. General standards:Residential private streets shall only be permitted at the discretion of the decision-
making body,subject to the following
1. Unique or special circumstances exist with respect to the proposed use, design, location,
topography,or other features of the development or its surroundings such that private streets
will serve to enhance the overall development.
2. The design promotes safe and effective movement of bicycles and pedestrian travel to and
through the project by providing sidewalks and/or pathways connections to abutting properties
at a minimum of two(2) locations.
3. Adequate guest parking and maneuvering areas are provided for service and emergency vehicles,
as determined by the director and Fire Marshal.
4. The private street provides for a connected transportation system and adjacent property will not
be landlocked nor have reduced access, by the site layout.
5. The use or alignment of a private street does not interfere with the continuity of public streets.
6. An appropriate mechanism has been established for the repair and maintenance of the private
street, including provisions for the funding thereof.
7. The use of private streets does not prohibit access to existing or planned multi-use pathways,as
shown in Chapter 3 of the Meridian Pathways Master Plan.
8. Comply with the ACHD structural standards for streets,as shown on design and construction
documents prepared and certified by a registered professional engineer.
AB. Design standards.
1. Easement.The private street shall be constructed on a perpetual ingress/egress easement or a
single platted lot that provides access to all properties served by such private street. In instances
where the subject property is being subdivided,the preference is that the private street be a lot
within such subdivision.
2. Connection point.The private street shall connect to a local or collector street.The private street
shall not connection to an arterial street is prohibited, unless otherwise allowed by the decision-
making body as part of a concurrent hearing level application.Where the point of connection of
Created: 2024-12-05 16:55:20 [EST]
(Supp. No.10)
Page 2 of 5
the private street is to a public street,the private street connection shall be approved by the
transportation authority.
3. Emergency vehicle.The private street shall provide sufficient maneuvering area for emergency
vehicles as determined and approved by the Fire Marshal.
4. Gates. Gates or other obstacles(if applicable)&W4may be allowed subject to the following
standards:
a. The proposed development is residential.
b. The proposed development shall have no more than one hundred (100)dwelling units.A
greater number of dwelling units may be approved with a planned unit development. One
(1)gated entry shall be .,FeVided f9F.,.,e FY fifty(50).Dwelling units.
C. The proposed gate(s) do not prohibit pedestrian and bicycle access to and through the
development.
pathways as shewn in Chapte-F_3 ef the Pathways 5.4-a-steff Plan.
de. The applicant shall provide access to the gate for emergency vehicles as determined and
approved by the Mpredwan Fire Marshal DepaFtment and Public Works Department.
ef. To allow sufficient vehicle stacking and turn-around distance,the gate shall be located a
minimum of fifty(50)feet back from the ultimate edge of right-of-way to the connecting
public street and include a dedicated paved vehicle turnaround area.
5. Cul-de-sac. No private street that ends in a cul-de-sac or a dead end shall be longer than five
hundred (500)feet.
6. Common driveways. No common driveways shall be allowed off of a private street unless the
street section allows for parking on at least one side of the street or the development has
designated adequate guest parking dispersed throughout, as determined by the director.
7. Street network.The overall street network within the surrounding area shall allow for properties
to connect at regular intervals in order to promote connected neighborhoods and traffic flow
within the mile section.
-9C. Construction standards.
1. 0eCommercial. For proposed commercial private streets and the conversion of an
existing commercial drive aislefaei+ity to a private street at the direction of the Fire Marshal`
following apply:
a. All drive aisles shall be posted as fire lanes with no parking allowed.
b. If a curb exists next to the drive aisle, it shall be painted red.
C. For proposed commercial private streets,sidewalk shall be provided on at least one side of
the private street,except when converting an existing drive aisle.
d. When converting an existing drive aisle,a written statement from a certified engineer must
be submitted stating the existing drive aisle can support emergency fire apparatus.
2. For all other private streets.
Created: 2024-12-05 16:55:20 [EST]
(Supp. No.10)
Page 3 of 5
a. Roadway and storm drainage.The private street shall be constructed in accord with the
roadway and storm drainage standards of the transportation authority or as approved by
the City of Meridian based on plans submitted by a certified engineer.
b. Street width.The private street`hall be^ nstF eted within an ^`and shall have a
minimum travel lane width of twenty-four(24)feet or twenty-six(26)feet as determined
by the Fire Marshal relative to the height and size of the proposed structures that adjoin
the private street.
C. Sidewalks. For private streets serving dwellings, aA five-foot(51 wide attached sidewalk or
four-foot 4' wide detached sidewalk shall be provided on both sides of the private street.
This requirement may be wa+vedmodified by the decision making body if the applicant can
demonstrate that an alternative,similar pedestrian path exists.
d. Fire lanes. All drive aisles shall be posted as fire lanes with no parking allowed. In addition,
if a curb exists next to the drive aisle, it shall be painted red,unless parking is allowed on
one or both sides of the street.
3. Alternative compliance. Upon recommendation of the City Engineer and Fire Marshal,the
Director may approve,or recommend approval of alternative design or construction standards
when the applicant can demonstrate that the proposed overall design meets or exceeds the
intent of the required standards of this Article and ss4Ais not be detrimental to the public health,
safety,and welfare.
4. Nonconforming private streets. Existing private streets that are not consistent with the standards
as set forth in this Section shall be deemed a nonconforming use.Applicants seeking to add
additional lots and/or development accessing such private streets shall seek conditional use
approval as set forth in subsection 11-113-4.A.2 of this Title or improve the full length of the
private street to meet the design and construction standards as set forth in this section.
(Ord.05-1170, 8-30-2005,eff. 9-15-2005;Ord. 10-1463, 11-3-2010,eff. 11-8-2010;Ord. No. 22-2001, § 14, 11-1-
2022)
11-3F-5. Required findings.
In order to approve the appl+satiena private street,the DiFeGt0Fdecision making body shall find the following:
A. The design of the private street meets the requirements of this Article;
B. Granting approval of the private street would not cause damage, hazard,or nuisance,or other
detriment to persons, property,or uses in the vicinity;
C. The use and location of the private street shall not conflict with the Comprehensive Plan and/or the
Regional Transportation Plan;and
D. The proposed residential development(if applicable) ism a gated community, promotes infill,
or is a planned unit development.
(Ord.05-1170,8-30-2005,eff. 9-15-2005;Ord. 10-1463, 11-3-2010,eff. 11-8-2010)
Created: 2024-12-05 16:55:20 [EST]
(Supp. No.10)
Page 4 of 5
Created: 2024-12-05 16:55:20 [EST]
(Supp. No.10)
Page 5 of 5
r - — - — - - Single family detached or manufactured home
C� 1 structure
_ 1 property
I ❑ I 1 primary dwelling unit
I I
L - - - - - J
r - — - — - — - , Duplex
C� 1 structure
❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ I L-J 1 property
❑ no 2 primary dwelling units
L - - - - - - - J
r - — - — - — - -I r - — - — - — - -I Single family with Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
C� 1 or 2 structure(s)
❑ ❑ I OR I ❑ ❑ I 1 property
❑ ❑� ❑ ❑ 1 primary dwelling unit
I � 1 ADU (either detached or attached with
L - - - - - - - J L - - - - - - - J fire separation)
r - — - T - — - Single family attached
C� 1 structure
❑ ❑ ' ❑ ❑ I L-J 2 properties
i ❑ ❑ i 2 primary dwelling units
L - - - -L J
r - - - —I - — -r - - - , Townhouse
C� 1 structure
❑ ❑ ' ❑ ❑ ' ❑ ❑ I L_J 3 properties
❑ ❑ n ❑ 3 or more primary dwelling units
I I
L - - - -J - - -L - - - J
r - - - - - - - - - - - � Multifamily
1 structure
❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 1 property
❑ ❑ ❑ I 3 or more primary dwelling units
I I
L - - - - - - - - - - - J
Q Yard, Street Property Line
Fence, 6-foot Maximum closed vision Dwelling Unit
•--�—�� Fence, 3-foot maximum closed vision ❑ Utility boxes and meters must
or 4-foot maximum open vision be outside of fence enclosures
Driveway, typical
Q
W
O W
H
t/N
H
W 45 degree fence
H continuity angle, typical
2' minimum street yard setback from
0 detached sidewalk with parkway, typical
Q Parkway
Sidewalk
I
0 '
I 0 I 0
STREET
5' minimum street yard setback
from attached sidewalk, typical
11-4-3-21. - Home occupation accessory use.
In addition to the noticing requirements set forth in subsection 11-2A-2A of this title,the following
standards apply to all home occupation accessory uses with the exception that strict adherence to the
standards contained in subsections (E), (F), (G) and (H) of this section in the TN-C and TN-R districts is
not required.
A.The home occupation accessory use shall only be allowed as an incidental, secondary use to an
allowed residential use.The operator of the home occupation accessory use shall be responsible for
obtaining an accessory use permit, as well as any and all other applicable licenses, permits, or
inspections, prior to operating the home occupation accessory use. Where a home occupation accessory
use includes the provision of lessons or instruction to a group of seven (7) or more students at one time,
prior to submittal of an application for an accessory use permit, the applicant shall hold a neighborhood
meeting in accord with subsection 11-5A-413 of this title.
B.Allowed home occupation accessory uses include, but are not limited to:
1. Personal and professional services.
2. Direct sales.
3.Artisan craft production or instruction.
4. Art, dance, music, or other lessons/instruction.
5.Any other similar use, as determined by the Director.
6. Outdoor swim lessons for six(6) or fewer students
C. Prohibited home occupation accessory uses include, but are not limited to:
1. Vehicle repair.
2.Vehicle rental.
3.Vehicle washing.
4. Equipment repair.
5. Equipment rental.
6. Retail sales, except:
a.The sale of services or items produced or fabricated on the premises as a result of the home
occupation accessory use;
b.The sale of products secondarily related to the personal service aspect of the home occupation
accessory use; or
c.The sale of products sold online that are delivered to customers by mail.
7.Any other use prohibited by this title or in violation of the purpose statement of this Code, as
determined by the Director.
D. In no way shall the home occupation accessory use emit lighting, noise, fumes, smoke, dust, odors,
vibrations, or electrical interference that can be observed outside the dwelling. A sign may be displayed
at the dwelling for advertising the home occupation accessory use in accord with the standards set forth
in subsection 11-31D-8.13 of this title.
E.The home occupation accessory use shall be conducted entirely in the dwelling, and not more than
ten (10) percent of the overall area of said dwelling shall be used for a home occupation accessory use
or for storing goods associated with the home occupation accessory use. An attached garage shall be
included in the calculation of the area of the dwelling for this purpose. Home occupations for outdoor
swim lessons are exempt from this standard.
F. No activity connected to the home occupation accessory use or any storage of goods, materials, or
products connected with a home occupation accessory use shall be allowed in any detached garage or
detached accessory structure.
G.The home occupation accessory use shall not have more than two (2) outgoing pick-ups per day from
a common carrier.
H.The home occupation accessory use shall be conducted by the inhabitants of the dwelling, and no
more than one (1) nonresident employee shall be permitted at any time.
I.The home occupation accessory use shall not serve as a headquarters or main office where employees
come to the site and are dispatched to other locations.
J. Off street parking shall be provided as set forth in section 11-3C-6 of this title, in addition to the
required off street parking for the dwelling.
K.All visits by clients, customers, and/or employees shall occur between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00
p.m.
I. Additional standards for outdoor swim lessons:
1.The valid permit holder shall conduct the swim lesson activities between May VY and September
30tn
Figure: Multi-tenant Commercial A
Parcel of Land
#100
#110
#120 2070 Meridian Blvd
#110 #120
(Parking)
#100 #130
2030 Meridian Blvd
Meridian Blvd
2000 (Address Range) 2100
Figure: Multi-tenant Commercial B
Parcel of Land Parcel of Land
#110 #120 #130 #120
a
#100 Q #130 #100 #110
0
3530 Meridian Blvd I 3570 Meridian Blvd
Meridian Blvd
3500 (Address Range) 3600
Additional Staff have received some pushback on this practice,but the conditions are usually the tail
Explanation wagging the dog,where site improvements occurred without understanding best practices
for addressing,that in turn affects perception of addressing. Signage for example can be
poorly interpreted when it does not take into account this standard.By documenting in code
with examples,at least the practice is more available.
Attachment Page 7
City Code Title 8 August 12th, 2025City Council Addressing Code Changes
Quick Tangent Ada County addresses for smaller cities.Boise and Meridian participateCountywide addressing exchange, ACX.databasesmultiple agencies and multiple internal Technical
communication between both naming)Interagency Review Committee (street Code ComplianceAddressing is complex.
Addressing: MEAD
Topic Areas and standards in other Titles.shall not based on definitions Direction on addressing is shall or When to address “ADU”single, multi, and accessory.New definitions, generic,
for Building codesAlignment with Planning and Dwellings, Accessory (or “ADU”)
Topic Areas consistencytransparency and institutional New Figures to improve conditions on a single property.single and multiple building Additional handling of suites in and internal
access.residential buildings, external Additional handling of multi unit Codify best practiceletter identifiersMulti unit residential, no building Codify Postal Service directionConsistency
/ Cleanup changes
Feedback with received guidance.and assign addressing to be consistent that have been approved as an ADU, What staff will do, is work to identify
those The answer is no.retroactively push ADU’s through permits. Question as whether we would try to There were no concerns with the changes..th on June 26Staff discussed the proposed
changes with P&Z centerline)manage addressing for 911 and also street (they No Ada County Assessor concerns
QUESTIONS?changes.Future ordinance to approve Title 8 Addressing related Questions, discussion, or general direction.Next Steps
New Figures
W IDIAN�
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Public Hearing for In-N-Out Burger (CR-2025-0002) by In-N-Out Burger,
located at 5985 & 6037 N. Ten Mile Rd.
Application Requires Continunace
A. Request: Council Review of the Planning and Zoning Commission's decision of denial on the
conditional use permit (H-2024-0058) for a drive-through establishment within 300 feet of
another drive-through facility, existing residences and a residential district on 2.22 acres of land
in the C-G zoning district.
W IDIAN�
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Public Hearing for Touchmark (H-2025-0012) by The Land Group, generally
located on the south side of E. Franklin Rd. and the north side of 1-84, midway between S. Eagle
Rd. and S. Cloverdale Rd.
Applicant Requests Continuance
A. Request: Modified Development Agreement to update the conceptual development plan for
the overall site, which consists of approximately 121.50 acres of land to consolidate the existing
agreements (AZ-99-021 Touchmark (recorded in 2001, Inst. #101048096); April 2001 Addendum
(Inst. # 101048097); May 2003 Addendum (Inst. #103137119); AZ-02-018 (Bair Property AZ-02-
018, Inst. #102143308); MI-07-006 (Meadowlake Village North 3rd Addendum, Inst.
#108022885) into one new agreement that replaces all previous agreements.
B. Request: Rezone of 63.34 acres of land from the L-0 to the C-C (55.17 acres) and C-G (8.17
acres) zoning districts.
C. Planned Unit Development Modification (Meadowlake Village CUP-03-005) to update the
concept/use plan and include 4.6 acres of additional land, a deviation to the maximum building
height allowed in the C-C district from 50ft. to 64ft. for the hotel and inclusion of 2 and 3 story
townhome dwellings.
E IDIAN
'aAHO
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Public Hearing for Proposed Fall 2025 Activity Guide Fee Schedule of the
Meridian Parks and Recreation Department
PUBLIC HEARING SIGN IN SHEET
DATE: August 12, 2025 ITEM # 5
PROJECT NAME: Proposed Fall 2025 Activity Guide Fee Schedule
I wish to j
testify Your Full Name Your Full Address Representing
(mark X (Please Print) HOA?
if yes)
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CITY OF MERIDIAN
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN,pursuant to the ordinances of the City of Meridian and the laws of
the State of Idaho, that the City Council of the City of Meridian will hold a public hearing at 6:00
p.m., on Tuesday,August 12, 2025 at Meridian City Hall, 33 East Broadway Avenue, Meridian,
Idaho, regarding proposed fee increases as set forth below. Further information is available at the
Parks and Recreation Department, at Meridian City Hall, 33 East Broadway Avenue, Meridian,
Idaho. Any and all interested persons shall be heard at the public hearing. Written testimony is
welcome; written materials should be submitted to the City Clerk. All testimony and materials
presented shall become property of the City of Meridian. For auditory, visual, or language
accommodation, please contact the City Clerk's Office at (208) 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior
to the public hearing. Proposed fee increases:
2025 FALL ACTIVITY GUIDE FEES:
Current Proposed
Note:Sales tax will be collected in addition to feel Fee New Fee
Digital Photography $80.00 $85.00
KarateZoo N/A $4.72
Little Medical School N/A $105.00
Kindermusik $64.00 $80.00
$15.00 - $10.00 -
Motions Dance Class $45.00 $25.00
Kendo $70.00 $70.00
Fencing Class $100.00 $80.00
STEM Workshops $145.00 $55.00
$40.00 -
Youth Dance &Drum $25.00 $50.00
Martial Arts $45.00 $45.00
$10.00 - $10.00 -
Little Pallets $100.00 $160.00
$15.00 - $15.00 -
Yo a $70.00 $70.00
$50.00 -
Belly Dance Fitness $60.00 $70.00
Belly Dance Performance $60.00 $70.00
$25.00 - $25.00 -
Jazzercise $239.00 $345.00
$28.00 - $28.00 -
Sunday Line Dancing $35.00 $142.00
$10.00 - $40.00 -
Tuesday Line Dancing $50.00 $50.00
Social Dance $10.00 $10.00
Intermediate Pickleball $80.00 $80.00
Children's Museum Classes N/A $60.00
Rock Steady Boxing N/A $70.00
Clinical TRX N/A $70.00
Foam Roller Mobility N/A $30.00
Gold Fit N/A $30.00
Shine Light N/A $30.00
$5.00 -
Art Week Classes N/A $30.00
$75.00 - $75.00 -
Skyhawks Sports $349.00 $115.00
PUBLISH on August 2, 2025 and August 9, 2025.
CITY OF MERIDIAN RESOLUTION NO.
BY THE CITY COUNCIL: CAVENER,LITTLE ROBERTS,
OVERTON, STRADER,TAYLOR,WHITLOCK
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING NEW FEES OF THE MERIDIAN PARKS AND RECREATION
DEPARTMENT; AUTHORIZING THE MERIDIAN PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
TO COLLECT SUCH FEES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, following publication of notice in the Meridian Press on Augst 2, 2025, and
August 9, 2025, according to the requirements of Idaho Code section 63-1311A, on August 12,
2025 the City Council of the City of Meridian held a hearing on the adoption of proposed new fees
of the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department, as set forth in Exhibit A hereto; and
WHEREAS, following such hearing, the City Council,by formal motion, did approve said
proposed new fees of the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO:
Section 1. That the 2025 Fall Activity Guide Fees of the Meridian Parks and Recreation
Department, as set forth in Exhibit A hereto, is hereby adopted.
Section 2. That the fees adopted for the 2025 Summer Activity Guide Fees shall remain in
effect until August 8, at which point the fees set forth in Exhibit A hereto shall supersede any and all
fees for the enumerated services previously adopted.
Section 3. That the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department is hereby authorized to
implement and carry out the collection of said fees.
Section 4. That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect immediately upon its
adoption and approval.
ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this day of Aug. 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this day of Aug. 2025.
APPROVED:
Robert E. Simison, Mayor
ATTEST:
Chris Johnson, City Clerk
ADOPTION OF FEE SCHEDULE OF MERIDIAN PARKS&RECREATION DEPARTMENT PAGE I OF 3
CITY OF MERIDIAN
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN,pursuant to the ordinances of the City of Meridian and the laws of
the State of Idaho, that the City Council of the City of Meridian will hold a public hearing at 6:00
p.m., on Tuesday,August 12, 2025 at Meridian City Hall, 33 East Broadway Avenue, Meridian,
Idaho, regarding proposed fee increases as set forth below. Further information is available at the
Parks and Recreation Department, at Meridian City Hall, 33 East Broadway Avenue, Meridian,
Idaho. Any and all interested persons shall be heard at the public hearing. Written testimony is
welcome; written materials should be submitted to the City Clerk. All testimony and materials
presented shall become property of the City of Meridian. For auditory, visual, or language
accommodation, please contact the City Clerk's Office at (208) 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior
to the public hearing. Proposed fee increases:
EXHIBIT A
2025 FALL ACTIVITY GUIDE FEES:
Current Proposed
Note:Sales tax will be collected in addition to Leel Fee New Fee
Digital Photography $80.00 $85.00
KarateZoo N/A $4.72
Little Medical School N/A $105.00
Kindermusik $64.00 $80.00
$15.00 - $10.00 -
Motions Dance Class $45.00 $25.00
Kendo $70.00 $70.00
Fencing Class $100.00 $80.00
STEM Workshops $145.00 $55.00
$40.00 -
Youth Dance &Drum $25.00 $50.00
Martial Arts $45.00 $45.00
$10.00 - $10.00 -
Little Pallets $100.00 $160.00
$15.00 - $15.00 -
Yoga $70.00 $70.00
$50.00 -
Belly Dance Fitness $60.00 $70.00
Belly Dance Performance $60.00 $70.00
$25.00 - $25.00 -
Jazzercise $239.00 $345.00
$28.00 - $28.00 -
Sunday Line Dancing $35.00 $142.00
ADOPTION OF FEE SCHEDULE OF MERIDIAN PARKS&RECREATION DEPARTMENT PAGE 2 OF 3
$10.00 - $40.00 -
Tuesday Line Dancing $50.00 $50.00
Social Dance $10.00 $10.00
Intermediate Pickleball $80.00 $80.00
Children's Museum Classes N/A $60.00
Rock Steady Boxing N/A $70.00
Clinical TRX N/A $70.00
Foam Roller Mobility N/A $30.00
Gold Fit N/A $30.00
Shine Light N/A $30.00
$5.00 -
Art Week Classes N/A $30.00
$75.00 - $75.00 -
Sk hawks Sports $349.00 $115.00
PUBLISH on August 2, 2025, and August 9, 2025.
ADOPTION OF FEE SCHEDULE OF MERIDIAN PARKS&RECREATION DEPARTMENT PAGE 3 OF 3
W IDIAN�
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Resolution No. 25-2531: A Resolution Adopting the Fall 2025 Activity Guide
Fee Schedule of the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department; Authorizing the Meridian Parks
and Recreation Department to Collect Such Fees; and Providing an Effective Date
CITY OF MERIDIAN RESOLUTION NO. 25-2531
BY THE CITY COUNCIL: CAVENER,LITTLE ROBERTS,
OVERTON, STRADER,TAYLOR,WHITLOCK
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING NEW FEES OF THE MERIDIAN PARKS AND RECREATION
DEPARTMENT; AUTHORIZING THE MERIDIAN PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
TO COLLECT SUCH FEES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, following publication of notice in the Idaho Press on August 2, 2025, and
August 9, 2025, according to the requirements of Idaho Code section 63-1311A, on August 12,
2025 the City Council of the City of Meridian held a hearing on the adoption of proposed new fees
of the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department, as set forth in Exhibit A hereto; and
WHEREAS, following such hearing, the City Council,by formal motion, did approve said
proposed new fees of the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO:
Section 1. That the 2025 Fall Activity Guide Fees of the Meridian Parks and Recreation
Department, as set forth in Exhibit A hereto, is hereby adopted.
Section 2. That the fees adopted for the 2025 Summer Activity Guide Fees shall remain in
effect until August 8, at which point the fees set forth in Exhibit A hereto shall supersede any and all
fees for the enumerated services previously adopted.
Section 3. That the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department is hereby authorized to
implement and carry out the collection of said fees.
Section 4. That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect immediately upon its
adoption and approval.
ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this 12th day of Aug. 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this 12th day of Aug. 2025.
APPROVED:
Robert E. Simison, Mayor
ATTEST:
Chris Johnson, City Clerk
ADOPTION OF FEE SCHEDULE OF MERIDIAN PARKS&RECREATION DEPARTMENT PAGE I OF 3
EXHIBIT A
2025 FALL ACTIVITY GUIDE FEES:
Current Proposed
Note:Sales tax will be collected in addition to feel Fee New Fee
Digital Photography $80.00 $85.00
KarateZoo N/A $4.72
Little Medical School N/A $105.00
Kindermusik $64.00 $80.00
$15.00 - $10.00 -
Motions Dance Class $45.00 $25.00
Kendo $70.00 $70.00
Fencing Class $100.00 $80.00
STEM Workshops $145.00 $55.00
$40.00 -
Youth Dance &Drum $25.00 $50.00
Martial Arts $45.00 $45.00
$10.00 - $10.00 -
Little Pallets $100.00 $160.00
$15.00 - $15.00 -
Yoga $70.00 $70.00
$50.00 -
Belly Dance Fitness $60.00 $70.00
Belly Dance Performance $60.00 $70.00
$25.00 - $25.00 -
Jazzercise $239.00 $345.00
$28.00 - $28.00 -
Sunday Line Dancing $35.00 $142.00
$10.00 - $40.00 -
Tuesday Line Dancing $50.00 $50.00
Social Dance $10.00 $10.00
Intermediate Pickleball $80.00 $80.00
Children's Museum Classes N/A $60.00
Rock Steady Boxing N/A $70.00
Clinical TRX N/A $70.00
Foam Roller Mobility N/A $30.00
Gold Fit N/A $30.00
Shine Light N/A $30.00
$5.00 -
Art Week Classes N/A $30.00
$75.00 - $75.00 -
Skyhawks Sports $349.00 $115.00
ADOPTION OF FEE SCHEDULE OF MERIDIAN PARKS&RECREATION DEPARTMENT PAGE 2 OF 3
C� E IDIAN
Planning and Zoning Department Presentation and Outline
h2
City Council MeetingAugust 12, 2025
Slide 1
h2 Agenda Item Numbers/Order:
hoodc, 12/19/2006
Changes to Agenda:
Item #3: In-N-Out Burger (CR-2025-0002) – This item is not able to be heard tonight due to the text on the public hearing
notice sign not being correct (i.e. the sign stated Planning & Zoning Commission rather than City Council hearing) – the
th
requested hearing date is September 9, 2025.
nd
Item #4: Touchmark (H-2025-0012) – Applicant requests continuance to September 2, 2025 as they are not available for
tonight’s hearing.
Item #1: Southridge South No. 1 (MFP-2025-0002)
Application(s):
Final plat modification
Size of property, existing zoning, and location: This site is located on the south side of W. Overland Rd., approximately a ¼ mile
east of S. Ten Mile Rd.
History: The preliminary plat was approved in 2021 & the final plat was approved in 2022.
With the preliminary plat, the applicant proposed 6-foot-tall chain link fencing along the Ridenbaugh Canal to preserve public safety in
accord with UDC 11-3A-6C to match existing fencing in Southridge Subdivision. There was a lengthy discussion by City Council
pertaining to the fencing type and shared opinion that chain link was not a desirable material for aesthetic reasons; therefore, black
wrought iron fencing was specifically required to be constructed adjacent to the City’s multi-use pathway along the Ridenbaugh Canal
in this development.
The landscape plans submitted with the final plat application did not reflect the required fencing type; therefore, a condition of approval
was included for the plans to be revised accordingly. The final plat is now under review for City Engineer signature and cannot be
signed unless the plan is revised to comply with this condition or the condition is modified by City Council. The proposed chain link
fence has already been constructed on the site without approval from the Planning Division.
Summary of Request: The Applicant states in their application narrative that NMID required fence posts to be installed in sleeves to
allow the fence to be easily removed when/if NMID needs access to their easement for the canal. A letter from Butte Fence, the
Applicant’s fence contractor, was included in the narrative stating they could only meet this “removable” requirement with chain link
fencing.
The Applicant requests City Council’s approval to modify final plat condition #5d, as follows:
The fencing type along the Ridenbaugh Canal shall be black wrought iron open vision vinyl-coated chain link as
required approved by City Council with MFP-2025-0002; depict accordingly.
Staff Recommendation: Staff finds the Applicant’s proposal complies with UDC 11-3A-6C, which requires open irrigation canals to be
fenced with an open vision fence at least six (6) feet in height and having an 11-guage, two-inch mesh or other construction, equivalent
in ability to deter access to said canal. Because City Council was the decision-making body who required wrought iron fencing,
City Council should determine if the proposed change is acceptable.
Written Testimony: None
Possible Motions:
Approval
After considering all staff and applicant testimony, I move to approve File Number MFP-2025-0002, as presented in the staff report
for the meeting date of August 12, 2025: (Add any proposed modifications to conditions)
Denial
After considering all staff and applicant testimony, I move to deny File Number MFP-2025-0002, as presented during the meeting
on August 12, 2025, for the following reasons: (You should state specific reasons for denial)
Continuance
I move to continue File Number MFP-2025-0002 to the hearing date of ____________ for the following reason(s): (You should
state specific reason(s) for continuance.)
Item #7: 2025 UDC Text Amendment (ZOA-2025-0001)
Application(s): UDC Text Amendment
Summary of Request: T he proposed updates include a variety of modifications, additions, and clarifications to Chapters 1 through 5
of the Unified Development Code (UDC). Additionally, some are clean-up items that have been identified since the last code
amendment cycle. Key proposed changes include:
1. UDC 11-1A-1: Definitions – Introduction of new definitions and revisions to existing ones for improved clarity and consistency.
2. UDC Table 11-2A-4: Dimensional Standards for the R-2 District – Clarification of the interior side setback requirements in the
R-2 zoning district.
3. UDC 11-3A-7: Fences – Repeal and replace the existing fence code.
4. UDC 11-3F: Private Streets - Revisions to allow private streets for single-family and townhome developments, regardless of
whether they are gated or mew community.
5. Chapter 4: Specific Use Standards – Updates to various specific use standards, including those for drive-throughs, secondary
dwellings, flex space, and home occupations.
These changes have been reviewed collaboratively through the UDC Focus Group to ensure alignment with City goals and stakeholder
input.
All proposed text changes to the UDC and supporting documents are included in the public record. To reduce the overall size of the
report and enhance its readability for the public, Commission, and Council, the exhibits were intentionally excluded from the report.
However, all related materials can be accessed by following the link provided in the Exhibits section below. Commentary explaining the
purpose of each proposed modification or addition to the code is included in the corresponding table. NOTE: Additional changes are
anticipated as this application moves through the public hearing process. Staff is updating the fencing graphics and making minor edits
to the private street standards, which should be ready prior to the Commission hearing.
These changes have been reviewed collaboratively through the UDC Focus Group to ensure alignment with City goals and stakeholder
input.
In summary, City Staff believes the proposed changes will make the implementation and use of the UDC more understandable and
enforceable.
Written Testimony Since the Commission Hearing: Amanda McNutt in favor of the proposed changes
Summary of the Commission Hearing:
The Meridian Planning & Zoning Commission heard this item on June 26, 2025. At the public hearing, the
Commission voted to recommend approval of the subject ZOA request.
1. Summary of Commission public hearing:
a. In favor: Mike Wardle
b. In opposition: None
c. Commenting: Will Goede and Tom LeClaire
d. Written testimony: Will Goede, Tyler Martin, Corey Barton, and Mark Bottles
e. Staff presenting application: Bill Parsons and Caleb Hood
f. Other Staff commenting on application: Ali Breshears and Lacy Ooi
2. Key issue(s) of public testimony:
a. The ratio between the office and warehouse per the proposed flex space standards.
b. Queuing analysis requirements and when will it be determined if one is required.
3. Key issue(s) of discussion by Commission:
a. Flex space standards, specifically the ratio between office and warehouse in certain zoning districts
and discussing alternatives to allow flexibility to those ratios.
b. The purpose of one of the units being owner-occupied for 6 months out of the year.
c. The intent of allowing outdoor swim lessons as a home occupation, as opposed to other outdoor
activities.
4. Commission change(s) to Staff recommendation:
a. None
5. Outstanding issue(s) for City Council:
a. None
Possible Motions:
Approval
After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to approve File Number ZOA-2025-0001, as presented in the staff
report for the hearing date of August 12, 2025: (Add any proposed modifications to conditions)
Denial
After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to deny File Number ZOA-2025-0001, as presented during the
hearing on August 12, 2025, for the following reasons: (You should state specific reasons for denial)
Continuance
I move to continue File Number ZOA-2025-0001 to the hearing date of August 12, 2025 for the following reason(s): (You should state
specific reason(s) for continuance.)
W IDIAN�
AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Public Hearing for UDC Text Amendment (ZOA-2025-0001) by City of
Meridian Planning Division, located citywide.
Application Materials: https://bit.ly/ZOA-2025-0001
A. Request: UDC Text Amendment to revise certain regulations, add new definitions, figures, and
update specific use standards throughout Chapters 1-5 of the City's Unified Development Code
(UDC).
PUBLIC HEARING SIGN IN SHEET
DATE: August 12, 2025 ITEM # 7
PROJECT NAME: UDC Text Amendment (ZOA-2025-0001),
I wish to
testify Representing
Your Full Name Your Full Address
(mark X HOA?
if yes) (Please Print)
1
9 W T
Ge- 61� No
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STAFF REPORT E COMMUNITY
N --
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
HEARING 8/12/2025
DATE: '
16 44 55
0
TO: Mayor&City Council 26
FROM: Bill Parsons, Current Planning
Supervisor
208-884-5533
SUBJECT: ZOA-2025-0001 —
2025 UDC Text Amendment Legend �.
LOCATION: City wide AOCI
County — 69
Line
Future
Road
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Meridian Planning Division has applied for a Unified Development Code (UDC)text amendment to
update certain code sections AND add new definitions,uses, figures, and specific use standards
throughout Chapters 1-5,Title 11 of Meridian City Code.
II. APPLICANT INFORMATION
A. Applicant:
City of Meridian Planning Division
33 E. Broadway Ave, Suite#102
Meridian,ID 83642
III. NOTICING
Planning&Zoning City Council
Posting Date Posting Date
Notification published in
6/6/2025 07/26/2025
newspaper
Public Service Announcement 6/5/2025 07/23/2025
Nextdoor posting 6/5/2025 07/24/2025
Page 1
IV. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ANALYSIS (Comprehensive Plan)
A. Comprehensive Plan Text(https:llwww.meridianciU.or /g compplan):
3.01.0113 -Update the Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code as needed to
accommodate the community's needs and growth trends.
Many of the requested code changes associated with this text amendment are meant to serve
community needs, support current growth trends and maintain the integrity of the plan.
3.04.01B—Maintain and update the Unified Development Code and Future Land Use Map to
implement the provisions of the Comprehensive Plan.
City staff keeps a running database of code revisions throughout the year. The Department is tasked
with keeping the code current and relevant. Staff believes the proposed changes encompass the vision
of the plan and is largely supported by those who participated in the process.
V. UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS UD
The proposed updates include a variety of modifications,additions,and clarifications to Chapters 1
through 5 of the Unified Development Code(UDC).Additionally, some are clean-up items that have been
identified since the last code amendment cycle. Key proposed changes include:
1. UDC 11-1A-1: Definitions—Introduction of new definitions and revisions to existing ones for
improved clarity and consistency.
2. UDC Table 11-2A-4: Dimensional Standards for the R-2 District—Clarification of the interior side
setback requirements in the R-2 zoning district.
3.UDC 11-3A-7: Fences—Repeal and replace the existing fence code.
4.UDC 11-3F: Private Streets-Revisions to allow private streets for single-family and townhome
developments,regardless of whether they are gated or mew community.
5. Chapter 4: Specific Use Standards—Updates to various specific use standards,including those for
drive-throughs, secondary dwellings, flex space, and home occupations.
These changes have been reviewed collaboratively through the UDC Focus Group to ensure alignment
with City goals and stakeholder input.
All proposed text changes to the UDC and supporting documents are included in the public record. To
reduce the overall size of the report and enhance its readability for the public, Commission, and Council,
the exhibits were intentionally excluded from the report. However, all related materials can be accessed
by following the link provided in the Exhibits section below. Commentary explaining the purpose of each
proposed modification or addition to the code is included in the corresponding table.NOTE:Additional
changes are anticipated as this application moves through the public hearing process. Staff is updating
the fencing graphics and making minor edits to the private street standards, which should be ready prior
to the Commission hearing.
These changes have been reviewed collaboratively through the UDC Focus Group to ensure alignment
with City goals and stakeholder input.
In summary, City Staff believes the proposed changes will make the implementation and use of the UDC
more understandable and enforceable.
Page 2
VI. DECISION
A. Staff:
Staff recommends approval of the proposed text amendment to the UDC based on the analysis provided
in Section IV and V and the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in Section VIII.
B. The Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission heard this item on June 26,2025.At the public
hearing,the Commission voted to recommend approval of the subject ZOA request.
1. Summary of Commission public hearing:
a. In favor: Mike Wardle
b. In opposition:None
C. Commenting: Will Goede and Tom LeClaire
d. Written testimony: Will Goede, Tyler Martin, Corey Barton, and Mark Bottles
e. Staff presenting application: Bill Parsons and Caleb Hood
f. Other Staff commenting on application: Ali Breshears and Lacy Ooi
2. Key issue(s) public testimony
a. The ratio between the office and warehouse per the proposed flex space standards.
b. Queuing analysis requirements and when will it be determined if one is required.
3. Key issue(s)of discussion by Commission.
a. Flex space standards, specifically the ratio between office and warehouse in certain
Zoning districts and discussing alternatives to allow flexibility to those ratios.
b. The purpose of one of the units being owner-occupied for 6 months out of the year.
c. The intent of allowing outdoor swim lessons as a home occupation,as opposed to other
outdoor activities.
4. Commission change(s)to Staff recommendation:
a. None
5. Outstandin issue(s)ssue(s) for City Council:
a. None
B. City Council:
Enter Summary of City Council Decision.
Page 3
VII. EXHIBIT
A. Proposed Code Changes— UDC Text Amendment ZOA-2025-0001 (Insert this link into your
preferred browser and click on the project drawings folder.)
VIII. FINDINGS
1. UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE TEXT AMENDMENTS: (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 a text amendment
to the Unified Development Code,the Council shall make the following findings:
A. The text amendment complies with the applicable provisions of the comprehensive plan;
The Commission finds that the proposed UDC text amendment complies with the applicable
provisions of the Comprehensive Plan. Please see Comprehensive Plan Policies and Goals,
Section IV, of the Staff Report for more information.
B. The text amendment shall not be materially detrimental to the public health, safety, and
welfare; and
The Commission finds that the proposed zoning ordinance amendment will not be
detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare if the changes to the text of the UDC are
approved. It is the intent of the text amendment to further the health, safety and welfare of the
public.
C. The text 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.
The Commission finds that the proposed zoning ordinance amendment does not
propose any significant changes to how public utilities and services are provided to
developments. All City departments,public agencies and service providers that
currently review applications will continue to do so. Please refer to any written or
oral testimony provided by any public service provider(s)when making this finding.
Page 4
C�,fER IDIAN:---
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AGENDA ITEM
ITEM TOPIC: Ordinance No. 25-2095: An Ordinance (Meridian Food Bank H-2024-0065)
for rezone of parcels of land located in the northeast quarter of Block 5 of the West View
Addition to Meridian and also J.M. Anderson's Second Addition to Meridian, located in the north
half of the southeast quarter of Section 12, Township 3 North, Range 1 West, Boise Meridian,
City Of Meridian, Ada County, Idaho, more particularly described in exhibit "A," rezoning 1.72
acres of land from I-L (Light Industrial) zoning district to the 0-T (Old Town) zoning district in the
Meridian City Code; directing city staff to alter all applicable use and area maps as well as the
official zoning maps and all applicable official maps depicting the boundaries and the zoning
districts of the City of Meridian in accordance with this ordinance; providing that copies of this
ordinance shall be filed with the Ada County Assessor, the Ada County Treasurer, the Ada County
Recorder, and the Idaho State Tax Commission, as required by law; and providing an effective
date.
Ada County Recorder Trent Tripple 2025-051737
Boise,Idaho Pgs=4 vbailey 08/13/2025 08:20:11 AM
CITY OF MERIDIAN IDAHO$0.00
Electronically Recorded
CITY OF MERIDIAN ORDINANCE NO. 25-2095
BY THE CITY COUNCIL: CAVENER, LITTLE ROBERTS, OVERTON,
STRADER, TAYLOR, WHITLOCK
AN ORDINANCE (MERIDIAN FOOD BANK H-2024-0065) FOR REZONE OF PARCELS
OF LAND LOCATED IN THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF BLOCK 5 OF THE WEST
VIEW ADDITION TO MERIDIAN AND ALSO J.M. ANDERSON'S SECOND ADDITION
TO MERIDIAN,LOCATED IN THE NORTH HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF
SECTION 12, TOWNSHIP 3 NORTH, RANGE 1 WEST, BOISE MERIDIAN, CITY OF
MERIDIAN,ADA COUNTY,IDAHO,MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT
"A," REZONING 1.72 ACRES OF LAND FROM I-L (LIGHT INDUSTRIAL) ZONING
DISTRICT TO THE O-T (OLD TOWN) ZONING DISTRICT IN THE MERIDIAN CITY
CODE;DIRECTING CITY STAFF TO ALTER ALL APPLICABLE USE AND AREA MAPS
AS WELL AS THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAPS AND ALL APPLICABLE OFFICIAL MAPS
DEPICTING THE BOUNDARIES AND THE ZONING DISTRICTS OF THE CITY OF
MERIDIAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING THAT COPIES
OF THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE FILED WITH THE ADA COUNTY ASSESSOR, THE
ADA COUNTY TREASURER, THE ADA COUNTY RECORDER, AND THE IDAHO
STATE TAX COMMISSION, AS REQUIRED BY LAW; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MERIDIAN, COUNTY OF ADA, STATE OF IDAHO:
SECTION 1. That the property described in the Legal Description attached hereto as Exhibit
"A," which is incorporated herein by reference, is within the corporate limits of the City of Meridian,
Idaho, and that the City of Meridian has received a written request for rezoning by Meridian Food Bank,
the owner of said property.
SECTION 2. That the above-described real property is hereby rezoned I-L (Light Industrial)
zoning district to the O-T (Old Town) zoning district.
SECTION 3. That City Staff is hereby directed to alter all applicable use and area maps as well
as the official zoning maps and all applicable official maps depicting the boundaries and the zoning
districts of the City of Meridian in accordance with this ordinance.
SECTION 4. That the City Clerk is hereby directed to file a certified copy of this ordinance and
its exhibits with the Ada County Assessor, the Ada County Treasurer, the Ada County Recorder, and the
Idaho State Tax Commission within ten (10) days following the effective date of this ordinance.
SECTION 5. That all ordinances, resolutions, orders or parts thereof in conflict herewith are
hereby repealed.
REZONE ORDINANCE-MERIDIAN FOOD BANK H-2024-0065 PAGE I
SECTION 6.That this Ordinance, once passed, shall be in full force and effect upon publication,
in accordance with law.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO,this 121h day
of August, 2025.
APPROVED BY THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO, this 12t" day of
August, 2025.
MAYOR ROBERT E. SIMISON
ATTEST:
CHRIS JOHNSON, CITY CLERK
STATE OF IDAHO, )
) ss:
County of Ada )
On this 12th day of August, 2025, before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said State, personally
appeared ROBERT E.SIMISON and CHRIS JOHNSON known to me to be the Mayor and City Clerk,respectively,of the
City of Meridian,Idaho,and who executed the within instrument,and acknowledged to me that the City of Meridian executed
the same.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal the day and year first above
written.
(SEAL) Notary Public for Idaho 3-28-2028
My Commission Expires:
REZONE ORDINANCE-MERIDIAN FOOD BANK H-2024-0065 PAGE 2
E
I
CERTIFICATION OF SUMMARY:
William L.M.Nary, City Attorney of the City of Meridian,Idaho,hereby certifies that the summary
below is true and complete and upon its publication will provide adequate notice to the public.
a
William L. M.Nary, C y Attorney
SUMMARY OF CITY OF MERIDIAN ORDINANCE NO. 25-2095
An Ordinance (Meridian Food Bank H-2024-0065) for rezone of parcels of land located in the northeast
quarter of Block 5 of the West View Addition to Meridian and also J.M.Anderson's Second Addition to
Meridian, located in the north half of the southeast quarter of Section 12, Township 3 North, Range 1
West,Boise Meridian, City Of Meridian,Ada County,Idaho,more particularly described in exhibit"A,"
rezoning 1.72 acres of land from I-L (Light Industrial) zoning district to the O-T (Old Town) zoning
district in the Meridian City Code; directing city staff to alter all applicable use and area maps as well as
the official zoning maps and all applicable official maps depicting the boundaries and the zoning districts
of the City of Meridian in accordance with this ordinance; providing that copies of this ordinance shall
be filed with the Ada County Assessor, the Ada County Treasurer, the Ada County Recorder, and the
Idaho State Tax Commission, as required by law; and providing an effective date. A full text of this
ordinance is available for inspection at City Hall,City of Meridian,33 East Broadway Avenue,Meridian,
Idaho. This ordinance shall be effective as of the date of publication of this summary.
[Publication to include map as set forth in Exhibit B.]
REZONE ORDINANCE-MERIDIAN FOOD BANK H-2024-0065 PAGE 3
EXHIBIT A
Legal Description
Meridian Food Bank Property Re-Zoning
Parcels being located in NE%of Block 5 of West View Addition to Meridian and also J.M. Anderson's Second
Addition to Meridian, located in the N % of the SE % of Section 12, Township 3 North, Range 1 West, Boise
Meridian, City of Meridian,Ada County, Idaho, and more particularly described as follows:
Commencing at a brass cap marking the NE corner of the SE % of said Section 12, from which a brass cap
marking the south east corner of said SE% bears S 0043'29" W a distance of 2652.62 feet;
Thence S 0°43'29"W along the easterly boundary of said SE%a distance of 660.40 feet to a 5/8 inch diameter
iron pin marking the intersection of Meridian Road and Broadway Avenue;
Thence leaving said easterly boundary N 89 025'49" W along the centerline of West Broadway Avenue a
distance of 323.00 feet to the intersection of West 111 Street,THE POINT OF BEGINNING;
Thence leaving said centerline of West Broadway Avenue S 0 °30'09" W a distance of 89.96 feet along the
centerline of West is'Street to a point;
Thence leaving said centerline of West 1'Street N 89029'51" W a distance of 30.00 feet to southeast corner
of Lot 2 block 2 of J.M. Anderson's Second Addition to Meridian;
Thence along the south boundary of said Lot, N 89 025'49" W a distance of 120.06 feet to a point;
Thence leaving said south boundary N 89025'49" W a distance of 8.00 feet to the centerline of the alley lying
within Block 2 of J.M. Anderson's Second Addition to Meridian to a point;
Thence along said centerline, S 0 030'09"W a distance of 175.00 feet to a point;
Thence leaving said centerline, N 89°25'49"W a distance of 8.00 feet to the southeast corner of Lot 18 Block
2 of Anderson's Second Addition to Meridian to a point;
Thence along the southerly boundary of Lot 18, N 89 025'49"W a distance of 121.77 feet to the easterly right-
of-way of NW 2"d Street to a point;
Thence leaving said right-of-way N 89°29'51"W a distance of 30.00 feet to the centerline of NW 2"dStreet;
Thence along said centerline N 0°30'09" E a distance of 53.97 feet to a point;
Thence leaving said centerline N 89 029'51" W a distance of 30.00 feet to the SE corner of the NE '/<of Block
5;
Thence N 88 057'38" W a distance of 127.97 feet along the southerly boundary of said NE % of block 5 to a
point;
Thence leaving said southerly boundary N 0°28'46"E a distance of 60.05 feet along the westerly boundary
said NE'/<;
Thence leaving said westerly boundary S 89°25'49" E a distance of 67.99 feet to a point 60.00 feet west of the
easterly boundary of said NE'/<;
Thence N 00 30'09" E a distance of 150.00 feet to the centerline of Broadway Avenue;
Thence along said centerline S 89°25'49" E a distance of 407.83 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING;
RE—ZONE EXHIBIT
MERIDIAN FOOD BANK
1/4
A PORTION OF THE NE 114 OF BLOCK S OF WEST VIEW ADDMON TO MERIDIAN AND 512 57 a
LOTS 1,2,18,19,20,21,22,23 24,25&26 OF BLOCK 2,J.M.ANDERSONS SECOND ADDITION TO
MERIDIAN,AND BEING LOCATED IN THEN 112 OF THESE 114, TOWNSHIP 3 NORTH,
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Land Surveying and Consulting
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