CC - Staff ReportSTAFF REPORT
Hearing Date: October 24, 2017
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Caleb Hood, Planning Division Manager
(208) 884-5533
SUBJECT: 2017 Comprehensive Plan and Existing Conditions Report 2017 Amendment
(CPAT H-2017-0113)
1. SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF APPLICANT’S REQUEST
The City of Meridian Planning Division has submitted an application for a Comprehensive Plan (the
Plan) Text Amendment (CPAT). Specifically, this amendment propose updates to policy statements
(Goals, Objectives, and Action Items) within the Plan, several new policy statements, general text
changes including both updates and new text, and two new maps. See Exhibit A for the complete list
of proposed changes.
2. SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the proposed CPAT application based on the analysis provided below
and the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law listed in Exhibit B of the staff report. The
Meridian Planning and Zoning Commission heard this item on September 21, 2017. At the
public hearing, the Commission moved to recommend approval of the subject CPAT request.
a. Summary of Commission Public Hearing:
i. In favor: Planning Division
ii. In opposition: None
iii. Commenting: Denise Lafever
iv. Written testimony: Southern Rim Coalition, in support of the proposed text amendment
v. Staff presenting application: Caleb Hood
vi. Other staff commenting on application: Andrea Pogue
b. Key issue(s) of Public Testimony:
i. Notification to the residents along the Northern Rim of the proposed text changes.
c. Key Issues of Discussion by Commission:
i. Requirements of development in the area defined as the Southern Rim.
d. Commission Change(s) to Staff Recommendation:
i. Action item 5.05.03A was modified to a medium priority and shifted the responsibility
from Public Works to Finance with SWAC as support.
ii. Action item 6.05.01A modified the term wastewater treatment plant to the wastewater
resource recovery facility.
e. Outstanding Issue(s) for City Council:
i. None
3. PROPOSED MOTION
Approval
After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to approve File Number H-2017-
0113 as presented in the staff report for the hearing date of October 24, 2017 with the following
comments: (Add any proposed comments.)
2017 Comprehensive Plan and Existing Conditions Report 2017 Amendment - 1 -
Denial
After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to deny File Number H-2017-0113
as presented during the hearing on October 24, 2017, for the following reasons: (State specific
reasons for denial of the subject CPAT application.)
Continuance
After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to continue File Number H-2017-
0113 to the hearing date of (insert continued hearing date here) for the following reason(s): (State
specific reason(s) for a continuance).
4. APPLICATION
A. Site Address/Location: City wide
B. Applicant/Representative:
Brian McClure, Associate Planner
City of Meridian Planning Division
33 E. Broadway Avenue
Meridian, Idaho 83642
C. Applicant's Statement/Justification: See applicant’s narrative for this information.
5. PROCESS FACTS
A. The subject application is for a Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment. A public hearing is
required before the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council on this matter, consistent
with Idaho Code and Unified Development Code, Title 11, Chapter 5.
B. Newspaper notifications published on: September 1, 2017 (Commission); October 6, 2017
(Council)
C. A public service announcement was emailed on: August 24, 2017 (Commission); September 28,
2017 (Council)
6. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ANALYSIS
The Comprehensive Plan is a document that contains goals, objectives and action items that
encourage and promote a well-designed and thoughtfully planned community, with the ultimate goal
to make the City of Meridian a premier place to live, work and raise a family. By regularly updating
the Comprehensive plan, opportunities are provided for the community and City staff to measure the
success of the plan and its impact on the community. Staff believes the proposed amendment to the
plan provides the necessary guidance to meet the future growth needs related to transportation, land
development, public facilities, recreational amenities, housing, economic development and other
health, safety and welfare elements the community desires.
The specific objectives and actions that support the proposed text amendment are listed below. Plan
page/policy citations are in parenthesis and staff analysis is in italics.
• Review the status of the Comprehensive plan and Existing Conditions Report to ensure steady
progress (Chapter 7, pg. 89).
To evaluate progress and how well the Plan is working, the Planning Division in coordination
with all other City Departments, annually reviews all of the goals, objectives and action items of
the Plan. Most of the proposed text changes are updates that reflect progress, policy changes,
and priorities of City efforts related to these policy statements.
2017 Comprehensive Plan and Existing Conditions Report 2017 Amendment - 2 -
• Enhance and preserve aesthetic resources (2.01.04H).
Text changes proposed include additions that define the South Rim, which in part is intended to
enhance community identity by building upon and preserving scenic view sheds.
• Update the Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code as needed to accommodate
growth trends (3.01.01D).
The yearly review process that staff underwent meets the intent and direction of this policy
statement.
• Amend the Unified Development Code and Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map to ensure
a wide variety of housing types can be developed and properly zoned and land is available
(3.07.01A).
While not a Future Land Use Map amendment, the proposed text changes regarding the South
Rim are intended in part to further preserve certain types of low density land uses from short-
term market fads. While the City is planning for a comparatively large amount of Low Density
residential, most of it is within existing County subdivisions, and there is limited availability for
new low density residential subdivisions.
• Adopt land use designations that will allow for housing opportunities for all income levels
(3.07.01D).
The proposed text changes regarding the South Rim will help to encourage some land for new
estate and executive type residential areas within Meridian’s Area of City Impact by disallowing
density step ups. Density increases in these areas beyond those contemplated by the
Comprehensive Plan will require an amendment to the Future Land Use Map. The Future Land
Use Designations within the larger South Rim area support a variety of densities, from Low to
Med-High. This change only affects Low Density Residential future land uses.
• Ensure that other City departments, area agencies and service providers are informed about and
have the opportunity to participate in the City’s development review process (6.02.02K).
As part of the annual review and check-in, City departments were provided the opportunity to
review and update action items, either to indicate completion, revise descriptions, change
priority, evaluate lead/responsible party, or when appropriate to remove the action. Staff also
made several attempts to coordinate directly with the West Ada School District regarding policy
statements relative to education. The application was also transmitted to other area service
providers and agencies, allowing them an opportunity to review and comment.
• Review the status of the Comprehensive Plan implementation plan to ensure steady progress
(7.01.01G).
As part of the annual review and check-in, City Departments were provided the opportunity to
review and update responsible policy statements.
STATE REQUIRED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ANALYSIS
Idaho’s counties and cities are required by law, Idaho Code 67-6508, to prepare, implement, review,
and update a comprehensive plan which outlines goals and policies for land use. The elements which
must be addressed in the Plan are listed in Idaho Code, and below. It is the detailed city ordinances
(e.g. - UDC) that then spell out how the elements and policies are to be accomplished. The order in
which the following elements are presented and analyzed implies no order or priority.
2017 Comprehensive Plan and Existing Conditions Report 2017 Amendment - 3 -
A. Community Design
The purpose of this element is to ensure a pattern of planned growth resulting in orderly and
attractive developments within the City of Meridian. To promote quality design, future
development must comply with the City’s design standards contained in the UDC, Architectural
Standards Manual, and as applicable, the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan.
B. Population
The City of Meridian must ensure that population growth is accomplished in an orderly pattern.
Residential and commercial developments in the city limits must be served by City infrastructure
and public services. The Plan addresses where population growth is anticipated and services
necessary to serve those areas.
C. Housing
The City of Meridian is charged with ensuring an adequate and attractive living environment
which meets the needs of City residents of different ages, family sizes, abilities, lifestyles, and
income levels. To accomplish this, the plan identifies areas appropriate for residential
development and areas not appropriate as well as text that encourages a mix of different housing
options.
D. Economic Development
Over the last 20 years Meridian’s economic base has been increasingly shifting towards a retail,
service, and manufacturing-based economy. During this time, local policy with regard to the
types of lands needed to support the economic and employment needs of the community has also
changed. The Comprehensive Plan forecasts the need to continually adjust the provision of plan
in order to gradually broaden economic opportunity throughout the City.
E. Public Services, Facilities, and Utilities
Public services, facilities and utilities will be provided at the expense of the developer upon
development of any property in the area. Impact fees will be used to support Police, Fire, ACHD
and Parks.
F. School Facilities and Student Transportation
The purpose of this element is to direct new residential development to areas with adequate
school facilities and student transportation. This element is addressed by identifying future school
sites and subdivisions and by coordinating development review with the School District.
G. Transportation
The purpose of this element is to promote an efficient and safe transportation system within the
City. There are several policies in the plan addressing transportation infrastructure needs
throughout the city.
H. Natural Resources
The purpose of this element is to promote the conservation of areas of natural significance, where
appropriate. The Comprehensive Plan encourages the preservation of natural resources, these
policies will not change with any of the proposed text changes.
I. Special Areas
The subject amendment does not directly impact any lands previously designated for open space,
natural resources, or scenic areas, but does better define the North Rim and establish and define
the South Rim area.
2017 Comprehensive Plan and Existing Conditions Report 2017 Amendment - 4 -
J. Hazardous Areas
The purpose of this element is to ensure regulation of development in hazardous areas, such as
floodplains, unstable slopes, etc. The subject amendment does not directly impact any previously
identified hazardous areas.
K. Recreation
Recreation resources within Meridian include 19 developed City parks totaling approximately
255 acres. The City is in the process of developing several new park facilities. The City also
maintains several pathways. Minor changes to some of the recreation policies are being proposed.
L. Land Use
The Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map is a graphic representation of applicable policies
and goals of Meridian’s Comprehensive Plan. The Map has been prepared to identify suitable
areas for future residential and mixed-use development. The Map is designed to be a projection of
growth patterns for the City. Therefore, the Map, in conjunction with the text of the Plan, is to be
used as a guide for decisions regarding requests for land use changes. No changes are proposed to
the Map as part of this amendment.
M. Implementation
The City provides the necessary staff and facilities to administer and enforce the policies and
goals of the Comprehensive Plan. The City of Meridian Planning Division will administer the
Comprehensive Plan and its policies through development review and the Unified Development
Code. The Planning & Zoning Commission is also authorized by the Council to review, approve
and make recommendations on proposals affecting the public’s interest in land use. The City
Council is the ultimate decision making authority on most land use applications. The process for
implementing the Plan is not proposed to change.
N. Property Rights
The purpose of this element is to ensure that the land use policies, restrictions, conditions, and
fees do not unconstitutionally violate private property rights, and establish a consistent review
process that enable the City to ensure that any proposed actions will not result in an
unconstitutional taking of private property without due process of law. Staff believes that the
requested Comprehensive Plan text changes would not unconstitutionally violate private property
rights.
O. Agriculture
The City’s Comprehensive Plan encourages the preservation of agricultural lands in appropriate
areas; no change is proposed.
P. National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors
This amendment does not designate or change any designations for any high-voltage transmission
line corridor.
Q. Public Airport Facilities
This amendment does not affect any public airport facility.
7. ANALYSIS
A. Analysis of Facts Leading to Staff Recommendation
2017 Comprehensive Plan and Existing Conditions Report 2017 Amendment - 5 -
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN MAP AND TEXT AMENDMENTS (CPAT):
Comprehensive Plan Text Changes: The proposed additions and changes to the City of Meridian
Comprehensive Plan are highlighted below under Exhibit A. The first section describes changes to the
text of the Comprehensive Plan, and the second to the Goals, Objectives, and Action Items in the
Comprehensive Plan (policy statements). There are two parts to these text updates 1) those changes
considered to be staff cleanup or administrative type updates, and 2) those changes which are more
notable or significant.
As part of the Planning Divisions annual review of the Plan, staff checks-in with other City
Departments and provides them the opportunity to update action items, either to indicate completion,
revise descriptions, change priority, assign to others, or when appropriate remove. Several
Departments and partner agencies also provided updates to general areas of text within the Plan.
Planning staff consider all of these requested changes to be updates or cleanup, and support the
involvement and recommendations by participating departments and partners to ensure the Plans
relevancy, active use, and implementation.
The area of notable change for this update is to acknowledge and provide awareness for the South
Rim. The Comprehensive Plan already makes mention of the North Rim. This amendment provides
topographic exhibit maps, located in the appendices, which demarcate the specific boundaries for
both of these areas. The proposed text also changes how the residential “density bump” rule may
work in these areas (which is to say that it is disallowed), and to provide four new policy statements
(one objective and three action items) to address high-level design goals for development in these
areas. These changes are proposed as a result of public involvement at several recent public hearings,
and by comments by the Mayor and City Council at these meetings.
Planning staff worked with several individuals representing a larger coalition of south Meridian
residents and believe that these changes strike a balance between requested revisions and limitations
of scope, timing, and suitability for this yearly amendment. While these changes are notable and
provide stronger direction for development within the South Rim, impacts are limited without
additional revisions to both the Future Land Use Map and the City’s Unified Development Code, both
of which are contemplated in the future as part of wider public and stakeholder involvement.
Planning staff view these changes as an important first step in representing community sentiment and
comment in South Meridian.
Existing Conditions Report: The ECR is an addendum to the Comprehensive Plan, but integral in
addressing Section 67-6508 of Idaho Code (the Local Land Use Planning Act). The Existing
Conditions Report 2017 is an updated document to the adopted 2014 version. While the overall
format and topics are substantially similar, extensive updates to the text, descriptions, charts, and
maps occur across the entire document. This updated information better represents a rapidly growing
City to make the document more relevant and useful to City staff, residents, business owners, and
others interested in Meridian.
Staff believes that the proposed text amendments help to accurately reflect the City’s planning efforts
and portrays the City staff’s commitment to monitoring the plan.
8. EXHIBITS
A. Strike-out and Underline Version of the Proposed Text Changes
B. Required Findings from Unified Development Code
2017 Comprehensive Plan and Existing Conditions Report 2017 Amendment - 6 -
Exhibit A: Strike and Underline Version of the Proposed Text Changes
The proposed additions and changes to the City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan are highlighted below;
underline represents new text, while strike-through is removal of existing text. The first section describes
changes to the text of the Comprehensive Plan, and the second to the Goals, Objectives, and Action Items in
the Comprehensive Plan (policy statements).
Underline and strikethrough list of changes to Comprehensive Plan
Location Text Comment
Chapter 3,
Page 21
Within residential areas the following policies shall apply:
• At the discretion of City Council, areas with a Residential
Comprehensive Plan designation may request an office use if the
property only has frontage on an arterial street or section line road
and is three acres or less in size. In this instance, no ancillary
commercial uses shall be permitted.
• In residential areas, other residential densities will be considered
without requiring a Comprehensive Plan Amendment. However, the
density can only be changed one “step” (i.e., from low to medium, not
low to high, etc.). This provision does not apply to 1) the area
bounded by Can-Ada, Chinden, McDermott, and Ustick Roads or 2)
within the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan, or 3) within the
North and South Rims as depicted in Appendix E where no “step up”
is allowed.
• Residential lots, streets and open spaces within the North Rim and
South Rim Areas (See Appendix E) should be oriented and designed
to maximize view sheds.
• For properties designated Low Density Residential, uses within the
North and South Rim areas, north of Chinden Boulevard and within ¼
mile or less from the rim should have lot sizes should rangeing from
one-half to one acre, ensuring compatibility with SpurWing Country
Club to the east. Use of transitional lot sizes and clustering of smaller
lots adjacent to the non-residential and rim property are encouraged.
Revisions in this section (page 21) are
the result of recent south Meridian
public testimony, Mayor and City
Council comments at these meetings,
and in conversations with a coalition of
south meridian residents. Changes here
and in 4 new policy statements (see
3.01.03) are intended to better direct
development to preserve unique
attributes of the City, in this specific
case the South Rim.
Text is all suggestive, but changes are
intended to better focus design on
orientation of roads, parcels, and
building footprints to maximize view
sheds, and not simply on number of
lots. While new text disallows step ups
(“free” density increases) in certain
conditions, the Future Land Use Map
may still be amended through the
public hearing process.
Chapter 3,
Page 42
Water Service
The City owned and operated domestic water system is currently supported by
a series of deep wells, booster pump stations, multiple reservoirs, and over 400
500 miles of pipe line. In order to keep up with water demand, the City has
constructed, on average, one new well per year, each funded by connection fees
and charged to new development. Water line extensions to new developments
are generally paid for and constructed by developers. Although the City plans
new wells and reservoirs, the specific locations to those facilities are largely
dictated by growth patterns, and will continue to be funded by new
Text changes provided by the Public
Works Department
Exhibit A - 7 -
Location Text Comment
Chapter 3,
Page 42
Sewer Collection
The sewer (also known as wastewater) collection system in the City consists of
over 500 400 miles of pipe and twelve lift (pump) stations. Sewage flows by
gravity to the wastewater treatment plant located northwest of the Ten
Mile/Ustick intersection. Generating a new Sewer Master Plan is in process. The
Sewer Master Plan includes development of a computer model. The model
helps Public Works staff identify priority areas for development in the City as
well as segments of the existing sewage collection system that are approaching
capacity. Future capital improvements will then be prioritized to upgrade the
lines that are approaching capacity. No new City-funded sewer trunks or
expansions are planned at this time. After the new Sewer Master Plan and
model is up and running, tThe City will evaluate the need for additional
expansion projects based on the Sewer Master Plan and model.
Text changes provided by the Public
Works Department
Chapter 3,
Page 43
Sewage Treatment
The present Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) began operation in
1979 with a rated capacity of 2.8 million gallons per day (mgd). The WRRF
consists of primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment followed by disinfection.
Treated effluent is discharged to Five Mile Creek. The City continues to upgrade
the facility following its current Facility and 5 year Capital Improvement Plans.
The estimated design capacity at the plant today is approximately 10.2 mgd, as
approved by the Department of Environmental Quality. The City is in the
process of completing a major upgrade to the WRRF which will increase the
treatment capacity to 15 mgd, and is expected to be completed in 2019. The
last update to the wastewater resource recovery Facility Plan was completed in
2012, and the City is currently in the process of updating this document again.
The results of the Facility Plan will be used to develop the Capital Improvement
Plan for the WRRF, and guide the future studies, improvements, and expansions
for the next several years.
With a rated capacity of 10.2 million gallons per day (mgd), the Meridian Waste
Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) services the entire City to primary, secondary,
and tertiary standards, followed by disinfection. Treated effluent is discharged
into Five Mile Creek.
The City of Meridian received a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) Wastewater discharge permit from the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) in September of 1999, which expired in 2004, and was then
administratively extended. The City received a reissued NPDES Wastewater
discharge permit in June of 2017. This permit includes very low nutrient limits
on phosphorus and ammonia which will precipitate significant capital
investment into upgrades at the wastewater resource recovery facility.
Numerous sampling and monitoring requirements for the effluent, Five Mile
Creek, and the Boise River are also mandated. The City of Meridian received a
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) discharge permit from
the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in September of 1999, which
expired in 2004. The discharge permit placed limits on flow, biochemical oxygen
Text changes provided by the Public
Works Department
Exhibit A - 8 -
Location Text Comment
demand (BOD), total suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, pH, toxicity, and
bacteria. The permit also mandated numerous sampling and monitoring
requirements for the effluent, Five Mile Creek, and the Boise River are also
mandated. The Public Works Department expects to receive a new NPDES
discharge permit in the next year which will include nutrient limits on
phosphorus as low as 0.07 mg/L. The EPA has proposed up to a 98% reduction
in the amount of total phosphorus discharged to the Lower Boise River by all
point sources. In order to comply with requirements, Meridian may have to
construct expensive phosphorus removal facilities at the WWTP. The additional
associated costs will be apportioned to all ratepayers, although the actual
construction of these additional improvements will depend on City growth
rates. Currently, As the owner and operator of the stormwater drainage system,
the Ada County Highway District (ACHD) is the regulated permittee for Phase 2
NPDES Stormwater permits for areas which encompass Meridian, NPDES
permits are not required for stormwater within the City. However, with
increasing population growth, the City will be responsible for compliance with
the Phase 2 stormwater program, thus requiring staff and funding.
With a vision for sustainability, Meridian became the first city in Idaho to be
issued a Citywide Class A Recycled Water Permit in 2009. Recycled water is a
highly treated water resource generated at the City’s municipal wastewater
resource recovery facility that meets standards for Class A reuse, as established
by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. The City has been
producing Class A recycled water since 2009 for uses such as irrigating
landscaping at the Ten Mile Interchange, some City parks, and the treatment
plant site, as well as toilet flushing, and at a commercial car wash.
This conserves ground water and reduces discharge flows into the Boise River.
As Meridian is located in an arid climate, recycled water is a “drought-proof”
water supply that reduces demand on municipal supply, frees up agricultural
water for agricultural uses, and lowers effluent flow to the Boise River.
To keep costs down and treatment of wastewater efficient, the City is
embarking on a reclaimed water project. Meridian has a Class A Reclaimed
Water Permit which allows the City treat and reuse wastewater, instead of
irrigation water or potable water, on City parks and open spaces near Ten Mile
Road. The City would like to expand this service and it is anticipated that this
highly treated water will also be made available to private property owners in
other parts of the City in the near future.
Exhibit A - 9 -
Location Text Comment
Chapter 5,
Page 66
Sustainability
The City of Meridian has assertively stepped-up to the challenges and dynamics
of incorporating sustainability concepts into a variety of projects. From tackling
energy conservation issues; establishing a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment
and reclamation facility; to establishing and staffing maintaining an
Environmental Division Programs within the Public Works Department.
“Sustainability and Environmental Awareness” is a stated priority issue of City
leadership and will be a dynamic aspect of how future service, programs and
projects are understood, created and implemented. Future success bodes well,
due to the accomplishments gained in our recent past; sustainable practices
today are applied in Meridian in a wide variety of ways, and will continue to
grow.
Text changes provided by the Public
Works Department to reflect changes in
Department structure.
Chapter 6,
Page 79
Fire and Ambulance
The Meridian Fire Department has quickly transformed from a primarily all-
volunteer department into a combination department with 57 61 full-time
firefighters and 20 part time, on call personnel. Currently, the Meridian Fire
Department consists of five Fire Stations strategically located throughout the
Meridian area, with plans for a total of 11 at full build out of the Meridian Area
of City Impact. Services provided by the department include: fire, rescue,
hazardous materials, fire prevention education, plans review, inspections and
advanced life-support emergency medical service. The Meridian Fire
Department will continue to be an important asset in development and land use
decisions, as they ensure that there is adequate fire flow, access and compliance
with the Fire Code.
Revisions provided by the Fire
Department.
Chapter 6,
Page 79
Parks and Recreation
The City of Meridian Parks and Recreation Department is the primary recreation
service provider for Meridian. Quality parks, recreation facilities, activities and
programs are considered by most Meridian residents to be vital in promoting
overall quality of life. The Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for
maintaining public open spaces and for providing a quality system of parks and
recreation facilities and positive leisure opportunities available to all persons in
the community. The Department is also responsible for the development and
maintenance of the pathways system and the urban forest. The Meridian Parks
and Recreation system consists of 387 acres of parkland, 255 acres of
developed parks and 150 acres of undeveloped land. The system is made up of
19 parks (not including Lakeview Golf Course): three undeveloped sites, just less
than 22 miles of pathways, the Homecourt facility, and a community center.
Additionally, Parks and Recreation offers a variety of recreational programs,
adult sports leagues, and special events, and handles shelter/field reservations
and temporary use permits. Meridian parks and recreation facilities provide
residents with safe outlets for entertainment, exercise, social activities, and
learning opportunities.
Continued provision of high quality, year-round park and recreation facilities
and activities requires the acquisition and development of land, funding for
maintenance and renovations, and programming of elements and use activities.
New Parks and Recreation text
provided for the Comprehensive Plan,
by a consultant from the 2016 Parks
and Recreation Master Plan update
(with some updates).
Exhibit A - 10 -
Location Text Comment
Developing new parks and expanding the existing park system with cutting-
edge features like outdoor exercise equipment, pickleball courts, dog parks,
destination playgrounds and year-round programs is vital to keep up with
demand from growth.
The City also seeks to continue expanding its pathway system by coordinating
new projects with regional partners, and providing safe, tightly integrated
pathways linking popular destinations such as schools and parks to
neighborhood centers. Therefore, the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan
and Pathways Master Plan should be used when evaluating proposed
development for consistency with the City’s plans.
The City of Meridian Parks and Recreation Department is the primary recreation
service provider for Meridian. Quality parks, recreation facilities, activities and
programs are considered by most Meridian residents to be vital in promoting
overall quality of life. The Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for
maintaining public open spaces and providing a quality system of parks and
recreation facilities and positive leisure opportunities available to all persons in
the community. The Department is also responsible for the development and
maintenance of the pathways system and urban forest. Parks and Recreation
also offers a variety of recreational programs, adult sports leagues, special
events, and handles shelter/field reservations and temporary use permits.
Meridian parks and recreation facilities and recreational programs provide
residents with safe outlets for entertainment, exercise, social activities, and
learning opportunities.
Continued provision of high quality, year-round park and recreation facilities
and activities requires the acquisition and development of land, funding for
maintenance and renovations, and programming of elements and use activities.
Developing new parks and expanding the existing park system with cutting-
edge features like multi sensory games, ice skating rinks, dog parks, and year-
round programs is vital to keep up with demand from growth.
The City also seeks to continue expanding its pathway system by coordinating
new projects with regional partners, and providing safe, tightly integrated
pathways linking popular destinations such as schools and parks to
neighborhood centers. Therefore, the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan
and Pathways Master Plan should be used when evaluating proposed
development for consistency with the City’s plans.
Exhibit A - 11 -
Location Text Comment
Appendix
E, Page E-1
Legend Other Maps
This section will include two new
topographic maps illustrating the North
and South Rims. The legend will be
moved to appendix F
Appendix
F, Page F-1 Legend This is a new appendix for the Legend
that is currently in Appendix E
Exhibit A - 12 -
Underline and strikethrough list of changes to GOA.
Additions or revisions to the Support 1 and Support 2 columns are not official changes as they are not included within the City’s Comprehensive
Plan, and are for internal use only. Some items may have no revisions and are only listed as status updates. For a complete list of all Goals,
Objectives, and Action Items (GOA) with all changes, see the staff memo which lists all GOA including these proposed changes.
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
2.01.01C
Plan for and encourage services like health care, daycare,
grocery stores and recreational areas to be built within
walking and biking distance of residential dwellings.
On-going Community
Development
2.01.02D
Use the Comprehensive Plan, the Unified Development Code,
and the Architectural Standards Manual to discourage strip
development, and encourage clustered, landscaped business
or residential development on entryway corridors.
On-going Community
Development Per CD/Planning. This needs
to be re-worded.
2.01.02F When possible, and financially feasible, underground utility
lines. On-going
Public Works
Community
Development
Public Works request
2.01.03G
Require new development to construct and maintain
monument signs, consistent with the Welcome to Meridian
signage plan.
On-going Community
Development
3.01.01B Evaluate comprehensive impact of growth in all land use
decisions (e.g., traffic impacts, school enrollment, parks, etc). On-going
Community
Development
All
Community
Development Per CD/Planning.
3.01.01K Identify and communicate future and current fire station
locations based on adopted response time standards. High Fire Fire Dept request
3.01.01L Communicate development impact regarding adopted Fire
Department response time standards. High Fire Fire Dept request
Exhibit A - 13 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
3.01.02D
Coordinate with Ada County to amend City and County Area
of City Impact agreements to require Meridian land use
ordinances be adopted by Ada County for developments
within the Area of City Impact but outside City limits.
Medium
High
Community
Development Per CD. Priority amended
3.01.03 Preserve view sheds of the Treasure Valley along the North
Rim, South Rim, and at other notable vistas. On-going Community
Development City Council
New objective statement
paired with the following
three action items, and new
text in Chapter 3, page 21
3.01.03A
New residential subdivisions should make strategic use of
large lots, terraced grades, community trails and open space,
and siting and orientation of new building pads to optimize
public view sheds. The topography and view sheds of
adjacent properties should be considered when terracing.
On-going Community
Development City Council
New action item paired with
new objective 3.01.03, and
with new text in Chapter 3,
page 21
3.01.03B
Residential building lots on properties within designated view
shed areas should integrate regular breaks between
dwellings, such as pocket parks, trails and trail access points,
or incorporate large side yard setbacks, especially in estate,
and low density neighborhoods.
On-going Community
Development City Council
New action item paired with
new objective 3.01.03, and
with new text in Chapter 3,
page 21
3.01.03C
Residential building lots should make use of open vision
fencing types, such as wrought iron and split-rail, especially
when closed vision fencing would otherwise obscure view
sheds from public spaces.
On-going Community
Development City Council
New action item paired with
new objective 3.01.03, and
with new text in Chapter 3,
page 21
3.03.01A Work with UPRR on constructing a multiple-use pathway
through downtown. On-going Public Works
Parks
Community
Development Public Works Public Works request
3.03.01G
Work with ACHD to implement projects from the 2012
Downtown Meridian Neighborhood Pedestrian and Bicycle
Plansurvey.
On-going Community
Development
3.03.02Q Consider needed sidewalk, pathway, landscaping, and lighting
improvements along with all land-use decisions along SH-55. On-going Community
Development Per CD. Minor text revision.
Exhibit A - 14 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
3.03.02T
Work with ACHD and COMPASS to establish and implement a
system of performance measures to gauge whether
transportation goals and objectives are being realized.
Medium Community
Development Added COMPASS as they are
currently doing this.
3.03.03A Work with transportation agencies to establish truck routes. Lowest
Public Works
Community
Development
Public Works Dept request.
3.03.04A Support COMPASS efforts to study the Union Pacific Railroad
(UPRR) corridor for multi-use pathway and mass transit. On-goingHigh Community
Development Parks Public Works
Per CD. Priority amended and
added Parks and PW as
support.
3.03.04I
The City, iIn coordination with VRT and COMPASS, should
explore grants and other funding opportunities to provide
incentives for developers to locate within areas planned for
transit.
Medium Community
Development Per CD. Reworded.
3.03.04N Promote the rail line as a multi-modal corridor. On-going Public Works
Parks
Community
Development
Parks
Public Works Public Works Dept request.
3.04.01E Develop City utilities in priority areas. On-going Public Works Community
Development
No text revision - just adding
support per Public Works
Dept request.
3.04.01H
Coordinate with public works, police, and fire departments on
proposed annexation and development requests, and the
impacts on services through comprehensive analysis and
adopted standards.
On-going Community
Development Fire Dept request
3.04.01J Annually Assess and compare response times to adopted
standards for identification of needed growth. On-going Police / Fire Fire Dept request
3.04.01O Coordinate Fire Department planning and response efforts
with neighboring jurisdictions. On-going Fire Fire Dept request
Exhibit A - 15 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
3.04.02C Identify target hazards based on commercial/industrial
occupancy type. On-going Fire Fire Dept request
3.05.01A
Evaluate the allocation of land uses along the rail corridor,
particularly the amount of land envisioned for industrial use;
coordinate with UPRR and other stakeholders.
Highest Community
Development Per CD. Review with CIM
2040.
3.05.02E
[Removed] Permit schools, churches, and other public and
civic uses in rural areas, that are compatible with adjacent
uses.
On-going
NA
Community
Development
NA
Per CD. Delete policy. No
value.
3.05.03D
Coordinate with Ada County and establish and maintain an
Area of City Impact Agreement, to ensure that rural areas are
developed in accordance with all applicable provisions of this
plan.
On-going
High
Community
Development Per CD. Priority amended
3.05.03H Coordinate with Meridian Rural Fire Protection District as
growth occurs in our Area of City Impact On-going Fire Fire Dept request
3.06.02A
Review current regulations for issues that would prohibit or
discourage the type of mixed-use, transit-oriented
development desired within areas planned for transit.
High
On-going
Community
Development Per CD. Effort completed in
2015.
3.06.02J Prioritize the location of future fire stations on collectors to
eliminate access issues on arterials. On-going Fire Fire Dept request
3.07.01M
Review ordinances or other policy statements which affect
housing development and consolidate to avoid confusion and
conflicting policies and requirements.
Highest
On-going
Community
Development Per CD. Priority amended
4.04.01E
Research potential sites with the Meridian Development
Corporation for entertainment venues and a civic center in
downtown.
Highest
Mayor's Office
Community
Development
Mayor's Office Requested by Mayor's Office
5.01.01A Identify waterways, wetlands, and other natural resources for
preservation.
Medium
Low Public Works Community
Development Public Works Dept request.
Exhibit A - 16 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
5.01.01B Identify wildlife habitat areas for conservation. Medium
Low Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.01.01D Limit canal tiling and piping of ditches, creeks, and drains
where public safety issues are not of concern. On-going
Public Works
Community
Development
Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.02.02A Coordinate with the Meridian Historic Preservation
Commission to recommend restoration of historical buildings. Highest Community
Development
Finance
Clerks H.P.C. No text revision - just
changing support department
5.02.02B Investigate tax incentive programs for historic properties. Low Community
Development
Finance
Clerks Finance
No text revision - just
changing support
departments
5.02.02D
Undertake programs that will increase the community's
awareness of its heritage and the economic as well as
aesthetic value of historic preservation.
On-going Council Finance
Clerks H.P.C. No text revision - just
changing support department
5.02.02E
Conduct activities directed toward stimulating private and
public investment in the restoration and preservation of
historic buildings, outdoor spaces, and natural historic
features.
On-going Council Finance
Clerks H.P.C. No text revision - just
changing support department
5.02.02F Support the efforts of the Historic Preservation Commission
to foster preservation and conservation. On-going Council Finance
Clerks Finance
No text revision - just
changing support
departments
5.02.02H Place informational plaque on historic structures and special
sites.
Highest
On-going
Finance
Clerks H.P.C.
Change to reflect Culture
Specialists home department.
Also, requested by HPC
5.02.02I Seek funding services for grants to promote historic
preservation. On-going Finance
Clerks H.P.C. Change to reflect Culture
Specialists home department.
Exhibit A - 17 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
5.02.02K When appropriate, nominate eligible properties to the
National Register of Historic Places. On-going Mayor's Office H.P.C.Clerks H.P.C.
Consistency change to make
Commission underneath staff
liasion Department.
5.02.02M
Establish and maintain a system to survey and identify
cultural and historical resources within City limits and
maintain a local inventory of all identified sites, buildings and
resources.
Medium H.P.C.
Clerks H.P.C. I.T.
Consistency change to make
Commission underneath staff
liasion Department.
5.02.02N Develop City code to preserve and protect historic and
culturally significant structures and sites. Lowest Community
Development
Finance
Clerks H.P.C. No text revision - just
changing support department
5.02.02Q Encourage events and activities that celebrate the cultural
heritage of Meridian. On-going Mayor's Office Finance
Clerks H.P.C. No text revision - just
changing support department
5.03.01G Pursue Idaho Power’s “Flex Peak” program in both municipal;
and large commercial/industrial facilities.
Low
On-Going Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.03.01H Convert appropriate municipal fleet vehicles to low-
emission/alternative fuel vehicles when feasible.
Medium
Low Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.04.01A
Implement the action items in the City’s “Energy Efficiency &
Conservation Strategy” (May, 2010) in order to reduce energy
costs at municipal facilities.
On-going
Low Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.04.01B
Review the “Energy Efficiency & Conservation Strategy” at
regular intervals to assess status of projects and programs
and to make adjustments in response to changing conditions
and technologies.
On-going
Low Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.04.01D
Establish a dedicated, revolving fund based on Investigate
funding opportunities based on energy savings to finance
conservation programs and projects in municipal operations.
Low Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.04.01E [Removed] Pursue City Energy Analyst position as identified in
the “Energy Efficiency & Conservation Strategy”.
Lowest
NA
Public Works
NA Public Works Dept request.
Exhibit A - 18 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
5.04.02A
Develop an outreach material display/informational kiosk to
provide public information on energy conservation. Partner
with other entities to provide outreach in other locations such
as schools and other public places.
On-going Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.04.02B
Review and analyze City codes related to lighting standards
to insure appropriate levels of outdoor lighting in both public
and private installations; to assure the “the right light for the
right use” is installed.
On-going Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.04.02E Build fire stations that utilize energy conservation
technologies. On-going Fire Fire Dept request
5.05.03A
Partner with City's waste contractor to investigate
conservation options including composting, recycling, green
waste, etc on developing and implementing composting
program.
Medium
Low
Public Works
Finance
SWAC Public Works Dept request.
5.06.02B
Collaborate with stakeholders to develop Create
demonstration projects incorporating water and energy
conservation; and energy efficient construction methods and
materials.
On-going Public Works Public Works Dept request.
5.06.02F
[Removed] Develop cooperative relationships with Northwest
Energy Efficiency Alliance, Energy Policy Institute, University
of Idaho Design Institute and Idaho Energy Collaborative in
order to leverage resources and opportunities for projects
and public education, outreach events and initiatives.
On-going
NA
Public Works
NA
Public Works Dept request.
Recommend deletion. This is
on-going work and
operational in nature.
Further, why limit to those
groups?
5.06.02J
Review ordinances, code, and conditional use the permittings
process to ensure there are no stumbling blocks to
implementing green building, energy efficient strategies and
incentives.
Medium Community
Development Public Works Per CD. Reworded.
Exhibit A - 19 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
5.07.02A [Removed] Implement the recycled wastewater master plan. On-going
NA
Public Works
NA Public Works Dept request.
Completed
5.07.02C
Eliminate existing inadequate private treatment and septic
systems in the City and discourage their use within future City
limits.
On-going Public Works Public Works Dept request
5.07.03B
Explore alternative, sustainable energy sources which can
serve as renewable resources in a fiscally responsible manner
including co-generation of power from waste processing
byproducts.
On-going Public Works Public Works Dept request
5.08.01B Develop a source water protection plan. On-going Public Works
No text change. Comment by
Public Works. Not sure this
will be accepted by DEQ, but
a plan will be in place none
the less
5.08.03A Update and utilize Implement the Public Works Department
Water Conservation Plan. On-going Public Works Public Works Dept request
5.08.03B
Reduce reliance on City water (potable) for irrigation through
use of recycled water, public education and adoption of water
conserving landscape guidelines.
On-going
Low Public Works Community
Development Public Works Dept request
5.08.03C Maintain Initiate a public outreach program on water
conservation. On-going Public Works Public Works Dept request
5.08.03D
Encourage landscaping implementing the appropriate and
attractive use of xeric, drought-tolerant plant species and
non-plant materials to reduce maintenance and water
consumption of landscaping.
On-going Community
Development CD change
Exhibit A - 20 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
5.09.01A
Develop Refine framework and components of a
comprehensive surface water protection environmental
programs including construction, sStorm wWater compliance
protection, and fFloodplain mManagement and stream and
riparian protection and restoration in order to satisfy the
City's requirements under the Clean Water Act, FEMA, and the
National Flood insurance program.
On-going Public Works Public Works Dept request
5.09.01B Identify waterways, wetlands, and other natural resources for
preservation.
Medium
Low Public Works Public Works Dept request
6.01.01A Require open space areas within all residential development. On-going Community
Development CD clarification
6.03.01A Provide both permanent and rotating works of art in City Hall
and other public places. On-going Finance
Clerks
Meridian Arts
Commission Mayor's Office Change to reflect Culture
Specialists home department.
6.03.01C
Utilize Meridian Art in Public Spaces program percent for art
ordinance funding to raise awareness and appreciation of the
arts.
Medium Finance
Clerks
Meridian Arts
Commission Mayor's Office
Change to reflect Culture
Specialists home department,
and name or actual ordinance.
6.03.01D Establish an Art and Cultural District High Community
Development
Finance
Clerks No text revision - just
changing support department
6.03.01E Provide local artists opportunities to showcase their work. On-going Finance
Clerks
Meridian Arts
Commission Mayor's Office Change to reflect Culture
Specialists home department.
6.04.01A Develop and offer youth art opportunities at and after school. On-going Finance
Clerks Parks Mayor's Office Change to reflect Culture
Specialists home department.
6.04.01C Present a variety of performing arts locally. On-going Finance
Clerks Parks Mayor's Office Change to reflect Culture
Specialists home department.
6.04.01E Raise awareness and promote existing arts offerings and
artwork within the community. On-going Finance
Clerks
Meridian Arts
Commission Mayor's Office Change to reflect Culture
Specialists home department.
Exhibit A - 21 -
I.D. Goals / Objectives / Action Items Priority Responsible
Lead Support 1 Support 2 Additional Comments
provided by Departments.
6.05.01A
Plan for and allow land uses surrounding the Wastewater
Resource Recovery Facility Treatment Plant thato reduce
human exposure to odors.
On-going Community
Development
Exhibit A - 22 -
Exhibit B. Required Findings from Unified Development Code
1. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT FINDINGS
Upon recommendation from the Commission, the Council shall make a full investigation and shall, at
the public hearing, review the application. In order to grant an amendment to the Comprehensive
Plan, the Council shall make the following findings:
A. The proposed amendment is consistent with the other elements of the Comprehensive Plan.
The City’s existing Comprehensive Plan contains all of the elements required by Idaho Statute.
The proposed changes are meant to reinforce these elements, ensure consistency, and accuracy.
Thus, the Commission finds the proposed changes are consistent with other elements of the
Comprehensive plan.
B. The proposed amendment provides an improved guide to future growth and development of the
city.
The proposed changes more accurately convey existing conditions and help convey the City’s
vision to stakeholders. The Commission finds that the proposed text amendment provides an
improved guide to future growth and development within the City and Area of City Impact.
C. The proposed amendment is internally consistent with the Goals, Objectives and Policies of the
Comprehensive Plan.
Internal departments were consulted in the amendment process and contributed to the changes.
The Commission finds that the proposed amendment is internally consistent with the Goals,
Objectives, and Policies of the Comprehensive Plan and other planning-related documents and
city policies.
D. The proposed amendment is consistent with the Unified Development Code.
The Commission finds the proposed text amendment is consistent with the UDC and provides the
necessary guidance to effectively administer the requirements of the Unified Development Code.
E. The amendment will be compatible with existing and planned surrounding land uses.
NA; this amendment does not pertain to a specific parcel.
F. The proposed amendment will not burden existing and planned service capabilities.
The Commission finds that the proposed amendment would not burden existing and planned
service capabilities in this area of the city. If anything, the proposed text amendment further
clarifies future expansion needs of public services.
G. The proposed map amendment (as applicable) provides a logical juxtaposition of uses that allows
sufficient area to mitigate any anticipated impact associated with the development of the area.
NA; there is no map amendment proposed with this application.
H. The proposed amendment is in the best interest of the City of Meridian.
The Commission finds that the proposed amendment is in the best interest of the City.
Exhibit B - 23 -