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2022-08-18 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING City Council Chambers, 33 East Broadway Avenue Meridian, Idaho Thursday, August 18, 2022 at 6:00 PM MINUTES ROLL-CALL ATTENDANCE PRESENT Commissioner Andrew Seal Commissioner Maria Lorcher Commissioner Nathan Wheeler Commissioner Grace Commissioner Yearsley ABSENT Commissioner Grove Commissioner Stoddard ADOPTION OF AGENDA Adopted CONSENT AGENDA \[Action Item\] Approved 1. Approve Minutes of the August 4, 2022 Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Motion to approve made by Commissioner Lorcher, Seconded by Commissioner Wheeler. Voting Aye: Commissioner Seal, Commissioner Lorcher, Commissioner Wheeler, Commissioner Yearsley, Commissioner Grace ITEMS MOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA \[Action Item\] ACTION ITEMS 2. Public Hearing for Kingstown Subdivision H-2022-0045 by Kimley Horn, located at 2620 E. Jasmine St. Recommend Continuance to September 1, 2022 A. Request: Annexation of 8.20 acres of land with an R-8 zoning district. B. Request: Preliminary Plat consisting of 21 building lots and 4 common lots on 8.20 acres of land in the R-8 zoning district. Motion to approve made by Commissioner Wheeler, Seconded by Commissioner Lorcher. Voting Aye: Commissioner Seal. Commissioner Lorcher, Commissioner Wheeler, Commissioner Yearsley, Commissioner Grace 3. Public Hearing for PZ Creek View Park H-2022-0022 by HLE Engineering, located at 942 S. Wells St. and 2920 E. Freeway Dr. Recommend Continuance to October 6, 2022 A. Request: Annexation and Zoning of approximately 10.35 acres of land from RUT to the requested C-G zoning district. B. Request: Rezone of approximately 6 acres from the L-O zoning district to the C-G zoning district. C. Conditional Use Permit for a multi-family project consisting of 28 units on approximately 2.85 acres of land within the 6-acre parcel in the existing L-O zoning districts. Motion made to approve made by Commissioner Grace, Seconded by Commissioner Lorcher Voting Aye: Commissioner Seal, Commissioner Grace, Commissioner Lorcher, Commissioner Yearsley, Commissioner Wheeler 4. Public Hearing continued from July 21, 2022 for Slatestone Subdivision (H-2022- 0039) by T-O Engineers, located at 2707 S Stoddard Rd. Recommend Continuance to September 15, 2022 A. Request: Annexation and Zoning of 5.04 acres of land with a request for the R-8 zoning district. B. Request: Preliminary Plat consisting of 15 single-family building lots and 4 common lots on 4.85 acres in the requested R-8 zoning district. Motion made to approve by Commissioner Wheeler and Seconded by Commissioner Lorcher Voting Aye: Commissioner Seal, Commissioner Grace, Commissioner Lorcher, Commissioner Yearsley, Commissioner Wheeler 5. Public Hearing for Chipotle Drive-Through (H-2022-0055) by Matthew Bush, WP5 Meridian II, LLC., located at 3004 N. Eagle Rd., near the southeast corner of Eagle and Ustick Rds. Recommend Continuance to September 1, 2022 A. Request: Conditional Use Permit for a new approximate 2,325 square foot Chipotle restaurant with a drive-through to replace an existing and vacant restaurant located within 300 feet of an existing drive-through. Motion made to approve by Commissioner Wheeler, Seconded by Commissioner Lorcher Voting Aye: Commissioner Seal, Commissioner Grace, Commissioner Lorcher, Commissioner Yearsley, Commissioner Wheeler 6. Public Hearing for Existing Conditions Report 2022 CPAT (H-2022-0049) by City of Meridian. Recommend Approval to City Council A. Request: Comprehensive Plan Amendment to amend the 2019 Comprehensive plan to adopt the Existing Conditions Report 2022, as an addendum to the Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan). The Existing Conditions Report addresses some requirements for a Comp Plan under the Local Land Use Planning Act, Title 67, Chapter 65, Idaho Code. The Report includes descriptions, maps and analysis for a variety of demographic indicators, services and land coverage information. The purpose of the Report is to serve as a community resource and to document and set a baseline for existing conditions that Ideally help to inform future decisions. Motion to recommend approval to City Council made by Commissioner Lorcher, Seconded by Commissioner Grace. Voting Aye: Commissioner Seal, Commissioner Grace, Commissioner Lorcher, Commissioner Yearsley, Commissioner Wheeler 7. Public Hearing for UDC Text Amendment ZOA-2022-0001 by City of Meridian Planning Division. Recommend Approval to City Council A. Request: UDC Text Amendment for a text amendment to amend certain sections and add new code sections to the City's Unified Development Code pertaining to the regulations through Chapters 1-5. Motion to recommend approval to City Council made by Commissioner Lorcher, Seconded by Commissioner Yearsley Voting Aye: Commissioner Seal, Commissioner Grace, Commissioner Lorcher, Commissioner Yearsley, Commissioner Wheeler ADJOURNMENT 7:24 P.M. Meridian Planning and Zoning Meeting August 18, 2022. Meeting of the Meridian Planning and Zoning Commission of August 18, 2022, was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chairman Andrew Seal. Members Present: Chairman Andrew Seal, Commissioner Steven Yearsley, Commissioner Patrick Grace, Commissioner Maria Lorcher and Commissioner Nate Wheeler. Members Absent: Commissioner Nick Grove and Commissioner Mandi Stoddard. Others Present: Chris Johnson, Joy Hall, Kurt Starman, Brian McClure, Caleb Hood, and Dean Willis. ROLL-CALL ATTENDANCE X Nate Wheeler X Maria Lorcher Mandi Stoddard Nick Grove _X Steven Yearsley X Patrick Grace X Andrew Seal - Chairman Seal: Good evening and welcome to the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting for August 18th, 2022. At this time I would like to call the meeting to order. The Commissioners who are present for this evening meet -- this evening's meeting are in City Hall and on Zoom. We also have staff from the City Attorney and Clerk's Offices -- Offices, as well as the City Planning Department. Nobody is on Zoom, so I could skip that. During the public testimony portion of the meeting you can come up in Chambers. Please note that we will not take questions until the public testimony portion. If you have any process questions during the meeting please e-mail cityclerk@meridiancity.org and they will comply -- or reply as quickly as possible. With that let's begin with roll call. Madam Clerk. ADOPTION OF AGENDA Seal: All right. Thanks very much. First item on the agenda is the adoption of the agenda. This evening we have files H-2022-0045, H-2022-0022, H-2022-0039 and H-22-0055, will be open for the sole purpose of continuing to a regularly scheduled meeting. They will open only for that purpose. So, if there is anybody here tonight to testify for these particular applications we will not be -- be taking testimony on -- on them this evening. Can I get a motion to adopt the agenda? Lorcher: So moved. Wheeler: Second. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 2 of 30 Seal: It's been moved and seconded to adopt the agenda. All in favor say aye. No opposed. Motion carries. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. CONSENT AGENDA [Action Item] 1. Approve Minutes of the August 4, 2022 Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Seal: Next item -- geez, I'm going to get tongue tied tonight. Next item on the agenda is the Consent Agenda and we have one item on the Consent Agenda, which is to approve the minutes of the August 4th, 2022, Planning and Zoning Commission meeting. Can get a motion to accept the Consent Agenda as presented? Lorcher: So moved. Wheeler: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded to adopt the Consent Agenda. All in favor say aye. No opposed. Motion carries. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. ITEMS MOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA [Action Item] Seal: Okay. At this time I would like to briefly explain the public hearing process. We will open each item individually and begin with the staff report. Staff will report their findings on how the item adheres to our Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code. After staff has made their presentation the applicant will come forward to present their case and respond to staff comments. They will have 15 minutes to do so. After the applicant has finished we will open the floor to public testimony. Each person will be called on only once during the public testimony. The Clerk will call the names individually of those who have signed up on our website or in the back to testify. You will then -- you will, then, come to the microphones in Chambers. You need to state your name and address for the record and you will have three minutes to address the Commission. If you have previous -- previously sent pictures or presentation for the meeting it will be displayed on the screen and our Clerk will run the presentation. If you establish that you are speaking on behalf of a large group, like an HOA where others from that group will allow you to speak on their behalf, you will have up to ten minutes. After all those who have signed up in advance have spoken we will invite any others who may wish to testify. If you wish to speak on the topic you may come forward in Chambers. Okay. When you are finished, if the Commission does not have any questions for you, you will return to your seat in Chambers and you will no longer have the ability to speak. Please remember we will not call you -- on you for a second time. After all testimony has been heard the applicant will give another ten minutes -- or the applicant will be given another ten minutes Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 3 of 30 to come back and respond. When the applicant is finished responding to all questions and concerns we will close the public hearing and the Commissioners will have the opportunity to discuss and, hopefully, be able to make final decisions or recommend -- recommendations to City Council as needed. ACTION ITEMS 2. Public Hearing for Kingstown Subdivision H-2022-0045 by Kimley Horn, located at 2620 E. Jasmine St. A. Request: Annexation of 8.20 acres of land with an R-8 zoning district. B. Request: Preliminary Plat consisting of 21 building lots and 4 common lots on 8.20 acres of land in the R-8 zoning district. Seal: Okay. At this time I would like to open the public hearing item for Kingstown Subdivision, File No. H- 2022-0045, for continuance. Can I get -- and that one we need to continue it for -- to September 1 st. Wheeler: So moved. Lorcher: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded to continue File No. H-2022-0045 to the date of 9/1/2022. All those in favor? No nays, so motion passes. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. 3. Public Hearing for PZ Creek View Park H-2022-0022 by HLE Engineering, located at 942 S. Wells St. and 2920 E. Freeway Dr. A. Request: Annexation and Zoning of approximately 10.35 acres of land from RUT to the requested C-G zoning district. B. Request: Rezone of approximately 6 acres from the L-O zoning district to the C-G zoning district. C. Conditional Use Permit for a multi-family project consisting of 28 units on approximately 2.85 acres of land within the 6-acre parcel in the existing L-O zoning districts. Seal: Now, we will open File No. H-2022-0022 for PZ Creek View Park, which needs to be continued to the date of October 6th. Wheeler: So moved. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 4 of 30 Lorcher: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded to continue File No. H-2022-0022 to the date of 10/6/2022. All those in favor say aye. No opposed. Motion carries. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. 4. Public Hearing continued from July 21, 2022 for Slatestone Subdivision (H-2022-0039) by T-O Engineers, located at 2707 S Stoddard Rd. A. Request: Annexation and Zoning of 5.04 acres of land with a request for the R-8 zoning district. B. Request: Preliminary Plat consisting of 15 single-family building lots and 4 common lots on 4.85 acres in the requested R-8 zoning district Seal: Okay. We will open File H-2022-0039, Slatestone Subdivision, which needs to be continued to the date of 9/15. Wheeler: So moved. Lorcher: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded to continue File No. H-2022-0039 to the date of 9/15/2022. All those in favor say aye. No opposed, so motion carries. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. 5. Public Hearing for Chipotle Drive-Through (H-2022-0055) by Matthew Bush, WP5 Meridian II, LLC., located at 3004 N. Eagle Rd., near the southeast corner of Eagle and Ustick Rds. A. Request: Conditional Use Permit for a new approximate 2,325 square foot Chipotle restaurant with a drive-through to replace an existing and vacant restaurant located within 300 feet of an existing drive-through. Seal: We will open File No. H-2022-0055, Chipotle Drive-Through, which needs to be continued to the date of 9/1. Wheeler: So moved. Lorcher: Second. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 5 of 30 Seal: It's been moved and seconded to continue File H-2022-0055 to the date of 9/1/2022. All those in favor? No opposed. Motion carries. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. 6. Public Hearing for Existing Conditions Report 2022 CPAT (H-2022- 0049) by City of Meridian. A. Request: Comprehensive Plan Amendment to amend the 2019 Comprehensive plan to adopt the Existing Conditions Report 2022, as an addendum to the Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan). The Existing Conditions Report addresses some requirements for a Comp Plan under the Local Land Use Planning Act, Title 67, Chapter 65, Idaho Code. The Report includes descriptions, maps and analysis for a variety of demographic indicators, services and land coverage information. The purpose of the Report is to serve as a community resource and to document and set a baseline for existing conditions that Ideally help to inform future decisions. Seal: Good job. Okay. All right. Now, we will open File No. H-2022-0049 for the Existing Conditions Report 2022 CPAT and the floor is yours. McClure: Thank you, Commission. I'm here tonight to discuss with you the Existing Conditions Report 2022. 1 have a couple of procedural slides for you and some quick information highlights. I did give you all a handout. The PowerPoint also has the same graphics though. So, the Existing Conditions Report or ECR is one part of two that makes up the Comprehensive Plan. The ECR is an addendum and required to address all 17 of the state required elements in the Comprehensive Plan. The ECR touches on 15 of the 17 elements. The policy element is contained in the Comprehensive Plan, as are discussions of property rights. The ECR is referenced throughout the 2019 Comprehensive Plan mostly generically, i.e., without dates, since city updates it every few years. Briefly here is the timeline. The 2017 Existing Conditions Report was adopted on February 20th, 2018. Most of the data here was 2016 and older. In December of 2019 the new Comprehensive Plan was adopted and tonight I'm here with a -- with you for replacement of the 2017 ECR with the 2022 version. This is the last of the procedural slides. The Comprehensive Plan text amendment is technically just two minor changes striking out and replacing the 2017 with 2022 in two sections. There is actually 20 references to the existing conditions report in the Comprehensive Plan, but most are generic without a year or enforcing date specific context that should remain. The first page, page C, which is a list of plans and studies by reference, has one of these changes and the second is page 1-3, which references the ECR as being important to understand trends. That's all we are changing tonight. The -- the document itself is -- is fairly substantial in size, but in terms of the actual text amendment that's it. So, what's changed and what's new in the ECR? It has updated data, reduced text, reorganized sections, more focus on change, particularly in the demographic and economic sections. The rest of this presentation is largely quick slides. Most of these you have in your handout and Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 6 of 30 all of them are from the -- from the Existing Conditions Report itself. I'm going to go through these quickly, but feel free to stop me if you have any questions. So, this slide here isn't anything new, but you can see what's changed in just the last two years. The census population for Meridian in 2020 was 117,635. Two years later the COMPASS estimate, which is our regional metropolitan planning organization, estimated that as 133,470. So, just in two years you can see that there has been quite a bit of change. The -- the gender information is on there. It's not really -- it's -- it's pretty normal. This is what population change looks like a few ways. The decade between 2010 and 2020 was our fastest growth by total population ever. Roughly 36 percent of the 2020 population arrived after the 2010 census count. As a preface here, all population groups are increasing by total population. However, some groups are changing as a percent of the whole more quickly. The zero to nine age groups have been getting increasingly smaller as a percent of the whole, while the 50 to 64 and 65 and older groups are increasing. This is reflected in other data as well, such as school attendance and employment data. This slide shows some education change. Generally Meridian is seeing slow increases towards more education. Females have the most pronounced increase from 2019 to 2014 and from 2016 to 2020, American Community Survey data, particularly in the associate's and bachelor's degrees. Some employment and labor force data is here. Total job increases in ten years are about one for every two people and family wage jobs are closer to one for every 3.6 people. You can see the chart on the right again. Another indicator of an aging population. We have fewer labor force -- Meridian residents that are employed in the 30 to 54 age group and more in the 55 and older age group. Wheeler: Mr. Chair? Seal: Go right ahead. Wheeler: Staff, can you go ahead and repeat that again, what you said about the -- repeat what you just said again from the beginning. There was something that kind ofjustjogged my mind here for a second. So, a thought. McClure: So, total job increases over a ten year period is one for every two people, approximately, and the family wage job increases are closer to one for every 3.6 people and, then, the chart on the right you can sort of see that going back to the previous slide the changing demographics. So, we have fewer labor force Meridian workers in the age group from 30 to 54 and more in the 55 and older. Wheeler: So, what's considered a family wage job? McClure: That's a good question. So, all of this data is from American Community Survey data and the range from a few years ago was -- this is -- so, this is specific to American Community Survey and it's a national sort of trend, but it's -- I believe it's 1,333 -- actually -- you know what, I don't want to misspeak. Let me see if I can find that real quick for you. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 7 of 30 Wheeler: Sorry about the extra leg work here, but I was just kind of curious what they would classify as a family wage job. McClure: So, that's -- I'm glad I corrected myself. So, that's 3,333 per month. Wheeler: Okay. Thank you. McClure: On the left here you can see the highest job sector employment increases. Those jobs in Meridian in the last ten years. So, these aren't where on -- the left isn't where Meridian residents work, it's the jobs in Meridian. The right shows the largest labor force sectors, so those jobs that Meridian residents work, but not necessarily in Meridian. The next two slides aren't in the handout, but they are from the ECR. It's just -- they are kind of fun. This map is just -- it shows broad patterns. What you are seeing is origin destination of employment in Meridian based on larger census tracks. So, these are the jobs in Meridian and where -- where workers travel from to get there. The wider the line the more workers are traveling from the same census track origin to the same census track as designation -- or destination. So, you can see where people are coming from and where into Meridian they are going to, by large census tracks. In sharp contrast, what you are seeing here is origin destination for residents in Meridian to theirjobs, which aren't necessarily in Meridian. The Meridian workforce -- that's the Meridian workforce. Again, just broad patterns, not unexpected, but the largest outfall of the north Meridian workforce, for example, is to downtown Boise. Comparatively, a few south Meridian workers make that trek to downtown, instead, staying in Meridian or heading to the airport and Micron areas in the larger flows. I will note the graphics in the east have some considerable notes on there. No big changes in family or household sizes. Household sizes have increased -- have decreased by .04 and family size has increased by .05. A household can be a single person, roommates, basically anything, including a family and a family are just those by marriage, blood, adoption. Housing is a reflection of permitting activity. In the last ten years the city has permitted more than 20,000 new housing units. In the same period 33 percent of those were multi-family and, then, it shifted, the overall ratio of single family and multi-family homes by ten percent. The relationship is now 82 percent single family and 18 percent multi-family. Here is looking at housing expenditures. Thirty percent is a sort of average for maximum percent of income that a household should spend in housing. That varies by research group or even HUD. HUD used to recommend a flat 30 percent, but other groups have found the metrics lower or rise based off of debt and other factors, such as transportation costs. Nonetheless, as an average 43 percent of renters are spending 30 percent or more of their income on housing. For homeowners that is 22 percent. Seal: That's very interesting. McClure: In a ten year period the overall poverty rate has dropped ten percent. There is no comparable data that includes more recent housing changes and inflation, so we will have to see where that goes. However, the nice thing about a lot of this ACS based data is that it's a five year rolling average and so when you are comparing five year groups to five year groups you don't see a lot of the spikes. It's more of a true trend over time. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 8 of 30 Basically here you can see that as you get more education you are less likely to fall into poverty. That concludes staff's presentation. There is, obviously, a lot more in the Existing Conditions Report I'm happy to discuss if desired. Staff request is to approve as to -- as for Planning and Zoning Commission to recommend approval of this to the City Council. I'm, otherwise, happy to stand for questions or have that conversation. Seal: All right. Thanks very much. Does anybody have any questions? Commissioner Grace, go right ahead. Grace: Sorry, Mr. Chairman. Just a -- not substantively. That was great. Thank you. But I'm just -- is the Existing Conditions Report -- I'm thinking is probably required. It's -- it looks like an addendum to the Comprehensive Plan and that's required in the statute you quote -- you cited. I'm just trying to appreciate our authority. You are asking for us to approve it and it's -- and I'm just making sure I understand in my mind what --what our authority is. McClure: Commissioner Seal, Commissioner Grace -- so, yes, the existing conditions report is -- the request tonight is a Comprehensive Plan text amendment. So, you are modifying the Comprehensive Plan, which falls under -- under your purview. The -- the -- the addendum also isn't -- so, not all -- you might modify the Comprehensive Plan to adopt this, to essentially replace the old version of it, but this report itself addresses a number of the elements required under state law, which otherwise aren't addressed in the normal sort of four facing Comprehensive Plan that we usually deal with at public hearings. So, this is -- this is something that you have to act on to be approved and it's also important for us in our decision making to be consistent with state code. Grace: Okay. Thank you. I just wanted clarification. I just wasn't sure what -- what our scope was there. So, I appreciate that. Thanks. Seal: Good question. Wheeler: Mr. Chair? Seal: Go ahead. Wheeler: Staff, I got another question here. I'm looking at the labor force and unemployment -- ten year unemployment trend that you showed where it had the percentages there, with the average. Had a low high and an average. Yes. Right there in the gray box. If I'm reading that right, does that mean that in an eight month time period we dropped unemployment by 9.1 percent? McClure: No. I -- Commissioner, I apologize. That's a typo. Wheeler: Okay. McClure: The actual chart in the -- let me find it. Page -- Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 9 of 30 Wheeler: I mean that would be awesome, but that's -- that's screaming. McClure: So, figure 2A-E on page 228, that's from January 2012 to January 2022. Wheeler: For which one? McClure: For the gray box that's on page 228. Wheeler: Okay. What were those dates again one more time, please? McClure: January 2012 to January 2022. So, two typos there. Wheeler: Okay. Thank you. McClure: Thank you for pointing that out. Lorcher: Mr. Chair? Seal: Go right ahead. Lorcher: Are you ready for a motion? Seal: We have to have public hearing first. Lorcher: Oh, public hearing. Seal: If there is no -- if there is no further questions we can open it to public hearing. Is there anybody signed up to testify? Hall: Mr. Chair, there is not anybody signed up online or in-house. Seal: All right. Anybody in Chambers that would like to come up and testify? Seeing none -- do we close the public hearing? Nobody's here to testify, so we will go ahead and I will -- I will take a motion to close the public hearing on File No. H-2022-0049. Grace: So moved, Mr. Chairman. Wheeler: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded to close the public hearing for file No. H-2022-0049. All those in favor say aye. No opposed. Motion carries. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. Seal: Anymore discussion or a motion? Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 10 of 30 Lorcher: Mr. Chair? Seal: Go ahead, Commissioner Lorcher. Lorcher: I motion to -- after considering all staff and -- and staff presentation I move to recommend approval to City Council File No. H-2022-0049 as presented in the staff report for the hearing date of August 18th, 2022, with no modifications. Grace: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded to approve File No. H-2022-0049 with no modifications. All those in favor say aye. No opposed. Motion carries. Thank you very much. MOTION CARIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. 7. Public Hearing for UDC Text Amendment ZOA-2022-0001 by City of Meridian Planning Division. A. Request: UDC Text Amendment for a text amendment to amend certain sections and add new code sections to the City's Unified Development Code pertaining to the regulations through Chapters 1- 5. Seal: All right. Okay. Now, we will go ahead and open up File H-2022-0001 for the UDC Text Amendment and the floor is all yours. Hood: Thank you, Mr. Chair, Members of the Commission. Caleb Hood, Planning division manager. I will be presenting the 2022 UDC Text Amendment application on behalf not only of city staff, but of a UDC focus group that met -- had a series of meetings over the last several months. Don't ask me exactly how long we have been meeting. Probably six to nine months I would say to put this round of proposed UDC text amendments together and get them before you. Bill Parsons usually presents that and he does spearhead that group, too, and facilitate those meetings. He is unavailable tonight, so I am -- I will cover and I have been part of that group and the meeting, so I'm pretty comfortable with what I will be proposing and presenting to you this evening. I'm not going to run through all the changes that are entailed. This application I will scroll through them. You have them in your packet. There are a few I want to highlight. A handful that I want to highlight, but, please, feel free to stop me as we are scrolling or you have reviewed and you already want to talk about something or get some explanation on, an interpretation, why the change, whatever the case may be. So, I think I will just jump in, then, and, again, kind of run through the highlights if you will of the proposed changes to our code. So, the first one I want to highlight is actually on page one. It's in the definition section. So, we have had a couple three projects over the last year or so where the projects were kind of skirting the definition of either a home occupation or a live-work unit or even vertically integrated project. So, what we have done by adding this definition Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 11 of 30 is make it pretty clear the conditions that must exist to be in this case a live-work residential project and you will actually see live-work show up a couple of other times, like we are adding it to the schedule of use control. There is some other parts of our code as well. I believe like the alternative compliance section and some parking standards and those types of things that also address this new definition and use that we are adding, again, to differentiate between the different types of integrated -- so, commercial and residential uses in one structure. So, that's one I wanted to -- to call to your attention to that. And we are also amending the -- the existing definition for vertically integrated residential project to just kind of clarify that. Again, this is not -- not an accessory use at a home occupation and -- and it's not that live-work definition that I just pointed out to you. I'm going to scroll to the next page. Sidewalks and parkways. I want to just talk about that a little bit. Ada County Highway District is in the process of -- both with their capital projects, but also through their development review and in their policy manual, getting away from bike lanes. So, the bike lanes that you will see below the curb on a lot of arterial streets today, generally five to six feet wide, striped on the travel lanes, basically, again, in the street, basically, and, then, the curb, gutter, and the sidewalk usually is up a little bit higher, they are getting away from that cross-section in the street and, instead, what they are going to do is a ten foot wide -- typically ten foot wide multi-use pathway. So, that will be shared by cyclists and pedestrians, skateboarders, anyone else that nonmotorized travel will be using that, instead of being on the asphalt it will be a concrete. So, what we have done here -- and, actually, in another section or two noted there is talk about, you know, can be sidewalks or multi-use pathways when applicable, depending on if it's a local street, a collector street, an arterial street. But for the most part on your major roadways or arterial roadways and collector roadways you will start to see these multi-use pathways, instead of the bike lanes. Seal: Quick question on that. Hood: Uh-huh. Seal: On the motorized use, does that include electric? Hood: I was hoping you weren't going to ask me that, Mr. Chair. I am not sure. That -- that's going to be an ACHD policy manual. I know the Greenbelt in Boise has some allowance for that. I'm not sure on ACHD sidewalks and, again, this -- these aren't sidewalks, but they serve a similar purpose. I have got to look into that and get back to you, because I'm -- I'm not a hundred percent certain how -- today how that reads and there may be -- that's changing in our society and in our -- in our county -- Seal: Yeah. Hood: -- and they may be amending that. So, I -- I'm not -- Seal: That's why I ask, because I have -- there is actually a person that rides an electric motorcycle on the sidewalk down Locust Grove every day, so -- and it's electric, so, you know, they take that as it's nonmotorized, even though it's an electric motor. So, there is Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 12 of 30 -- you know. But, obviously, an electric scooter is going to leave a smaller footprint than that, so -- and I think we are probably rambling down the road where they are going to have to kind of decipher what an electric vehicle is versus, you know, something else. Hood: What -- what I can let you know, Mr. Chair, Members of the Commission, in city -- city code we do actually address that and it's -- it's kind of tiered. So, on your local streets 20 -- I believe the cutoff is 25 miles an hour or less. You can ride them in the street, basically, and, then, it's on higher speed facilities where there isn't a bike lane or other facilities you are encouraged to ride up on the sidewalk. But, again, I don't know if that's a countywide ACHD allowance or not and we haven't had a contract with any -- we call them shared vehicles -- provider for a while, whether it be bicycles or scooters or any other mode -- hybrid mode for that matter. But in city code we do address that and, again, it's -- it's tiered, so -- on -- on local streets it's -- that's okay and on the arterials it's not, so -- Seal: Okay. And I did have one question on the live-work. We have had a few applications come through where they are trying to integrate the live-work on the same floor and basically have doors that come through, where -- and the concern has always been if they are going to do that, you know, essentially, that sets it up to where that can become a bedroom or a playroom or something along those lines and it's -- not that that's their intention, but, obviously, that's something that could happen where you have a -- you know, row of live-work that all of a sudden just becomes rentals. Hood: Uh-huh. Yeah. Mr. Chairman, there wasn't really a question in there. But again -- Seal: Yeah. I mean is -- is there going to be further discussion about that or maybe something to help guide us in that, because it seems like it's outside of our purview to try to enforce something like that, but at the same time it -- it is a -- you know, it's a -- it's a question that needs to be asked. Hood: Yeah. So, a couple of different things, certainly related in the same vein as -- as your question there. So, we are hoping that this provides you better guidance to know what we are approving initially. Seal: Yeah. Hood: The enforcement of that over time gets a little bit trickier. This code still applies, but we are not regularly doing inspections to see if it has been converted to a bedroom. If we get turned onto that, there is a code enforcement complaint, something like that, we can investigate it, but that gets a little bit trickier, again, as time goes on to -- again, we don't have a regular role to go and inspect these structures to make sure they are used that way. But, that being said, we have worked with our building codes and officials and fire marshals are in the loop and so there is some of that oversight. So, it's not like bait and switch and you can present something and, then, day one you are using it -- either for all residential or all commercial. There is some oversight in that, but there is probably Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 13 of 30 still some gray or some holes, but I think with -- with these cleanups we are on a better path to seeing a true mix of uses on those projects where they are proposed and required. Seal: Okay. Thank you. Wheeler: Mr. Chair? Seal: Go right ahead. Wheeler: Staff, I have a question, too, concerning this ten foot wide bike way, that multi- use pathway. Is this going to be something that will still operate like a shoulder or will it be something that will be an elevated place or it will be something that will be curbed off? Is it something that will be distance between like a roadway and, then, you will have some green space or something -- or can you explain just a little bit more about that? Hood: Sure. Yeah. Mr. Chair, Commissioner Wheeler, so that's kind of a case by case, depending on how much right of way is there and any power poles, fire hydrants, trees, other things that may be in the way. But as -- for the most part the cross-section will be your travel lanes for the roadway and, then, a 12 inch gutter and, then, a curb and, then, when possible it will even be detached or striped. Sometimes they will use the stamped concrete that's colored that's kind of to detach it from the curb if you will. We are really pushing for even there to be a minimum of four foot, six and eight is great of a detached -- it doesn't have to be sod or turf, but some landscape material in there and, then, this ten foot wide multi-use pathway. Again, sometimes that will, just because it gets constrained, have to come back and pull back towards the curb and even be attached. It may even get, you know, in certain circumstances have to go down to like eight -- seven or eight feet in some circumstances. But for the most part that's the ideal cross-section. Detached from the curb, ten feet wide, up above the center line and the travel lanes. Wheeler: Okay. One of the other things I did just want to speak on --just two things here just real quickly just for input purposes. One is when it comes down to the electric bicycles -- electric vehicles on that side, that, Chairman, you -- you have talked about that. I know that -- I think it's the Department of Interior passed something back in 2019 that stated that anything that was under 750 watts, which is about one horsepower, would be considered a nonmotorized vehicle for their access into their departments of lands and the BLM land and it sounds like there might be something similar to the way that our code lines up a little bit maybe would have some influence on that, so that might give some sort of guidance as you guys kind of tighten up a little bit about what might be seen. They also had like a limit on how fast that those vehicles can go and it was somewhere right around that 20 -- I want to say it was 25 miles or less or 20 miles and less, where there was actually a speed limit on that side of it. If it went faster than that or if it was on 1 ,000 watt, which would make it one and a quarter horsepower, even though it was electrical -- electric vehicle, it was considered motorized and was not allowed and those kind of things. So, just something as a reference for -- in the future. The other thing is that I -- I just want to encourage to have some sort of striping or marking, because this is going to be off the normal path from -- from a roadway and if someone is to fall down or if someone is to get Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 14 of 30 injured or whatever the case is, to have some sort of a marker to say, hey, instead of say by mile post such and such, maybe to say that, hey, I'm at, you know, this marker point off of Eagle Road or this marker point off the Ridenbaugh Canal or whatever that case is and that way for EMT services or for whatever that can be just called in on something like that. I think that might be something to do for just safety purposes. I know everybody's got a phone and they can share their locations and things of that nature, but sometimes in the frantic of it all to be able to just point and say, hey, you are at 6.3 or whatever the case is and whatever that might look like, whether it be a stripe on the road or on the pathway or whether it be a small little post, every -- however -- however often. That's just something to consider. Just something to consider. Hood: So, Mr. Chairman, if I may. I appreciate those comments. I will share those with ACHD. Again, these are under the jurisdiction of ACHD, but I think those are both good comments and points and I will -- I will look into that and reply to the rest of the Commission on what currently the policy talks about with that. Just so you know, I mean it is still relatively new at ACHD. Wheeler: Yeah. Hood: They are still trying to figure out do they stripe even a center line down the middle of this to -- you know, drive on the right, you know, you can pass on the left, but, you know, basically, the right hand -- stay to the right. Two way traffic. One way traffic. How does that work? Crossings of roadways because this is so wide how do you -- are you bringing them behind the first car? So, there is a lot going on here that they are trying to figure out and standardize. So, I will share those -- those comments, look into that and, then, follow up again with an e-mail to the Commission on -- on some of your answers. Some of it may not be an answer just yet, but something for them to consider. Wheeler: Thank you. Seal: Caleb, does the -- I mean are most of these amendments applying to that ten way path as it relates to ACHD in the roadways and not really kind of the ditches and canals and things like that or is it -- Hood: Correct. Yeah. So, I think we do have a -- is it right here? I mean if you look at the --the --the 11.3A5 part, the multi-use pathway constructed in accord with Ada County Highway District. So, most of this is the intent. It doesn't change our multi-use pathway and the pathway network system and our cross section for those. Seal: Uh-huh. Hood: So, maybe even some of the comments that Commissioner Wheeler had I can share with our Parks Department for those off-street multi-use pathway segments, too, because a lot of times Locust Grove -- okay, I know where Locust Grove -- but if I'm on the Bud Porter and I'm in between Meridian and Linder, having a mile marker or something, some identifiable, yeah, mile marker or some post or something that you can Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 15 of 30 talk to EMS about where you are at. I think those are good comments for both cases. But, again, Mr. Chair, primarily to accommodate ACHD's change to -- towards multi-use pathways in lieu of bike lanes and doing a combined sidewalk and bike lane. Seal: Okay. Wheeler: Mr. Chair? Seal: Go ahead. Wheeler: One other quick thing. Staff, I would -- I would encourage that those markers actually not be mile, but they would be closer than that, because of pedestrian access and stuff. That would be my only suggestion on that. Hood: Okay. I'm going to keep scrolling a little bit. But, again, if you see anything you want clarification on or to talk about -- next one I had down to talk about is one that comes up I think with about every multi-family project and that's parking. So, first, I will just start by saying we aren't proposing any changes to the guest space requirement. So, it would still be one per ten. That seems to be working pretty well, although it's still a relatively new standard in and of itself. So, we haven't seen a whole bunch of projects come online yet that have built out with that requirement. So, this was a pretty big topic of a conversation and, in fact, I have got a -- kind of option two for you to consider. What we ended up landing on -- and I don't think there is anybody opposed to this on that focus group, but there was some conversation -- is this the best answer? It's a -- it's a good answer, but there may be a couple of dissenting opinions if you want to say that, that thinks that option two is better and I will get to that here in just a second. This -- it's actually pretty easy that -- this change that we came up with, it is just, essentially, taking the three bedroom units where we are required two car parks and said if you have three bedrooms you need three car parks per -- for multi-family. We added this note as well that clarifies that any amenity within that multi-family project is not subject to those -- those -- the parking requirements, basically. We have had some inconsistencies on the square footage of a fitness center needing to provide parking stalls with the one per 500 square feet, basically, so some of these that have them integrated. Just clarifying that. They can certainly provide them and a lot of them do, but it's not a requirement of code. The option B for that -- I think I have it pulled up here. Yeah. Pretty simple. So, what this does it just says two per. So, on average you get someone bedrooms, you get some three bedrooms, there is a lot of two bedrooms, two per easy match. How many units do you have? Forty. Okay. Eighty parking stalls. I can do that math pretty quick. How many are one better? How many are three bedroom? Okay. And so that's -- that was the other thing and if memory serves I think some of this -- I think the city of Boise -- don't quote me on that, but that's what I'm recalling from some of the UDC focus group discussion, this is where they are going with some of that. Irregardless, studio to four plus bedrooms two per. And, again, on average that seems to work out okay. So, this was not the majority vote or recommendation, but it was one that had some momentum and no one was totally opposed to it either. Again, primarily for -- why I mentioned. This is pretty easy to calculate. So, something to consider and I'm kind of on the fence myself. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 16 of 30 Like I kind of like that and I kind of tend to agree and almost everything is usually in the one to two -- yeah, you get some three bedrooms, but that's probably going to be okay. You know, on average about the same number and it's really easy to do the math, so -- and that would be the same, then, for the vertically integrated projects, too. We are looking at bumping those up. Right now it is -- once Meridian really has an urban core or some of these areas that have additional transportation options and things like that, I think we could probably go back to something -- excuse me -- that -- that -- like what's currently on the books, which is just one per dwelling unit, irregardless of how many bedrooms, but they are more -- excuse me -- most of the families of the units are occupied by multiple cars and so when you have two or more bedrooms they are, essentially, a multi-family project, not a vertically integrated project I guess is another way to say it. So, that is something we are proposing is to step up the amount of parking stalls required for vertically integrated as well. Seal: Quick question on the one just above that for the parking standards, the parking stall sizes. Hood: Uh-huh. Seal: Does that also apply to Old Town and -- I mean, essentially, everywhere? Hood: So, no -- and, Mr. Chair, if I can just clarify the one above it. I just closed the screen or minimize -- Seal: Oh. Sorry. Hood: Does this one work? You want me to go back to the other one? Seal: Just the 11-3C-5A6. Hood: 3C -- Seal: Yep. Right above where we are talking about here. Just says the design for standard vehicles. Hood: So, this one actually was at the request of our City Council and if you read it it's not actually a requirement. It just says that they should be designed per standards and/ or oversize vehicles. So, the -- the intent here is to get the design professional to think about that. Are we likely to have a landscaper with a dually, you know, here? Should we accommodate and designate some of these stalls for -- stalls for that? So, we as staff are not recommending that we require that and that say one every -- out of every 20 needs to be for an oversized Idaho truck, but it is something where, again, we want the design professionals to think about it. Hey, you know what, yeah, we probably shouldn't design everything for a compact type vehicle, because this is Idaho and people do like their trucks. So -- so that -- that -- that would apply everywhere, but it's not a standard. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 17 of 30 Seal: Okay. After dropping my son off at the downtown Y for a week for a camp, appreciate this new thing, so -- because all the stalls down there -- and my wife has a compact SUV that I drove down there. It was horrible. They could not get out of the doors. Lorcher: Mr. Chair? Seal: Commissioner Lorcher, go ahead. Lorcher: So, with these standards that you are suggesting here for the standard vehicles and the multi-family housing developments, so this goes to City Council for recommendation, then, it's adopted; correct? Hood: Uh-huh. Lorcher: So, does it go effective immediately, any application that comes in they start following these standards of -- you are suggesting two spaces per unit regardless of the size. Hood: So, a couple of things just to clarify, Mr. Chair, Commissioner Lorcher. So, these would go into effect after -- so, yes, the Council will act on them. The ordinance will be updated and there will be an effective date. Anything submitted to us prior to that effective date is -- legal is going to glare at me -- grandfathered in. So, they are under -- someone submits a -- a code amendment, even the day verbally Council approves this, they still go through our process under the old code, if you will. Lorcher: Right. Hood: Anything we accept after the effective date of this, then, has to follow these standards. So, you will see some projects probably for the next three or four months that are going to be -- you are using the old code or our current code. Did I catch all of your questions? I know there were a couple three in there. Lorcher: No. You got it. Hood: Okay. Seal: Commissioner Grace, do you have some? Grace: Yeah. Mr. Chairman, thank you. So, you described what we are looking at and, then, you described an Option B and I just want to make sure I understand it in my own mind. So, what I'm looking at is the -- the second column would be the size of the unit and the third column is what you are suggesting you have for parking spaces there. The obvious question in my mind is what does 1.5 mean, but it -- it -- when you -- is that a one bedroom? Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 18 of 30 Hood: Correct. Yeah. Okay. I'm sorry. Mr. Chairman, Commissioner Grace, I didn't put the heading on this, so you are right, this is number of bedrooms. So, studio, one bedroom --this -- under our old code, current code, two and three bedrooms were lumped here. What we are doing is taking the three bedrooms and we are lumping it with three and four bedrooms and more to say, you know what, at three bedrooms you really need three car parks. Back to your other question -- and I thank you for bringing that up, because I think Commissioner Lorcher mentioned the two car parks per. That's Option B. That is not the proposed -- that's not Option A, that's Option B. If you want to make it Option A to the Council, that is certainly within your purview, but what the UDC focus group recommended is what you see on the screen. So, 1.5 is an average. You don't usually have just one one bedroom, you are going to have two, three, four and, then, we round up. So, if you had an odd number we would round up to the next highest. Grace: And, then, is it fair to say that -- I'm calling it Option A, but the one that I'm looking at provides a little more parking than Option B? Hood: You know, I -- Grace: Because you said the numbers were pretty close. Hood: Yeah. I -- I think it's going to average out over time. The exercise I did not do is go to count how many multi-family units had one, two and three and, then, say, okay, if we would use the old two per what would we have ended up with the car parking requirement? I did not do that. Just anecdotally I'm saying it's going to be real close, because 90 some percent of your apartment buildings are probably one and two bedrooms. You get some studios and you get some threes, but most of them are right in there where we would require two car parks anyways and you have some on the high side and some on the low side. So, overall, it kind of just averages out to around two. But, again, I did not go through the exercise to say if we had a requirement of two would we have gotten more parking or less parking? Grace: Yeah. Hood: Because I don't know how many bedrooms are in all the apartments in Meridian. Grace: Just to follow up. And I was going to ask you at the end, Caleb, but since you kind of brought it up, who -- who makes up -- who made up that focus group? Hood: Good question. It's made-up of architects, engineers, developers, we have one member of the citizen group, if you will, that -- that asked to be part of that as well. But they really are professionals that work in our code and kind of know the code and what works. Staff. We have members of our legal team. Police is here this evening, they sit on that. Fire. So, it's -- I can read you the names if you would like. Grace: No. No. I just wanted to get a kind of a -- a gauge of who was on it and it sounds like, you know, what I thought, what I presumed was that some deference needs to go to Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 19 of 30 their deliberations and their expertise. So, it sounds like they wrung their hands on this one. I just wanted to give it the same attention. That's all. Hood: And, again, this one parking in particular got quite a bit of time on our -- on our docket. We spent quite a bit of time talking about this. Grace: Thank you for that. Hood: Uh-huh. All right. I'm going to move on then. This one,just to call to your attention, I think -- you don't get too many of these, but we are seeing more and more requests for private streets in the R-2, R-4 and R-8 district, which they are currently prohibited in, just because we do have street frontage requirement per lot on public street frontage. So, we are opening that up to allowing public -- or private streets, excuse me, in the R-2, R-4, R- 8 district. I want to say, though, the purpose statement is not changing. We are not really trying to encourage many more private streets, because over time they can be a burden on those homeowners when it comes to maintenance of those things, but we are open to it. So, the door is opened a little bit more of a crack in the door, if you will, but as staff we really want to see for connectivity reasons and long-term maintenance reasons we still generally are pushing for public streets. But private gated communities in an R-2 and R- 4 are appropriate from time to time. So, this does allow that to -- to occur. The next one I wanted to just quickly let you know -- again, just a change kind of in our society. We are adding to the table of potential amenities when you have to provide open space and amenities in subdivisions, charging stations for electric vehicles, installed with a business center, clubhouse, or fitness facility. So, this wouldn't be a standalone one in this case, it would -- this would be, you know, the parking for the clubhouse, you have a couple of charging stations for EVs. So, that would be a couple of points, so -- back to parking again. So, drinking establishments. We -- we did -- probably three or four years ago we amended our code. Our general requirement for car parks for -- for commercial enterprises, one per 500 square feet. Restaurants and industrial buildings and our downtown all currently have different standards. We are -- we believe that drinking establishments function more like a restaurant and parking usually can't -- it can be a concern. So, one per 500 square feet hasn't worked at some of our bars and so it sounds kind of weird to require more car parking for people that are going to the bar, but we have had problems where initially a retail business goes in and, then, a drinking establishment takes over that space and there is not enough parking, because it was meant for the yarn shop and now it's a restaurant bar and there is four times the traffic and it's spilling out into the adjacent neighborhood. So, when a drinking establishment goes in we are going to apply that one per 250 square feet. So, doubling the car park requirement for drinking establishments. Almost done. There is the -- the secondary dwelling. Again, this -- this one is something that's gotten some press recently over the past year with the housing prices and inflation and all those other things. We are really trying to encourage and allow maybe more accessory dwelling units. Otherwise, known as, you know, Granny Flats or Mother-In-Law's Quarters, those types of things on your property. So, we have added some -- kind of loosened some of the restrictions on an ADU or our accessory dwelling unit standards. So, where they can be placed on the lot. We are allowing up -- to have two bedrooms. So, maybe they can -- and a little bit larger, if people want to make them Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 20 of 30 a little bit bigger and nicer that isn't a minimum, it's -- it's a maximum. So, just a couple of changes that we think may -- may allow a few more to be constructed in Meridian, where some have said, yeah, that's -- it's not worth the effort. If it would only be 700 square feet and one bedroom I'm not interested. Probably -- I will just disclose. There may be more to come on this as well. So, as we talk more about accessory dwelling units and what we can do about attainable housing in our code, there may be more coming. We are kind of also keeping an eye on what other cities are doing in our area and even across the nation. Seal: I was going to -- going to say that the manufacturer of mobile homes where tiny homes kind of fit into that, so -- and they are becoming wildly popular, so -- Hood: Yes. Seal: -- wonder how that's going to fit into the community or -- Hood: Yes. Mobile homes, tiny homes, RVs, defining them and trying to figure out what -- yeah, how that all works. So, like I said, probably more to come on not just accessory dwelling units, but what we do with structures, mobile structures, those types of things in -- in the near future probably. Wheeler: Mr. Chair? Seal: Yes, go ahead. Wheeler: Caleb, can you go back -- yeah, to that section there. I'm reading about the garage section there on that, for the under parking under E. It looks like the -- what's the -- what's the right term for it? Accessory dwelling unit? Is that what it's called? Hood: Yep. Uh-huh. Wheeler: Okay. So, there is going to be accessory dwelling unit there under E. It looks like they do not need to have -- or they are -- or they are not allowed to have a garage on that. Hood: No. We do require a parking for the ADU. That is one of the -- the concerns we get from adjacent neighbors when there isn't parking provided, because this is a standalone dwelling for a new family. It can be a family member, but this is a separate standalone dwelling and so they do need to provide required parking, yes. Wheeler: So, that means that they could -- and -- and because garages are not part of the square footage, they could have a 900 square foot unit and, then, also have a 900 square foot three car garage? Hood: There is potential. I will say there is not a whole lot of lots in Meridian where you can fit that on. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 21 of 30 Wheeler: Understood. Hood: But, yes, in theory you could do that. Wheeler: Okay. Seal: I will say it's good that there is some work to be done on this, because it's -- I think this is coming at us quickly. Lorcher: Mr. Chair? Seal: Commissioner Lorcher, go ahead. Lorcher: I guess my only comment was if mobile homes and especially -- specifically manufactured homes, it's very cost prohibitive for most families in Meridian to be able to have a second dwelling. So, you are requiring that it has a foundation and that it has -- you know, you -- you put all the plumbing in the -- and it connects the sewer and all of those things currently. Hood: Yeah. Yeah. So, Mr. Chair, Commissioner Lorcher, there is --there is a lot to this topic, so I don't know how deep you want to go. Lorcher: I mean just -- Hood: Yes. What you just said as a -- as a general synopsis is correct. To be a dwelling unit it must be on a foundation, must be connected to sewer and water. The other thing that comes into play there is most of our zoning in the city is R-2, R-4 or R-8. Single family residential, when you bring another dwelling -- even if you put it on a foundation and hook it up to sewer and water, that's two on a lot. So, it's prohibited not only by definition -- if it's on wheels it's a mobile -- it's mobile right now and -- and by definition it's a recreational vehicle. So, you either license it and register it through the state, right, as a vehicle or it's a dwelling and you go through our building department and get it certified as such. You got to be one or the other and it can't be both simultaneously. So, again, there is a lot there, but you got zoning codes and definitions and building codes and definitions that all kind of intermingle. So, yes, we are -- we are exploring that and recognize that, yes, it's not super cost efficient to require, you know, again, a foundation like you stated and hook up to sewer and water, but if you are going to be a dwelling that is what's required. Your -- your single family lot was only sized and you are only paying for electric and the garbage and for one family, not two or three or four and all that, so -- but we are -- we get it. Times change and we are -- we are -- but there is a lot that goes into that when you start to say, okay, well, it's not -- it's not a Jayco, it's a home. Well, what are the differences? What are the similarities? How is that different from my brick and mortar home that's right there. So, anyways, we will be back and be talking about that more I'm sure here in the future. Lorcher: Mr. Chair? Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 22 of 30 Seal: Go ahead. Lorcher: I'm sure most R-8s wouldn't be able to have -- like you said wouldn't have the space for it, but R-2s and possibly R-4s would. Hood: There -- there are some. Absolutely. And that's why, you know, we are opening this up -- and even for -- back to your -- your comment about like a tiny home, depending on how we -- we define that, again, even meeting a minimum five foot setback, you know, things like that, there are lots where you can do that. So, again, we are developing a list of pros and cons and how that could work and, again, just back to the parking question or comment, there is -- there is real impacts to existing neighborhoods, too. So, we -- we -- we have got to factor that in. Yes, be empathetic to some of those that, you know, want to live or need to live in something like that, but also realize that there is a neighborhood that others have bought into that weren't expecting maybe to see people living out of tiny homes and clogging up the streets with more cars, so -- it's a fun one. Moving on. I don't know that I have anything else highlighted and I will scroll through -- yeah. Again just more things on vertically integrated. Live-work. We need to talk a little bit about some of these where there is concurrent applications for CUPs and development agreement modifications and with Council and so some of those have been -- are proposed to be amended to make that process hopefully work a little bit smoother. I think that's pretty much it. The rest of these are pretty much administrative changes. So, with that, Mr. Chair, I will stand for any other questions. If you want to double back or anymore comments you have on -- Seal: Just real quick. I did the pathway stuff here recently and there was just a presentation for Parks and Recs that they did on that on the --what was the organization? Hood: ULI. Seal: ULI did that. And as part of that one of the -- I can't say complaints, but one of the concerns that was brought up by folks was in planning out the pathway system, that because it is going to be so integrated with the irrigation systems, that it's almost impossible for them to put any kind of shrubbery, trees, or anything like that in with that. So, they get -- they are reluctant to do it, because they get no -- basically they are giving up some land to do it and they get nothing for it. So, essentially, it's not counted as an amenity when they --when they do that. So, is there -- you know, hopefully there is some discussion on that, because I think that the pathway system here -- to me it's -- you know, I mean I ride a bike a lot, so that -- that's one thing. But I also spend a lot of time riding my bike in areas where they have made it a priority, especially in the Eagle area, and what I have seen happen with that is not only are they protecting some of their farmland, historical lands and things like that, it's been integrated in with pathways, because the people that own that land are more than open to having, you know, pathways and things like that. They don't want cars. They don't want houses and things like that, so they have integrated that into their communities, where now not only do you have the land owners, which are oftentimes because they have large tracts of land, a minority in -- in the proceedings, now you have a different group that's out there and kind of swinging the bat Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 23 of 30 for them as -- as I would say, to kind of keep that land as it is or to develop it differently to kind of keep that, you know, more rural appeal to it. So, I -- I guess coming a long ways around to -- hopefully there is more discussions on how to kind of give more credit for pathways, especially interconnecting pathways to anybody that's willing to do them and, hopefully, eliminate some of the -- you know, the -- the requirements to try and provide trees and -- and things like that and there was actually -- there is a section that we passed over for the riparian areas, you know, try to integrate some of that into it -- into the pathways portion of it to where anything that is natural it was there before, you know, essentially, the building started to happen, if that's left alone and the pathway is part of that, that's also a good integration into it as well. And, then, the -- there was also some stuff in here as far as the -- was it low water or not water abatement, but is that -- it was I think on page one or page two. It was -- I think it was up further than that. I can't remember what it was called off the top of my head. Yeah. Water conserving design. Is that something that's going to be given credit as far as an amenity or is thatjust something that's -- it's just in here for definition? Hood: Mr. Chair. So, there is some credit. I don't know how you want to define credit, I guess, but, yes, you -- you can count it and it is eligible. You don't get like a bonus or anything like that for doing water conserving design, but you can see some of the standards that would qualify you going from kind of a non-traditional turf design when you use these xeriscape principles. So, it's kind of in lieu. So, yeah, again, credit, you don't get an extra pat on the back or anything necessarily. We may go there where we encourage it by saying, hey, you can provide less if you do it this way. We haven't gone -- gone there just yet. So, I hope that answers your question. But this -- this is another thing that's evolving in our world these days. As water becomes more and more precious and we need to conserve it, we are moving towards highlighting these things and, hey, we do have options to do it this way and would encourage you to come up with these innovative designs that, you know, they are not as green, but they are a little more friendly. Seal: Right. Well, they are more cost effective. I mean you live in a subdivision that has acres and acres of grass to mow, where if they could put something in more to this kind of standard it would actually in the long run save money and it's -- a lot of this would be native, so it's going to grow here anyway. Instead of trying to prevent it from growing out of the ground, why don't we try to make it grow out of the ground, but -- okay. That was the only question I had. Commissioner Grace, go ahead. Grace: Yeah. Mr. Chairman, can we just return to that secondary dwelling conversation? Is that -- I'm sure it is, but is that term -- it says down below in paragraph what is not, but I'm wondering if that term is defined -- and I'm sure it is probably somewhere and if it's defined to require that secondary dwelling to be affixed to the land. Hood: Correct. Yeah. And that's what I was kind of alluding to in our -- in our definition of dwelling. So, there is -- there is more to it than this, but, essentially, it has to be on a foundation, it has to be hooked up to sewer and water. It also has to have a kitchen and it also has to have a bathroom and it has to have -- can be a studio, but living quarters. So, to be a dwelling you have to check all those boxes. You can't be -- so, like a hotel is Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 24 of 30 not a dwelling, because it doesn't -- it doesn't check some of those boxes for -- and have a garage. So, that's another thing for single -- a dwelling. You can have a multi-family dwelling that has a carport. There is still parking associated with it. So, yes, there is multiple definitions you look at and go, okay, are you a dwelling? Are you, again, a mobile unit? Are you a recreational vehicle? And so on and so forth. So, I don't know if that -- Grace: Yeah. It does. Hood: There is more to it than this. Grace: You did -- you did say it had to be on a foundation. So, my apologies. But I just know there is different types of -- there is modulars and there is -- they are making living units out of containers now and so our -- our requirement is that it has to be on a foundation. Hood: Correct. And just --just to take that, again, down in a little further into the weeds, mobile homes even we define as -- I think it's -- have to be manufactured before 1972 or '3 or '4 or something like that. So, we even define it like these are the old school single wide, double wides. Those are -- again, I will use the term grandfather. Those are -- those are a separate thing. There is a new standard and I can't remember off the top of my head -- national standard for energy efficiency and all those manufactured homes that are different standards, so there is -- there is just this array of what can be -- someone could live in, but it may not be a dwelling. Grace: Right. It's June 15th, 1975, when -- Hood: '75. Okay. Grace: -- HUD started taking over regulation. Hood: Somewhere in there. Yeah. Early mid 70s. Yes. Grace: All right. Thank you. Wheeler: Mr. Chair? Seal: Commissioner Wheeler, go ahead. Wheeler: Caleb, it's me again. Hood: Hi. Wheeler: I have another question for you and I think it kind of goes up if we can go to the landscapes -- landscaping and also the parking requirements. So, Table 11-3C-6 and also kind of seeing how that kind of coincides -- or kind of comes in with -- where was that at? The landscaping buffers that were under 11-3B-7C and things like that. I will let you Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 25 of 30 know what's kind of going on in my mind and seeing if there is anything in the code that can address this specifically. Also wanted to know if this is something that we can address here with this motion of this update with the code or if it's something that just has to wait and be taken care of differently, but I will let you -- here is the scenario that's in my head. Okay? So, on these major mile streets that we have or half mile streets where we have residential subdivisions that have a direct turn off into them, there is hundreds of these around the valley, right, in Meridian. Sometimes in order to just make it a little more pleasant to come into the subdivision there is some sort of landscaping island that comes there; right? That just kind of opens it up so that way you are just not pulling into a two lane, three lane road straight away. I -- I -- sometimes those -- those houses, though, that are next to where those islands are at will also park their vehicles in that driveway coming in, which, then, narrows the access down significantly and to me I find it actually an emergency issue. I find it a big safety issue, because if there is a fire this is the main access in to get to a house that's maybe one or two, you know, quarter mile in, but they can't, because now they have a vehicle that's parked there or they have to maneuver around it or they have to figure out a way to get there or whatever the case is, right, and time is of the essence. Is there anything that's in here that says something along -- that there can be a -- a distance between these islands that are in -- like, once again, I'm getting really specific here, I understand, but I didn't if there is anything addressed like, you know, a hundred feet, what path, that's where the first parking can happen or no parking within 50 feet of this. Or I mean just -- these are the kinds of thoughts that are going through my head. Hood: So, Mr. Chair, Commissioner, yeah, good concern and question. So, there is nothing in the UDC that -- that addresses what you are describing. However, there are at least two, if not three, other sections of other code that do address that. So, the Fire Marshal will require -- so, those -- excuse me -- splitter islands, the entryway features, one side of those has to be at least 20 feet wide, so that they can declare it a travel lane and usually it's just one side. Sometimes they will make them both 20 feet wide, but if you look usually the exiting one is a little -- because I have a dedicated right turn or a left through or something like that. But the entrance one is usually a little bit narrower than -- the entrance off of the arterial into the subdivision is usually narrower. But our fire code will require that any street -- and that would even include that area between the island and the curb be at least 20 feet. It used to be that the Fire Marshal would require that to be painted red and signed no parking. It's not very pretty. So, it's still the code, but they have gotten away from the -- the -- the painting the curb and a lot of times even the -- the signage. But if there is an issue we can have -- it's still -- it's still the code, it's just not signed that you can't park here. So, if there is an issue somewhere let me know, let the Fire Marshal know, we can go out there and either put a sign -- and ACHD also, so that their state code is the one I'm not positive about. There may be something in state code, because I know there is sections of state code that talk about how close to like a stop sign you can park and things like that, so -- in an intersection. So, kind of depending on the exact situation and what violation there may be, you may be looking at three different sections of code. But it's not the UDC, just to tell you. And it's -- and just to be quite frank with you, it's not the right place to put something like that. That's more in our vehicles and motors and Title 7 or 8 that we have of city code than in the UDC, but I -- it's covered Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 26 of 30 other places. I think it's really enforcement. So, if someone is violating that and parking where they shouldn't be we can -- we have police officers and fire marshals and -- that can look into that. Wheeler: Perfect. That's what I wanted to know. That's perfect. Thank you, Caleb. Hood: Uh-huh. Seal: Anybody else? Okay. Thank you, Caleb. Appreciate the presentation. Madam Clerk, do we have anybody signed up testify? Hall: Mr. Chair, we have no one signed up online or in person. Seal: Anybody in Chambers want to come up? No? Seeing none, can I get a motion to close the public hearing for File No. H-2022-0001? Grace: Mr. Chairman, so moved. Wheeler: Second. Seal: It's been -- actually, let me go back and do this again. I know it's -- right now it's file number ZOA-2022-0001. Grace: Mr. Chair, I move to close the public testimony. Wheeler: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded to close public testimony for file No. ZOA-2022- 0001. All in favor say aye. No nays. Motion passes. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. Seal: Okay. Any further discussion or have we beat up on Caleb enough? Bring it on; right? Wheeler: Mr. Chair? Seal: Yes, sir. Go ahead. Wheeler: I'm sorry. I'm sorry I'm talking so much tonight. I don't know what happened. So, thank you, though, for listening. But the -- my only thought is on those dwellings with those standalone units, so secondary auxiliary units, is to maybe have something in there that talks about the -- do we want to add something that says something tiny homes, too, based upon kind of what you are thinking? Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 27 of 30 Seal: I -- I mean considering the price of housing -- and I have mixed feelings about all of it. I -- I do agree with what Caleb alluded to, which was -- I mean you are going to have people in subdivisions that aren't necessarily expecting something to pop up behind their house. You know, I mean if my neighbor built something like that in their backyard I would kind of question whether or not that's viable or not. That said I also have a son who is in his mid 20s that's trying to buy a house and every time he thinks he has enough saved up to buy a house, you know, the finish line moves on him, so, you know, I'm -- I'm interested to see where this goes, honestly, and --and I think we are going to see probably a lot more people that want to try to furnish their -- you know, essentially, their properties this way and not just in a -- you know, an acre or five acres, you know -- I mean there is a -- there is a row of houses down Ten Mile that are on one to five acre lots that have mother-in-law quarters, so -- almost bought one early 2000s myself. So, I think that's going to move more into the rural areas, just because of the cost of housing and I mean some of the demographics we saw earlier as far as what was the -- was the amount of people paying more than 30 percent for rent was like -- had grown by 40 percent. I mean it's -- it's a -- it's a big number. So, I just think the affordability of housing is getting -- it -- it's starting to become out of reach for a lot of people, so -- Wheeler: Understood. Seal: -- I'm -- I'm interested to see where this goes and to see what we start to allow and what the public will allow, honestly, you know, because there are good ways to do this and bad ways to do this and everybody has a different opinion about what's good and bad about it. So, I'm more interested to see where it goes than to try and put wording into it. Wheeler: Okay. One of the only things that I was thinking about was on that garage side of things, I'm -- my only caution or my only thoughts on it -- and I'm just kind of opening this up to you for--for--for Commission here to just kind of give me maybe some thoughts on it or their input on it is you could have somebody go ahead and build like a 500, 600 square foot detached, right, auxiliary secondary dwelling and, then, go ahead and build a 900 or 1,200 square foot garage on top of it and so far that would be okay and I think that's just a bit disproportionate, not what we are -- not what this is supposed to be kind of trying to help with and so my only thought is maybe to have some wording in there that says, you know, a limit or a percentage of the dwelling being allowed for a garage unit. So, in other words, somebody would say, okay, you can go up to 50 percent of the size of the dwelling up to a maximum of, you know, 800 square feet or whatever, 900 square feet, because that's a three car garage or we say, you know, a garage should only be limited, because it is a secondary up to 600 square feet, which is a two car garage size. But those are just my thoughts that initially come to me just first time through. I don't know what the rest of the Commission thinks. Grace: So, Mr. Chair, I -- to your first point, yeah, I guess that's why I asked the question about the definition of a secondary dwelling unit. It's my understanding that the tiny home is -- is -- is a -- is a structure on a foundation built of the IRC. So, it's -- it's -- it would be allowed if that was your concern. It would be allowed under that definition and so if that Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 28 of 30 -- I didn't know if you were -- that was okay with you or not, but that's -- I was okay with that. Wheeler: With it being a very large -- having like a large shop? Grace: No. No. Just to your first point about the tiny home. Wheeler: Well, the tiny -- oh, got you. Yeah. Okay. All right. Grace: And that's -- that's how I understood it. Wheeler: I'm okay with the tiny homes, too, unless staff corrects me. Hood: You left a window there or I interrupted. I don't know. And I'm not trying to correct you, but-- but I do want to clarify. So, a tiny home can be --this is where it gets confusing, even in the words we use; right? It can be a small dwelling where -- where it becomes a -- I don't want to call it a problem, but where it's not a dwelling in Meridian is when it's not on a foundation. So, I don't know if you guys are even talking about the same thing, because a lot of -- when I hear tiny home, a lot of people in their mind think mobile. It's on wheels. It's on a trailer. It's got a hitch and I can move it. So, I don't know if you are talking -- you are talking to IRC and that's what I'm saying. Now -- now we are under our building codes that's foundation, hook up to sewer and water, versus mobile. So, just -- Wheeler: I don't want it on wheels either. I like the tiny -- I just know that that's just kind ofa -- Hood: Small dwelling is different than tiny home to a lot of people. Seal: And -- and that's what I was more alluding to is I mean the -- kind of the -- the tiny home, there is a lot of people that have transitioned to this kind of tiny home and it is -- generally speaking it's -- it's a homemade trailer type of dwelling. So, yeah, not that you couldn't put something like that on a foundation and -- and, you know, plumb it, electrical, and all that stuff. It's just, you know, as we go down this path I just see that -- that becoming more available to where, you know -- it used to be that, you know, you would push baby bird out of the nest and now, you know, there is nowhere for them to go, so -- I mean they -- they can't afford to stay here anymore. So, I just see that this is probably become a wider-- something that more people consider as we go down that path. I mean I'm fortunate to where my son can afford to live in the area still, but he can't afford to buy. So, as those options become less and less then I can see people, you know, myself included being more open to something like that just as a citizen, not as a -- you know, Commissioner or anything, but that's my personal thoughts on it. Hood: Mr. Chair? Seal: Yes, sir. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 29 of 30 Hood: Not to get into the middle of your guys' deliberation too much. I have already inserted myself. But I do just want to let you know -- I mean Council is also talking about this. So, I think -- and -- and they are trying to look at it, again, comprehensively. I appreciate the sentiment in talking about that here now. I don't want to knee jerk and I'm not -- don't take that the wrong way, but there are implications to words and making changes now that just trickle down and you got to change a whole bunch of stuff. So, what I was going to say mainly is to let you know there is discussions at Council -- I think it's going to be on the Council workshop agenda coming up in the next few weeks again and what I was going to offer -- so, Council Woman Perreault, who used to be on the Planning and Zoning Commission, has kind of volunteered to take -- spearhead that effort and is looking to potentially put together a work task force, working group that is going to try to tackle this for our community. So, I'm not asking for volunteers now, but I will let her know of this conversation and that maybe one or two of you may be good to serve on that, since there is at least interest from a couple few of you and she may reach out. So, I just -- I don't want you to think that nothing's going on, although all you -- the changes you see are pretty minor at this point. We are evaluating this to see if there is longer term broader solutions to the attainable housing issues we are -- we are facing right now. Grace: And -- and given that, really, what's on -- what's before us is -- in terms of strikethrough and underline are just some of those minor things, I might heed that advice and -- and wait for the -- the people who are probably smarter than me to -- to figure that out. Wheeler: Very good. Very good. Yeah. Like I said, I just wanted discussion on it and see what you guys thought, so -- Seal: Yeah. I mean, honestly, I appreciate the fact that we are having this much discussion on this, so -- a lot of times this is very -- you know, I mean a lot of the stuff in -- in here is more just for cleanup and things like that, but where we are moving forward into a -- you know, a new era, basically, the stuff really starts to have teeth, if you will. So, I'm glad we are having a lot of conversation on it. It's a good conversation. With that -- Lorcher: Did we close the public hearing? Seal: We have closed the public hearing, so if anybody wants to make a motion I'm more than ready to listen. Lorcher: Mr. Chair? Seal: Commissioner Lorcher, go ahead. Lorcher: After considering all staff comments I move to recommend approval to the City Council of File No. ZOA-2022-0001 as presented on the hearing date of August 18th, 2022, with no modifications. Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 18,2022 Page 30 of 30 Grace: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded to approve File No. ZOA-2022-0001 . No modifications. All in favor say aye. No opposed, so motion carries. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. Seal: And with that I will take one more motion. Wheeler: Mr. Chair, I motion that we adjourn. Lorcher: Second. Seal: It's moved and seconded to -- that we adjourn. All in favor say aye. No opposed. Motion carries. Thank you all very much. MOTION CARRIED: FIVE AYES. TWO ABSENT. MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:24 P.M. (AUDIO RECORDING ON FILE OF THESE PROCEEDINGS.) APPROVED 9 1 1 12022 ANDREW SEAL - CHAIRMAN DATE APPROVED ATTEST: CHRIS JOHNSON - CITY CLERK E K IDIAN:--- iuAn Planning and Zoning Presentations and outline Changes to Agenda: st Item #2 – Kingstown Sub. AZ, PP (H-2022-0045) requires continuance due to a noticing error; Recommend September 1. Item #3 – Creek View Park AZ, RZ, CUP (H-2022-0022) requests continuance to work with staff on initial review comments; thth Recommend October 6 (September 15 could also work) Item #4 – Slatestone Sub. AZ, PP (H-2022-0039) requests a second continuance to continue working through Public Works th comments; Recommend September 15. st Item #5 – Chipotle Drive-through CUP (H-2022-0055) may be withdrawn; Recommend September 1. Item #6: Existing Conditions Report (H-2022-0049) Application(s): Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment Summary of Request: The City of Meridian Planning Division has applied for a Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment. The purpose of this amendment is to adopt by reference the 2022 Existing Conditions Report, as an addendum to the 2019 Comprehensive Plan. The Existing Conditions Report (ECR) is necessary to fully comply with section 67-6508 of Idaho Code, otherwise known as the Local Land Use Planning Act (LLUPA). The 2017 version of the ECR was adopted under the City’s previous Comprehensive Plan and would be replaced with the 2022 version. Written Testimony: None Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval. Notes: Possible Motions: Approval After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to recommend approval to the City Council of File Number H- 2022-0049, as presented in the staff report for the hearing date of August 18, 2022, with the following modifications: (Add any proposed modifications to conditions) Denial After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to recommend denial to the City Council of File Number H-2022- 0049, as presented during the hearing on August 18, 2022, for the following reasons: (You should state specific reasons for denial) Continuance I move to continue File Number H-2022-0049 to the hearing date of (insert continued hearing date here) for the following reason(s): (You should state specific reason(s) for continuance) Item #7: 2022 UDC Text Amendment (ZOA-2022-0001) Application(s): UDC Text Amendment Location: Citywide Summary of Request: The proposed text amendment provides a broad range of changes and additions to multiple code sections. The most notable changes include new definitions; multi-family and vertically integrated parking standards; new live/work standards; private street standards; and changes to the decision-making authority table in Chapter 5. Commentary associated with proposed changes are part of the table that explain the reason for the modification or addition to the code. Since parking associated with higher density projects continues to be emphasized during public hearings, staff has prepared an option B for the Commission to discuss that differs from that in the staff report. Staff recommends that the Commission include their preference in their motion to City Council. All of the proposed changes went through an extensive and collaborative review process over several months between City staff and the UDC Focus Group. In summary, City Staff believes the proposed changes will make the implementation and use of the UDC more understandable and enforceable. Written Testimony: None Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval. Notes: Possible Motions: Approval After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to recommend approval to the City Council of File Number ZOA- 2022-0001, as presented in the staff report for the hearing date of August 18, 2022, with the following modifications: (Add any proposed modifications to conditions) Denial After considering all staff, applicant and public testimony, I move to recommend denial to the City Council of File Number ZOA- 2022-0001, as presented during the hearing on August 18, 2022, for the following reasons: (You should state specific reasons for denial) Continuance I move to continue File Number ZOA-2022-0001 to the hearing date of (insert continued hearing date here) for the following reason(s): (You should state specific reason(s) for continuance) E IDIAN 'aAHO AGENDA ITEM ITEM TOPIC: Approve Minutes of the August 4, 2022 Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Meridian Planning&Zoning Commission August 4,2022 Page 38 of 38 Wheeler: Okay. So, yeah, Mr. Chair, I would be -- I would be highly supportive of Commissioner Lorcher being the vice-chair. Stoddard: I agree. Wheeler: All right. So, on that, then, I would like to make a motion that Commissioner Lorcher be -- that she be placed in as vice-chair for the Planning Zoning Commission. Stoddard: Second. Seal: Okay. We have a -- I don't know. Do we motion and -- okay. Have a motion and a second to approve Commissioner Lorcher as the vice-chair for Planning and Zoning Commission. All those in favor say aye. Any opposed? Stoddard: Do I vote for myself? Seal: Any opposed? All right. Motion carries. Welcome to the party. MOTION CARRIED: FOUR AYES. TWO ABSENT. Wheeler: I was hoping that -- I'm glad you didn't say no to that one or nay on that one. Seal: Right. Very good. Congratulations. And you will -- we will let you know everything that comes with that, too, so -- now that you have been wrangled in. With that I'm looking for one more motion. Lorcher: Mr. Chair? Seal: Commissioner Lorcher, go ahead. Lorcher: I motion we adjourn. Stoddard: Second. Seal: It's been moved and seconded that we adjourn. All in favor say aye. Any opposed? Motion carries. We are adjourned. Thanks, everyone. MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8.03 P.M. (AUDIO RECORDING ON FILE OF THESE PROCEEDINGS.) APPROVED ANDREW SEAL - CHAIRMAN 8 I'l8 12022 ATTEST: DATE APPROVED CHRIS JOHNSON - CITY CLERK w IDIAN� AGENDA ITEM ITEM TOPIC: Public Hearing for Existing Conditions Report 2022 CPAT (H-2022-0049) by City of Meridian Application Materials: https://bit.ly/H-2022-0049 A. Request: Comprehensive Plan Amendment to amend the 2019 Comprehensive plan to adopt the Existing Conditions Report 2022, as an addendum to the Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan). The Existing Conditions Report addresses some requirements for a Comp Plan under the Local Land Use Planning Act, Title 67, Chapter 65, Idaho Code. The Report includes descriptions, maps and analysis for a variety of demographic indicators, services and land coverage information. The purpose of the Report is to serve as a community resource and to document and set a baseline for existing conditions that Ideally help to inform future decisions. PUBLIC HEARING SIGN IN SHEET DATE : August 18, 2022 ITEM # ON AGENDA : 6 PROJECT NAME : Existing Conditions Report 2022 CPAT ( H - 2022 - 0049 ) Your Full Name Your Full Address Representing I wish to testify ( Please Print ) HOA ? ( mark X if yes ) If yes, please provide HOA name 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 STAFF REPORT E IDIAN -- COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT .►A H O HEARING 8/18/2022 ;55 DATE:TO: Planning&Zoning Commission �s 0 2s FROM: Brian McClure, Comprehensive Associate Planner 208-884-5533 SUBJECT: H-2022-0049 —, Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment Legend �. for the Existing Conditions Report 2022 .AOCI LOCATION: Citywide r County — ss Line Future Road I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The City of Meridian Planning Division has applied for a Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment(CPAT). The purpose of this amendment is to adopt by reference the Existing Conditions Report 2022, as an addendum to the 2019 Comprehensive Plan(the Plan). The Existing Conditions Report (ECR) is necessary to fully comply with section 67-6508 of Idaho Code, otherwise known as the Local Land Use Planning Act (LLUPA). The 2017 version of the ECR was adopted under the City's previous Comprehensive Plan and would be replaced with the 2022 version. II. PROJECT OVERVIEW The Existing Conditions Report is one part of two that make up the Comprehensive Plan. The"Main" plan,or"Volume I", is the Comprehensive Plan itself which is forward focused and includes all of the guiding policies. The ECR which is an addendum, or"Volume II", seeks to define who we are and where we've come from in order to help inform the text and policy of the Comprehensive Plan(the Plan)in future activities and decisions. As described in the Plan,the ECR is needed to address a number of State required components of the LLUPA. Of the 17 required components, only Implementation and Property Rights are not addressed in some fashion within the ECR(these two are addressed in the main Plan only). The proposed CPAT modifies two areas of the Comprehensive Plan; the List of Adopted Plans and Studies by Reference table(Page C), and the Plan Purpose and Scope section(page 1-3). Other references for the ECR are either described generically without a year, or as a citation for related context. Other references not specifically described remain relevant but are not proposed for modification. Page 1 In total there are twenty references to the Existing Conditions Report in the Plan. These occur in every chapter of the Plan,but only two in the intro are being amended to specifically reference the 2022 version.A source reference to the 2017 version of the Plan on page 1-7,Planning Successes, is not proposed to be updated since the information is context for the 2019 Comprehensive Plan process. A. Specific Changes in st-Fike thr-o,,,.h and underline format 1. Page C,Existing Conditions Report r'� 2022 2. Page 1-3,The Existing Conditions report includes background information and analysis about the built and natural environment in Meridian today(as of 2017 20221,trends, and a strategic plan for the future. Note: The above revisions will also be reflected in the online Comprehensive Plan,but there are no page numbers in the online version. III. APPLICANT INFORMATION A. Applicant: City of Meridian Planning Division, 33 E Broadway Ave, Suite 102,Meridian, Idaho 83642 B. Owner: Not applicable C. Representative: Not applicable IV. NOTICING Planning&Zoning City Council Posting Date Posting Date Notification published in newspaper 8/3/2022 Notification mailed to property owners within 300' N/A Applicant posted public hearing notice sign on site N/A Nextdoor posting 7/29/2022 V. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ANALYSIS(Comprehensive Plan) As referenced in the Plan,the LLUPA states"Prepare,implement, and review and update a comprehensive plan,hereafter referred to as the plan. The plan shall include all land within the jurisdiction of the governing board. The plan shall consider previous and existing conditions,trends, desirable goals and objectives, or desirable future situations for each planning component." Since the Plan itself is generally forward looking,the ECR is essential to address existing conditions, and also to understand trends or changes over time. It is expected that understanding who we are today, and where came from,may help to inform future decisions. Specifically,the Comprehensive Plan provides the following text in reference to the Existing Conditions Report: Page 2 The Plan is intended to work in concert with the City's ordinances and specific area plans. It is based not only on the concerns and expressions of the community, but upon the analysis in the Existing Conditions Report that is adopted concurrently as Volume II of this Plan. The Existing Conditions Report includes background information and analysis about the built and natural environment in Meridian today (as of 2017), trends, and a strategic plan for the future. Together, the Existing Conditions Report and the Comprehensive Plan together address all of the elements required in the Local Land Use Planning Act of Idaho. There are no other specific policies addressing the ECR in the Plan, only references to the ECR when it may provide additional context for other topics and decision making. VI. DECISION A. Staff: Staff finds that approval of the proposed CPAT application is in the best interest of the City and recommends the P&Z Commission recommend to Council adoption. B. Commission: Enter Summary of Commission Decision. C. City Council: Enter Summary of City Council Decision. Page 3 VII. CITY/AGENCY COMMENTS & CONDITIONS As of August 8th, there were no additional comments for the public draft either by internal City Departments, or submitted only by other agencies or the public. VIII. FINDINGS A. Required Findings from the Unified Development Code 1. The proposed amendment is consistent with the other elements of the comprehensive plan. Stafffinds the amendment maintains consistency by updating relevant information critical to the State required elements contained in Idaho Code§67-6509. 2. The proposed amendment provides an improved guide to future growth and development of the city. By maintaining and keeping the Comprehensive Plan relevant, Stafffinds that the proposed Plan provides an improved and more relevant guide to future growth and development with the City. 3. The proposed amendment is internally consistent with the goals,objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan. Stafffinds the proposed amendment is consistent with the goals of the Comprehensive Plan as the intent is to "ensure that the Plan remains relevant and represents current stakeholders, reflects market and demographic trends..." (page 1-5 of the Plan). 4. The proposed amendment is consistent with this Unified Development Code. Stafffinds the proposed amendment is consistent with the Unified Development Code, as no policies in the Comprehensive Plan are modified, and no development proposed. 5. The amendment will be compatible with existing and planned surrounding land uses. Stafffinds the proposed amendment will be compatible with existing and planned surrounding land uses as no changes are proposed to the policies within the Plan, or to the Future Land Use Map. 6. The proposed amendment will not burden existing and planned service capabilities. Stafffinds that the proposed Plan will not burden existing and planned service capabilities as no changes are proposed to the policies within the Plan, or to the Future Land Use Map. 7. 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. This finding is not applicable as no amendment is proposed to the future land use map. 8. The proposed amendment is in the best interest of the City of Meridian. Stafffinds the proposed amendment is in the best interest of the City as it provides updated existing conditions and trends to provide more accurate context which may then better inform future decisions. Page 4 E IDIAN;--- Applicant Presentation EXI TIN NDITI N REPORT Wow �4t,-- Y is 7 - y �{ •� Y ■ 33 E Broadway Ave., Ste 102 E IDIAN%--� Meridian, ID 83642 Phone: (208) 884-5533 I D A H O www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT ADDENDUM TO THE CITY OF MERIDIAN COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, BY RESOLUTION NO. 22-ABCD, ON MONTH,XY 2022 Prepared by: City of Meridian 33 E Broadway Suite Meridian,Idaho 83642 Phone 208.884.5533 E IDIANI----ft-ll 0 www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE OF CONTENTS ■ Recreation, Parks, and Pathways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19 Introduction 1-1 ■ Solid Waste. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-23 ■ Review of the Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 ■ Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-26 Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-30 ■ Comprehensive Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 . Public Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-30 ■ History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 The People 2-1 Physical and Cultural Features 5-1 ■ Natural, Special, Historic, &Agricultural Resources . . . . 5-1 ■ Population, Housing, and Economic Development. . . . . 2-1 ■ Sustainabilit y. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7 ■ Population and Demographic Characteristics . . . . . . . . . 2-2 ■ Hazardous Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8 ■ Housing Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 ■ Housing and Urban Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18 ■ Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20 Summary 6-1 Community Development 3-1 ■ Land Use, Transportation, and Community Design. . . . . 3-1 ■ Land Ownership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2 ■ Zoning & Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3 ■ Future Land Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4 ■ Area of City Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6 ■ Special Planning Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7 ■ Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 ■ Linking Transportation and Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14 ■ Transportation Choice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14 ■ Community Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18 Services Provided 4-1 ■ Public Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 ■ Municipal Government, City Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 ■ Public Works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7 ■ Public Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12 www.meridiancity.org/compplan FIGURES ■ Figure 2AA. Change in Establishments by Total . . . . . . . . .2-24 Introduction 1-1 ■ Figure 2AB. Change in Establishments by% . . . . . . . . . . . .2-24 ■ Figure 1A. Heart of the Valle 1-2 ■ Figure 2AC. Change in Employment Age Groups. . . . . . . .2-26 g y" " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ■ Figure 2AD. Change in Employment Income Groups. . . . . 2-26 ■ Figure 2AE. Change in Meridian Unemployment Rate. . . . 2-28 The People 2-1 ■ Figure 2AF. Origin of Meridian Establishment Employees.2-29 ■ Figure 2AG. Change in Employment Age Groups. . . . . . . . 2-31 ■ Figure 2A. Population Change per Decade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 ■ Figure 2AH. Change in Employment Income Groups. . . . . 2-31 ■ Figure 2B. Population Growth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 ■ Figure 2A1. Meridian Employment to Meridian Labor Force ■ Figure 2C. Aggregated Population Change. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 Comparison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-32 ■ Figure 2D. Comparison of Ages by Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4 ■ Figure 2AJ. Destination of Meridian Labor Force . . . . . . . .2-34 ■ Figure 2E. Change in Population Groups, Interval . . . . . . . . 2-5 ■ Figure 2F. Change in Median Age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 ■ Figure 2G. Change in Population Groups, Total . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 Community Development 3-1 ■ Figure 2H. Change in Median Age, Aggregated. . . . . . . . . . 2-5 ■ Figure 3A. Comparison of Private to Non-private Land Area. . ■ Figure 21. Racial and Ethnicity Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6 ■ Figure 2J. Racial and Ethnicity Composite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6 ■ Figure 3B. Meridian Area of City Impact (AOCI) . . . . . . . . . .3-6 ■ Figure 2K. Comparison of Ages by Gender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 ■ Figure 3C. Functional Classification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9 ■ Figure 2L. Change in Attainment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8 ■ Figure 3D. Roadway Traffic Activity3-11 ■ Figure 2M. Change in Attainment by Gender . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8 g y ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ■ Figure 2N. Comparison of Attainment by Area. . . . . . . . . . .2-8 ■ Figure 20. Attainment by Gender Comparison. . . . . . . . . . .2-8 Services Provided 4-1 ■ Figure 2P. Change in Cost of Living for Boise, ID (Metro) . 2-10 ■ Figure 2Q. Mean Income by Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12 ■ Figure 4A. Meridian Fire District and Service Areas. . . . . .4-17 ■ Figure 2R. Change in Mean Income, 2014 to 2020. . . . . . . 2-12 ■ Figure 4B. Change in Enrollment Groups as a % of Whole4-27 ■ Figure 2S. Poverty Rate by Year and Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13 ■ Figure 4C. Enrollment Compared to City Population. . . . .4-27 ■ Figure 2T. Poverty Rate by Educational Attainment. . . . . . 2-13 ■ Figure 4D. West Ada School Enrollment Boundaries, 2021- ■ Figure 2U. Comparison of Housing Unit Types . . . . . . . . . . 2-15 2022. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-29 ■ Figure 2V. Housing Costs as a % of Income by Type . . . . . 2-16 ■ Figure 4E. Existing Idaho Power Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . .4-32 ■ Figure 2W. Change in Housing Cost as a % of Income by Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16 Physical and Cultural Features 5-1 ■ Figure 2X. Median Sales Price, Ada County. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17 ■ Figure 2Y. Median Sales Price and Total Change by Area . 2-17 ■ Figure 5A. Soils in the Meridian Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 ■ Figure 2Z. Urban Renewal Districts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-23 ■ Figure 5B. Agricultural Tax Exempt Land in Meridian. . . . . .5-4 www.meridiancity.org/compplan ■ Figure 5C. Prime Farmland by Jurisdiction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6 ■ Figure 5D. Gas Transmission in Meridian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9 ■ Figure 5E. Floodplains in Meridian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12 Summary 6-1 www.meridiancity.org/comppIan TABLES ■ Table 3C. Average Commute Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12 ntroduction 1-1 Services Provided 4-1 The People 2-1 ■ Table 4A. Meridian Water Consumption - Potable Water ■ Table 2A. Historical Census Population, Meridian . . . . . . . . 2-2 Irrigation Impacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-8 Table 4B. Historical Sewer Service Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10 ■ Table 2B. Communities in Motion 2050 Vision Forecast . . . 2-3 ■ Table 4C. Meridian Police Department Calls for Service. . 4-13 ■ Table 2C. Age by Place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4 ■ Table 4D. Crime Estimation in Idaho Report: Year 2020. . . 4-13 ■ Table 2D. Meridian Population Groups Over Time. . . . . . . .2-4 ■ Table 4E. Prescription Drugs Recovered: 2018 to 2021 . . .4-14 ■ Table 2E. Racial and Ethnic Composition by Jurisdiction. . .2-6 ■ Table 4F. Meridian Fire Department Apparatus Response 4-16 ■ Table 2F. Gender by Age Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 ■ Table 4G. City of Meridian, Public Park Acreage. . . . . . . . .4-20 ■ Table 2G. Educational Attainment by Jurisdiction and Gender ■ Table 4H. Solid Waste Collection (Tons) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-24 (25 and older) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9■ Table 2H. Comparative Cost of Living Index, Council for ■ Table 41. Historical Fall Enrollment, West Ada School District . 4-28 Community and Economic Research. . . . . . . . . . 2-11 ■ Table 4J. Idaho Power Substations in Meridian. . . . . . . . . .4-31 ■ Table 21. Household Income by Jurisdiction. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12 ■ Table 2J. Percent of Residents Living in Povety. . . . . . . . . . 2-13 ■ Table 2K. Total Meridian Housing Units by Year. . . . . . . . . 2-15 Physical and Cultural Features 5-1 ■ Table 2L. Persons per Housing Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15 ■ Table 2M. Housing Costs as a % of Household Income . . 2-16 ■ Table 5A. Agricultural Land by Exemption. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 ■ Table 2N. Median Rental Costs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17 ■ Table 513. Agricultural Land by% Overall Area . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 ■ Table 20. Home Sale Values in Ada County and Meridian 2-18 ■ Table 5C. National Register-Listed Historical Resources. . .5-6 ■ Table 2P. Meridian Establishments by Supersector . . . . . . 2-25 ■ Table 2Q. Employment: Meridian Jobs by Sector,Age, and Summary 6-1 Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-27 ■ Table 2R. Labor Force: Meridian Resident Jobs by Sector, Age, and Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-30 ■ Table 2S. Meridian Commercial Vacancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-33 Community Development 3-1 ■ Table 3A. Non-private Parcel Ownership in the AOCI . . . . . 3-2 ■ Table 313. Roadway Miles by Classificaion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 www.meridiancity.org/compplan INTRODUCTION Review of the Report This Existing Conditions Report(Report) provides a framework In 2010 the City of Meridian revamped it's Comprehensive for future decision making by detailing the current state, Plan. The primary goal of this process was to make it more specific directions, and actions taken related to each topical useful for the community, City staff, and decision makers. One area discussed.The Report takes the City's Mission,Vision, and way the Plan became more useful, was to separate out key Values and melds it with the City's Strategic Plan Initiatives, City information about the City's history, present day conditions, department capital improvement plans, and the initiatives in trends, and current initiatives, from policy and future-looking the current Comprehensive Plan.While not policy oriented,this initiatives. This separated information became the Existing Report is also intended to aid in integrated decision making: Conditions Report,which allowed the Comprehensive Plan to i.e., decisions that are made regarding land use policy within focus on policy moving forward.The Existing Conditions Report Meridian, take into full account existing conditions within o continues to be an addendum in the current Comprehensive Meridian, and the impacts on transportation, housing, and j Plan (Plan). economic strategies that current policies have had. 0 Below:The Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine held its Inagural Commencement on May 13, 2022. N A good plan is like a road map: it shows the final o N ' destination and usually the best way to get there." o a =�- - H. Stanley Judd o i e • O �`; ;,�' ,► To compose this report, information regarding Meridian and U its Area of City Impact was gathered from many resources.This AA �Ac= effort was accomplished by consulting with other agencies, N --- �, - individuals, and resources including existing plans, studies, w and other documents. Where needed, City staff contacted key agencies and requested assistance in putting together this report. This report should be updated every few years, (D , — to keep information current and relevant. ftz U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 1A. Heart of the Valley vim 1Se o Ron er A DW GA EN CIT o IVY RIDIAN 10 -2 Arrowrock L P - BOISE Rese oir 04 N tip' , Lucky�Peak Co Lake Lowell ,� `,ors (Reservoir a 5 Miles:225,9 1 - River N 4_ _o Blacks Creek t 10 Miles: 557,274 Reservoir 0 0 U c a 15 Miles: 738,256 w L 0 o 2 Miles: 767,358 o Source:City of Meridian Planning Division 2022 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan c U f A Agricultural land near US-20/26 and SH-16 in north-west Meridian.`. N WWR - ., Comprel a pie P " previous and`exlsting conditions w trerds'in Meridian;fdaho 0 regarding most of the State-required planning components Meridian s first Com r. h_ensive.:Plan was,ado. ted:-in .1978. ; .,., ; .;.. . ;. _ _ _ _- - 0 facilities and transportation; economic development; land use; 0 the 1975 Land Use Planning Act of the State of Idaho. The 0�1 natural resources; hazardous areas; public services, facilities, N Comprehensive Plan received major updates in 1993, 2002, c and 2010. In 2017, the Meridian City Council directed staff to and utilities; transportation; recreation; special areas or sites; o housing; community design; agriculture; implementation; t begin work on a new Plan, and on December 17th, 2019 the c Plan was adopted. This Plan received an extensive amount of national interest electric transmission corridors; public airport U public involvement, and is available online. facilities;and, other components the City has deemed necessary 0) to analyze. However,the desired goals and objectives for each } Local Land Use Planning Act of the 17 planning components are not part of this report. w Rather,this existing condition report sets the foundation and c Section 67-6508 of Idaho Code (the Local Land Use Planning background information to base a desirable future plan for Act), requires Comprehensive Plans to consider, at a minimum: the City. Implementation of the policy elements are addressed previous and existing conditions, trends, desirable goals in the full Comprehensive Plan itself, and are not part of this and objectives, or desirable future situations for 17 planning report. Those components not addressed in this report are components.This report provides an informative snapshot of the addressed in the full Comprehensive Plan. ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan .f^ History' �{ Originally known as Hunter, after a railroad official along the Oregon Short Line route,the City of Meridian was incorporated z in August, 1903. Meridian is one of six cities in Ada County, = and is located on the western edge of the Ada-Canyon County border.The City has transformed from a sagebrush-filled mail drop located on the Oregon Trail in the 1880s to a small fruit orchard center after the turn of the century through the 1930s, _ r _ to a dairy-based farming community in the 1940s. Its character li as a small farming community continued until approximately 1990, when its population was still about 10,000. Since 1990, Meridian has experienced exponential growth that has changed both its character and appearance. With the increase in population, farms and fields have given way to residential and commercial development. Farm vehicles and o • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • feed stores have largely disappeared to be replaced with large Above:The historic Clara home onMainStreet. residential subdivisions and commercial complexes.Today,the — Below:The Pine Street Schoolhouse City has a number of large employment centers, bank branches, N restaurants, medical centers, and several major retail centers o including a major lifestyle center, the Village at Meridian. o a To continue to provide elevated levels of service,City Departments `�. and their service capabilities have grown. In 2021 a new two- o story Police and Fire training center was constructed;this new facility includes an indoor scenario village with residential o - - - and commercial storefronts. The Meridian City Council also U approved a new police substation in South Meridian in 2021, °' _ ] i _-_� 1 I pp p &PA 4M� ■I, kip 04% 014 N ` l immediately next to Discovery Park, along with a new fire X LU station, and another fire substation in North Meridian near Discovery High School. These are to begin construction in rT 2022. The wastewater resource recovery facility in northwest •_ Meridian has seen several additions, and it can now treat ]�i �. 1 For comprehensive review of•Meridian's heritage,see Meridian, by ftz Frank Thomason and Polly Ambrose Peterson,Arcadia Publishing,2010 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan T Ll - J] LZ •.- r. -.F -- -T-- ( [) [ AN Street. . e- __ The City is in the ,r- growth continues to put a.strain on the Iran-s—Mr-tation system C14 CD the wastewater �. . in Meridian. Fu =` to not only maintain the existing roadways t t - 1,:t nt caps Zso, .- � _ _ r o to 15 million gallons per day. This project is expected to be be critical to lessen the strain a growing community has on completed in 2026. Parks have also expanded, with 3 new the transportation system. c parks since 2017. o Meridian is the population center of the Treasure Valley; The transportation network looks substantially different than people are evenly distributed in all directions from Meridian, o it did in 1990, or even 10 years ago.The Idaho Transportation with more than 225,901 people within 5 miles of downtown U Department (ITD) has and continues to widen and re-construct Meridian (see Figure 1A). Airports, regional medical centers, } Interstate 84 through the Treasure Valley. New lanes and cultural events and venues, and other urban services and X LU upgraded intersections were added recently to Eagle Road (SH amenities are all easily accessible. 55) between Interstate 84 and Ustick Road,with more capacity ° improvements planned for 2022.Ada County Highway District (ACHD) road improvements, such as Ustick Road widening, Ten Mile roadway widening, and completion of the Downtown O Split Corridor project, have helped to relieve congestion, but U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan THE PEOPLE Population, Housing, and Economic The primary purpose of the Population and Demographic Development Characteristics element is to look at past trends that may This chapter discusses characteristics of Meridian's demographics help to understand future needs and projections. Population including population, gender, race, age, income, education, inventories and forecasts are used to measure the demand for home ownership, and employment data.As required by Idaho future facilities such as parks, water supply wells and roads, State Statute §67-6508, analysis on Population, Housing and and for services such as police and fire protection. Forecasts Economic Development components of the Comprehensive can also be used by businesses to anticipate market demand Plan are provided below. These three components set the and to locate service and commercial facilities. foundation for consideration of other components later in this report. The primary purpose of the Housing Characteristics element is to evaluate the recent trends in residential dwellings. Past o . a� Below:View of homes from across the pond at Fuller Park. provide specific information on residential use. The report a) assesses where people live and in what type of dwellings. C4 "When planning for a year, plant corn. When planning } 0 �► for a decade, plant trees. When planning for life, train and educate people:" A '�• � - Chinese Proverb tea. 0 U The purpose of the Economic Development analysis of the chapter is to portray the business make-up and to evaluate the w local economy for strengths and weaknesses.This background c g- i r _•- information may be used to discuss how Meridian might expand its economic base and target specific industries. Employment a, - trends and forecasts may also be used to determine if there is a need for additional land in specific zoning categories, as 0 = well as the demand for future levels of public services. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Population and Demographic Characteristics ' Population Chan' Historic Counts and Current Estimates The followinginformation • ' " Meridian's population was fairly stable up to about 1990,when Figure 2A. Population Change per Decade the City had a population of 9,596. However, in the mid-1990s, the City's population began increasing rapidly, more than 2020 doubling by 2000, and then doubling again by 2010.The 2020 decennial population was the biggest increase ever for the City, W 2010 increasing by more than 42,000 people since 2010 and reaching T 2000 a population total of 117,635.Table 2A tracks historical Census population data. In April of 2022, the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho, or COMPASS, estimated the City's population at 133,470 residents. •" 042a) Q • 0 535 o a) a- 0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 Q) Table 2A. Historical Census Population, Meridian Average Total Population 10 Year% 04 Year Annual % N Population Change Increase 0 Increase Figure 2113. Population Growth N } 1940 1,465 N/A N/A N/A 125,000 300% O Q 1950 1,810 345 2.4% 23.5% N 100,000 1960 2,081 271 1.5% 15.0% 00, o 000 1970 2,616 535 2.6% 25.7% 0, 1980 6,658 4,042 15.5% 154.5% 0. 50,000 + p 00 , CL U 1990 9,596 2,938 4.4% 44.1% 25,000 ' C 2000 34,919 25,323 26.4% 263.9% 0 0 0 H 2010 75,092 40,173 11.5% 115.0% , , w 2020 117,635 42,543 5.7% 56.7% Source:U.S.Census Bureau,via Idaho Department of Labor,Communication 8t Population 10 Year%Increase Research. "City Population Data 7940-2020."Retreived on February 8,2022 N from https://lmi.idaho.gov/census. O CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2C. Aggregated Population Change Table 2B. Communities in Motion 2050 Vision Forecast Area of City 2022 Pop 2050 • . . • . . . . . Impact Estimate Forecast Change Change Meridian 133,470 192,540 59,070 44.26% Population, :.:.:.:.:. Boise 243,570 314,520 70,950 29.13% 42,543,36% :•:•:•: Nampa 109,120 168,140 59,020 54.09% Ada County 532,710 715,820 183,110 34.37% Canyon 249,720 359,180 109,460 43.83% County • Population, Regional Total 782,430 1,075,000 292,570 37.39% 75,092,64% Note:Area of City Impact(AOCI)boundaries are larger than existing City limit boundaries.2022 estimates reflect current city limits,whereas 2050 forecast include all populations within an AOCI. Source:COMPASS,COMPASS Board Memo for February 28,2022, "Communities Q) in Motion 2050 Vision,Foreasted Growth."Retreived on February 18,2022 Q 0 Everything before 2010 ■2010 to 2020 and COMPASS Board Memo for April 18,2022, "2022 Population Estimates." 0 Retreived on April 18,2022,both from https://www.compassidaho.org/people/ o_ Note:Graph depicts the significant growth between 2070 and 2020,more than a boardmeetings.htm N 1/3 of the overall population total,and compares it to everything that came before. �— See table 2A for data/source. the Treasure Valley as designated by the U.S. Department of N While it did not grow quite as precipitously as Meridian, the Transportation. As part of its Federal mandate, COMPASS o two-county region as a whole also experienced considerable prepares and periodically updates a regional long-range o growth over the last decade. Ada County grew from 392,365 transportation plan for the region. Part of that process is 0 residents in 2010 to 532,710 in 2022. Similarly, Canyon County to monitor population growth and forecast future changes grew from 188,923 residents in 2010 to 249,720 in 2022. Meridian within the region. o accounted for 41.6% of Ada County's overall growth between 2010 and 2022, and 29.0% of the two-county region.' COMPASS estimates that the population of Meridian will o increase to 192,540 by 2050, an increase of 55.5% from 2020. U The regional forecast adopted by the COMPASS Board for the Forecasts Communities in Motion 2050 regional long-range transportation N The Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho, plan estimates that the population of the two-county region will w or COMPASS, is the Metropolitan Planning Organization for grow from 726,080 in 2020 to 1,075,000 people in 2050.Table a provides 2022 estimates and 2050 forecasts of population 1•COMPASS,COMPASS Demographic Advisory Workgroup Memo for 2B p p p April 18,2022, "Historic Population Estimates by City Limits." Retrieved in select Treasure Valley Demographic Areas. on April 11,2022 from https://www.compassidaho.org/people/ board meetings.htm. 0 ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2C. Age by Place Table 213. Meridian Population Groups Over Time •0 2000 2010 2020 0 to 9 14.4% 13.6% 15.4% 11.9% 0 to 9 19.6% 21.5% 19.6% 14.4% 10 to 19 16.2% 14.5% 15.8% 14.2% 10 to 19 14.8% 14.2% 16.0% 16.2% 20 to 29 I 12.2% 13.4% 13.7% 13.2% 20 to 29 15.9% 14.1% 10.7% 12.1% 30 to 39 14.3% 13.1% 13.3% 14.8% 30 to 39 19.4% 20.3% 16.5% 14.4% 40 to 49 I 13.7% 11.8% 11.9% 13.1% 40 to 49 10.7% 13.3% 14.4% 13.7% 50 to 64 16.8% 18.0% 16.2% 18.3% 50 to 64 9.3% 10.1% 14.0% 16.7% 65 + 12.4% 15.8% 13.8% 14.4% 65 + 10.3% 6.4% 9.0% 12.4% 2014 Median 34.1 35.5 35.2 37.4 Median Age 29.8 30.1 32.5 35.9 Age (years) Source:U.S. Census Bureau, 1990 Census of Population, "General Population 2020 Median 35.9 37.2 36.6 38.2 Characteristics,Idaho".Accessed on February22,2022 from https://www2. Age (years) census.gov/library/publications.2010 and 2020 Decennial Census,Redistricting Q) Data(Table P2 and P8),generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov. Q Change 1.8 1.7 1.4 0.8 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table 50101;generated by City of Meridian 0 Notes:Margin of error results in values slightly greater or less than 100%. using data.census.gov. QL Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2070-2074 and � 2076-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table 50101,generated by City of Meridian; �s using data.census.gov<https://data.census.gov/cedsci/> (17 March 2022). Figure 213. Comparison of Ages by Area N N 0 20.0% n1 Age a The average age of a Meridian resident has been steadily 15.0% D increasing over the last 30 years. Median age is up from the 1990 Census of 29.8 to 30.1 in 2000, 32.5 in 2010, and 36.2 in 10.0% o the 2020 American Community Survey(ACS) 5-Year Estimate. o The change in Meridian's median age is higher than Ada a 5.0% o 0 U County,the State of Idaho, and the United States. Since 2000, the 0 to 9 population has decreased by 5.2% of the overall, 0.0% } while the 50 to 64 has increased b 7.4%and the 65 and older o °� N m � „ X Y O O O O O lD W group has increased by 7.2%. Because the overall population o 0 0 � o is growing so rapidly, groups are not shrinking in total, some arejust increasing faster than others. See Table 2C and 2D for ❑Meridian ■Idaho ❑Ada ■u.s. comparisons over time. Note:See table 2C for datalsource. o ftz www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 Age and Changes Over Time The following charts reference information in Table 2D. Figure 2E. Change in Population Groups, Interval Figure 2F. Change in Median Age 25.0% 40.0 20.0% — 35.0 — c35.9 0 15.0% - 30.0 — 0 0' 25.0 0 L — — t 10.0% - 0 20.0 — — o � 5.0% - - - I a 15.0 — — 1 0.0% 10.0 — — • rn rn m rn rn �t + • O a-i N M V l0 LO 1 +' O O O O O � � Q Y Y Y Y Y O O O O O 1 i N M v Ln - ■1990 ■2000 ■2010 0 2020 1990 2000 2010 2020 Figure 2G. Change in Population Groups,Total Figure 2H. Change in Median Age,Aggregated - %Change in Age Groups, 1990 to 2020 Change from 1990 to 2010, -6% -4% -2% 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 2.7 Years, 44% • 0to9 • Total • 10 to 19 Change 20 to 29 6.1, • years 30 to 39 1 Change from 40 to 49 2010 to 2020, 3.4 years, • • 50 to 64 56% I 65+ ■Change from 1990 to 2010 ■Change from 2010 to 2020 • 2-5 CompositeFigure 2L Racial and Ethnicity Change Figure 23. Racial and Ethnicity %Change, • • to 2020 2020, OtherWhite White Black or African American I Black or African American I American Indian and Alaska... American Indian and Alaska Native Asian M Asian I Pacific Islander I Pacific Islander Two+Races Two+Races 0 Hispanic or Latino Hispanic or Latino 111110 a� Q 0 a) 0 Table 2E. Racial and Ethnic Composition by Jurisdiction MeridianRace& Ethnicity . . . . 04 N CD 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change } Population of one race: 91.1% 85.6% - 5.5% 90.8% 85.9% -4.8% 87.1% 82.8% -4.3% 81.7% 77.2% -4.5% 0 Q • White alone 88.1% 81.2% - 6.9% 86.5% 80.4% - 6.1% 84.0% 78.9% - 5.1% 63.7% 57.8% - 5.9% N • Black or African American alone 0.7% 0.9% + 0.2% 1.1% 1.6% + 0.5% 0.6% 0.8% + 0.2% 12.2% 12.1% -0.2% • American Indian and Alaska o Native alone 0.4% 0.3% -0.0% 0.5% 0.5% -0.1% 1.1% 1.0% -0.1% 0.7% 0.7% -0.0% 0 • Asian alone 1.7% 2.5% + 0.8% 2.4% 2.8% + 0.4% 1.2% 1.4% + 0.2% 4.7% 5.9% + 1.2% O U • Native Hawaiian and Other ° o 0 0 0 ° o ° o 0 0 0 0) Pacific Islander alone 0.1/0 0.2/0 + 0.1/0 0.2/0 0.2/0 + 0.0% 0.1/0 0.2/0 + 0.0% 0.2/0 0.2/0 + 0.0% X • Some Other Race alone 0.1% 0.4% + 0.3% 1% 0.5% + 0.4% 0.1% 0.4% + 0.4% 0.2% 0.5% + w 0.3% Population of two or more races: 2.1% 4.8% + 2.7% 2.1% 4.9% + 2.8% 1.7% 4.2% + 2.5% 1.9% 4.1% + 2.2% 2 0 Hispanic or Latino 6.8% 1 9.5% + 2.7% 7.1% 9.1% + 2.0% 11.2% 13.0% + 1.8% 16.3% 18.7% + 2.4% N Not Hispanic or Latino: 93.2% 90.5% -2.7% 92.9% 90.9% -2.0% 88.8% 87.0% - 1.8% 83.7% 81.3% -2.4% �E 0 Note:Rounding results in values that do not always total to 700%. Table is the perspective of Hispanic Or Latino,regardless of race.Population of one race,two or more races,and >- hispanic or latino total 700%.Source:U.S.Census Bureau, 2070 and 2020 Decennial Census,Redistricting Data(Table P2 and P8),generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.go v; U <https://dato.census.gov/cedsci/>(75 February 2022). www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2K. Comparison of Ages by Gender Race and Ethnicity ■%Male ❑%Female Table 2E shows the racial and ethnic composition of select 85 and older subgroups for Meridian, Ada County, the State of Idaho, and a 65 to 84 6.51. the entire United States. c 55 to 64 i 45 to 54 Meridian, Ada County and the State of Idaho are less racially o and ethnically diverse than the nation as a whole.The majority 35 to 44 ,7. . of residents in Meridian are white (85.6%) and not Hispanic c 2oto34 . . . . . . . . . or Latino (90.5%). This composition is changing though, both a 10 to 19 locally and nationally. Since 2010, those that are of one race 0to9 6:yY alone, and also white alone, have decreased while most other 10.0% 5.0% 0.0% 5.0% 10.0% non-white races or those of multiple races, have seen increases. Percent of Population Note:See table 2F for data/source. Q Table 2F. Gender by Age Groups Q) Q_ Female Female Gender 0 • OverallrouBased on the 2016-2020 American Community Survey data , P Group Overall 49.7% of the population are male and 50.3% female. This c14 0 to 9 53.7% 46.3% 7.7% 6.7% 14.4% gender split is not equal among all age groups however, as o CN 10 to 19 55.3% 44.7% 9.0% 7.2% 16.2% shown in Table 2F. 0 20 to 34 48.5% 51.5% 8.9% 9.5% 18.4% Q 35 to 44 48.1% 51.9% 7.1% 7.7% 14.9% Educational Attainment � 45 to 54 51.0% 49.0% 6.9% 6.6% 13.5% Compared to many other communities in the Nation, Meridian 00 /° has maintained a relatively high level of educational attainment. 10.3 55 to 64 47.2% 52.8% 4.8% 5.4% ° The percentage of Meridian residents 25 and older with a o 65 to 84 43.0% 57.0% 4.9% 6.5% 11.3% high school diploma increased from 94.9% in 2014 to 95.8% U 85 and older 37.4% 62.6% 0.4% 0.7% 1.1% in 2020.The percentage of Meridian residents from the same 0' } age group with a bachelor's degree or higher increased from X Overall 49.7% 50.3% 33.3%to 37.2%.As shown in Table 2G,there are other changes U Source:U.S.Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2010-2014 and for various education attainment benchmarks, and between ° 2076-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S1501;generated by City of Meridian; genders. using data.census.gov<https://dato.census.gov/cedsci/> (22 March 2022). (D • 2•U.S.•Census Bureau/American FactFinder. "DP05: Demographics and 0 Housing Estimates"2011-2015 American Community Survey.Web.May 18, ftz 2017<http://factflnder.census.gov>. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 Educational Attainment The following charts reference information in Table 2G. High School+ and Bachelor's+ include all attainment levels beyond. Figure 2L. Change in Attainment Figure 2M. Change in Attainment by Gender Change >than H.S. -6.0% -4.0% -2.0% 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% 8.0% H.S.(or equiv.) >than H.S. Some college �- H.S.(or equiv.) Associate's - Some college Bachelor's - Associate's � Graduate � Bachelor's Graduate High School+ High School+ I I Bachelor's+ Bachelor's+ -10.0% -5.0% 0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% %Overall ■Idaho ■U.S. Figure 2N. Comparison of Attainment by Area Figure 20. Attainment by Gender Comparison - • . Meridian ■ Idaho U.S. >than H.S. I I I 30% H.S.(or equiv.) • 25% + Some college • 0 20% Associate's I I • a15% Bachelor's a° 10% ♦ • o Graduate 5% High School+ 0% Bachelor's+ I I I I • \ z �C y� e N peso �6 09% 25% 50% 75% 100% • -7�r \ot �� Pyyo lac 0t ■Male ■Female 2-8 Table 2G. Educational Attainment by Jurisdiction and Gender (25 and older) Level of Education Meridian . . 2074 Overall Male Female Overall Ma Fema veral Male Female Overall Male Fern Less than High School graduate 5.2% 5.6% 4.7% 6.2% 6.3% 6.1% 10.8% 1 11.7% 10.1% 13.6% 14.4% 13.1% High school graduate(or 23.9% 22.3% 25.3% 21.6% 21.2% 21.9% 27.7% 27.6% 27.8% 28.0% 28.5% 27.5% equivalency) Some college, no degree 28.7% 25.6% 31.6% 127.3% 25.8% 28.7% 27.0% 25.9% 28.2% 21.2% 20.8% 21.5% Associate's degree 8.9% 10.1% 7.9% 8.6% 8.4% 8.8% 9.0% 8.3% 9.6% 7.9% 7.0% 8.8% Bachelor's degree 24.3% 24.5% 24.2% 24.4% 24.4% 24.4% 17.4% 17.2% 17.6% 18.3% 18.1% 18.4% Graduate or professional degree 9.0% 11.9% 6.3% 12.0% 13.8% 10.1% 8.0% 9.3% 6.7% 11.0% 11.2% 10.8% High school graduate or higher 94.9% 94.4% 95.3% 93.8% 93.7% 93.9% 89.1% 88.3% 89.9% 86.3% 85.6% 87.0% Bachelor's degree or higher 33.3% 36.4% 30.4% 36.4% 38.3% 34.6% 25.4% 26.5% 24.3% 29.3% 29.3% 29.2% 12020 Less than High School graduate 4.2% 4.6% 3.8% 4.8% 5.3% 4.4% 9.2% 10.0% 8.4% 12.0% 12.7% 11.4% Q) High school graduate(or Q 21.9% 20.0% 23.5% 22.4% 22.4% 22.4% 27.4% 28.5% 26.3% 27.0% 27.9% 26.0% � equivalency) a- Some college, no degree 25.4% 24.7% 26.1% 24.3% 23.4% 25.3% 26.0% 24.6% 27.4% 20.4% 20.2% 20.6% Q) Associate's degree 11.3% 10.5% 11.9% 9.9% 9.4% 10.5% 9.8% 9.1% 10.6% 8.5% 7.6% 9.3% Bachelor's degree 25.3% 24.5% 26.0% 25.5% 25.7% 25.4% 18.6% 17.9% 19.2% 19.8% 19.4% 20.1% N 0 Graduate or professional degree 11.9% 15.7% 8.7% 13.0% 13.9% 12.1% 9.0% 9.9% 8.1% 12.4% 12.1% 12.6% N } High school graduate or higher 95.8% 95.3%IP 96.2% 95.2% 94.7% 95.6% 90.8% 90.0% 91.6% 88.0% 87.3% 88.6% O Q Bachelor's degree or higher 37.2% 40.2% 34.7% 38.5% 39.6% 37.5% 27.6% 27.8% 27.3% 32.1% 31.6% 32.7% � N Change _ � Less than High School graduate -1.0% -1.0% -0.9% -1.4% -1.0% -1.7% -1.6% -1.7% -1.7% -1.6% -1.7% -1.7% 0 High school graduate(or -2 0% -2.3% -1.8% 0.8% 1.2% 0.5% -0.3% 0.9% -1.5% -1.0% -0.6% -1.5% U equivalency) Some college, no degree -3.3% -0.9% -5.5% -3.0% -2.4% -3.4% -1.0% -1.3% -0.8% -0.8% -0.6% -0.9% Associate's degree 2.4% 0.4% 4.0% 1.3% 1.0% 1.7% 0.8% 0.8% 1.0% 0.6% 0.6% 0.5% w Bachelor's degree 1.0% 0.0% 1.8% 0 1.1% 1.3% 1.0% 1.2% 0.7% 1.6% 1.5% 1.3% 1.7% Graduate or professional degree 2.9% 3.8% 2.4% 1.0% 0.1% 2.0% 1.0% 0.6% 1.4% 1.4% 0.9% 1.8% L High school graduate and higher 0.9% l � 0.9/° 11 0.9/° 1 .0% L 1.7/°��1.7/°11 1.7/° 1.7/° 1.7/° '1 1.7/° 4r-1.6% Bachelor's degree and higher 3.9% 3.8% 4.3% 1 r 2.9% 2.2% 1.3% 3.0% 2.8% 2.3% 3.5% o Note:Change greater equal or greater than 3.0%highlighted.Margin of error results in values slightly greater or less than 700%.Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community U Survey(ACS),2070-2074 and 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S1501;generated by City of Meridian;using dato.census.gov<https://data.census.gov/cedsci/>(22 March 2022). www.meridiancity.org/compplan Cost of Living Figure 2P. Change in Cost of Living for Boise, ID (Metro) The Council for Community and Economic Research annually prepares comparative cost of living data for urban areas across Misc.Goods&Services 8.9% the U.S. The results comprise a relative cost of living (index) Health Care -1.7% for each participating metropolitan area based on expenditure Transportation -1.1% pattern for professional and executive households.The average utilities 2.3% 1 of all participating localities is the baseline index value of 100, so categorical and composite values can be gauged as a Housing 3 .596 percent of the"norm" or U.S. average based on available data. Grocery 7.O% Composite Index 12.0% The index has certain limitations. For example, it does not calculate variations in tax structure and subsequent burdens -10.0% 0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% from one locality to another. It also does not factor in cost Change in Composite Index a� Note:See table 2H for data/source. p . . N Below:Home construction at Eagle and Lake Hazel,looking north-west. a- Q) N N 0 differences between sub-metropolitan area jurisdictions (a } single value for housing,for example, is assigned to the entire a Boise City-Nampa metro area). Related work by the Boise (D Valley Economic Partnership (BVEP) shows there can be great variations in some commodities and services across the region. o Still, the Council for Community and Economic Research Cost of Living Index is the most comprehensive and straightforward U annual comparison of different metro areas of which the City is currently aware. Table 2H lists comparative costs of living } X for metro areas in the northwest region of the United States. - w Within the Boise metro area, the changes between 2016 and 2021 were significant. The composite index increased by more than 12%, and now surpasses the overall national average for cost of living. Housing especially increased by 0 '.f ~~ t lfl� a staggering 36.5%. Grocery and Miscellaneous Goods and www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Table 2H. Comparative Cost of Living Index, Council for Community and Economic Research TransportationMetro Area Composite Utilities Index I 2016 2021 2016 2021 2016 2021 �4 2016 202 021 2016 „2021 2016 2021 mafiiamd Boise, ID 91.2 102.1 87.7 93.8 80.9 110.4 84.2 82.3 112.9 111.7 104.6 102.8 94.3 102.7 Anchorage,AK 130.6 126.0 130.3 124.3 153.5 137.0 100.9 129.7 115.7 111.2 140.9 147.2 124.3 114.8 Colorado Springs,CO 94.4 108.2 95.8 101.0 97.7 115.8 75.2 99.0 99.3 103.1 101.6 100.2 94.3 110.2 Reno-Sparks, NV 104.6 108.2 101.1 1 105.4 97.5 126.4 92.9 82.5 118.6 118.9 104.9 104.1 111.0 97.7 Spokane,WA 98.1 104.9 94.2 102.7 90.7 104.2 87.9 101.3 116.8 110.3 115.4 117.8 100.6 105.0 Provo-Orem, UT 91.1 100.0 99.5 97.7 84.1 103.2 84.5 86.6 97.5 105.3 90.3 90.3 93.8 102.7 National Average 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 Source:C2ER,2027 and 2016. "Comparative Data for Urban Areas:2021 Annual Average Data,Cost of Living Index,2021"' 021".Received on February 17 2022 via Boise Valley Economic Partnership(BVEP). "Cost of Living Index,Comparative Data for Urban Areas,2016."Accessed on May 12,2017 http://c2c.coli.org/. _O Q O N CL Services also saw notable increases. Several areas reduced income, and the breakdown of income ranges by percent of slightly, including Utilities, Transportation, and Health Care, the whole. however Transportation and Health Care are both still above N the national average. Poverty o } Poverty is determined by using income thresholds for a o Income household of a given size.According to the 2016-2020 American Meridian is a relatively affluent community with a mean Community Survey, 6.5% of the population in Meridian is household income greater than that at the County, State, and considered to be living in poverty (down from 8.6% in the O national levels. Based on the 2016-2020 American Community 2010-2014 ACS). This is considerably lower than the national Survey, Meridian has a higher mean household income than rate of 12.8%. U Boise and Nampa, and saw a higher change in mean income for all comparison areas listed in Table 21, between the 2010- As shown in Table 2J, there is a strong correlation between } 2014 and 2016-2020 ACS periods. education and poverty.Those without a High School equivalent w education are significantly more likely to be living in poverty. The State of Idaho is roughly 15.5% below the national mean Furthermore, this same information shows that at the local, for household income. Table 21 provides mean household state and national level,the more education one receives, the incomes for select peer Treasure Valley cities, both Ada and less likely they are to live below the poverty threshold. Canyon County, the State of Idaho, and the United States. o Table 21 also reports the percent change in mean household ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 21. Household Income by Jurisdiction BoiseIncome Range Less than $10,000 5.4% 6.8% 6.1% 6.0% 5.6% 5.7% 6.0% $10,000 to$14,999 2.1% 3.4% 4.4% 2.9% 4.7% 4.4% 4.3% $15,000 to $24,999 6.0% 9.7% 9.5% 8.1% 9.0% 9.8% 8.9% $25,000 to $34,999 8.1% 9.3% 13.2% 8.3% 11.6% 10.3% 8.9% $35,000 to$49,999 12.1% 13.2% 18.1% 12.0% 16.3% 14.3% 12.3% $50,000 to $74,999 18.7% 18.2% 22.8% 18.5% 22.5% 20.2% 17.2% $75,000 to $99,999 17.1% 12.3% 13.0% 14.2% 12.8% 12.9% 12.7% $100,000 to $149,999 17.0% 14.8% 10.0% 16.7% 12.2% 13.8% 15.1% $150,000 to $199,999 7.3% 5.9% 2.2% 6.4% 3.20% 4.6% 6.8% 111111111 $200,000 or more 6.3% 6.4% 0.8%mm" 6.8% 2.1% 4.0% 7.7% N 2020 Mean income(dollars) $98,497 $86,841 $61,603 $93,909 $69,410 $77,399 $91,547 0 2014 Mean income(dollars) $75,177 $69,076 $47,289 $73,523 $52,293 $61,544 $74,596 � Change in Mean Income $23,320 $17,765 $14,314 $20,386 $17,117 $15,855 $16,951 SQ) %Change in Mean Income 31.0% 25.7% 30.3% 27.7% 32.7% 25.8% 22.7% Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2010-2014 and 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S7901;generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov N <https://dato.census.gov/cedsci/> (17 March 2022). o N } O Figure 2Q. Mean Income by Area Figure 2R. Change in Mean Income, 2014 to 2020 a N 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 � Meridian Meridian Boise Boise O U Nampa Nampa Ada •�• Ada H x Canyon Canyon w Idaho Idaho O U.S. U.S. N I 02020 Mean income(dollars) ■Change in Mean Income p Note:See table 21 for data/source. Note:See table 21 for data/source. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2S. Poverty Rate by Year and Area Figure 2T. Poverty Rate by Educational Attainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Idaho (or equiv.) Ada Some college Meridian 04 m 2020 m202O m2014 a) Q 0 Note:See Table 2J for datalsource. Note:See Table 2J for datalsource. a) OL 0 Table 2J. Percent of Residents Living in Povety o N Meridian . . } 010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Q Poverty Status(All Ages) 8.6% 6.5% -2.1% 12.8% 9.3% -3.5% 15.6% 11.9% -3.7% 15.6% 12.8% -2.8% N Under 18 years 9.6% 6.8% -2.8% 14.9% 9.4% -5.5% 19.4% 14.4% -5.0% 21.9% 17.5% -4.4% 0 18 to 64 years 8.3% 6.7% -1.6% 12.8% 9.5% -3.3% 15.5% 12.0% -3.5% 14.6% 12.1% -2.5% t 65 years and over 6.9% 4.9% -2.0% 7.7% 7.9% 0.2% 8.4% 7.9% -0.5% 9.4% 9.3% -0.1% 0 U Poverty Status by Education(those 25 and older) C Population 25 years and over 6.9% 5.5% -1.4% 9.5% 7.5% -2.0% 11.7% 9.4% -2.3% 12.0% 10.4% -1.6% H Less than high school graduate 22.6% 20.4% -2.2% 125.0% 21.1% -3.9% 24.4% 19.4% -5.0% 27.6% 24.1% -3.5% "' High school graduate(includesq Y) e uivalenc 8.9% 6.8% -2.1% 12.8% 10.3% -2.50%/o 13.7% 12.1% -1.6% 14.2% 13.4% -0.8% Some college, associate's degree 5.8% &M .5% 19.3% 8.2% - ° 10.7% 9.1% - ° 10.5% 9.4% -1.1% Bachelor's degree or higher 4.3% 2.0% -2.3% 5.4% 4.0% -1.4% 5.7% 4.3% -1.4% 4.5% 4.3% -0.2% Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2070-2074 and 2076-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S1701;generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov U <https://dato.census.gov/cedsci/> (77 March 2022). www.meridiancity.org/compplan a• - ram. --- .. __ .� ..�". �- _ -- - �. �•� _ fir_ Above:The Historic Tol Housing Characteristics Housing Unit Type o 04 The City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan supports and Meridian's population is distributed throughout the cq encourages a variety of housing types ranging from single-family primarily in suburban-style developments, comprised of rrTt a detached homes to multi-family dwellings. Future Land Use detached single-family housing units. Increasingly however, � designations allow the City to integrate a range of residential higher density housing is being constructed throughout c unit densities, from Low Density Residential to High Density the community, particularly near employment areas, major ° Residential. Land use, housing, density and other supportive roadways, and regional attractions. In 10 years the ratio of C policies are intended to ensure opportunities exist for a variety multi-family homes has increased by 10% from a roughly U of incomes, housing preferences, lifestyles, family sizes, and 90:10 split to 80:20. age groups. } As shown in Table 2D, an increasingly larger percent of the w Number of Dwelling Units population is of the 65-plus population group, and that there is an increased need for senior housing opportunities. In Meridian, the growth in housing stock has paralleled the There appears to be a growing demand for non-single-family aD pace of growth in population. As shown in Table 2K, in 2012 � there were 29,151 total housing units in Meridian, and by 2022, detached dwelling units, that are easier to take care of and o there were 50,917, an increase of almost 75%• closer to activities and services. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2K. Total Meridian Housing Units by Year Figure 2U. Comparison of Housing Unit Types Single Multi Total Yr over % % Year Family Family Units Yr% Chang - Single Multi50,000 12.00 c 2012 26,731 2,420 29,151 - 91.7% 8.3% 40,000 10.00 LL 2013 27,644 2,810 30,454 4.5% 90.8% 9.2% bf 30,000 8.00 s 2014 28,409 3,414 31,823 4.5% 89.3% 10.7% c 6.00 W = 20,000 8 2015 29,399 3,864 33,263 4.5% 88.4% 11.6% 4.00 2016 30,767 4,052 34,819 4.7% 88.4% 11.6% 10,000 2.00 M • LL 2017 32,195 4,806 37,001 6.3% 87.0% 13.0% 2018 34,007 6,038 40,045 8.2% 84.9% 15.1% oti� oti� oti° oti�' oti�O oti� oti�' oti� oti° otiti oti� ti ti ti ti ti ti ti ti ti ti ti 2019 36,116 6,878 42,994 7.4% 84.0% 16.0% 2020 37,983 7,815 45,798 6.5% 82.9% 17.1% Single Family©Multi Family�Single to Multi Unit Ratio 2021 39,917 8,427 48,344 5.6% 82.6% 17.4% N Note:Housing ratio refers to the number of single-family for each multi-family O 2022 40,795 9,227 50,022 L3.5% I 81.6% 18.4% unit.See table 2L for data/source. 0 0 Note:Units are calendar year except 2022, which is current as of May,2022. N Source:City of Meridian. �s Persons per Housing Unit Occupancy The 2016-2020 American Community Survey reports that the o According to the 2016-2020 American Community Survey overall average of all households in Meridian was 2.82 persons N data, the ratio of housing units occupied by owners to renters per household. This was down only 0.04 from the 2006-2010 a in Meridian is 75.2% to 24.8% (with a 2.3% margin of error);. average of 2.86. Average family size has increased slightly to (D More currently, and not a direct comparison, in January 2022 3.30 from 3.25 over the same period. A family is any two or there were 31,065 parcels in Meridian with a dwelling unit that more people residing together, and related by birth, marriage, g received a home owners exemption on their property taxes or adoption.A household may include families and non-families, t (meaning the property owner generally lived on site and was or even single individuals. See Table 2L. U not a rental). Compared to the 50,917 total dwelling units, this equates to 61.0% of dwellings that are owner occupied. Table 2L. Persons per Housing Unit } Not all home owners necessarily apply for the tax exemption. w Household Type 2010 2020 Average Household Size (all types) 2.86 2,82 9 YP � Average Family Size 3.25 3.30 N 3'U.S.'Census Bureau,'American Community Survey(ACS),2010-2014 Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2006-2070 and � and 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates,Table DP04;generated by City of 2076-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table 57101,generated by City of Meridian, 0 Meridian;using data.census.gov<https:Hdata.census.gov/cedsci/> (17 using dato.census.gov<https://data.census.gov/cedsci/> (24 March 2022). ftZ March 2022). U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2M. Housing Costs as a % of Household Income Housing Cost Groups Meridian . . Owner Occupied with Mortgage 2014 2020 Change 2014 2020 Change+` 2014 2020 Change 2014 2020 Change Less than 20.0 percent 46.9% 52.5% 5.6% 49.4% 50.5% 1 1.1% 47.1% 47.7% 0.6% 45.9% 46.7% 0.8% 20.0 to 24.9 percent 15.4% 14.7% -0.7% 15.4% 15.6% 0.2% 16.2% 16.1% -0.1% 15.7% 15.6% -0.1% 25.0 to 29.9 percent 12.8% 10.4% -2.4% 11.3% 10.5% -0.8% 10.8% 10.6% -0.2% 10.5% 10.3% -0.2% 30.0 to 34.9 percent 6.7% 6.5% -0.2% 5.9% 6.2% 0.3% 7.1% 7.1% 0.0% 6.9% 6.8% -0.1% 35.0 percent or more 18.2% 15.9% -2.3% 17.9% 17.1% -0.8% 18.9% 18.5% -0.4% 20.9% 20.6% -0.3% Renter Occupied Less than 20.0 percent 26.5% 25.5% -1.0% 28.0% 29.0% 1.0% 28.9% 29.4% 0.5% 26.0% 26.4% 0.4% 20.0 to 24.9 percent 11.1% 12.5% 1.4% 13.4% 14.2% 0.8% 13.5% 13.6% 0.1% 12.9% 12.9% 0.0% 25.0 to 29.9 percent 14.6% 18.3% 3.7% 11.8% 12.6% 0.8% 1 11.4% 0 11.9% 0.5% 11.6% 11.6% 0.0% 30.0 to 34.9 percent 9.1% 8.9% -0.2% 7.8% 8.3% 0.5% 8.5% 8.4% -0.1% 9.1% 9.1% 0.0% N 35.0 percent or more 38.7% 34.9% -3.8% 39.0% 35.9% -3.1% 37.7% 36.6% -1.1% 40.5% 40.0% -0.5% o Note:This data does not reflect some of the dramatic changes to home values in 2021,and which may influence the results of the nextACS release of data.Source:U.S. Census Bureau, � American Community Survey(ACS),2010-2014 and 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table DP04;generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov<https://data.census.gov/ O cedscV>(23 March 2022). Figure 2V. Housing Costs as a % of Income by Type Figure 2W. Change in Housing Cost as a % of Income by Type 04 N 0 -6.0% -4.0% -2.0% 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% N } 35%or More 15 9% 34.9% ° Q ° -1.0% qy- >20/ 5.6% 30 to 35% ;6.5% 1.4% p 20 to 25% -0.7% 25 to 30% F10.4% 18.3% 3.7% O25 to 30% C) -2.4%20 to 25% % 0) 4.7% 30 to 35% 0.2% 0.2%>20% 25.5% w 52.5% ° 35%or More -3.8% O 0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% 50.0% 60.0% 2.3%o N ■Renter ❑Home Owner ■Renter ❑Home Owner �E O Note:Comparison shown for Meridian only.Home Owners with a mortgage only. Note:Change shown for Meridian only.Home Owners with a mortgage only.See U See table 2K for data/source. table 2K for data/source. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2N. Median Rental Costs Type 2012 2022 Change Change in Housing Value Rental Costs $910 $1,766 1 94.1% _ following charts reference information in Table 20. Note:Since no recent ACS data is available for a 10-year comparison,average rental costs for 2022 were researched from a variety of multi-family projects Figure , County with a diversity of configurations(rooms and area).Source:U.S.Census Bureau, American Community Survey(ACS),2012 ACS 1-Year Estimates, Table DP04, generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov<https://data.census. gov/cedsci/> (24 March 2022).2022 values researched by the City of Meridian 2021 $510,987 Planning Division. Housing Value Due to dramatic increases in home values in the Treasure 2016 $zaa,9oo Valley between 2020 and 2021, and the delay or cancellation in receiving more recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, ACS data is not used for more recent data in this 2011 $la7,000 Q section. A more recent local source of housing value data which captures actual selling prices of homes in Meridian is $100,000 $200,000 $300,000 $400,000 $500,000 $600,000 Q) the Intermountain Multiple Listing Service (MLS). MLS tracks i:S trends in the local housing market, and their data may better Median Ada County Sales Price — illustrate historical and current home sale trends. Table 20 N presents the annual average of monthly median sale price for Change o homes in the four Meridian MLS sub-areas. Overall median o sales prices rose dramatically on average over the 2011 to 2021 Meridian,Northwest Oe period. In southwest Meridian, home sales more than doubled, and in the southeast, northeast, and northwest, home sales o Meridian,Northeast more than tripled. Meridian,Southwest 0 The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has historically indicated that any household paying more than 30% owl Meridian,Southeast of its income for housing is paying an excessive percentage of X LU their income for housing. For renters that percentage includes Ada County all utilities, and for home owners that includes taxes, interest, ° and utilities.This is not the only rule,with others recommending 00 000 $400,000 $600,000 splits such as 28/36 (maximum 28%with debt and 36%without debt), and other critical factors such as transportation burden w 2021 o also come into play. As of 2016-2020 ACS data, more than CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 20. Home Sale Values in Ada County and Meridian Income Range 2011 2016 2021 10-Year Change 10-Year% Change Median Price $147,000 $244,900 $510,987 $363,987 247.6% Days On Market 84 44 18 -66 - . Median Single-family Home Value Ada County $147,000 $244,900 $511,900 $364,900t�27181.6200%/o 248.2% Meridian, Southeast $185,000 $275,000 $575,725 $390,725 Meridian, Southwest $265,000 $323,346 $558,521 $293,521 110.8% Meridian, Northeast $160,000 $245,000 $490,000 $330,000 206.3% Meridian, Northwest $144,900 $240,000 $509,990 $365,090 252.0% Source:Intermountain MLS,2071,2076,and 2027 "Yearly Report".Retreived on February 8,2022 from https://imismembers.com/statsPublic-2. N Q • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 20% of Meridian homeowners spend 30% or more of their ° Below:Meadow Lake Village,near Eagle and Franklin. household income on their mortgage. More than 43%of renters � spend 30% or more of their household income on housing related costs. See Table 2M for a comparison of housing costs. — Due to the recent changes in housing value, market rates for o rentals, and income, it's likely that housing burden may be N very different in 2022 for some populations. o a Housing and Urban Development The Meridian Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) ro ram includes a number of initiatives to help the P g P underprivileged.The City of Meridian became an Entitlement U - Community as designated by the U.S. Department of Housing _ and Urban Development (HUD) in the fall of 2006. With the N mow; - Entitlement Community designation,the City receives formula w funds annually through the CDBG program.The City receives approximately $500,000 each year for the Program. Mayor's 2 Office Staff administers Meridian's CDBG Program. Q) The purpose of the CDBG Program is to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable U www.meridiancity.org/compplan l ZAL Cl- Aboye.:All accessibility playground at Meridian•Elementary school,and which utilized CDBG • funding. N living environment and by expanding economic opportunities, The overall direction of Meridian's CDBG Program ablished o principally for low- and moderate-income persons. The City in the Consolidated Plan, which identifies high-level goals funds a variety of activities to meet that end, with several and objectives for.the upcoming five (5) years. Activities the 6 recent examples including: City will undertake are detailed in action plans,which the City 0�1 prepares and submits to HUD annually. Community input is o 1. Rent/mortgage assistance an important component of the CDBG Program with multiple opportunities to provide feedback, including at least two (2) C 2. Homeowner repair public hearings per year. U 0) 3. Boys & Girls Club scholarships N X LU 4. Infrastructure design in targeted areas S. Community amenity improvements such as parks and Q) pathways �i 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Economic Development cost of doing business, strong leadership, and a highly educated Meridian seeks to be a vibrant community whose vision is to be and dynamic workforce has led to Meridian's success. Indeed, the premier city to live, work and raise a family. Fundamental the Treasure Valley and Idaho consistently rank among the to this vision is a strong and diverse business community that best areas in business friendliness, cost of living and overall is "Built for Business and Designed for Living." A high priority cost of doing business. for the city is attracting companies that provide family wage jobs for Meridian's highly educated workforce. Overall, sense of community combined with a low With a vibrant and diverse economic environment, Meridian cost of doing business, strong leadership, and a highly is home to major employers such as Blue Cross of Idaho, CITI Bank, Crucial Technology, Engineering Structures Inc., Scentsy, educated and dynamic workforce has led to Meridian's St. Luke's Regional Medical Center, T-Mobile, and United success. Heritage. Overall, sense of community combined with a low a) a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 Below:New office building at the silverstone business park. An economic development analysis that began in pre-pandemic a- 2020, identified industry and workforce strengths and provides ) a focus for City economic development efforts in the following ~ four industries: c-4 N 0 0 Advanced Manufacturing } 0 0 Health Care a 0 0 Information Technology 0 Professional Services - - c The Business and Economic Vitality focus area, one of six focus 0 areas in the City's 2021-2025 Five-Year Strategic Plan, directly r addresses economic development efforts.The Council-identified N Business and Economic Vitality priority goals and strategies w center around downtown revitalization, utilization of urban renewal, creating family wage jobs, and fostering the four key industry sectors. r ��101. ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan I The COVID-19 Pandemic The pandemic negatively affected countless Meridian businesses, Recent Business Growth especially those in the leisure and hospitality industries whose New Businesses . . Business operations were severely limited or shut down entirely. Some • -. Sign/Decalcomania retail businesses, and especially those offering nonessential * American Credit • •• , • Albertsons goods, also suffered significant losses. - • - :- * Bastian SolutionsBBSI Overall, and despite pandemic-related challenges,the MeridianBerkley North Pacific Group _ Cross of •, • job and commercial real estate markets, like much of the ,• Bucknereven nce Treasure Valley and Idaho, continue to rebound and flourish. • • ,• • Distributing. While many of the recent negative economic impacts of the Covington Engineering can be directly attributed to the pandemic, some believe EngageTechnologies G • . _ Analytics that the pandemic may have exacerbated and/or accelerated _• • uNet other inevitable demographic and market changes including * First American Title * • • Q employment shortages related to aging population, reduced ° birth rates, and changing preferences related to industry FunctionalMedicine • •, • •_ • * Hangar Clinic *practices. ..- s rs Kiln * Harris Business Development and Infrastructure Leyn•• • _ • •. • ■• _• • o The City recognizes the need for infrastructure to be in place (or •, • • - • Osteopathic ' readily available) if it is going to attract employers. Infrastructure Lumber -. Q needs vary depending on the user, but typically roads, sewer •.- • � and water, electric utility facilities, as well as easy access to the ■- • - � highways and railroad, are often key factors in determining ■- •- - •• when and where a business chooses to locate or expand. •n Pharmacy * Keller Associates The cost of not having infrastructure in the right place and - U available at the right time, can harm the housing-jobs balance, ■, ylocity create significant transportation related impacts, and lead to -. POWER EngineersN unrecoverable missed opportunities when land is converted to of Dubuque Red Aspen LU other more easily accommodated uses for short-term demand. • _ Mortgage C3 UnitedCenter * Heritage Therefore,the City strives to be proactive in ensuring sufficient _• infrastructure to support all types of businesses. The City has * Western States Equipment partnered with Idaho Power Company, to plan for possible transmission and substation facilities to accommodate large U www.meridiancity.org/compplan load requests.The City works with ACHD and ITD to ensure that Urban Renewal Districts highways, bridges and intersections are in good repair and can A total of three new urban renewal districts were established accommodate traffic.The City's Public Works Department has in 2020 and 2021, bringing the total number of Meridian master plans for sewer main lines water supply, and wastewater districts to five.While urban renewal districts are administered treatment that will eventually accommodate all of the lands by the Meridian Development Corporation (MDC), a separate within the Area of City Impact. Quality of life is a huge factor legal entity, the City and MDC work closely together to align when a company is selecting a community to do business. goals and strategies that spur private investment resulting Having good schools, parks and supporting services in place in funding for public infrastructure and other improvements help Meridian rise to the top of the class. with district boundaries. Tax increment financing is a method that provides for new revenue generated by private development within a district to be re-invested in specific public improvements within that , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , district. Improvements must be cited in each district urban T Below:Gramercy Park,a mixed use development,west of Eagle Road on Overland Road. renewal plan upon adoption.Of the three new districts including the Northern Gateway, Union District and Linder District, the Linder District is especially job-focused. In late 2021, the City Council and MDC approved the Linder N District in an effort to accelerate and provide additional funding o for the future Linder Road Overpass Project, a joint effort of o the Idaho Transportation Department and the Ada County 0 Highway District which would connect Overland Road to � Franklin Road over I-84.The Linder District encompasses 170 0 acres along the south side of Interstate 84, north of Overland i Road between Linder and Ten Mile Roads. o U - _ - More than $3.5 million in sewer improvements are necessary r i r for this area to develop. To-date, no sole property owner X or developer has been willing to independently front those LU costs. The City and MDC are hopeful that the potential to be reimbursed for required public infrastructure improvements will spur private investment within the Linder District. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2Z. Urban Renewal Districts uJ j Barbara-% gam IStem Academy al r ' Lj Golf Course ^) I . Settler's .` rVill'age E34 I P I Cherry Fairview High �Doral Meridian Y Of Northern - + ' Fuller dalio'clem—� Middles GDist�rict School Park P Meridian Chaparral High School Meridian Elementa Elementary ry � Crossroads Pine Generations Middle Plaza School Centennial c iiCompass Public ti Union park J -Charter School ' City District ' Hall Plaza o 0 I I J ° Franklin Q_ • � I N nlPar — _ Rebound School _ M_ Of Opportunity IT TerrMile Peregrine a N Road Revenue Elementary — ■ p ' Allocation Area School N u Meridian Renaissance Q ' I Urban Renewal#1 So b�er School �� • _ _ I rielcl 0 Legend — ��� — 1?�� .0 RIdaho Icom + State Area of City ■ ♦ University 0 + + Impact J Linder I U ® Meridian D'15trict- Overland Parks ■ School w Property Victory a Middle 0 0.25 0.5 School_ Bea�Creek Miles Park May 2022 Source:City of Meridian Planning Division,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Meridian Business Sectors The two most significant factors in site location decisions are Change in Business Establishments, 2019 to 2021 talent and operating costs'. Anecdotal evidence has shown The following charts reference information •• ' that Meridian, and the Treasure Valley as a whole, lacks the Figure 2AA. Change in Establishments by Total abundance of highly educated talent sought by some employers, especially those in the health care and technology sectors.This ' ' 50 100 150 " 250 300 has been compounded by record periods of low unemployment; Natural Resources employers have reported difficulties in recruiting and engaging Trade, Utilities,Transportation readily available regional talent. Construction Manufacturing In addition, recruiting employees from outside the region has Information become more challenging as housing costs and cost of living Financial Activities overall (see previous section) in the Valley have escalated. Professional Remote work has further impacted recruiting, opening the ••. • ' Healthcare Q regional talent pool to employers based anywhere in the Leisure&Hospitality ° world. Recruiters specifically target talent in desirable regions, Other Services Q_ such as the Treasure Valley, offering higher salaries than local Pub employers, yet still below those in more established metro m Establishments — locations. Local employers are reporting wage increases of N 10 to 20 percent have become the norm to retain and recruitFigure Change o professional talent across all market sectors. o N Much has been written about the Demographic Droughts (and Natural Resources the Great Resignation) and how those trends, and especially Trade, Utilities,Transportationo with other cost of living increases mentioned, are impacting Construction labor markets in all industries. It's notjust employers in higher- o paying industries that are experiencing workforce challenges. InfFinancial Activities U In today's post-pandemic market, the leisure and hospitalityProfessional&Business Services and retail sectors are finding it difficult to secure entry level Education • • Healthcare X workers.While Idaho minimum wage law remains unchanged, . . C market forces appear to have increased that much higher. It is • 0 Public Administration t 4•https://siteselectorsguild.com/site-selectors-survey-reveals-latest trends-in-corporate-location-decisions/ Establishments 0 5 The Demographic Drought.https://www.economicmodeling.com/ demographic-drought/ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2P. Meridian Establishments by Supersector Supersector Establishments Jobs Estabr obs Establishments Jobs Establishments Jobs Natural Resources 23 120 25 112 2 -8 8.7% -6.7% Trade, Utilities,Transportation 586 11,410 716 13,797 130 2,387 22.2% 20.9% Construction 440 4,974 585 5,529 145 555 33.0% 11.2% Manufacturing 106 1,470 130 1,885I 24 415 22.6% 28.2% Information 54 736 680 28 -56 51.9% -7.6% Financial Activities 397 4,140 549 5,227 152 1,087 38.3% 26.3% Professional &Business Services 564 6,717 824 6,820 260 103 46.1% 1.5% Education and Healthcare 580 10,732 775 11,492 195 760 33.6% 7.1% Leisure&Hospitality 301 6,841 351 7,030 50 189 16.6% 2.8% Other Services 227 1,320 273 1,279 46 -41 20.3% -3.1% Public Administration 7 914 6 942 -1 28 -14.3% 3.1% Q 0 Total A 1,031 5,419 CL Source:Idaho Department of Labor,Quarterly Census of Wages&Employment. "Quarter 3".Received on March 7,2022 via e-mail. Q) not unusual to see help wanted signs at fast food franchises Business Establishments C, advertising a $15.00 hourly starting wage. The number of businesses establishments in Meridian increased o Operating costs, arguably the second most important factor during the previous five and ten years—even in two past two 0 years despite the pandemic. As shown in Table 2P, Meridian D in determining business locations, are significantly affected Establishments by Supersector, there was a year-over-year � by real estate costs.The Treasure Valley region has benefited net increase of business establishments through Quarter 3 C from the pandemic-related corporate exodus from larger, of 2021 despite the pandemic. often more established metro regions. This has created new job opportunities— another workforce challenge for existing Much of the new growth in establishments was in the Information, U employers — it has also increased commercial real estate Professional and Business Services, and Financial Activities prices in all market sectors. This increase in value is positive supersectors with established companies opening regional N for landowners and some developers; but represents yet offices or expanding their Treasure Valley presence. While w another challenge for existing companies, and especially those Professional and Business Services had the highest area of operating on small margins. This challenge is particularly establishment growth, there were comparatively fewer jobs prominent in the industrial sector, and many establishments than in other supersectors.The highest supersectors that also � seeking to grow in the eastern half of the region have been saw the most positive job increase are in Financial Activities, o pushed further west to more available, affordable locations. Trade, Utilities, and Transportation, and Manufacturing. _ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan As stated,the City's Retail and Leisure and Hospitality supersectors experienced the greatest pandemic-related setbacks. Despite Change in Employment Groups, 2009 to 2019 this,there is still a net increase in both establishments andjobs The following charts reference information in Table between 2019 and Quarter 3 of 2021.Approximately one-third of Meridian jobs are within the Leisure, Hospitality, and Retail Change in Employment Age Groups supersectors. While these establishments provide valuable 0.0% 20.0% 40.0% •"' goods and services within the community, they are more vulnerable to pandemic-related restrictions and the wages paid %jobs,29oryounger 29.0Uo make it difficult for employees to work and live in Meridian. Worth noting, under the State's current sales tax distribution method, the City does not receive a commensurate share of 0, sales tax revenue collected from Meridian-based businesses, ' •• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . despite often providing increased services and service calls to uses with a regional or larger customer base. 0%%jobs,55 or older o Employment Trends 18.8% a- Q) Employment Group00• Group%2019 Table 2Q overviews detailed employment information in Meridian C,, for the years of 2009, 2014, and 2019. In Meridian, Education o 04 Services, and Health Care and Social Assistance constitute Figure 2AD. Change in Employment Income Groups — about 23% of all jobs. Around 18% of jobs in Meridian are ' ''% 20.0% 40.0% •' '' Q Information, Finance and Insurance, Management of Enterprise, � and Professional Services, and an additional 26% are in Retailjobs, LO Trade or Accommodation and Food Services. In the last ten years the largest increase in Meridian employment o U sectors by total jobs was Retail Trade with almost 4,000, or a 90% increase. At over 3,000 jobs, Health Care and Social `' N Assistance was the second largest job sector increase. The LU largest percent change was in the Information sector at .. U approximately 267%, increasing by over 600jobs from 2009. For overall sector changes, between 2009 and 2019, Construction and Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sectors were 00. ,19 o both up 1.9% and 3.1% respectively. CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2Q. Employment: Meridian Jobs by Sector, Age, and Income GroupSector Description 2009 2014 2019 Change % Change Group % . to 2019 i • to 19 2009 2014 2019 0• to 19 #of jobs,age 29 or younger 8,970 10,320 1 15,350 6,380 71 29.0% 26.7% 28.6% -0.4% #of jobs, age 30 to 54 17,650 21,870 28,230 10,580 59.9% 57.0% 56.5% 52.6% -4.4% #of jobs, age 55 or older 4,320 6,520 10,070 5,750 133.1% 14.0% 16.8% 18.8% 4.8% #of jobs, $1250/month or less 9,740 11,370 13,360 3,620 37.2% 31.5% 29.4% 24.9% -6.6% #of jobs, $1251 to $3333/month 13,360 15,670 19,790 6,430 4 43.2% 40.5% 36.9% -6.3% #of jobs, greater than $3333/month 7,830 11,680 20,500 12,670 161.89/o 25.3% 30.2% 38.2% 12.9% Jobs by Sector Agriculture, Forestry,Game 120 110 90 (30) -25.0% 0.4% 0.3% 0.2% -0.2% Mining and Extraction . 20 WM (10) -100.0% 0.0% 0.1% ■ 0.0% 0.0% Utilities 10 20 10 - 0.0% 0.0% 0.1% 0.0% 0.0% Construction 2,310 3,120 5,030 2,720 117.7% 7.5% 8.1% ■ 9.4% ' 1.9% Manufacturing 1,160 1,400 1,620 460 39.7% 3.8% 3.6% 3.0% -0.7% Wholesale Trade 1,860 1,730 2,290 430 23.1% 6.0% 4.5% 4.3% ' -1.8% 0 Retail Trade 4,280 6,190 8,140 3,860 90.2% 13.9% 16.0% 15.2% 1.3% L Transportation and Warehousing 930 690 1,400 470 50.5% 3.0% 1.8% 2.6% ' -0.4% �s Information 240 270 880 640 266.7% 0.8% 0.7% 1.6% 0.9% 04 04 Finance and Insurance 2,000 2,380 3,780 1,780 89.0% 6.5% 6.2% 7.1% 0.6% o Real Estate 250 390 670 420 168.0% 0.8% 1.0% 1.3% 0.4% 0 Professional Services 1,640 2,110 4,520 2,880 175.6% 5.3% 5.5% 8.4% 3.1% Management of Enterprise 280 330 210 (70) -25.0% 0.9% 0.9% 0.4% -0.5% N Administrative and Support Services 2,730 2,780 3,710 980 35.9% 8.8% 7.2% 6.9% -1.9% 0 Educational Services 3,140 3,660 4,470 1,330 42.4% 10.2% 9.5% 8.3% -1.8% C: 0 Health Care and Social Assistance 4,480 6,970 7,790 3,310 73.9% 14.5% 18.0% 14.5% 0.0% U Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 570 980 1,080 510 89.5% 1.8% 2.5% 2.0% 0.2% C Accommodation and Food Services 3,520 4,070 5,570 2,050 58.2% 11.4% 10.5% 10.4% -1.0% •X w Other Services 580 650 1,210 630 108.6% 1.9% 1.7% 2.3% 0.4% C Public Administration 750 790 1,100 350 46.7% 2.4% 2.0% 2.1% 0 -0.4% Total Number of Jobs N Note:Values by year are rounded to the nearest ten. This informations is a LODES data product constrained to the Meridian Area of City Impact.It is composed of administrative 0 records,census and survey data focused on the labor market,worker,and firm statistics.State unemployment insurance reporting and account information and federal worker earnings >, records which provide information on employment location for covered jobs and residential information for workers.Source:U.S. Census Bureau.2022.LEHD Origin-Destination U Employment Statistics 2079.Retrieved on April 28,2022 from LODES 7.5 via R Statistical Census API. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2AE. Change in Meridian Unemployment Rate 12.0% Apr,11.3% 10.0% 8.0% E I I I I I I I I C 6.0% a E I I I I Dec,2.2% c 4.0% 0 2.0% 0.0% _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U a o , a o , Q , o Q o Q o a o a o a o a o a o N M Ln lD I, 00 Ql O N N 1-1 —4 ci —4 —4 —4 —1 .--I N N N O O O O O O O O O O O O O N N N N N N N N N N N CL O Note:See source link for complete table of values.Source:U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics,Local Area Unemployment Statistics, "Unemployment Rate:Meridian city,ID(U)".Accessed on May 3,2022 from https.//beta.bls.gov/dataViewer/view/timeseries/LAUCT 165212000000003 N N 0 As shown in Figure 2AC and 2AD, changes in age and wage The data collection between these sources vary, but generally } groups associated with these jobs were diverse. Overall and align in direction and change, and are helpful to show detailed a consistent with general demographic changes,the 55 and older historic information aligned with more general recent data. � group increased by 4.8%of the overall employment workforce. Figure 2AF shows the origin-destination of employees for c The largest increase both by total jobs and by percent wage jobs in Meridian. group were those that are $3,333 or higher (this wage group is now low, but would have once been family-wage). Unemployment U Unemployment continues to be low in Meridian since the Table 2P also shows newjobs associated with new establishments pandemic spike in April of 2020, with a February and March N for 2019 through Quarter 3 of 2021. As of March 2022, there X are an estimated 62,683 jobs in Meridian'.This is an increase of 2022 rate of 2.6%. Meridian' lowest rate of unemployment U 16.8%from the more detailed 2019 data available in Table 2Q. in the last 10 years was 2.2% (2.7%for Idaho), and the overall a 10-year average rate was just 3.7% (4.4% for Idaho). Figure a 2AE shows unemployment changes over the last 10-years in ]�i b U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics,Local Area Unemployment Meridian.This data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is o Statistics, "Employment:Meridian city,ID (U)".Accessed on May 3,2022 from https://beta.bls.gov/dataViewer/view/timeseries/ subject to revision. LAUCT165212000000005. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan ------------ • EAGLE ` r - - - - - - - - -r 1 I Bosse River B � I b g1b.I Ai ii 55` - � ���� �- . ���`�►i. i / •_fir► �''' 'R�i�►, i� _ �ii:.►a �_ 1� Awn MW - - "��ice= • �� '��'\��° ,i �� ' Boise.2G -� 21 4 5 J I 69 Im ' i e 84 • • •• ••• • • •• • • •• • • • •• • • • •• • • • • '• • • • •• • • • r • • •• • •• - . . . . .. . 2-29 Table 2R. Labor Force: Meridian Resident Jobs by Sector, Age, and Income ChangeSector Description 2009 2014 2019 Change % Change Group% Group% Group % 1 Group #of jobs,age 29 or younger 6,110 8,020 11,250 5,140 84.1% 23.6% 20.7% 22.6% -1.0% #of jobs, age 30 to 54 15,970 24,180 28,730 12,760 79.9% 61.7% 62.3% 57.7% -4.0% #of jobs, age 55 or older 3,810 6,610 9,810 6,000 157.5% 14.7% 17.0% 19.7% 5.0% #of jobs, $1250/month or less 6,960 9,310 10,500 3,540 50.9% 26.9% 24.0% 21.1% -5.8% #of jobs, $1251 to $3333/month 10,080 13,540 15,190 5,110 50.7% 38.9% 34.9% 30.5% 1 -8.4% #of jobs, greater than $3333/month 8,860 15,970 24,090 15,230 171.9% 34.2% 41.1% 48.4% 14.2% Jobs by Sector Agriculture, Forestry,Game 210 260 280 70 33.3% 0.8% 0.7% 0.6% -0.2% Mining and Extraction . 30 110 50 20 66.7% 0.1% . 0.3% 'W0.1% 0.0% Utilities 100 220 210 110 110.0% 0.4% 0.6% 0.4% 0.0% Construction 1,440 1,960 3,290 1,850 128.5% 5.6% FM 5.1% W 6.6% 1.0% Manufacturing 2,360 3,300 3,720 1,360 57.6% 9.1% 8.5% 7.5% -1.7% Q Wholesale Trade 1,270 1,970 2,370 1,100 86.6% 4.9% I 5.1% 4.8% -0.1% 0 Retail Trade 3,090 4,870 5,990 2,900 93.9% 12.0% 12.6% 12.0% 0.1% L Transportation and Warehousing 850 1,020 1,490 640 75.3% 3.3% I 2.6% 3.0% -0.3% Information 530 680 830 300 56.6% 2.1% 1.8% 1.7% -0.4% N 04 Finance and Insurance 1,170 1,730 2,390 1,220 104.3% 4.5% I 4.5% 4.8% 0.3% o Real Estate 330 460 650 320 97.0% 1.3% 1.2% 1.3% 0.0% 0 Professional Services 1,440 2,230 3,360 1,920 133.3% 5.6% I 5.8% 6.8% 1.2% C Management of Enterprise 470 590 810 340 72.3% 1.8% 1.5% 1.6% -0.2% � Administrative and Support Services 2,210 3,080 3,610 1,400 63.3% 8.6% l 7.9% 7.3% -1.3% 0 Educational Services 2,170 3,270 3,780 1,610 74.2% 8.4% 8.4% 7.6% -0.8% C: 0 Health Care and Social Assistance 3,570 6,000 7,820 4,250 119.0% 13.8% 15.5% 15.7% 1.9% U Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 350 560 820 470 134.3% 1.4% 1.4% 1.6% 0.3% Accommodation and Food Services 2,100 2,900 3,940 1,840 87.6% 8.1% 7.5% 7.9% -0.2% X w Other Services 680 1,010 1,410 730 107.4% 2.6% 2.6% 2.8% 0.2% O Public Administration 1,460 2,540 2,890 1,430 97.9% 5.7% 6.6% 5.8% 0.2% Total Number of Jobs 25,900 38,820 49,790 N Note:Values by year are rounded to the nearest ten. This information is a LODES data product constrained to the Meridian Area of City Impact.It is composed of administrative records, census and survey data focused on the labor market,worker,and firm statistics.State unemployment insurance reporting and account information and federal worker earnings records >, which provide information on employment location for covered jobs and residential information for workers.Source:U.S.Census Bureau.2022.LEHD Origin-Destination Employment U Statistics 2019.Retrieved on April 28,2022 from LODES 7.5 via R Statistical Census API. www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Labor Force 0 Change in Labor Force Groups, 2009 to 2019 As shown in Table 2R, Meridian's labor force much like its The following charts reference • • • • " 2R. population has grown;the labor force grew substantially from Figure 2AG. Change in Employment Age Groups just over 30,000 in 2009 to over 49,000 in 2019.This labor force demands jobs that are very different from those employment opportunities available in Meridian though; Meridian residents 23.65 takejobs throughout the Treasure Valley.The largest sectors for %jobs,29 or younger Meridian residents by a wide margin are those in Health Care and Social Services; approaching 16.0% of the labor force. In the last 10 years the biggest sector change for residents was 0, also Health Care and Social Services, increasing in both the total number of jobs (over 4,000), and as a percent of all jobs. Similar to the employment age groups, the Meridian labor a jobs, older force has increased in age. There was a 5.0% increase in age ° for the 55 and older group, between 2009 and 2019. There CL a) was also a higher change in jobs providing monthly income "' m Group%2019 of $3,333 or more, increasing by 14.2% of all jobs since 2009. — N N As of March of 2022, Meridian's labor force is estimated at o EmploymentFigure 2AH. Change in } �, �, �, .� �, 64,357'. This is an increase of 29.0% from the detailed 20190. a data available in Table 2R. 0 Jobs Access o less 21.1% Being located at the population and job center of the metropolitan area, it's natural for residents and workers to U commute. Being able to choose to live in one place and ' work elsewhere provides greater flexibility in priorities for } N home location, schools, amenities, access to services, and w ,, greater than34.2% places to retreat. This is even more true for households with multiple workers. For some, issues with both housing cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2009 7 U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics,Local Area Unemployment Statistics, "Labor Force:Meridian city,ID (U)".Accessed on May o 3,2022 from https://beta.bls.gov/datoViewer/view/timeseries/ ftz LAUCT165212000000006. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2AI. Meridian Employment to Meridian Labor Force Comparison This figure is an overall comparison of the 2019 job sectors that the Meridian labor force (residents) are employed in, to the employment(jobs) available in Meridian. Equilibrium is zero, with larger values, negative or positive, representing extremes. See Tables 2Q and 2R for data and sources, and the Jobs Access section for other narrative. Employment Shortfall Labor Force Shortfall (2,500) (2,000) (1,500) (1,000) (500) - 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 Agriculture,Forestry,Game (190) Mining and Extraction (50) Utilities (200) Construction 1,740 , • Manufacturing (2,300) • , Wholesale Trade (80) Retail Trade - 2,150 Transportation and Warehousing (90) Information 50 • Finance and Insurance L,390 • Real Estate 20 Professional Services 1,160 Management of Enterprise (600) • • Administrative and Support Services 100 • Educational Services ! - 690 • Health Care and Social Assistance (30) Arts,Entertainment,and Recreation 26 Accommodation and Food Services 1,630 • • Other Services (200) , Public Administration (1,790) • - . . . . .. . 2-32 Table 2S. Meridian Commercial Vacancy OccupiedType Buildings Total SF Office 446 5,993,153 5,625,407 367,746 6.14% Industrial 260 6,483,617 6,419,427 64,190 0.99% Retail 130 5,208,293 499,055 216,238 4.15% Total SF 836 17,685,063 12,543,889 648,174 3.67% Source:TOK Commercial Real Estate,Boise Valley Information. "Vacancy Reports".Accessed on May 3,2022 from https://www.tokcommercial.com/boise-msa. and transportation burden can quickly restrict this freedom, The Commercial Real Estate Market and for others increasing congestion may influence previous The commercial real estate market has experienced some of priorities for home and job location over time. Finally, evolving its highest and lowest vacancy rates over the past two years. opportunities for remote work may increase opportunities for Of particular note, the Meridian industrial vacancy rate has some and further restrict opportunities for others. remained under one percent for nearly two years. One major a) Never-the-less, comparing the Meridian labor force to Meridian driver is the increased demand for warehouse and distribution o employment (jobs) by sectors, provides for interesting space,the result of pandemic-related increases in e-commerce � comparisons.The sector with the largest"surplus",those jobs sales as well as population increases in the region resulting Q) where the Meridian labor force could not fill the positions, in enough local demand for operators to justify a regional presence in the market. is Retail Trade with over 2,000 jobs. Construction is second N with just over 1,700 jobs, and the Accommodation and Food CD Warehouse/distribution uses require considerable square o Services sector is third with over 1,600 jobs. The sector with footage and the use typically does not generate a significant o the largest deficit, where the jobs do not exist in Meridian a even if the labor force wanted them, is Manufacturing with a number of jobs despite the large footprint. Large users and � deficit of over 2,000 jobs. The second largest sector deficit is large vehicle distribution often have more significant impacts Public Administration with almost 1,800 jobs. on transportation networks by reducing intersection efficiency o and bottle necks at access points, and may push out family t Figure 2AJ shows the origin-destination of jobs for Meridian wage jobs and services requiring other users to then also travel U residents. While a large number of Meridian residents do further.While these uses are necessary, they generally do not 0) work in the City, most commute outward. Several areas of meet the goal of increasing family wage jobs and should be concentration include Manufacturing in the Census Tract contained to areas where both the land use and transportation w around Micron Technology, and the Public Administration and network were planned for them. Healthcare jobs in Downtown Boise and the Central Bench. There are many industrial users that bring family wagejobs at higherjobs/square foot.Conversely,when considering business retention, there are essential supply and service businesses 0 necessary to serve the existing business community, regardless ftz U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 1 1 �I \ • I 1MIDDLETON 6 44 Boise River- i Jim slim. 'PAP ---.mom 0-1 I • Boise RiG�r 1 • kill' _ 45 I ��691&1 �I I I • ° • •• ■■■ ice. \\' e - . . . . .. . 2-34 of wages and jobs/square foot. A balanced business and the majority of the growth. Nearly 753,000 square feet was economic base is essential to ensure jobs for residents as well added in 2020 by new projects (60.5% of the total square feet as a community's fiscal health and stability.The residential-to- added in 2020); More than 373,500 square feet added in 2021 commercial land use ratio should be monitored as well as the (46.5% of the total square feet added in 2021). balance of specific uses within commercial zones to maintain this balance if the City is to continue focus on family wage jobs. As of April 11, 2022,the Office vacancy in Meridian is at 6.14%, Industrial vacancy is at 0.99%, and Retail vacancy is at 4.15%1. Market Statistics While overall Industrial vacancy is low, there is a very high Despite the remaining uncertainties from the Pandemic, the vacancy of Class A Multi-Tenant industrial buildings. Virtually Meridian office market saw the greatest square footage increases all new industrial space permitted is the same configuration across the three commercial real estate segments in both 2020 of large warehouse style configurations. and 2021. New construction at Ten Mile Crossing, El Dorado, In 2021,the City received 98 inquiries from existing and potential Eagle View Landing, and Silverstone projects accounted for new businesses. The majority of these inquiries came from a) companies interested in siting manufacturing operations in o Below:Aerial view of.the plaza,in The Village•at Meridian.. • . . . . . . . . . . . . Meridian. Most of these requests could not be accommodated due to a lack of readily available and appropriate space, or Q) -xA� due to undeveloped acreage with existing services. .416. f Meridian Chamber of Commerce o } The Meridian Chamber of Commerce is a membership °Q - organization, supported by member investment and the committed involvement of leaders in the Meridian business community.The Chamber provides ways to become involved o in the community through leadership opportunities, business advocacy, networking, and promotion of individual businesses'. o �= 4 The Chamber is in the business of building relationships U between the business community, government, and the rest of the community to maintain a healthy economy and quality X of life in Meridian. The Meridian Chamber of Commerce is a U key partner in the City's economic development efforts. • aD r 8 TOK Commercial Real Estate,Boise Valley Information. "Vacancy Reports".Accessed on May 3,2022 from https://www.tokcommercial. PIF . com/boise-msa. O 1 = 9 Meridian Chamber of Commerce. "About".Access on June 2,2022 ftZ A from https://meridianchamber.org/about/. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT Land Use, Transportation, and the previous section (population, demographics, etc.) and Community Design the background information and analysis that follows later This chapter discusses the framework for land use and in the report on other planning components (public services, development in the City of Meridian and its Area of City utilities, recreation, etc.) Impact (AOCI). As required by Idaho State Statute, analysis Q) on Land Use, Transportation, Public Airport Facilities, and This section of the report is organized by outlining: land E Community Design components of the Comprehensive Plan ownership, land use, transportation, and community design. o are provided in this section of the Existing Conditions Report. This portion of the report also includes a brief summary of These components bridge the gap between the topics from future land uses,transportation trends, and community design o principles. Below:Vacant land near Citibank,in the Silverstone business ark. E P The primary purpose of the Land Use discussion is to broadly E frame the topics of zoning and future land uses, to define the o area of city impact, and to include a brief summary of special U planning areas. The purpose of the Transportation portion of — the chapter is to explain how roads are classified and used in o the region and how planning for future facilities is done. An } explanation on funding for transportation projects is provided a as well as how roadways are starting to evolve into complete 0 streets. An overview of pathways, transit and travel lanes is provided. Further, some basic information is included on Public o rP � w Airport Facilities within the Transportation section. 34 O s "'• ;:, r �i The purpose of the Community Design discussion is to provide a framework for how Meridian will ensure the City remains } z dM.Q a great place to live, work, and raise a family. This section w overviews the City's design review process, and efforts to c enhance livability and quality of life in the community. •. �At. ftZ U www.rneridioncity.org/comppIan Table 3A. Non-private Parcel Ownership in the AOCI Land Ownership Name Acres % of AOCII Land within the corporate City boundaries and the Area of Federal(Subtotal) 66.7 0.20% City of Impact are controlled by a mix of private and public Bureau of Reclamation 63.6 0.19% ownerships, with a large majority of the land (93.5%) being Postal Service 3.0 0.01% held privately. The remaining 6.5% is owned by West Ada State(Subtotal) 99.8 0.30% School District, City of Meridian, Federal Government, State Board of Education 22.0 0.07% Government, other local agencies, and various utilities. The State Police 50.2 0.15% amount of privately-owned land in Meridian is substantial Transportation Department 27.6 0.08% when compared to the County as a whole, where Ada County parcel records show that over 45%, of the total land area is Idaho State University 16.3 o.o5°i° Q federally owned, and combined with State ownership, is over Department of Lands 2.4 0.01% 50% of total parcel area. Table 3A summarizes non-private Local(Subtotal) 1,872.4 5.54% I Q land ownership within the Area of City Impact. Ada County 19.1 0.06% Ada County Highway District 91.7 0.27% Figure 3A. Comparison of Private to Non-private Land Area City of Meridian 800.6 2.37% E Meridian Cemetery District 30.6 0.09% U Acres, 2,182.4,6.5% West Ada School District 886.4 2.62% - Western Ada Recreation District 25.1 0.07% N 0 Meridian Rural Fire District 9.2 0.03% . . . . . . } Other 9.7 0.03% Q Utility(Subtotal) 143.5 0.43% � N :.:. Idaho Power 21.9 0.06% o Intermountain Gas 65.7 0.19% c .'.'.'. Nampa &Meridian Irrigation District 43.4 0.13% O U . Northwest Pipeline 4.1 0.01% 0) . . . . . . . . . Acres, Phyllis Canal Company 4.4 0.01% } 31,586.5, Pioneer Irrigation District 4.0 0.01% w 93.5% c Other 0.5 0.00% O ■Non-Private Land OAII Other Land Total Non-private Land 2,182.4 6.46% N Note:See table 3A. All Other Land 31,586.5 93.54% � Total Parcel Area in AOCI 33,768.9 100.00% 0 016 ftZ Source:City of Meridian Planning Division,March 2022 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Zoning & Land Use Zoning and land use are a physical expression of the community. Identification and analysis of a City's existing development patterns provides a basis for future land use decisions. Because " the City of Meridian has experienced such rapid growth and expansion over the past few decades, it is important to more regularly inventory current land uses and then determine how further development should occur. For more information on these inventories, see the annual City of Meridian Land Use and Development Report.' 0- As a property requests to annex or rezone within the City, - - -- - — > the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) of the Comprehensive Plan - 0 directs the appropriate zoning district of that property. E Zoning Districts o . . The City of Meridian maintains a Zoning Map that depicts Above:Vacant land around High School U zoning districts of the City.There are 16 zoning districts listed Below:Looking west from Kleiner Park,towards The Village power center. N in the Unified Development Code (UDC) for use within the o incorporated limits of the City.The following is a brief summary } of zoning districts by group. Descriptions are taken from the 0 Unified Development Code (UDC). See also the UDC for a complete zoning related information.' 0 D Residential. The purpose of the residential districts is to provide for a range of housing opportunities g 0 consistent with the Meridian Comprehensive Plan. Residential districts are distinguished by the dimensional standards of each corresponding zone Y X LU and housing types that can be accommodated. Included zoning districts: R-2; R-4; R-8; R-15; and RAO. �1. I o 1 Land Use and'Development Report:https:Hmeridiancity.org/planning. _ 2 Unified Development Code:https://meridiancity.org/planning/UDC. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 Commercial: The purpose of the commercial districts warehousing, and distributing. In accord with the is to provide for the retail and service needs of Meridian Comprehensive Plan. Included zoning the community in accordance with the Meridian districts: I-L and I-H. Note: I-H is a heavy industrial Comprehensive Plan. These districts differ in the size district and does not currently zoned anywhere in the and scale of commercial structures accommodated in City. the district, the scale and mix of allowed commercial 0 Traditional Neighborhood: The purpose of the uses, and the location of the district in proximity to traditional neighborhood districts is to encourage streets and highways. Included zoning districts: C-N; mixed use, compact development that is sensitive C-C; C-G; L-O; M-E; and H-E. Q) to the environmental characteristics of the land and 0 Industrial: The purpose of the industrial districts facilitates the efficient use of services. Vertically o are to provide for convenient employment centers integrated residential projects are encouraged in a) of light manufacturing, research and development, all traditional neighborhood districts. A traditional o neighborhood district diversifies and integrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . land uses within close proximity to each other, and Below:Look in south east from the Silverstone business ark. g p it provides for the daily recreational and shopping E needs of the residents. Included zoning districts: O-T, E TN-C; and TN-R. U Future Land Uses N 0 In 2022, the City of Meridian has over 21,000 acres within its } municipal boundaries.At full build out, Meridian is anticipated a to incorporate approximately 39,000 acres.This build out area is known as the Area of City Impact (AOCI). The Future Land Use Map (FLUM) portrays locations for the various land use types throughout the AOCI. The FLUM's primary purpose is to define and map future land uses so that development U occurs in the direction and manner most desired by Meridian's 0) -- _ stakeholders.The FLUM works in conjunction with the text of N the Comprehensive Plan, city code, and the various policies of w - - the City. However, the FLUM is not a zoning map and differs in that it describes the character and type of the use that is desired in the future, and not necessarily what currently exists. Over time, however, the FLUM has also evolved to depict o where some existing land uses exist. For example, existing ftZ www.meridioncity.org/compplan schools, parks, fire stations and other civic and private uses 0 Commercial —These areas are intended to provide a are depicted on the FLUM. full-range of commercial and retail services for area residents and visitors. The FLUM depicts a built-out Meridian that is very diverse in 0 Office—These areas provide opportunities for residential densities, commercial and industrial land uses, and low-impact business areas including: personal and public/quasi-public opportunities. While the FLUM depicts professional offices, technology and resource centers. many types of land use designations, they can be broadly divided into eight basic categories: 0 Employment—These land uses designations, for use primarily within the Ten Mile Interchange specific 0 Residential —These areas are intended to provide area plan (see section on Specific Area Plans), E a variety of housing types. Uses include a range of are intended to support a variety of office and o densities varying from large estate lots to multi- manufacturing uses of varying intensity, along with Q) family homes. supporting and complimentary secondary uses. o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 Industrial —These areas are designated to allow a Below:End of the Main Street and Meridian Road couplet,north. .of.Frankl.in Road.. . . . . . range of industrial uses to support industrial and commercial activities. Uses may include warehouses, E storage units, light and heavy industry such as manufacturing and processing. U y -- 0 Old Town —This area includes the historic downtown N and the core community activity center, and is a o unique type of Mixed Use. A wide variety of land uses o .� are encouraged and envisioned in Old Town. 0 Mixed Use —These areas incorporate a variety of different, but complimentary and compatible land - - - uses together. These areas are typically situated in highly visible or transitioning areas of the City, ° and vary in intensity and allowed uses. Most future 0) commercial and office uses are anticipated to occur N within these mixed use areas, along with some higher w density and transitional residential uses. 4-r••� 0 Civic and Utility—These areas preserve and protect aD municipal, state, and Federal lands for use as parks, ]�i 4 schools, and quasi-public uses. o U www.meridianc1ty.org/comppIan Figure 3B. Meridian Area of City Impact (AOCI) For detailed descriptions of each specific land use, as well as associated policies regarding development, see Chapter 3 of State ywy,aa the full City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan. Area of City Impact 1 In accord with section 67-6526 of Idaho Code, an Area of City Chin den a . - . - . . . Impact (AOCI) has been established for Meridian (see Figure r 313). The City's AOCI is the future planning area for the City, c where annexation and development in Meridian is anticipated. E a ,+� McMillan Although all properties are not yet incorporated, planning o responsibilities for lands within the AOCI rest with the City ust;ck of Meridian. 0 ' The City's AOCI is negotiated with Ada County, pursuant to Cherry Fairview the Local Land Use Planning Act (LLUPA), Idaho Code section Pine �, 67-65. Within the City's AOCI, unincorporated properties are o Franklin �� governed by Ada County for day-to-day administration of U zoning matters. However,the County uses the City's adopted Overland �� _ Comprehensive Plan and the negotiated agreement in the o administration of those duties. Ada County has applied a `�' w Rural Urban Transition (RUT) zoning district to most of the a Victory i properties within the City's AOCI. The RUT zone allows five- (D i acre-lots, single-family residential development, as well as c Amity ' agricultural-related uses and a range of conditional uses. To g Meridian d develop with urban-level intensities,the owner/developer must • request services from the City of Meridian. Such services include Boundaries = O + + Area of City Lake Hazel •'— sanitary sewer, water, fire, police, parks, transportation, and • • Impact libraries. The City (with rare exception) will not provide such } City Limits Columbia ' services unless the property annexes into the City.All County w 0 0.5 1 2 L lY ; - ; 9 development applications within the AOCI are reviewed by the 100001�.Miles = �� City of Meridian for compliance with the Comprehensive Plan March2022 m Hubbard and applicable City policies. The importance of cooperating with Ada County is imperative 0 Source:City of Meridian,2022. to successful, long-term land use, transportation, and utility U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Y l E 0- 0 N > N Q E E O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c sure adopted U ve:Interstate 84 and Meridian Road in e,looking south-west. �'irpf planning (such as water and sewer).There are very significant Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan } financial implications for not doing so. As such, the City of A specific plan was developed in 2007 for approximately 2,800 a Meridian is committed to fulfilling the terms of its Area of City acres bordered roughly by Linder Road to the east, McDermott � Impact Agreement with Ada County, and in working regional Road to the west, the Union Pacific Railroad line to the north, o partners such as COMPASS which has developed a fiscal impact and 1/2-mile south of Overland Road on the south. The Ten tool to consider land use entitlements.; Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan includes specific land use X designations, a planned transportation network, and design U Special Planning Areas guidelines. In addition to the general citywide land use designations X described above, more detailed plans have also been developed Destination Downtown (Urban Renewal) U for special areas of the City. These Specific Area Plans were The Destination Downtown vision plan was developed in 2009 ° developed with heavy stakeholder input to provide additional and outlines a vision and marketing strategy for strengthening narrative and specific detail into how development should downtown Meridian's role in the community.The planning area ]�i for Destination Downtown encompasses not only the historic o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . areas of downtown, but also the entire urban renewal district ftz 3 https://www.compassidaho.org/prodserv/fscaIimpact.htm U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan extending from Fairview Avenue/Cherry Lane to Interstate Meridian's transportation challenge is planning for and 84.The City's original Urban Renewal #1 district, which aligns accommodating regional growth, by working with the with Destination Downtown, will expire in the next few years. transportation agencies to meet the existing and future transportation service demand. Collaborative land use and Fields Subarea Plan transportation planning can relieve Meridian's unique traffic The Fields Subarea Plan was adopted in 2021 and covers congestion burden. approximately 4 square miles in the northwest corner of the City.The Fields Subarea Plan is an opportunity to plan for one Roadway Authority of the City's last growth areas, in a way that aligns with the The City does not have any authority to build or maintain Q) Vision described in the full City of Meridian Comprehensive public roadways.The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) o Plan; continues to grow the employment base; and integrates has authority over the highways and interstate system in a) high-quality neighborhoods, parks and pathways, and schools. Meridian: 1-84, SH-69, SH-55, SH-16 and US 20-26. The Ada o A central mixed-use activity center will serve as a hub for County Highway District (ACHD) owns and maintains all of the surrounding neighborhoods, and is a feature element of the public, non-ITD roads in Ada County.The Community Planning Fields Subarea Plan. Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS) is the region's E Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and is charged o Transportation with air quality conformity and maintaining the long-range U transportation plan for Ada and Canyon counties.Valley Regional Meridian is situated in the center of the metropolitan area and Transit (VRT) is the regional public transportation authority N bisected by the interstate and several highways.This location for Ada and Canyon counties. City staff and elected officials CD o is prime for connecting people, goods and services both serve on several transportation agency groups, committees, o local and through the Pacific Northwest to Inter-Mountain and boards. Although the City does not have authority, it 0 West. Today, Meridian's transportation network is composed spends a considerable amount of time and effort to work with � primarily of roadways.Although the local network of pathways, ACHD, ITD, COMPASS, and VRT to plan for the needs of the o sidewalks, and bicycle facilities is growing. Transit is available community and ensure that the transportation agencies make via dial-a-ride services for seniors, Veterans, and persons decisions that are in the best interest of the City. o with disabilities, as well as limited stops on inter-county bus U routes that run on weekdays between Nampa-Caldwell and Transportation Commission Meridian-Boise.The rail corridor through Meridian has a long N and rich history, and still moves freight. The City and Valley In addition to many workgroups, regional advisory committees, „� Regional Transit (VRT) are exploring local transit routes for and other transportation agency based groups, in which City the near-future, and Community Planning Association of staff participates,the City has also established a Transportation Southwest Idaho (COMPASS) is exploring high-capacity transit Commission that meets monthly.The Commission is made up in long-range plans. The future holds promise for expanded of nine voting members and six non-voting ex-officio members. o modes of transport and new types of service. Members on the Commission are made up of Meridian citizens, ftZ business owners or employees, and transportation professionals U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Figure 3C. Functional Classification with technical expertise and/or education. In aggregate, the - Commission provides a broad, city-wide perspective on State yivyraa transportation issues. Appointments to the Commission are made by the Mayor with City Council approval. The Meridian Transportation Commission's primary responsibilities include reviewing traffic safety and transportation matters such Ghinilen r as: speed limits, meeting the needs of the traveling public, safe routes to schools, etc. that are brought before them either McMillan by City Staff, a transportation agency or a member of the Q 9 public, and in making recommendations to the City Council o as warranted. > Usticli 0 Roadway Network c ITD Functional Cherry Fairview As shown in Table 313, Meridian has almost 650 centerline miles Classification of roadway today, including state highways and the interstate. o lamigPine + + Area City Local roadways makeup the largest share of this area, and U Impact Frankli + + n c Functional Class —g" have increased by over 50 lane miles in just five years. The — southern portion of Meridian is bisected from the northern C�',, Interstate overland �� J p part of town by Interstate 84 (1-84). N Other m Highway W O Principal victory Meridian's roadways are described in terms of a hierarchy of 0 Arterial t streets, known as a functional classification system which involves V) Minor Arterial grouping roadways into classes according to the character of o Major ._�;amity service they are intended to provide.This system,which is used Collector in some variation by the ACHD,Ada County,COMPASS, ITD,and o Minor Lake Hazel the City, classifies roads and highways into three classifications: U Collector ' arterials (further divided into principal and minor), collectors, Local Street ; and local streets (which includes private streets). X Columbia Lu r p ` w 0 o.s 1 z Miles p Principal arterials facilitate statewide and interstate o � � Ma 2022 g 11 Hubd - transport, involve longer trip lengths, carry high volumes of traffic, and should have a minimal number of access points. o Source:City of Meridian,2022. ftz www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 313. Roadway Miles by Classificaion Year 2017 2022 2017 to 2022 Interstate and State Highways Miles %of All Miles %of All Change Change (Miles) (%) There are four state highways that traverse Meridian and have Interstate 13.5 2.3% 13.5 2.1% 0.0 0.0% a significant influence on the transportation system: Interstate 8.2 1.4% 8.2 1.3% + 0.0 + 0.0% Ramps 0 US 20-26/Chinden Boulevard: US 20-26 serves as Principal 669 112% 641 99% - 28 -41% the northern boundary of Meridian's Area of City Arterial . . . . . . Impact east of Linder Road and west of McDermott Minor and bisects the Area of City Impact between 61.9 10.4% 61.7 9.6% -0.2 -0.3% N Arterial the aforementioned. Widening to four lanes is E Collector 18.8 3.1% 18.8 2.9°�° + o.o + o.o°�° currently underway, and the improvements are o being constructed to accommodate future widening Local 427.7 71.6% 479.7 74.3% + 52.0 + 12.2% to six lanes. This roadway needs to be protected from multiple access points and preserved as a Q_ Note:Arterial reductions are due to a reduced Area of City Impact since 2017. high capacity corridor (see the US 20-26 Access Source:City of Meridian Planning Division,March 2022. Management Plan.) The City of Meridian has E ordinances and development standards that preserve E 0 Minor arterials provide long-distance access, mainly the highway as a major regional transportation U within the state and region. These include medium facility, connecting the cities of Nampa, Caldwell, - traffic volume streets to and from other arterials and Star, Meridian, Eagle and Boise. The City supports o the freeway. beautification and appropriate sound mitigation N 0 Collectors serve to link local roads with other measures along the Chi Boulevard corridor. o a collectors/arterials or connect one arterial to another 0 State Highway 16 (future extension): In 2014, SH 16 0 through a given mile. Typically, they provide direct was constructed as an expressway across the Boise c service to residential areas. River, from State Highway 44 in Eagle to US 20-26 in ° Ada County. Phase II of the extension will traverse 0 Local streets serve to provide direct access to 0 abutting residential and commercial areas and should further through the north-west region of the City U be for local traffic movement. Through traffic is from US 20-26 to I-84. Construction of Phase II is discouraged. anticipated to begin in 2022. This is the next critical N step to providing regional mobility for citizens from „X The ACHD Livable Street Design Guide and Master Street north Ada County and Gem County to I-84 and south Map are integral tools for reviewing development application Ada County. Phase III will be a future project and alignment with functional classification transportation network further enhance elements of Phase II. needs. 0 State Highway 55/Eagle Road: State Highway 55 (SH o 55) connects Meridian with the cities of Boise to the ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Figure 3D. Roadway Traffic Activity east, Eagle to the north, and Kuna to the south. South of Overland Road it is designated as an arterial and State 44 owned and maintained by ACHD. North of Overland Eagle Road becomes State Highway 55 and is a State of Idaho-maintained facility. Eagle Road is the most I: _ heavily traveled non-interstate roadway in the State '- of Idaho. Recent improvements to Eagle Road include •Chinden widening, safety medians, intersection improvements .� Iand landscaping. Additional widening improvements Q) ' + McMillan are still planned, and the City will continue to pursue 0- __T a additional enhancements to reduce congestion and 2 - - - - - - -Ustick— , improve usability and safety for all modes of travel. 0 State Highway 69/Meridian Road: State Highway 69 ' (SH 69) connects Meridian with Kuna to the south. Cherry Fairview North of 1-84 it is owned and maintained by ACHD. E Pine I Meridian Road is designated as a minor arterial E Franklin o AV from Chinden Boulevard, south to Cherry Lane. The U e I � � Dail i � designation changes to a principal arterial between — _ s Cherry Lane and 1-84 where it traverses downtown. N ` + Area of City Overland ._Impact At 1-84, Meridian Road becomes State Highway 69 0 � � „ � City Limits ; w and is a State of Idaho-maintained facility. Meridian o 2019 AADT Road/SH 69 varies in street section and speed Up to 1,000 i throughout the City, but not in its importance to the ' Amity — ' ; transportation network. The City of Meridian has o 1,000 to 5,000 -Ir. ' - - -M L ordinances and development standards that preserve 5,000 to 1ok ; ; ; - " Meridian Road through downtown and south of the o 1 Ok to 50k - i - Lake Hazel ' Interstate. U C More than • } • 50k Travel Times and Commuting N \ Columbia �- w L ' ' 7." As shown in Table 3C, the average commute time in 2021 for c 0 o.s 1 z lY ' ' ' ' ' ' those living in Meridian is 20 minutes. This is equal with the Miles m, May2022 �) Hubbard I v average commute time for all Ada County residents and less (D /// than the surrounding communities of Eagle, Nampa, Kuna ']�.i and Star. ° Source:City of Meridian,2022. ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 3C. Average Commute Time 13 Change in Meridian Traffic Community Average commute tim Meridian 20 Boise 19 Overall, Citywide Eagle 29 Garden City 18 jq Traffic increased between ' Kuna 23 2015 and by130/0between Star 29 c N Nampa 22 North Meridian (North of I-84) Q Ada 20 0 Canyon 28 Traffic increased . between Note:Data is from the COMPASS 2021 Treasure Valley Travel Survey.Home- 215 0 based work trips include any trip with one trip end at home and one trip end ' ' ' ' ' - ' ' 21 that is at work.Summaries are for car trips only and do not include other modes. Source:Mary Ann Waldinger and Mitch Skiles,COMPASS. "RE:Travel Time E Data."April 26,2022.E-mail. South Meridian (South of I-84) E 0 U increasedTraffic ' between 2010 andThe time of day people travel has a significant impact on not N only commute times but also on planning for transportation 2015 and by ' between '15 and 2021 o infrastructure.The highest portion of trips in Ada County occurs o during the morning and late-afternoon rush hours.Therefore, On the State System (20/MIME., demand on roadways leads to congestion during these peak times. This congestion often causes more people to look at increased between o alternative times to travel, and when available, alternative Traffic modes of transportation. Spreading out the distribution of ' - o trips would make more efficient use of the transportation U infrastructure already in place. Policies for remote work, On Local Arterials ( - , Locust Grove or Ustick) staggered work hours, or non-traditional work schedules, X could be designed by businesses to encourage travel outside LU Traffic increased of the normal rush hour. 0 2015 d by 100/0 .9 Source:See table 3C for source information. 0 CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan Transportation Funding Plans shows how Federal transportation funds will be used to finance Long-Range Plans projects including: roadways, bridges, highway safety, public transportation, maintenance projects like overlays (i.e., new The Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho layers of paving), and even airports and air quality projects. (COMPASS) maintains the region's long-range transportation plan,Communities in Motion (CIM),which contains the regionally The ACHD near-term funding program is called the Integrated significant corridors primarily in Ada and Canyon counties. Five-Year Work Plan (IFYWP).This plan is usually adopted in the COMPASS does transportation modeling for the region and uses summer of each year by the ACHD Board of Commissioners. traffic forecasts to not only anticipate where roadway projects The IFYWP primarily contains both maintenance and capital Q) are needed but also to monitor a gamut of indicators such as projects for roadways, intersections, bridges and pedestrian Q safety, congestion, accessibility, air quality, and other metrics. facilities, and is meant to coincide with the overall budget o adoption process. Projects in the IFYWP are prioritized primarily The COMPASS Board,which is largely composed of local elected on safety, congestion and other cost-benefit and programmatic o officials and special interest organizations, is charged with criteria. Each year the City of Meridian sends a list of priority making decisions about transportation and related air quality projects to ITD, COMPASS and ACHD for consideration as the planning, primarily through CIM.The plan which is updated at ITIP, TIP and IFYWP are adopted. E least every four years,addresses anticipated transportation issues o over the next 20 years, evaluates how projected populations, Meridian's Priority Roadway Projects U economic growth, and development patterns will impact Each year the City Council, at the recommendation of the N existing transportation facilities, and considers funding and City's Transportation Commission, sends a list of high priority CD o expenditures for future transportation needs.The Ada County transportation projects to ITD, ACHD, and COMPASS. The o Highway District (ACHD) also has a long-range transportation projects in the priority list include state facilities (highways 0 plan, called the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), for all of Ada and interchanges),ACHD roadways and intersections, and key County. The ACHD CIP lists arterial roadways that are eligible pedestrian and bicycle projects. o to use impact fee dollars that are generated within the County. The ACHD CIP is fiscally constrained with a 20-year horizon. Funding o Funding for roadways in Meridian, and throughout Ada Count U Short-Range Plans g Y g Y, � is provided through taxes and fees. Most of the money for } In addition to long-range plans, ITD and ACHD have near-term roadwaymaintenance and new capital projects are provided X transportation plans. The ITD's Transportation Investment p p p w Program (ITIP) contains about five years of projects and is via the gas tax, vehicle registration fees, Highway User Funds, typically updated annually by the ITD development impact fees, and property taxes. New funding Board, with input from mechanisms will most likely be needed to keep up with the other agencies (like COMPASS) and the public.The projects in demand for both maintenance and expansion of the necessary COMPASS's CIM are used to draft the Regional Transportation transportation infrastructure in the Valley. 0 Improvement Plan (TIP) which feeds into the ITIP. The ITIP _ U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Linking Transportation and Land Use ACHD have agreed to work more closely to join together the The relationship between housing, transportation, and the land use plans of the City with the transportation plans of the environment is becoming more evident every day. Changes District.There are several tools that ACHD and the City use to to one impact the others, and there are very real financial and implement TLIP:the Complete Streets Policy,the Livable Streets quality of life implications for decisions. Design Guide, the Livable Streets Performance Measures, a Cost Share Policy, and a Master Street Map. To better connect transportation planning and land use decisions, ACHD and the cities in Ada County have compiled Transportation Choice the Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan (TLIP). This pathway System and Sidewalks Q) plan, initiated in 2007 and adopted in 2009, envisions livable 0- streets for the future.The goal is to create a roadway network The Meridian Pathways Master Plan is a guide for pathway 2 that balances the needs of all roadway users —motorists, development.The Plan proposes an extensive pathway network pedestrians, cyclists, transit and people with disabilities—with stemming from the existing creeks, canals and other drainage o streets that complement the built environment. Because a or irrigation laterals within and around the City of Meridian. one-size-fits-all program for roadway construction does not The Plan includes an inventory of existing pathways and respond to the land use needs of the community,the City and micro-pathways, as well as a comprehensive network of future E pathways that will connect residents to schools, parks, businesses, U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . neighborhoods, and various recreation and entertainment Below:From the AND,Livable Streets Performance Measures Plan. destinations. N N 0 N The City of Meridian currently maintains nine pathways, ANATOMY OF A LIVABLE STREET including the Fothergill Pathway, the Bear Creek Pathway, the 0 Connects You ————————————————] Blackstone Pathway, the Locust Grove Pathway, the H.R. Bud 0�1 to where you Porter Pathway,the Diane &Winston Moore Pathway,the Five o Want to Go Adequate Mile Creek Pathway from Pine to Badley(which now runs for Space for Cars nearly five contiguous miles), the Jackson Drain Connection, o W and Buses and the Lochsa Falls/Paramount Pathway.Today,these pathways U primarily serve as a recreational amenity, but they are also 'J , I used for commuters going to and from work and school.The N �w Pathways Master Plan includes detailed maps and design U standards for future pathways in the City. jAs an offshoot of the Meridian Pathways Master Plan, the City aD Safe Appropriate � Well Maintained also finalized a Rail with Trail Action Plan in early 2010. The Sidewalks for Bike Facilities o Facilities for All Action Plan takes a closer look at the Union Pacific Rail Corridor, All Abilities Users presents a conceptual alignment for a multi-use pathway U www.meridiancity.org/compplan paralleling the tracks from McDermott Road to Eagle Road, and proposes strategies for implementation of the future facility. In 2016, COMPASS formed a Rails with Trails Workgroup that y Y is looking at developing a continuous regional pathway within the rail corridor, connecting Meridian to Nampa and Boise. Additional local and federal grant money is being pursued for design and construction of the trail. " - ACHD has a dedicated pool of funds for projects that expand and enhance a safe, efficient, and accessible pedestrian and bicycle network for all residents of Ada County.These pedestrian o - and bicycle projects are known as Community Programs. ,,- ACHD currently offers a Community Programs application for o ` pedestrian and traffic calming projects which gives citizens, { neighborhood associations, and land use agencies the ability � to apply for projects. A target of 5% of the annual Integrated E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Five Year Work Plan capital funds are typically dedicated to U Above:Five Mile Creek Trail Hub on Ten Mile Road. Community Programs,which equates to approximately$1.5 - $2 Below:A Harvest Transit vehicle. million per year. In addition, half of the local vehicle registration N fee money goes toward Community Programs each year. CD o Through public outreach programs, the community has a "., r previously highlighted the need for more quality parks, recreation o- programs, pathways, and other public amenities. The City's c Unified Development Code requires sidewalks and micro- I '�'� h ACHD's be installed with new subdivisions.Through pathways g 268, 314 Community Programs, a group of select community members U DWI - have identified gaps in the pedestrian pathway and sidewalk system. These gaps now await improvement. N ST309 .x o w Transit Valley Regional Transit(VRT) is the regional public transportation authority for Ada and Canyon counties. Annually, the City :�i contributes to an inter-county transit service that runs between o Nampa-Caldwell and Meridian-Boise. Park-and-ride lots serve ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan � AV~ , -}wry q_ E ■ r h he Bois north-e y bus. r'era a Co erid ' npo service i Ada o ce i - o late 2016, a demand-response service geared towards getting Commuteride program provides ride matching services that 0�1 seniors and persons with disabilities to services and activities connect commuters with similar home and work locations c has been in operation.This Lifestyle Service shuttles individuals and schedules. Similarly, Commuteride helps businesses around Meridian and is operated by Harvest Transit, with plan a customized vanpool service for businesses and their C oversight by VRT(Go-Ride).The City is currently working with employees. Commuteride Carpool and Vanpool Service is o VRT to design and then implement a fixed-line bus system. U a cooperative effort between ACHD, VRT, and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). N VRT has an approved plan to develop a regional public X transportation system in the Treasure Valley. The plan, called LU park-and-Ride Lots ValleyConnect 2.0, calls for bus services in all cities in Ada and Canyon counties.The Meridian City Council appoints two Park-and-ride lots are a service provided by ACHD. The lots persons to serve on the VRT Board which establishes policy offer a place for commuters to park and collectively ride to and guides the strategic priorities and planning for public work in a prearranged carpool orvanpool. Existing park-and- o transportation. ride lots are located at Gem Street between Main Street and ftZ >_ U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Meridian Road; Overland Road and SH 69 (Country Terrace); an airport. However,the Boise Airport(BOI) provides passenger Overland Road and Eagle Road (Rackham Way); Overland and freight service to the citizens and local businesses. BOI is Road and Ten Mile Road; and at St. Luke's Regional Medical the only public, general aviation and commercial airport located Center (Eagle Road/1-84). To assist potential users, these lots within Ada County. The airport is located approximately ten are marked with green and white directional signs. The City miles east of Meridian off 1-84. It is also home to the Idaho anticipates that additional park-and-ride lots will be necessary Air National Guard and the National Interagency Fire Center. in the future and will coordinate with ACHD on siting these There are also airports just west of Meridian, including the future lots as development demands. Nampa Airport (MAN) and Caldwell Industrial Airport (EUL), providing professional pilots, businessmen, corporate, industrial Q) Public Airport Facilities and recreational aircraft owners aviation options. E Q The City of Meridian does not have an airport within the City limits or Area of City Impact, nor does it plan to site or develop Rail o The Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) owned Boise Cutoff spur rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . line runs east—west and bisects the City between Cherry Lane Below:Looking across the pone at Settlers Park. and Franklin Road. In 2009, the Boise Valley Railroad began E operation along the spur line to provide freight movement to 0 industrial customers.Today,WATCO Companies has a long-term U lease with UPRR to operate the Cutoff in Meridian. — r�. In 2009, a preliminary study was completed by the region's CD planning organization (COMPASS)to determine the feasibility o of a regional high-capacity mass transit line.The High Priority Corridor Study identified the Boise Cutoff as the primary candidate for a future transit line.A future multi-use pathway o (rail with trail) is also in the planning stages along the rail line. Meridian's current Comprehensive Plan and the land uses o along this corridor reflect the anticipated multi-modal uses U along the rail corridor. } N X LU C - - O ;. O ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Community Design Community design tends to focus on elements of the natural and built environment that contribute value to living, working and playing in the community. One could make an argument that all of the components in this report should be analyzed in this section. It is true that most all of the other components ' (land use,transportation, housing, etc.) factor into community design. However, for the purposes of this report, community . design includes analysis primarily on design review,sustainability, livability, and healthy initiatives.These terms are all inter-related ® o and are very subjective;the terms often mean different things and/or are more or less important to different people and groups.The goal of this section of the report is to explain how E - the community has come together to define what community design means and frame how it works in Meridian. E 1 E The inherent goal of community design is to improve on the • • • • • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • • • • • • U livability and quality of life for not only current, but also future Above:Office Building in Silverstone business park,looking north-west. Below:Scentsy office building,looking west. N generations of Meridian residents. As such, the City has a C., design review process that applies design review procedures, CD guidelines, and standards for the review of outdoor projects o and physical development. Design review examines the physical Q) and functional relationships of the various components of � development and works in tandem with adopted zoning codes o and use standards. _ _. t c 'Of MWE-nn 0 Community design also involves preserving and enhancing U - unique and extraordinarily valuable areas of the City. Basically, :,�e., community design provides a means to maintain the unique BENXI! w___ =i'��°= X LU characteristics of the City,and to improve the built environment -"" '-�_"' ` - "'° ° for today and tomorrow. QC) L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Administrative Design Review quality-built environments that contribute to the progression In 2007,the City Council determined it was in the best interest of Meridian as a livable community. of the City to discuss implementing citywide design review. This was further refined in 2016 with implementation of the Standards vs. Guidelines Architectural Standards Manual. Standards vary in the amount of detail and specificity that a community employs. Some communities provide general Administrative design review is intended to promote and guidelines for design that allow some autonomy both by the establish community character and economic stability by designer and the application reviewer. The City of Meridian's ensuring that urban design and architectural principles adhere to ASM provides standards to limit subjectivity and streamline Q) community established goals. Design review is also intended to the review process, but there is some inherent flexibility and o protect the general health, safety and welfare of the citizens by a method for alternatives through a process called Design a) enhancing property values; protecting the natural environment; Standards Exceptions.This process provides flexibility,supports promoting community pride; protecting historical resources; innovation, and promotes creativity within the community, but preserving the aesthetic qualities which contribute to a City's maintains the baseline level of effort to both protect private character;and promoting the economic vitality of the community investment and the community vision. by preserving and creating well-designed commercial and E residential developments. Entryway Corridors U Meridian has designated several arterial roadways as entryway The Architectural Standards Manual corridors or gateways into the City. Generally, entryway o The Architectural Standards Manual (ASM) and administrative corridors require wider landscape buffers with increasing } design review process establish development standards to design interested along major arterial roadways that lead into a encourage quality building design. In combination with the and out of Meridian.These gateways have a significant effect 0 Unified Development code and the Comprehensive Plan, the on visitors first impression of the City, making them especially c City has established a set of guiding principles and standards important for not only landscaping but also building, parking that encourage and allow for creativity while maintaining a lot, and public space designs. t baseline level of effort. The ASM establishes expectations for U proposed development based on the type of structure and Signs o, zoning designation in which it will be located, and is heavily Signs are necessary not only for wayfinding, but also for N influenced by visibility from larger roadways, public or quasi- advertising, marketing and community character purposes. w public open space, and residential areas Like landscaping in entryway corridors, signs can impress upon visitors a community's character. Signs should not be a In addition to providing the City with a planning tool that uses distraction to motorists or pedestrians, or otherwise present � standards to address the functional and aesthetic qualities and a safety hazard b interfering with line-of-sight, blocking characteristics of development, the ASM lays the foundation y y g g g 0 traffic control devices, or hampering traffic flow. Likewise, for growth and development to create attractive, lasting, and v www.meridiancity.org/comppIan E 0 _ E E 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U Above:The Meridian Senior Center in Kleiner Park,looking south-east over the pond. — N N signs should enhance the aesthetics of the community by o complimenting building designs and landscaping. Signs , o should provide ass.i in locating businesses, gathering places, roadways and other full of character. A few key factors that primarily contribute V) attractions. Meridian has strived to ensure there is balance to livability within a community are: health, personal security, o between safety, advertising, communication, architectural overall cleanliness, quality and quantity of social interaction elements, aesthetics, and free speech. opportunities, entertainment, aesthetics,transportation coice, o and existing unique cultural and natural resources. Livability U Livability and Quality of Life is largely affected by conditions in the public realm—places } Livability and quality of life are hard terms to explain and where people naturally interact with each other and their w measure. Benchmarks, or metrics for measuring livability, community—like parks, streets and sidewalks, pathways, and C are difficult to describe. Often places that are livable have other community gathering places. Livability is important ° the "it" factor. They are the most sought after places to live because it can maintain or increase property values and and visit, often where retail, services, and opportunities for business activity, and it can improve public health and safety. � leisure seamlessly exist together. For the purposes of this ,o, report, livability and quality of life refer to the environmental U www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Although there are no statistical data on Meridian's livability neighborhoods that accommodate different lifestyles and today, one could argue that Meridian's popularity indicates stages which contribute to sustainable communities. The that many of the livability factors are present in most areas of City encourages a mix of not only housing options, but also Meridian.This is not to imply that the City should not explore amenities and opportunities for interaction across generations. ways to improve our neighborhoods and make them even The City has also joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network, and more livable. partnered on an Action Plan. Through better understanding physical and social needs, building consensus, and developing Healthy Initiatives new shared strategies that link the generations and build more The impact of the built environment on public health continues inclusive and sustainable communities,the City can facilitate the Q) to be explored by many organizations.A report by the Urban creation of neighborhoods that are truly vibrant and healthy. Q Land Institute (ULI) states, "that physical features, social relationships, and available services and opportunities within The Central District Health Department (CDHD) reviews a') neighborhoods influence health in important ways, including development applications and sends comments and conditions o by shaping choices and behaviors. Community wellness and back to the City, related to any potential public health issues. »- safety are influenced by neighborhood factors, such as access CDHD has adopted a policy to further smart growth and to transportation, the condition of buildings, the presence sustainable development in southwest Idaho. Not surprisingly, E and quality of sidewalks and places to play or exercise, and the objective of the policy is to support land development U the density of convenience stores, liquor stores, and fast-food and building decisions that promote improved public health. restaurants relative to grocery stores that sell fresh foods."'The CDHD recognizes that the built environment has an impact on N City realizes that it is at the local level where it is imperative public health, with links to obesity, diabetes, and asthma, to 0 to take a proactive approach in addressing the link between name a few.This cooperative partnership between the City of o Meridian and CDHD is not new, but what is relatively new are a the built environment and health. N some of the policies and principles these agencies are jointly 0�1 As communities across the U.S.age, and especially in Meridian trying to implement. o where more than 40%of the population is already either under the age or 20 or over the age of 65,the livable and sustainable Safe Walking Routes o community of the future must have physical and social features A healthy community is one that has good connectivity between U that benefit people of all ages.When a wide range of needs is residential areas and community gathering places, like schools. °' } addressed,family and individuals have the opportunity to stay As part of the development review process,the City regularly X LU and thrive in their communities as they age. Multi-generational requires developers to install sidewalk, micro-pathways and planning also builds community. Rather than creating and multi-use pathways that connect to school sites, public spaces, ° encouraging social, income, or age-segregating neighborhoods and nearby neighborhood serving uses.The West Ada School (D of the past,the City hopes to foster diverse multi-generational District has walk zone maps for their schools which can be ]�i found on their websites. o 4*Urban Land Institute.Intersections:'Health and the Built Environment. Z Washington, D.C.: Urban Land Institute,2013 5'http://www.westada.org/Page/l3875 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan The City and the School District annually partner to compile a Day Cares list of high priority pedestrian projects for ACHD's Community Essential to a livable community is access to affordable child Programs. The list of priority projects is based on concerns care and early development programs.A robust local system of City staff and School District employees hear from parents and child care and early education programs has social, economic others in the community. Efforts to improve safety, like the and environmental benefits for children, families and the YMCA's Safe Routes to School program, have been around for community as a whole. In 2020 71.2%of mothers with children years.The City supports the YMCA,through COMPASS dues and under the age of 18 held jobs, and 63.3% of mothers with programming. Safe Routes coordinators go to elementary and children under 2 year old held jobs6. By providing child care middle schools in Meridian and educate children on things like service that is affordable and close (or within) residential areas, Q) bicycle and pedestrian safety.This fun, interactive, educational child care can contribute to the local economy by supporting o program has been well received throughout the community. parents and local employers.Since 1997,the American Planning a) Association (APA) has recognized that child care is a critical component of livable communities'. As such, APA advocates for including child care policies within local planning. Creating Below:Sparklight Movie Night,in Settlers Park.View looking north-west. policies, identifying local resources and working with developers E and community partners, the City hopes to have a more o proactive and positive influence on the child care programs U being provided in the future. — N N Youth Programs - � - = Meridian prides itself on being a unique city with an abundance a of choices that support a commitment to maintaining a safe and caring community and strive to be a place young people = feel accepted, respected, and connected. To keep youth - active and engaged in the community, the City has developed and maintains several initiatives and organizations focused U specifically on youth. c } N The Mayor's Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) is a teen organization w provides teens with opportunities to shape the City's future. b*Department of Labor"Mothers and Families." U.S. Department of Labor.Women's Bureau,2020.Retrieved on April 19,2022 from https:// D www.dol.gov/wb/stats/mother_families. 7 American Planning Association. "APA Policy Guide on the Provision of 0 Child Care."APA Policy Guides.APA,July 1997.Retrieved on April 19,2022 ftZ from https://www.planning.org/policy/guides/adopted/childcare. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Youth Council members, in grades 9 through 12, meet with the District, to promote the well-being of youth during lapses in Mayor and other advisors twice a month to discuss issues and school year programs. ideas of interest to the youth of Meridian. They are actively involved in many community service projects and events, Apart from programs and organizations offered through the and with several volunteer and advocacy activities they plan City of Meridian, local children and teens have access to the themselves. Events they have planned and participated in have Meridian Boys and Girls Club.The Meridian Boys and Girls Club focused on issues important to them as diverse as suicide offers several programs, including after school and summer prevention, seatbelt use, texting while driving, smoking and sessions for school-aged children. The Boys and Girls Club nicotine use, and hunger. operates their center in downtown Meridian at Meridian Road Q) and Pine Avenue. In South Meridian,the Treasure Valley YMCA E Through the City of Meridian's Youth on Commissions Program, operates a facility with youth program near Eagle Road and o high school students apply and are appointed to seats on Amity Road. City commissions, committees, coalitions, and task forces o which serve in an advisory capacity to the Mayor and City Senior Programs Council.These include the Parks and Recreation Commission, On the other end of the age spectrum, older adults must Transportation Commission, Mayor's Anti-Drug Coalition, interact with the built environment in ways that reflect their E Meridian Arts Commission, Historical Preservation Commission, physical capabilities and lifestyle.Although they may have more U and the Solid Waste Advisory Commission. time after retirement to enjoy parks and other recreational activities, conditions such as chronic diseases and limited N To promote advanced education, the City annually offers vision may limit the mobility of some. Providing accessible o scholarships to graduating seniors who will be attending and suitable housing options that are easily accessible to 0 accredited colleges or vocational programs.These scholarships community destinations are key to allowing older adults to 0 are awarded to successful applicants who demonstrate evidence remain independent, active and engaged with the community. of leadership potential through their community involvement, Housing for seniors that is integrated into the fabric of the o as well as volunteerism, school activities, or work experience. community is becoming increasingly important as the Baby t Additional consideration is given to applicants who have Boomer Generation adapts to retirement. o completed the Meridian Police Department's Alive at 25 safe U driving courses (see Chapter 4 for more information). The Mayor's Senior Advisory Board, established in April 2015, helps to enhance the lives of Meridian's senior community X Meridian's Parks and Recreation Department maintains parks (aged 50 and older) by meeting regularly with the Mayor and "' across the City with a huge diversity of child-friendly amenities. providing advice and recommendations on various topics The department also offers a variety of enrichment programs, concerning Meridian's senior population, including community classes, and day camps for children and teens,and their families. service, health,education,employment, housing,transportation, The Parks and Recreation Department also partners with other recreation, and safety. o agencies and service providers, such as the West Ada School ftZ www.meridiancity.org/comppIan ■ ,i.SFr �; - , � .e 1 � r • r i' ur• . r I I - - E E - O . . . . . .. . U ove:hcicfebaII — t s �4ffcating,arid:prori�OfiI r ;rarer NThe Meridian Senior Center is n- r it or tion t a yari yibrant��,`,�rp rh;ty.TS e 04 L�—(—�—,� a 13,800 sgyarp-foot Center _ these succes a s ai-i.cld Prhj o at the Park" in Meridian at Julius M. Kleiner Park. The Center incorporate things like sharing of resources (e.g.—vehicles and was made possible by a generous land and building donation parking lots), cooperatives where local goods, services and V) from the Julius M. Kleiner Family Trust.The facility offers a wide wares can be sold or traded, branch libraries, and additional o array of programming and activities,from games to health and policies that encourage socially and environmentally conscious t wellness.The new center includes a main dining area for daily design and construction projects. The City strives to better o lunches with two state-of-the-art kitchens, complete with the understand the impact of neighborhood design on residents' U latest equipment, an arts and crafts room, a cards and game ability to be physically active, the impacts of development } room, a health screening room, an indoor walking track, office on natural systems, and the effects of community design on X space, and other specialized activities. overall community health. By taking actions that promote and c preserve good health, Meridian should be a community that 2 Success Stories sustains well into the future. a Healthy behavior is a combination of knowledge, practices � and attitudes that together contribute to motivate actions >_ regarding health. The City of Meridian can learn from other U www.meridiancity.org/compplan SERVICES PROVIDED Public Services The City itself has several departments, each responsible for This chapter discusses the characteristics of public services, providing specific services.This chapter not only characterizes utilities, and facilities provided in the Meridian area.As required general services, but also summarizes which services each by State Statute, schools, recreation, and other public services, City Department provides and some of those provided by facilities and utility components of the Comprehensive Plan other agencies or service providers. A current inventory of are analyzed here. As part of the public services section, the infrastructure like parks and pathways, fire stations, schools, report also outlines the way the City is governed, including and other public services are explained. ID its various boards and commissions. Q) This chapter also reports how non-private service and utility providers are meeting needs today and how they plan on o • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • meeting future demand for services. Other services, like � Below:Meridian City Hall,2o2t transportation, youth programs, and senior activities (see U Chapter 3) were explained previously in this report and are not duplicated here. N Municipal Government, City Hall o CN Meridian City Hall is a three-story 100,000 square-foot building o located in downtown that serves as the hub of Meridian's municipal government. City Hall currently houses most City departments serving as a convenient "one-stop-shop" for o citizens seeking services including: _- ° City Clerk's Department v The City Clerk's Department maintains official records of the } City, including City Code. Staff in the department respond w a' to public records requests received from citizens, as well as interested parties across the United States. Staff maintain the City's Records Repository-a public facing records portal that -- houses many public records of general interest and historic documents. ° - - - U www.meridiancity.org/compplan The City Clerk's Department documents proceedings of many Division is divided into two sections: Current Planning and of the city's commissions and the Meridian City Council, as Comprehensive Planning. Current Planning is primarily well as provides legal noticing as required by law. responsible for processing development applications and assisting property owners and developers through the land Many Licenses and Permits are issued by the City Clerk's use permitting and entitlement process, and over-the-counter Department—including licenses for door to door sales persons, inquiries. Comprehensive Planning is involved with long-range special event and temporary use permits, alcohol licenses and and specific area plans, transportation planning, community alcohol catering permits,fireworks permits, and dog licenses, development and coordination with City agency partners. vehicle immobilization, pawnbroker and precious metal dealer licenses. Public Works Department Municipal City Elections are managed by the City Clerk's The Public Works Department consists of a number of divisions D Department in conjunction with Ada Count Elections. The including: Administration, Engineering, Business Operations, p y y Water, and Wastewater. The mission of Public Works is to receive campaign filings and provide information to candidates, anticipate, plan and provide exemplary public services and CL elected officials, and the general public. V) facilities that support the needs of a growing community in an Q) As all official documents begin, end, or pass through the office, efficient, customer-focused and financially responsible manner. the City Clerk's Department provides the formal link between Public Works cooperates with other agencies such as the Ada the citizens of Meridian, and their government. Staff take pride County Highway District to coordinate efforts on utility work N in the transparency and accuracy of the City's records and and transportation services. More discussion on the Public o their strong customer-service focus. When a citizen doesn't Works Department occurs later in this chapter. N i know where to find assistance, the City Clerk's Department is a the place to start. Finance Department � The Finance Department, including Purchasing and Billing, is the c Community Development Department general business management arm of city government, providing ° The Communit Development Department is comprised of specific financial and accounting services for elected officials, three divisions, including: Building Services, Land Development City employees, and the citizens of Meridian. Basic services of U Services, and Planning. Building Services is responsible for the Finance Department include: budgeting,financial analysis 0) activities associated with structural, fire, electrical, mechanical and reporting, utility billing, accounts payable, purchasing N and plumbing permits for residential, commercial and industrial and payroll, monitoring state and city rules and regulations, „U projects. Land Development Services is responsible for plan and maintenance of sound internal controls. The mission of Purchasing is to provide contract management,and procurement review and coordination with the Public Works Department, � to ensure that new developments are properly serviced by services through competitive public bidding to obtain maximum � water, sewer, and streetlights, and in conformance with the value for the tax dollar and to provide service to all City of o flood damage prevention chapter of city code. The Planning Meridian departments and the public in a timely, courteous ftZ and ethical manner. U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Parks and Recreation Department The Parks and Recreation Department's mission is to enhance the community's quality of life by providing well-designed and properly maintained parks and recreational opportunities for all citizens. More discussion on the Parks and Recreation `" Department occurs later in this chapter. IF - TIR Fire Department The Fire Departments mission is to protect and enhance the JI _ t community through professionalism and compassion. More discussion on the Fire Department and the services it provides ti p p a) �, +ti �� occurs later in this chapter. 0 • --. o Human Resources Department GL_ Human Resources assists all City departments in determining • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • staffing needs and coordinates recruitment to fill those needs. a) Above:construction around Meridian city Hall. Recruitment efforts include working closely with the Directors Below:Generations Plaza,on Main street. of each department within the City to post and advertise open N positions, processing and reviewing applications,scheduling and CD o conducting interviews, tracking the process of all applicants, o and providing information on the progress to interested parties. 0 r City Attorney's Office 0 0 The City Attorney's Office provides in-house legal services to a == c' the City of Meridian.The City Attorney also serves as the City's U Risk Manager and has leadership responsibility for the Risk U - Management program.Attorneys in the City Attorney's Office } work on a wide range of topics,such as code enforcement issues, Lx -x,- _ — -� contracts, land use regulation, personnel issues, procurement, c public records, public works issues, real estate transactions, and matters related to economic development. The City Attorney serves as legal advisor to the Mayor, City Council, ` City commissions and committees, and City departments. o f The City Attorney's Office pursues or defends civil litigation; ftZ T.. . _ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan prepares and reviews City Council agenda items, contracts, and various educational opportunities. Culture, unique business, interagency agreements; assesses compliance with statutes, venture, and an abundant choice of jobs make Meridian not regulations, and rules; recommends and drafts changes to the just a destination, but a lifestyle. Meridian City Code; and advises staff on a variety of City issues. Information Technology Department There is a strong correlation between the City's legal needs The Information Technology Department team is responsible and City growth. The City Attorney's Office reviews most for developing city-wide strategies that align the Mayor planning applications,for example,and provides legal guidance and City Council's strategic focus areas with appropriate to the City Council, Planning and Zoning Commission, and technology to reduce the cost of government,create efficiencies Community Development Department concerning land use for employees, enhance services to our citizens, and make issues. In addition, the City Attorney's Office provides legal government services more accessible in today's connected 1D guidance relative to large-scale public works projects needed world.This is done by ensuring our investment in technology to facilitate growth, such as water and wastewater projects. and resources is collaborative, reflects the City's CARE values, .o Mayor's Office and is operationally sustainable today and into the future. CL Q) The Mayor's Office focus is on becoming the Star of the The rapid rate of change in technology requires the department C New West, transforming Meridian into a 21st century city. to continually adapt and change services offered and equipment a; Meridian is uniquely conducive to supporting a broad array of utilized. Drastic shifts such as increased remote work and — business activities while maintaining the high-quality lifestyle Software as a Service (SAAS) demand staff to go above and N and focus on family so greatly valued. Fulfilling the needs of beyond the"business as usual"approach. Because of this,a great o businesses and families begins with having a safe and caring deal of what the department now offers is recommendations on o community that provides quality education, family-wage jobs, the right technology that meets needs currently but incorporates cutting-edge health care, diverse housing options, a trained potential trends and changes—with the understanding that the workforce, and an abundance of recreation, shopping, dining, technology that will be utilized 10 years from now doesn't exist o and entertainment opportunities. Meridian seeks to be a vibrant yet. On top of rapidly changing technology, the Department t community whose vision is to be the premier city to live, work has been tasked with providing software tools and hardware o and raise a family. The Mayor's Offices' main commitment is sufficient to transition Meridian from a town to a City with a U to help neighbors realize this vision. population of over 130,000, the second largest in the State } of Idaho. This increased size and publicity makes the City X LU The City of Meridian's mission is: "We love Meridian; it's our an increasing target of cyber criminals — requiring a major town and our mission is to cultivate a vibrant community by increase in security checks and practices. It also has required ° delivering superior service through committed, equipped a shift from obsolete processes and workflows to paperless employees dedicated to the stewardship of our community's processes that are more efficient and consistent for customers. resources." Meridian delivers quality service, planning, and o fiscal responsibility with open spaces, strong partnerships, and ftz U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan City Council and Mayor Commissions, Committees and Boards Meridian uses the Mayor-Council form of local government. Citizen involvement is an essential ingredient for strong local In Meridian, the Council, which includes the Mayor, possesses government.The City of Meridian promotes citizen involvement both legislative and executive authority.The City Council adopts by inviting residents to serve on a variety of boards, commissions, codes that govern the City in addition to applicable state and and committees designed to assist City leaders in information federal law. The Council also deals with property acquisition, gathering and deliberative processes. Many commissions also serves on regional commissions and boards, and must approve include a youth member,typically a high school student. Some of mayoral nominations. The Council also exercises primary of the volunteer boards and commission in Meridian are: control over the municipal budget. 0 Parks & Recreation Commission: This commission The Mayor and a representative from each of the six council focuses its efforts on park planning, capital ID seats are elected by the citizens, each term consisting of four improvements, pathways, policies, recreation years. Elections for City Council are held every two years with programs, and budget. The Parks & Recreation .o three of the six seats up for election. Mayoral elections are Commission makes policy recommendations to the CL held every four years. City Council as they relate to the parks system. The Q) Commission is composed of at least five, and up C� to nine members that are appointed by the Mayor a; Below:Mayor and City Council as of June 2022..Left to right,Jessica Perreault,Lulce Cavener,Brad and confirmed by the Council. Each member serves — Hoaglun,Robert Simison (Mayor),Treg Bernt,Joe Borton,and Liz Strader. N a three-year term with no maximum on number of c., years of service. CD } 0 Planning &Zoning Commission: This commission oQ advises the City Council on planning policies and � r goals, development projects and issues related to land use, zoning, transportation, and housing ° issues, as framed by Meridian's Comprehensive Plan. There are five members of the Planning &Zoning ° U Commission. Each member is appointed by the Mayor, with confirmation by the Council. Terms for N Commissioner are six years, with no maximum. „X /i 0 Meridian Arts Commission: This commission a works on arts/cultural policy and promotes public awareness and participation in the arts. The (D purpose of this advisory commission is to highlight o the City's rich cultural resources, enhance the U www.meridiancity.org/compplan City's aesthetic environment, and promote the Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor and City development of economic, educational, recreation, Council by resolution. and tourism opportunities within the city through 0 Impact Fee Advisory Committee: This Committee the advancement of publicly accessible arts. The Arts reviews and makes recommendations to the City Commission currently consists of nine members. Each Council regarding existing and proposed impact fees commissioner serves a term of three years, except for and fee structures to help ensure that growth pays its the youth member that serves a one-year term. own way. This is an ad-hoc committee established by 0 Historical Preservation Commission: The Historic the Mayor and City Council and administered by the Preservation Commission (HPC) works to preserve City's Chief Financial Officer. the character and fabric of historically significant 0 Solid Waste Advisory Commission: This Commission's areas and structures within the City of Meridian purpose is to propose and recommend to the 1D to honor and preserve its rich heritage for future Q) Mayor and the City Council any new or amended generations. The HPC is advisory to the City rules, regulations, policies, and fees relating to the o Council and submits an annual report regarding the CL orderly and efficient administration of the City's N Commission's activities and accomplishments. There Q) fully-automated solid waste collection system. The U are currently seven volunteer members on the HPC, Commission consists of a minimum of five members appointed by the Mayor with confirmation from the but not more than nine members serving a term of City Council. Terms of office for the HPC are 3-years. 3 years. Appointed members are selected from: one 0 Transportation Commission: The Transportation Utilities Billing Manager or designee, one Director o Commission researches and makes recommendations of Public Works or designee, one City Attorney or } to the City Council related to traffic safety issues, designee, and at least three but not more than five °a pedestrian and bicyclist concerns, speed limits, local citizens. public transportation, and priority transportation c projects. The Commission provides a forum for In addition to the groups listed above, other organizations like o cooperation, coordination, and communication the Mayor's Senior Advisory Board, Mayor's Youth Advisory between the City, other governmental agencies, and Council,the Mayor's Faith Ambassador Council,and the Mayor's U citizens and organizations concerned with the safe Anti-Drug Coalition allow citizens to be actively involved in 0) and efficient movement of vehicular and pedestrian serving various needs throughout the community. N traffic. This Commission is made up of nine voting „� and six ex-officio members which include the: West Ada School District, ACHD, COMPASS, ITD, VRT and a City Councilor. Transportation Commission members are comprised of four citizens, three business o owners/employees, and two members with some >, ftZ technical/educational expertise in transportation. U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan 0 - o CL iv U •:L king over the primary darifie at the Meridian WRRF. LO blic Works pipe installation by removing the need to restor ent o ter and Sewer pay for all traffic control. This also minimize enie the travelling public. Public Works doe o The City of Meridian owns and operates a domestic water over pressurized irrigation systems or irrigation canals. system, sewage collection system, and a wastewater resource recovery facility(WRRF) serving the residents of Meridian.The Water Division o Water Division provides customer service and operates and maintains public wells, the distribution system, and reservoirs. Supply and Distribution o The Wastewater Division provides customer service and The Meridian water system consists of a network of wells, U operates and maintains the collection system, lift stations, booster pump stations, reservoirs and over 650 miles of water and the wastewater treatment plant. main ranging in size from six-inch to 16-inch.Twenty-five wells, X ranging in capacity from 500 to 2,500 gallons per minute U Unlike most communities outside of Ada County, the City of (gpm), are located throughout the City with a combined a Meridian Public Works Department does not have jurisdiction capacity of about 53 million gallons per day (mgd). Water over roads and highways within the City. City staff works in storage consists of two two-million gallon reservoirs- one near conjunction with ACHD projects to design improvements in Meridian and Ustick Roads, and one near Locust Grove and o coordination with road construction.The City saves money on Victory Roads.Wells and reservoirs are linked via a telemetric ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4A. Meridian Water Consumption - Potable Water Irrigation Impacts Supervisory Controls and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to Description Impact a central computer at the Water Division.This system controls Winter Average 223 million gal/month reservoir levels, well on-off cycles, and pressure set points. summer Average 530 million gal/month The supply system meets or exceeds all state regulatory Summer Irrigation Activity(ground water): requirements found in the Idaho Rules for Public Drinking Inceased Demand (over winter) 307 million gal/month Water Systems including backup power. Based on 2021 water use records, Meridian used 4.1 billion gallons of drinking water Potential Conservation 1.5 billion gal/year for approximately 40,000 residential and commercial service Source:Meridian Public Works Department,May2022 connections (estimated 118,000 service area population), shown in Table 4A, winter water demand in the City is about which is approximately 11.2 million gallons of water each day. While all subdivisions constructed after 1993 were required 223 million gallons/month while summertime demand is 530 million gallons/month. Summer irrigation activity increases 1D to install pressurized irrigation systems using non-potable demand by 307 million gallons/month. In order to keep up water, significant irrigation demands exist from residential 3neighborhoods that were constructed prior to that time. As with water demand, the City includes new well construction CL in capital improvement plans. Expansion of the City water . . ' . . . . . . . . . . . . . system is largely dictated by growth patterns. °' Belo . . .w:Inside the well pumphouse on Locust Grove U The City maintains a simulation for modeling water impacts. � ) The computer simulation allows Public Works to conduct water N modeling as new development applications are proposed.The o model also helps staff to identify priority areas for both new } development in the City as well as segments of the existing water 0 distribution system that do not meet regulatory requirements 0 for supply. Capital improvements can then be prioritized to .44 a correct any deficient areas. g Water main replacements are necessary to replace aging 0 infrastructure in the Water Distribution system. Replacement U projects are identified in a variety of methods, most commonly } ' through modeling or tracking maintenance and repairs. The w Water Division and Public Works staff work cooperatively to c identify areas in need of improvement and replacement. Capital funds are utilized to design and construct water infrastructure a, replacements identified throughout the City. 0 ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan t Wastewater Division Sewer Collection .'' The first sewer mains for the City's collection system were ` constructed nearly 100 years ago. Much of the initial sewer ,w installed in the prior to the 1980's was constructed of concrete is �., _ and clay pipe. However, the majority of the collection system expansion occurred after PVC became the preferred pipe material. The current system is comprised of approximately fi 3: 540 miles of gravity sewer mains and 9 miles of force mains. This infrastructure currently serves a service area population ID of approximately 118,000 people and includes about 40,000 .- residential and commercial service connections (Fiscal Year : . . 2021). The collection system includes nine lift stations. 2 N The City maintains a simulation for modeling sewer impacts. U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The computer simulation allows Public Works to conduct sewer Above:RV Dumping Station,and Admin Building,at the wRRF. modeling as new development applications are proposed "' Below:Aeration basin at the WRR and are built. The model helps staff identify priority areas for C,, development in the City as well as segments of the existing o sewage collection system that are approaching capacity. } Capital improvements can then be prioritized to upgrade the 00- lines that are projected to reach capacity. N Sewer main replacements are necessary to replace aging 0 infrastructure in the sewer collection system. Replacement projects are identified in a variety of methods, most commonly through the sewer TV and cleaning program and thorough analysis of the collection system by the Wastewater Division N and Public Works technical staff. Capital funds are utilized „X to design and construct sewer infrastructure replacements - a identified throughout the City, including replacements of the sewer collection system infrastructure in the downtown sewer corridor. ,. 0 � U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 413. Historical Sewer Service Accounts Sewer Treatment Year Total Accounts Annual Increase The present wastewater resource recovery facility (WRRF) 2006 23,245 14.55% began operation in 1979 with a rated capacity of 2.8 mgd.The 2007 24,287 4.48% WRRF consists of primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment 2008 24,857 2.35% followed by disinfection. Treated effluent is discharged to 2009 25,364 2.04% Five Mile Creek. The City continues to upgrade the facility 2010 26,054 2.72% following its Facility Plan and 5 year Capital Improvement 2011 26,620 2.17% Plan. The estimated design capacity at the plant today is approximately 10.2 mgd as approved by the Department of 201 2 ,3 . Environmental Quality.The City is in the process of completing 2013 28,357 3.64% % a major upgrade to the wastewater resource recovery facility 2014 29,279 3.25% ID which will increase the treatment capacity to 15 million gallons 2015 30,628 4.61% per day. This project is expected to be completed in 2026. An 2016 31,922 4.22% o update to the wastewater resource recovery facility plan was 2017 33,124 3.77% completed in 2018. The results of the facility plan were used Q) to develop the capital improvement Ian for the WRRF and 2018 34,925 5.44% U guide thefuture studies,improvements, and expansions at 2019 37,052 6.09% the plant for the next several years. 2020 39,123 5.59% — 2021 41,066 4.97% N The City received a reissued NPDES Wastewater discharge Source:City of Meridian Public Works,April 2022 0 permit in June of 2017. This permit includes very low nutrient o limits on phosphorus and ammonia which will precipitate significant capital investment into upgrades at the wastewater The demand for new sewer service accounts has continued to resource recovery facility. Numerous sampling and monitoring increase every year since 2006, as shown in Table 4B. o requirements for the effluent, Five Mile Creek, and the Boise River are also mandated. Industrial Pretreatment o U All proposed septic systems in the Meridian area are reviewed The Industrial Pretreatment Program is responsible for execution and approved b Central District Health. Approval is based of an industrial pretreatment program which monitors and } on characteristics such as distance to groundwater and soil regulates industrial and commercial wastewater discharges inLU suitability.Today, there are relatively few active septic systems the public sanitary sewer system.The pretreatment program is within the corporate boundaries of the City.Virtually all dwellings an integral part of the wastewater treatment process providing aprotection from potentially hazardous discharges. The City in Meridian are connected to the City s sewer system. currently has minor industrial users such as restaurants and o car washes.The City does not have any significant categorical ,, ftZ industrial users. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Class A Recycled Water involvement, illicit discharge, post construction runoff control, The City of Meridian maintains its Class A Recycled Water construction site runoff control, and pollution prevention. program to produce and distribute recycled water for a variety of uses. Recycled water is a highly treated water resource City-owned and operated properties keep stormwater runoff generated at the City's municipal wastewater resource recovery onsite through retention and infiltration facilities — thus facility that meets standards for Class A reuse, as established preventing stormwater discharges to our local waterways. by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Because of this, Meridian currently does not currently qualify The City has been producing Class A recycled water since for coverage under an MS4 NPDES Permit. 2009 for uses such as irrigating landscaping at the Ten Mile Meridian's Design Standards Grading and Drainage section Interchange, some City facilities, and the treatment plant site, contains requirements for the design of grading, drainage and toilet flushing, as well as a commercial car wash. stormwater retention for a development project. In general, Q) all stormwater generated on development projects must be 3 Support Services retained and infiltrated within the development. The Public Works Department is also composed of support CL services including Engineering, Business Operations, U Environmental Programs, Solid Waste, Asset Management, and Capital Construction Inspection. These services support The storm drain system (MS4) in the City of Meridian operation of the water and wastewater facilities, and utility N Is owned and operated by the Ada County Highway planning guidance.Additionally, they provide administration, o rate analysis, engineering and utility coordination, floodplain District (ACHD), who own and maintain the roads and } administration, solid waste program management, sustainability 0 initiatives and other special projects as assigned by the Mayor associated drainage system and City Council. c 0 Stormwater Under the IDEQ IPDES Construction General Permit (CGP), The storm drain system (MS4) in the City of Meridian is owned Meridian has the regulatory responsibility to ensure that all U and operated by the Ada County Highway District(ACHD),who City owned projects which disturb one (1) acre or more of 0) own and maintain the roads and associated drainage system. land satisfy CGP coverage requirements. Further, Meridian N ACHD has been issued a Phase II National Pollutant Discharge requires that all City owned projects, regardless of size, meet w Elimination System (NPDES) MS4 Permit (No. IDS-028185) minimum erosion and sediment control provisions including a for the cities of Eagle, Meridian, and urbanized Ada County. utilization of Best Management Practices (BMPs), monitoring 2 ACHD's Phase II MS4 permit stormwater management program dewatering operations, and construction site management consists of control measures in six areas: public education, public in order to ensure that pollution prevention is effectively o occurring on all Cityjob sites. ftZ www.meridiancity.org/comppIan i BEEN ■ + `V3 Y i �. ■ � � jLIf�1�i11LlLi rl�l��lt�, . MEN r +� _ j` N - O U ment vehicles in front of the.Police Station.on Watertower Street. _. Ln Public Safety - —_- in 2020.The rate of violent and property crimes in Meridian is N Police Department remaining low despite the increasing population of the City. o _ Qi1 With the largeinflux of people and businesses moving to In 2021,the Meridian Police Department received 62,192 calls the Treasure Valley and Meridian in particular, Meridian has for service. This is an increase of 17.0% from 2020, when calls remained focused on addressing the small things, which can for service were 53,134. The calls for service and the city's o affect a city's quality of life. Because of this focus the City of population continue to have large increases. The Meridian Meridian has maintained a low violent crime rate and the Police Department wants to continue to ensure we have o City has remained a destination for those wanting to relocate enough sworn officers to ensure a safe, secure,vibrant, livable U and it has become a destination for those within the Treasure and connected community. Valley to recreate. X A Staffing and Resource Analysis review was completed for LU The rate of criminal offenses has remained lower than the the Police Department's patrol and traffic services.The review a national and state averages for several years. The Estimated included the development of a police allocation model to Crimes Table and Crime in Idaho Reports provide a breakdown determine the number of officers required to deliver patrol of crime rates at the local,state,and national level by crime type and traffic services, and to forecast future needs based on o anticipated change in population and housing. The analysis _ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4C. Meridian Police Department Calls for Service Description moo= various Public Safety Agencies throughout the Treasure Valley. Hosting these types of classes is a cost savings for the Police Calls for Service 53,935 57,632 53,134 62,192 17.0% Department and reduces out-of-state travel. Source:City of Meridian Police Department,CAD,ITS/RMS,ECR. The Police Department also administers and supports several special programs including: suggests the addition of officers, school resource officers(SROs), 0 MADC — Meridian Anti-Drug Coalition is overseen community service officers, and professional staff.These new officers assist the Meridian Police Department in maintaining by the Meridian Police Department's Substance respectable crime rates as well as impressive clearance rates Abuse Prevention Coordinator. Established in 2004, despite the growth of the City. the MADC works in partnership with a wide variety 1D of community partners and dedicated volunteers to a) Hiring new officers also requires training and with the Nampa/ prevent substance abuse using a comprehensive set o Meridian Joint Patrol Academy, Public Safety Training Center and of data driven prevention strategies. The coalition 2 recent addition of the Scenario Village the Police Department meets the 3rd Thursday of the month and everyone Q) is able to provide local on-site training for officers.Additionally, is welcome. U this facility allows the Police Department to host a variety of 0 Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) - The Meridian Police trainings which include ongoing internal department training, Department's Crisis Intervention Team is comprised — Rescue Task Force Training (ASHER — Active Shooter Hostile of two police officers and a licensed mental health N Event Response), and Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving clinician who co-respond to calls for service involving o Enforcement training.These courses provided low cost trainings individuals who may be suffering from mental health o for the department members and are attended by those from crises. When CIT responds to these calls, the focus is 0 placed on coordinating with available mental health Table 4D. Crime Estimation in Idaho Report:Year 2020 resources in the community to assist the individual o rather than placing them in the justice system. In PropertyViolent Crime addition, the CIT Team regularly collaborates with o Rate per Rate per U Population Incidents Incidents other local law enforcement agencies and community 100K 100K mental health providers to ensure community United 329,484,123 1,313,105 398.53 6,452,038 1,958.22 members receive available resources. States* x w State of 0 National Night Out - This event builds community Idaho* 1,826,913 4,432 242.E 20,313 1,111.88 policing for the City of Meridian, while collaborating 70 City of with local homeowners and businesses to ensure that Meridian 119,203 178 149.33 1,029 863.23 we continue to be a safe place to live, work, and raise ,. ** a family. Our Officers along with Meridian Fire and 0 Source:*FBI,Crime Data Explorer(CDE)and**lSP Crime in Idaho Report. elected officials attend over 30 National Night Out U Provided by City of Meridian Police Department,April 2022. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4E. Prescription Drugs Recovered: 2018 to 2021 events each year meeting with over 2,500 citizens. Description woomm This is an opportunity for Our Officers to visit our neighborhoods in a fun, educational way. Pounds of Prescription 3,137 3,707 3,158 3,669 16.2% 0 Public Safety Academy—The City of Meridian's Public Drugs Safety Academy provides community members Recovered with a behind the scenes, in-depth look at Meridian Total Pounds of Prescription Drugs Collected, 31,511 public safety. During the academy, attendees learn since October 2009 A about police and fire procedures, communications, Source:City of Meridian Police Department,CAD,ITS/RMS,ECR. and specialty units in an engaging and interactive way. Community members experience different 0 Bike Patrol —This four (4) to six (6) officer team covers components of our agencies to further build Police many areas throughout the City to include city parks, D and Fire advocacy in the City of Meridian. pathways, special events and subdivisions The team 0 Youth Safety Academy— Designed to give Meridian responds to calls occurring throughout the summer o youth the opportunity to learn about the Meridian months to enhance the image and resources of the � Police Department, its operations, functions and the police department through increased accessibility U responsibilities of providing law enforcement services of the officer to the public, and to reduce crime by in Meridian. During the academy, students learn enforcing laws through proactive policing. about policies and procedures, communications, 0 Neighborhood Watch —This program is a cooperative N the Ada County correctional system, specialty and o effort between the police department and the C4 investigative units, and careers in law enforcement. community. An organized program is an invaluable o Academy classes are taught by Meridian Police sworn tool and is designed to increase neighborhood 0- officers and support staff. They are encouraged 0 livability by reducing crime through active citizen to ask questions and be actively involved in each participation and diligence. Programs provide o presentation. a vessel for communication between the police t 0 Alive at 25 —This program is a defensive driving department and neighborhoods. o course taught by Law enforcement officers and 0 Prescription Drug Drop Off—This program has U targets young drivers ages 15 to 24. This helps provided Meridian residents a safe and responsible curb the problem of young people dying or being method for proper disposal of unused and/or expired w seriously injured because of car crashes. Statistics medications (including over-the-counter), since c show that young drivers are over represented in 2009. The Police Department collected 3,669 pounds � car crashes. Since the program started in 2012, the in 2021 and 31,511 pounds since October 2009. Meridian Police Department has taught over 300 Safe disposal drop boxes are located in the Police ]�i classes reaching over 7,000 young drivers. Department lobby. 0 ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan J l 1 h U N 04 e - N } o The MFD is managed by a team of professionals that includes Rural Fire District was organized in the early 1950s. The two a Fire Chief, Deputy Chief of Prevention, Deputy Chief of departments decided in the 1970s to combine forces and Operations, Division Chief of Training, Division Chief of Planning, o house their fire equipment in one station located in the center Division Chief of EMS, three Battalion Chiefs, two Training of town.The Meridian Fire Department hired its first full-time Captains,three Fire Inspectors,two specialists in Public Safety o employee in 1977 serving as a Fire Marshall for the two districts. & Education, a Public Safety PIO, and four Administrative U The Fire Marshall was the only full-time employee until 1991 Support Staff. when the first paid firefighter was hired. The Meridian Fire N Department has quickly transformed from a primarily all- The MFD currently services the citizens in the City of MeridianLU volunteer department, to a combination department, and and the Meridian Rural Fire Protection District from six fire ° finally to a career department with 93 employees in 2022. stations (two additional stations, number 7 and 8, are being The mission statement of the MFD is:To protect and enhance constructed), a training tower, a Fire Safety Education Center, � our community through professionalism and compassion. the Public Safety Training Center, and Scenario Village. Each >_ The department's vision statement is:A premier organization apparatus is fully staffed 24 hours per day, seven days per week. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4F. Meridian Fire Department Apparatus Response Description % Change % Change Apparatus Response 8,405 8,418 9,010 9,224 10,717 16.2% 27.5% Note:Appartatus response varies from service calls.Approximately 15%of our calls for service are multiple apparatus responses-between 2 to 6 apparatus responding to the same call. Source:Apportus response from the Meridian Fire Department,May 2022. The complement of Meridian Fire Department fire apparatus designed to not only provide advanced education to includes five first response engines, two ladder trucks, one these children but also give them the tools to make command vehicle, one water tender, two wildland fire brush better choices in difficult situations. The program engines and three reserve fire engines. is confidential and attempts to build a strong bond with the child, family and community. Youth Firesetter ID The MFD responded to 9,148 calls for service in 2021. This Intervention Specialists receive specialized training to constituted an 2% increase over the call volume in of 2019. 59% work with children who are between 2 and 17 years 2 of the calls were for emergency medical incidents including of age with a specific incident of fire setting. The CL vehicle collisions. The remaining 41% of the calls comprised educational screenings help identify any potential U of calls to fires, fire alarms, services calls, gas leaks and other crisis firesetters and provide them with the necessary emergencies. resources to have a positive outcome and get the assistance needed. The Meridian Fire Department provides the delivery of day-to- 0 HeartSAFE Meridian — Community CPR o day emergency and non-emergency services to the citizens we serve. Services provided by the Meridian Fire Department (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is an emergency o include: Fire Suppression, Advanced Life Support Emergency lifesaving procedure performed when the heart Medical Service, Bike Patrol, Technical Rescue, Hazardous stops beating. CPR, especially if administered Materials Response, Fire Prevention Education, Fire and Life immediately after cardiac arrest, can double or triple o a person's chance of survival. The Meridian Fire Safety Inspections, and Plans Review for new developments a Department provides hands-only CPR instruction c and construction. o to the community in a program called HeartSAFE U The Meridian Fire Department also administers and provides Meridian. This program is an important step in the following special services: our goal to becoming a HeartSAFE community. X Through education, system design, and compassion w 0 Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention the department's goal is to make Meridian a safer Program —The primary objective and focus of the community in which to live, work, and play. a� Youth Fire Setting program is to eradicate fires 0 Smoke Alarm Program — It is a known fact that early started by children by educating children and parents alerting of a fire saves lives. Project SAFE (Smoke o about the dangers of fire play activity. The Program is Alarms for Everyone) is an on-going program of the ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 4A. Meridian Fire District and Service Areas department. The goal of the program is to ensure L that every home has working smoke alarms, and it State ywy,aa— .. has grown to become a staple of customer service within the community. This program allows for - continued maintenance of smoke alarms throughout the community, and reduces the risk of falls from ladders for older adults who, due to many factors, '✓ Chinden ` r should not be climbing ladders. N Station 0 Older Adult Safety- Older adults are important McMillan in our educational efforts. We seek to ensure that a Station our older adults have access to essential services Ustick Ld and resources that will assist them in meeting their Station 7 ) individual needs and enhance their safety and quality -'o the r O#2 of life. Throughout the year we provide speakers toCL- v Fairwew present information designed for our older residents. Fme These specialized programs provided awareness and Franklin information about fire and injury prevention in and StatNion� _ gm/ # r around the home. Additionally, we provided free — smoke alarms, batteries, and minor maintenance for N Overland _� --- O Legend - Station station smoke alarms to our older residents by request free N a a Area of City 6 Q _+ of charge. The department performs monthly blood- a • Impact VlctorY -- _ter, pressure screenings at the Meridian Senior Center �, City Limits ��� and in our fire stations on a walk-in basis. c Fire District -1111 Amity o 0 Fire Prevention Month -The shining star and most Existing Fire 0 recognizable program is National Fire Prevention � Station T . Week. In Meridian, we take this annual event to ° Future Fire Lake Hazel . 0) Station a higher level. With the size of our school district,vt Service Areas W and day care system we schedule events for the N 1 Columbia ' entire month of October. Our firefighters and public „U 0 0.5 1 2 lY ; - - - ; 9 educators reach out to all of our elementary schools Miles m Hubbard o\ and the majority of our day care centers with annual March2022 ; fire safety messages and classes. This educational opportunity has been played out with the assistance of the Meridian School District for decades and the >°, ftZ Source:City of Meridian,2022. results, although noticeable, are sometimes not U www.meridiancity.org/compplan quantifiable, however, the National Fire Protection as community advocates for Meridian public safety Agency states it has resulted in a dramatic change in entities. Meridian Fire Department also holds an residential fire loss of life and property throughout annual open house. The event is designed to educate the nation. the community on many safety aspects such as 0 Public Safety Academy and Public Safety Day—The home escape planning, smoke and carbon monoxide Academy is a collaborative program that gives alarms, calling 9-1-1, get low under smoke, close participants an in-depth hands-on experience of both your door before you doze, emergency planning the Meridian Fire and Meridian Police Departments. and much more. The event also includes many Participants receive certification in CPR, learn demonstrations such as a vehicle extrication, live hose handling, extinguisher use, ladder, engine fire and ladder truck demonstration. This is a much- companies, protective equipment use, search and anticipated event each year. ID rescue techniques, live fire, vehicle extrication and 0 Sparky The Fire Dog and Smokey Bear—Two much more. Upon graduation, participants serve important safety mascots for structural and wildland o fire prevention promote safe practices in the CL • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • community. The mascots can be seen in parades, at Below:Meridian Fire Station #6 on Overland Road. local parks, schools or libraries celebrating all things safety. I) 0 Child Passenger Seats—The Meridian Fire Department is a leader in the state for their o commitment to child passenger seat safety. Motor } vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of injury and oQ death for our nation's children and MFD staff are °1 on the front lines preventing such tragedies. The =- department hosts car seat check-up events at city fire stations and all firefighters maintain Child Passenger - Safety certification to conduct the checks. With the U help of grants the department is able to provide 0) free car seats for families in need. We also serve as a N year-round resource for educating families who have ,L questions regarding child passenger safety. C� o F'. Z U www.meridiancity.org/compplan i - r' 7Zm_ > QL -- ter 3'• ...f - - - _- /QCO cess.etcbl n C Recr on Hai urea.___ N Parks and Recreati r Master,P(an-provides' : o =The City of Meridian, Parks and Recreation Department a guideline for development of new facilities and recreation is responsible for maintaining public open spaces and for programming to meet changing community needs. After V) providing a quality system of parks and recreation facilities analyzing the Findings that resulted from the master planning o and positive leisure opportunities available to all persons in process, including the Key Issues Matrix, a summary of all the community. The Department is also responsible for the research,the qualitative and quantitative data,the GRASP® Level 0 development and maintenance of the pathways system and the of Service analyses, and input assembled for the Master Plan, urban forest.This parks and recreation system consists of 334 a variety of recommendations emerged to provide guidance in acres of developed parks, and 132 acres of undeveloped land. consideration of how to improve parks, recreation,and pathway w The system is made up of 21 parks (not including Lakeview Golf opportunities in the City of Meridian. The recommendations c Course): two undeveloped sites, over 50 miles of pathways, describe ways to enhance the level of service and the quality the Homecourt facility, and a community center.Additionally, of life with improvement through organizational efficiencies, Parks and Recreation offers a variety of recreational, arts, and financial opportunities, cost recovery, improved programming ro rammin history programs, adult sports leagues, special events, and and service delivery, and maintenance and improvements to 0 handles shelter/field reservations and temporary permits.p Y use p facilities and amenities. U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Table 4G. City of Meridian, Public Park Acreage The 2015 Parks and Recreation Master Plan included a one- chapter update to the Meridian Pathways Master Plan (Adopted Existing Park 257.9 274.3 283.9 334.0 334.0 in 2007, later amended in January of 2010) and serves as a tool Acres to further aid in the implementation of that plan.This update Added Park 16.4 9.5 50.1 0.0 0.0 established guidelines for what portion of the pathway system Acres it is sustainable and appropriate for the City to maintain, given Total Park 274.3 283.9 334.0 334.0 334.0 that ultimate buildout involved more pathway miles than the Acres s Cityhad capacity to adequately maintain. Current) the CityMeridian ca p y q y y Population 98,300 106,410 114,680 117,635 127,890 maintains 15.5 miles of pathway within City Parks and throughout the city, along waterways and roadways. New pathways added c Peooplp) e to the system, when required as a condition of development, are maintained by homeowners associations. Source:City of Meridian Parks and Recreation Department,May2022. O i CL • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • To achieve a more contiguous system, the plan focused Below:Discovery Park,Dog Park,on Lake Hazel Road. implementation efforts on three priority pathways: the Five Mile Pathway, the Ten Mile Pathway, and a regional Rail with °; Ito, ► ��,' ti''.� �-�'� , Trail pathway effort. Most staff-led pathway infill projects have — served to connect segments of the Five Mile Pathway, which o Y now runs almost five miles through the City, with signaled N i pedestrian crossings provided at major roadways. The City o also constructed a trailhead,the Ten Mile Trail hub at Five Mile 0 Creek, which is intended as a gateway to Men an pathway V) system. It is the first facility of this type in Meridian. o 70 Having established a framework for pathway development, o routes for future pathways within the City Area of Impact U j, --- _ p- are depicted on a pathways GIS layer which is updated by staff on an ongoing basis. These updates note any pathways X - constructed since the last update and also propose needed C new routes in areas of high growth. Changes are presented to Council every 18 months or so, for formal adoption. a The City of Meridian currently has an adopted Level of Service o -- that is three acres of developed park land per 1,000 persons ftz U www.meridiancity.org/compplan with a goal of increasing to a Level of Service Standard of four acres/1,000 persons by 2040. With recent rapid population growth,the current(2017) Level of Service is 2.6 acres per 1,000 persons, based on the most recent population estimates of 98,300. However,the department has 150 acres of undeveloped _ park land that once developed will raise the Level of Service toward the goal.Current park construction projects are projecteda -�- to raise the Level of Service back to the three acres/1,000 level over the next two years.The Parks and Recreation Department - - - -1=- _ — intends to work with the development community and other ;+; ;r;v.::;~ organizations whenever possible to create partnerships and f bring additional parks to reality. • ) Oft 4 3 _ Arts, Culture, and Historic Preservation ---- o CL The Parks and Recreation Department also works to further Q) public accessibility to the arts,as well as historic preservation in C� Meridian by providing staff dedicated to supporting the Meridian • • Q) Arts Commission (MAC)and Historical Preservation Commission Above:Pickleball at Reta Huskey Park. Below:Initial Point Gallery at Meridian City Hall,Third Floor. c� (HPC) and the various cultural and historic programming c., activities they sponsor. _ o_ o The City's Arts and Culture Coordinator administers and provides - - � (D the following cultural and historic programming: ) 0 0 Initial Point Gallery-On the third floor of City Hall is a dedicated area for art exhibitions. The Meridian - ----- - _ o Arts Commission juries monthly rotating art exhibits U in Initial Point Gallery, featuring the work of local, regional, and national artists, as well as an annual - X exhibit of work by West Ada School District students. - U The gallery hosts an opening reception for each show, many of which include performances by local i= musicians. 0 Public Art Projects- Public art pieces continue to - ° be installed downtown and in City Parks, giving the U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan parks identity and a sense of place. Public-private concert series on the steps of City Hall. MAC also partnerships for murals have been installed at various encourages the performing arts, and coordinates locations in the downtown area. One of the most with other organizations such as the Treasure Valley beloved programs is the traffic box wrap program, Children's Theater, a Meridian company. many of which are sponsored by the Meridian 0 Art Week— In September, Meridian coordinates a Development Corporation. The traffic box program is week of various small-scale activities showcasing the an opportunity for a number of both profession artist arts with free visual, literary, and performing arts and West Ada School District students to have their classes, chalk art competitions, and a Community Art 2D work featured on vinyl wraps throughout the city. Party, and partnerships with various local businesses The City's public art collection can be found through and organizations. the virtual tour on the website. 0 Supporting Historic Preservation activities in the City ID 0 Performing Arts— In the summer, the City presents Q) is also important—While many historic sites and Concerts on Broadway, a popular free outdoor structures have been lost to time, the City has been o actively trying to raise awareness through research CL Below: 140 E Idaho,on•the Meridian•Historical Walking Tour.• and additions to the National Historic Registry, a U Virtual Sites Tour, and its Historical Walking Tour. This tour includes information on existing and past sites in the downtown area. HPC also raises awareness C14 through activities during Preservation Month each o ►A... year. See also Chapter 4, Commissions, Committees } and Boards, and Chapter 5, Historic Resources, for a _ other preservation entitles and activities. Western Ada Recreation District o .�_ — #�, There is a public park in Meridian that is not owned by the City.At 22 acres, Fuller Park,which is maintained and operated U by the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department, contains amenities, such as baseball fields, a fishing pond, playground } areas, picnic shelters, restrooms, an open play area, a walking WA, w �TF - path, and off-street parking. Residents of Meridian also have c ��- --: 4 ��•tl access to a pool during the summer located in Storey Park. The pool facility is owned by the Western Ada Recreation a, � = District but operated by the Meridian Parks and Recreation - Department. ° ftZ —_ -, U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Solid Waste Republic Services.This agreement outlines the specific services The City of Meridian's solid waste program' encompasses provided,the individual service rates, and a listing of donated managing the franchise agreement with Republic Services for services from Republic Services. the hauling of solid waste, overseeing the types of residential and commercial disposal services, and developing new avenues Single Family Residential Collection Services to divert materials from the Ada County Landfill. Within the City of Meridian, single family residential households must have curbside trash service;which is automatically paired Per City ordinance, all residents and commercial entities must with commingle recycling. Residents are able to place in have trash and recycling service.The City of Meridian contracts their commingle recycling cart: cardboard, mix paper, metal all trash and recycling hauling services through an exclusive containers, and plastic containers with resin numbers 1 & 2. franchise agreement with Republic Services.This means that all Glass jars and bottles are collected separately. For an additional ID residential and commercial customers receive service through fee, residents can add a glass cart service. � 3 . . . . . o 1 For more information about theCity of Meridian's solid waste program, AS the City's residential population has increased, so has the CL visit the City's Trash&Recycling webpage at:https://meridiancity.org/ amount of trash and recycling produced. Since 2017 the City's V) solidwaste. y g p y Q) trash has increased 13% and the recycling diversion rate, the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Below:Republic.services.glass,recycle,and trash carts (left to right). rate of material that has be divert from the landfill, has been I) between 8% to 10%. CN — CD At the end of year 2021, there were 39,318 trash accounts o �- with 38,402 of those participating in the commingle recycling o program.This translates into a 98% recycling participation rate. l Over the next five years,the City's Solid Waste Coordinator will * * be working on increasing this participation rate. Collectively, o Meridian residents threw away 48,985 tons of trash in 2021,with ' the average household disposing of 208 pounds of trash per o month. The recycling program captured 5,685 tons, with the U ' average Meridian household recycling 25 pounds of materials -- per month.The 2021 curbside recycling diversion rate was 10%. X W In addition to trash and commingle recycling services, residents have the option for an additional fee to sign up for subscription f based curbside glass recycling and grass composting collection services. In September of 2018,the City partnered with Republic o Services to offer the glass collection option. In the first year, www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 41H. Solid Waste Collection (Tons) Program 2017 2018 2019I 2021 Residential:Curbside Trash 43,500 47,338 54,050 59,222 48,985 Commingle Recycling 4,830 4,594 ■ 5,115 ■ 5,685 Commingle Recycling Diversion Rate 10% 9% 8% 8% 10% Glass Bottles and Jars Not Offered 19 ■ 16_ 39 Grass Clippings 596 644 661 269 300 Household Hazardous Waste Site Household Hazardous Waste 119 123 110 99 125 L.-mercial&Industrial Trash 53,593 61,971 69,863 76,064 44,839 N Commingle Recycling 3,260 3,069 3,337 3,504 4,101 Commingle Recycling Diversion Rate 6% 5% 5% 5% 8% Note:Table outlines different types of material collected in tonnage from years 2017 to 2021. The recycling diversion rate is calculated by:total tons recycled/(total tons land filled+ total tons recycled).Source:City of Meridian Public Works Department,2022. U N N there were 148 households who signed up and 15 tons of Meridian businesses registered in 2021, 690 have active recycle o glass was collected. For grass collection,this service allows the containers on site. This is a 48% recycling participation rate. resident to fill their cart with grass from April through October Over the next five years, the City's Solid Waste Coordinator a and then October through December cart can be filled with will be working with businesses who do not have recycling to � leaves and then from December through March utilized as help them start service. o an additional trash cart. From 2018 to 2021, curbside glass accounts have decreased by 6%. However, from 2017 to 2021, From 2017 to 2020,there has been a steady increase in disposal curbside grass accounts have increased by 94%. of trash; however, the 2021 year saw a sharp decline is trash U tonnage. Conversely, business recycling through the 2017 to Commercial and Industrial Collection Services 2021 years saw a steady increase in tonnage. The recycling } N Similar to the residential collection program, commercial and tonnage increased by 26% from year 2017 to 2021. Focusing U industrial companies must have trash and recycling service; on the year 2021, businesses landfilled 44,839 tons of trash and o however, y commingle recycling Is not automatically paired. recycled 4,101 tons. This translates into a recycling diversion rate of 8%. aD Commingle recycling is charged separately. Items that can be � recycled in the commercial and industrial recycling program o are identical to the materials residents recycle. Of the 1,439 ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Special Event Collection Services items; Freon appliances; cooking oil; and caustic cleaners, Republic Services offers special collection events for residents paints, and pesticides. throughout the year.These comprise curbside collection and drop-off services. The curbside services include a spring and winter clean up where residents for free can place extra trash and bulky items out to be collected,fall leaf collection, Rake-Up At the MTS recycling area, residents can drop-off: Meridian where Republic connects residents in need of help raking their leaves with residential volunteers, and Christmas scrap metal, metal containers, mix paper, large pieces tree pickup. During the fall leaf collection event, Republic offers of cardboard, glass containers, and squishy water residents the opportunity to drop-off leaves at several City bottles. Park locations and at the Meridian Transfer Stations. ID a) Meridian Transfer Station Collection .o 2 CL Located at 2130 W. Franklin Road, Republic Services' Meridian Donated Services transfer station (MTS) accepts waste from both commercial Donated services and contributions from Republic Services is U and residential customers.The waste collected at the transfer part of the City's franchise agreement. During 2021, Republic a; station is consolidated and taken to the Ada County Landfill Services gave the equivalent $203,556 in a variety of donated — for disposal. services.These services entailed providing containers,collection, N In addition to accepting trash, the MTS has a permanent hauling of material, outreach support, and cash contributions. o residential recycling drop-off area.At the MTS recycling area, Donated service values are based on contracted Meridian a residents can drop-off:scrap metal; metal containers; mix paper; commercial rates plus any additional temporary services. � larger pieces of cardboard;and glass containers.What's more, Commercial rates include; cost of removal, disposal, and in fiscal year 2021,the City's Solid Waste Advisory Commission, container rental. In addition to services, the Meridian Parks o a commission comprised of Meridian residential volunteers, and Recreation Department has free access to the MTS and partnered with Republic Services to introduce a pilot project Meridian Code Enforcement is authorized to call in to have o removed abandoned items on public land, such as appliances, U at the MTS to collect for recycling squishy water bottles. furniture, and other bulky waste. } N In addition to the MTS being a hub to collect trash and LU recyclables, the station also hosts the City's mobile residential household hazardous waste (HHW) collection site. In 2021,the site saw 5,910 vehicles drop-off 125 tons of HHW.The cost of this program is included in the monthly residential trash rates. Items that are collected include: electronic waste (e-waste), ° such as TVs and rechargeable batteries; mercury containing U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan i i - '� �� s A ersity ri ea le t a tht.Coe 3'a�+'` ' 506 � 7,1 ;Ail N ZO (mil CN O y ffff 7 i i O Public school facilities in the City of Meridian are operated by West Ada School District (formally Joint School District 13,236 high school students enrolled in West Ada School No. 2). West Ada School District serves the cities of Meridian, District. Virtual School House is also available through West o Star and Eagle, western and southwestern portions of Boise, Ada School District for online schooling grades K-12. Student part of Garden City and the unincorporated areas of Ada enrollment increased on average about 1.1/o per year between o County that lie between these municipalities. In total, there 2012 and 2021. U are 34 elementary schools, 12 middle schools (2 of which are Land acquisition for future school sites within West Ada School alternative middle schools and one a magnet middle school), District are based upon the following acreage standards: X LU 6 comprehensive high schools, 4 alternative high schools, 2 charter high schools, and 2 magnet high schools throughout 0 Elementary Schools 8-10acres; the district. Enrollment data about the school district are for the entire district, an area larger than the City of Meridian and the Schools 28-30 acres; and its Area of City Impact. 0 High Schools 55-60 acres. o ftz www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Enrollment Highlights Bus Transportation School bus transportation in West Ada School District is a The following charts reference enrollment in Table 41. cooperative effort involving transportation staff, schools, Figure 4B. Change in Enrollment parents, and students. The West Ada School District contracts Groups with Cascade Transportation Company to operate and shuttle '% students. The District bus facility is located on Franklin Road, �, _ _ _ _ between Linder and Ten Mile Roads in Meridian.To reduce the • need for safety busing, the district works with ACHD and City 0% staff to develop safe routes to school.Through this collaborative �, _ effort, projects are identified with school boundaries, walk zones and safety busing in mind. _0 '' Q) ra 0, Elementary Schools o _ _ Traditional elementary schools include kindergarten through � grade five. The district operates 34 elementary schools, each Middlestrategically located through the 384 square mile district.These schools typically range in size from 350 to 750 students. The Enrollment Population buildings vary in age, with the oldest being 59 years old and Figure 4C. the newest having opened in 2020. o �„ 120,000 Middle Schools Q 100,000 Middle schools include 6th through 8th graders.The district's 000 '"" 12 middle schools serve as a bridge for pre-adolescents as they o • 20,000 , , •"" EL move from elementary to high school. Academic emphasis LU ••• • is placed on refinement of basic skills through instruction "" 000 in traditional subjects such as language arts, social studies, U mathematics, and science. The curriculum in middle school is expanded to include more opportunities to pursue the fine x arts and other elective choices. w Enrollment 0 Population � O Note: ' •. School District enrollment largerof •ian (which further emphasizes 0 O shifts • demographic groups). *For more information on busing see the West Ada School District's FAQ } at https://www.westada.org/Page/13866. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 41. Historical Fall Enrollment,West Ada School District =0 Ed 2011-2012 35,188 235 2,661 2,746 2,778 2,834 2,765 2,769 2,809 2,816 2,718 2,743 2,603 2,404 2,307 2012-2013 35,939 244 2,787 2,787 2,798 2,851 2,836 2,775 2,819 2,858 2,842 2,889 2,510 2,610 2,333 2013-2014 36,111 221 2,730 2,893 2,794 2,857 2,848 2,854 2,801 2,805 2,869 3,014 2,616 2,406 2,403 2014-2015 36,471 248 2,616 2,796 2,949 2,836 2,881 2,862 2,858 2,812 2,855 3,104 2,741 2,559 2,354 2015-2016 37,366 280 2,565 2,779 2,917 3,032 2,920 2,949 2,922 2,995 2,900 3,010 2,875 2,720 2,502 2016-2017 38,097 290 2,752 2,672 2,852 2,951 3,073 2,989 2,986 3,033 3,090 2,914 2,837 2,882 2,776 2017-2018 38,907 335 2,583 2,884 2,744 2,969 3,036 3,208 3,110 3,108 3,130 3,184 2,981 2,766 2,869 2018-2019 39,507 390 2,641 2,726 2,937 2,834 3,055 3,135 3,255 3,234 3,187 3,186 3,222 2,936 2,769 i� 2019-2020 40,326 439 2,626 2,792 2,848 3,072 2,928 3,130 3,251 3,362 3,274 3,265 3,233 3,182 2,924 Q) 2020 2021 37,729 383 2,271 2,441 2,497 2,591 2,812 2,705 2,910 3,153 3,224 3,238 3,211 3,099 3,194 0 2021-2022 39,073 373 2,417 2,559 2,669 2,686 2,789 2,988 2,932 3,115 3,309 3,462 3,367 3,248 3,159 CL -- - - N Notes:For the purpose of analysis in the Existing Conditions Report,Elementary School is defined as grades 1 through 5,Middle School is grades 6 through 8,and High School is grades U 9 through 72. This is not a hard and fast standard,and some schools have changed over time.Source:Public School Finance. 'Attendance&Enrollment."Idaho State Department of Education.Public School Finance Department,n.d. <https://wwwsde.idaho.gov/finance/#attendance> (2 February 2022). Q) N N 0 High Schools Charter and School of Choice Programs } All of the district's 14 high schools offer a full academic In addition to traditional scholastic opportunities, West Ada a program with courses in basic skills and college-preparatory School District offers a variety of School of Choice and Charter skills. Meridian, Centennial, Eagle, Mountain View, Owyhee options to accommodate, encourage, and challenge all students. o and Rocky Mountain High Schools are all 5-A classification Schools of Choice are available at all levels and include: for athletic competition and other competitive programs such o as music, drama, and debate. Renaissance High School and 0 The Arts -Chief Joseph School of the Arts, Christine U Idaho Fine Arts Academy are both Schools of Choice. Central Donnell School of the Arts, and Pioneer School of the Academy, Meridian Academy and Eagle Academy,the district's Arts. N alternative high schools, provide opportunities for at-risk 0 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics U students. Rebound School of Opportunity offers students an (STEM) Education - Galileo, Summerwind STEM a opportunity to earn credits and a high school diploma through Academy, Eliza Hart Spalding STEM Academy, and 2 an online curriculum with on campus support. Barbara Morgan STEM Academy. STEM programs � have also been expanded at all middle and high o schools. ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 4D. West Ada School Enrollment Boundaries, 2021-2022 0 Other Schools of Choice — Renaissance High School `State y Eagle utilizes a lottery application system, and Renaissance Star Eagle has a fully recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) Seven Eagle aks program. Students are provided the opportunity to _ - o " 1 Andrus ' complete their Associates degrees while completing • ® their high school diplomas. Strong partnerships with Paramount Idaho State University and the College of Western Chinden 1 r Idaho formed the foundation of this program. The Pleasant Star Prospectl view willow Lowell Idaho Fine Arts Academy is a School of Choice for Creek Discovery SCOtt McMillan I grades 6 through 12 with acceptance based on <: Sawtooth jam: Heritages Joplin s q an audition application. Virtual School House is a ` Hunter Frontier i,5i;�k I .4 Kindergarten through grade 12 online school with � 1 both synchronous and asynchronous learning offered o Ponderosa River valley 1 by the district. 2 Cherry J Fairview : 0 Meridian Medical Arts and Meridian Technical Meridian Pine Meridian Charter schools are both high schools run by 1 Franklin _ 0. Ust ; independent boards with shared service partnerships 1 Chaparral Peregrine ! with the West Ada School District. — 3 LewisClark N overland — — — - Public Charter Schools o Pepper In addition to the West Ada School District there are also several a Legend Ridge Mary McPherson victory public charter schools.Charter schools function as both public iv + + Area of City 0�1 • Impact Siena schools and independent not-for profit organizations. In Idaho, N Hillsdale a public charter school is organized and managed under the _o City Limits emit — Y • • victory - L— Idaho Nonprofit Corporation Act. All charter schools must ® High School Hazel p p Middle • comply with federal and state laws, as well as local ordinances. o ® ke School Lake•Hazel La Some of the charter school options in 2022 included: Compass U Hazel p P ❑ Elementary m Public Charter School, Doral Academy of Idaho, Gem Prep: } School \ Columbia ' W Meridian, Gem Prep: Meridian North, and North Star Charter w 0 0.5 1 2 School. There are also several smaller and/or online charter Miles .o c � u � � � � � I i3 school options. 7C) 0 March 2022 ' i Hubbard- O ftZ Note:Map shows overlapping school boundaries to illustrate,generally,feeder schools from U elementary to middle,and middle to high school.Source:City of Meridian,2022. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Private Education Opportunities main library branch on Cherry Lane. A third branch is under In addition to the public school system, Meridian has several construction at Orchard Park, in North meridian along Chinden private schools opportunities.These facilities cater to all children Boulevard and Linder Road.The library also operates unBound, of all ages, from pre-school through high school. Some of the a technology lab in Downtown Meridian. In an ongoing larger private schools in Meridian are: Cole Valley Christian, commitment to offer services to the entire community, Meridian Challenger School, and The Ambrose School.There are several Library operates its bookmobile 7 days a week at locations other, smaller private schools in Meridian as well. throughout the District. Continuing Education Public Utilities The City has a solid partnership with the education institutions Electricity' in Meridian, primarily West Ada School District, and Idaho State Idaho Power is an electric utility engaged in the generation, University(ISU)who opened the doors to ISU-Meridian in the transmission, distribution, sale and purchase of electric energy. 3 fall of 2009. Students at ISU specialize in Law and Leadership, Idaho Power provides electrical services throughout the city of CL Research and Medical Arts,and International Studies. In addition Meridian and the area of city impact. Idaho Power is regulated � to ISU, the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM) is by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (IPUC), the Public U also located in Meridian. ICOM partners with ISU, and other Utility Commission of Oregon (OPUC) and the Federal Energy schools and medical providers in the area. Regulatory Commission (FERC). The largest power source is the company's system of 17 hydropower projects on the N Other colleges and universities in the Meridian area include Snake River and its tributaries. Power is also supplied through o (main campus location in parenthesis): Boise State University company-owned resources and energy purchased through o (Boise), University of Idaho Extension (Boise), College of long-term contracts with wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and 0 Western Idaho (Nampa),College of Idaho(Caldwell), Northwest small-scale hydro generators. Additionally, power is supplied Nazarene University(Nampa), Stevens-Henager College (Boise), through shared ownership of two coal-fired generation plants in o Carrington College (Boise), and Treasure Valley Community Wyoming and Nevada, along with Idaho Power's three natural College (Ontario, OR). t gas-fired generation plants. Idaho Power was one of the first 0 investor-owned utilities to establish a clean energy goal without U Libraries; a government requirement to do so and is making significant Separate from the City, is the Meridian Library District. The progress toward providing 100%clean energy by 2045. Idaho X mission of the Meridian Library District is to support the Power's corporate headquarters are in Boise, Idaho.They have u community by enriching lives, igniting curiosity, and cultivating an employee base of approximately 2,000. connections.The Library District currently has two traditional i libraries, one in the Silverstone Business Campus and the 0 3*For more information,seeVeVeridian Library District's website at 4�Paris G.�Dickerson,Idaho Power"RE:Idaho Power information for the ftZ http://www.mld.orgL Existing Conditions Report 2022 1 Idaho Power."April 29,2022.E-mail. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4J. Idaho Power Substations in Meridian Substation Substation Location substations may be necessary in the future to service Meridian's Name growing needs. Black Cat West Franklin Road and North Black Cat Road Columbia West Columbia Road and South Meridian Road The company develops a system-wide 20-year Integrated Hillsdale East Amity Road and South Eagle Road Resource Plan (IRP) every two years to identify sufficient Locust East McMillan Road and North Locust Grove Road resources to reliably serve the growing demand for energy and flexible capacity within Idaho Power's service area. This Meridian East Franklin Road and North Main Street process also involves the public in the planning process in a Stoddard West Overland Road and South Stoddard Road meaningful way.The company employs a three-part strategy: Ten Mile West Ustick Road and North Ten Mile Road 1) responsible planning, 2) responsible development and 3) Source:Paris G.Dickerson,Idaho Power. "RE:Idaho Power information for the protection of resources and responsible energy use, which Existing Conditions Report2022 1 Idaho Power."April 29,2022.E-mail. ensures a thoughtful approach to current and future demand. Q) Wise use of energy helps ensure fair-priced and reliably 3 electricity today and tomorrow. 2 Today, Idaho Power serves a 24,000 square-mile service area V) and roughly 1.3 million people in southern Idaho and eastern Communications U Oregon.As of 2021, Idaho Power serviced approximately 57,000 Centurylink provides basic telephone service and Sparklight residential and business customers within the city of Meridian provides cable T.V. service, within the City of Meridian and — boundaries.With the company's low-cost hydroelectric power its Area of City Impact. Both companies provide internet N plants as the core of its generation portfolio, Idaho Power's and expanded phone services. Several telecommunications o provides more than 600,000 residential, business and agricultural companies offer wireless and cellular phone service and other o customers for some of the nation's lowest electricity prices. providers offer internet and T.V. service through other wireless means. Much of the City has been equipped with fiber-optics. � Idaho Power facilities located in Meridian city limits include o overhead transmission lines, along public streets and road Gas rights-of-way (ROW), and substations. The transmission lines connect and bring bulk electricity into the substations. From Intermountain Gas Company is the sole provider of natural U the substations, Idaho Power serves customers with both gas in southern Idaho, including Meridian. There are dual, overhead or underground distribution lines to their residences high-pressure, natural gas pipelines that bisect the southwest N and businesses. The seven substations which serve Meridian part of the Area of City Impact. w are listed in Table 4J. These pipelines and the associated easement are discussed Figure 4E depicts the general location of electric transmission in Chapter 5, Hazardous Areas. lines,with a voltage of 69,000 volts (V) or greater along public o streets and utility corridors.Additional transmission lines and ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 4E. Existing Idaho Power Infrastructure I :r I Spurer nq l I . Cn uplry Banbury r. Gal Club 1 Gary Joplin ' �i r it. C, Cartwright n g Hewlett Packard I Locust AbA 0' I - CANYON Ten Mile State Ustick TMr✓'!Ie Cre4k Hill Norco /•� I.lr i11.:�i� 0}� Boise 4 Can-Ada Grove Karcher dpla� ..,,i• Black Cat Meridian Cloverdale Bethel Court &AY IL ;N Wye Vnwxs H Zilog Nampa N ampa YS r�m� Courn Murxcrpal Stoddard Ckrb Butler Arrpprt' (n YYut Victory Midrose Park 20, N kt4r�r110 N gnu 31r MIA 0O Crete C—n rWI4 t Chestnut Hillsdale - - army N homl i . G­d Curer A.r Q Happy Valley N M+ot. Columbia ` = C: Idaho Power Infrastructure - Meridian, ID Vicinity v NORTH J (30i5@ Idaho Power Substations Idaho Power Transmission Lines Boundaries 0 1 2 3 4 } Miles y Transmission — 230 kV Meridian City Limits I�IMM'47V w W Distribution — 138 kV 69 kV ON POWER. s= ...... Map Location March 231 2 U e C� Source:Paris G.Dickerson,Idaho Power. "RE:Idaho Power information for the Existing Conditions Report 2022 Idaho Power."April 29,2022.E-mail. O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Irrigation Irrigation water in Meridian is supplied by a series of irrigation canals and laterals diverted from the Boise River. Three main canals serve the City and its Area of City Impact: New York Canal, Ridenbaugh Canal, and Settlers'Canal. Maintenance and operation of the New York Canal and its laterals is performed by the Boise Project Board of Control, under contract with the Bureau of Reclamation. Both the Board of Control and the Bureau of Reclamation review rights-of-way, easements, road crossings, relocation of facilities, utility crossings, and other related matters for the New York Canal. Water rights 1D associated with the New York Canal are administered by the Nampa and Meridian Irrigation District(NMID).The NMID is also 'o responsible for maintenance and operation of the Ridenbaugh CL Canal and its laterals and administration of associated water Q) rights. Settlers' Canal is operated and maintained by Settlers' Irrigation District,while its laterals are maintained by the water a; users.Settlers' Irrigation District is responsible for administration — of water rights associated with Settlers' Canal. o N } O Q N N O C- O U c } N X LU C O C� L O ftz www.meridiancity.org/comppIan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan PHYSICAL AND CULTURAL FEATURES As required by Idaho State Statute, this section of the report This section includes information on the City's climate, air includes a discussion of Natural Resources, Hazardous Areas, quality, geology, hydrology, soils, and vegetation. Special sites, National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors, Agriculture, including community landmarks and natural features that are and Special Sites and Historic Resources. These physical, important to the community are then identified. Agriculture N cultural, historical and natural resources (and obstacles) form has both natural/physical and social/cultural impacts on the the basis of the community and affect growth and development. community and is addressed next,followed by Historic resources Interrelated with most of these topics are sustainability and representing Meridian's heritage. Critical to our environment preservation. and heritage is the relationship with sustainability. Finally,the section concludes with information on hazardous areas,those elements that could pose a threat or danger to the community U if not properly administered. 06 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 U Above:Hoar frost at Meridian City Hall. Natural, Special, Historic, & Agricultural `' Resources Community Values N CN Meridian residents tend to value their natural resources N and are interested in preserving and protecting them while o recognizing a need for growth and development.Water quality/ pollution, canal tiling and piping of ditches, noise pollution, N ` *;"` air quality, floodplains, connectivity, density, neighborhood o ;V services, natural habitat, agricultural preservation, and open � �,�. •_ ,;.;.: �i•�, � � �� ,., ��. .,: space preservation have continually been areas of expressed o interest by the community. 0) t.'r, IN As growth continues, increased pressures are laced on natural w :.., :` LU resources. Productive agricultural soils,vegetation,and waterways .V,1 6 ' '. are all valuable resources that the residents of Meridian enjoy ° and want to reserve. While development is expected within the Area o fj N p � ..a ,. f City Impact, a maze of monotonous development •� :+�n• „�i. ?':�..' • .Fri ` •,� ° •F� { is not desired, either. City leaders and citizens focus on trying o �•¢ ���' _ � to balance open spaces and Meridian's agricultural heritage U www.meridiancity.org/compplan with development and growth. Development in Meridian standards for carbon monoxide (CO) and Particulate Matter which expresses concerns and appreciation for the aesthetic (PM10).As a result,the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) qualities of the physical environment should be encouraged. designated the area as nonattainment for these two pollutants Meridian has seen much of its natural resources change over in 19901. Ada County, however, has not experienced any the years from agricultural open spaces to a growing city. violations of the national standards for CO since 1986. In 1999, Growth projected for Meridian emphasizes the need for the EPA removed Ada County's designation of nonattainment attention to Meridian's character, specifically its natural and for PM10. In 2011 IDEQ submitted Maintenance Plans for PM10 historic resources. Providing and protecting unique sites and and in 2011 a Maintenance Plan for CO. In 2022 and thanks to resources will assure continuance of the quality of life that the improvements in air quality, the Idaho Legislature moved to residents have come to know and expect. repeal Idaho code requiring emission testing in the Treasure Valley starting in July 2023. Natural Resources Automobile and area source emissions are the two major Climate sources of CO. The main sources of PM10 are fugitive dust The City of Meridian and surrounding area is favored by a and agriculture.As wildfires continue to increase in frequency 5 mild, arid climate.While summer hot periods rarely last longer and magnitude, smoke from fires within Idaho and across the ��—, than a few days,temperatures of 100° F or higher occur nearly Western U.S.travel to our region leaving us with unhealthy air ii every year.July is the average warmest month,with the average quality during summer months. Wildfire smoke contains tiny _ temperature of 77.1° F. January is the average coolest month particles or PM2.5 that are harmful to health when inhaled. In cN with an average temperature of 31.3° F.The normal precipitation winter months, inversions can be a cause of poor air quality o pattern in the Meridian area shows a January winter average when a layer of warm air traps cooler more dense air below. o of 1.45 inches of precipitation and a very pronounced summer Because inversions cause air stagnation, pollutants such as wood 0 low of about 0.35 inches in July. The average yearly rainfall smoke and vehicle exhaust become trapped near the surface is 12.13 inches. Meridian has a United States Department of leading to potential unhealthy air quality days. The City has Agriculture Hardiness Zone designation of 7a,with some areas enacted a Clean Air Ordinance prohibiting open burning and of 6bl. Meridian's elevation is approximately 2,600 feet above wood burning fireplaces when DEQ forecasts air stagnation o sea level. conditions and air quality index reaches certain unhealthy U levels described in Meridian City Code 5-3-5. Air Quality } N The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality(IDEA) regularly For more information on Air Quality, see the Idaho Department w monitors air pollutant levels in Ada County. During the 1970s and of Environmental Quality website^. early 1980s the County experienced violations of the national (D 1 US Department of Commerce,N&A,National Weather Service.n.d. 3'Idaho Department of�Environmental Quality.n.d. "Priority Areas." "Boise Climatology and Unique Local Data. "Accessed March 15,2022. Accessed March 16,2022, https://www.deq.idaho.gov/air-quality/ p https://www.weather.gov/boi/climate. improving-air-quality/priority-areas/. >. ftz 2 US Department of Agriculture.n.d. "USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map", 4 Idaho Department of Environmental Air Quality:https://www.deq. U Accessed March 15,2022.https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/. idaho.gov/air-quality/ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5A. Soils in the Meridian Area Geology The Meridian area lies within the Snake River and Boise River Legenastate--�— ywy.aa Plains.Geology consists of a series of volcanic lava flows inter- — / ' bedded with soil layers. Most outcrops within a few miles of :+ Imrpa t City Meridian expose black basalt lava flows on the Snake River city Limits Plain. Significant geologic areas include the Snake River and its tributary, the Boise River, plus the Idaho Batholith. • . . . . . _ChOden r Generally, geology-related issues in the region involve the basalts of the Snake River Plain or the windblown silt and sand :. McMillan that covers the basalt. The windblown material on the plain . .: in the Meridian area supports some of the best farmland in . . . �\ southwest Idaho, but its properties can create problems for Prime Soil Type U construction. Large structures placed directly on this material ❑Abo silt loam C45 Cherry Fairview rather than on engineered foundations may settle because of AgaicTorriorthents r o compaction or the spreading of the unconsolidated material. NElijahsrbar c in ®Elijah-Urban complex ' ion � �� � Franklin The nearest active fault zone are the Squaw Creek Big Flat zi Moulton-Notus .. complex t............. T ....,,_. m and Jake Creek faults near Emmett, about 25 miles north of Moulton-Phyllis o N Meridian.With a relatively low probability,a 7.0 earthquake from ®complex :. _ CN o ®Pipeline silt loam °i the Squaw Creek fault was analyzed as part of the 2022 Ada F Q 0 Power silt loam County Hazard Mitigation Planning process yielding a medium ❑Purdamsiltloam victory risk. Various earthquake scenario shake maps are included in Purdam-Power silt CII the Meridian annex of Ada County Hazard Mitigation plan. '°ams ; o Recent earthquakes felt in Meridian have been centered in ❑Xeric Haplargids Amity n Xeric Haplocalcids •o the much more active Central Idaho fault zones. Not Prime Soil Type O Lake Hazel U oalrrhorp cobbly Hydrology °' Colthorp silt loam N The hydrology of the area is affected by local agricultural Notus-LesBois 1 Columbia LL and development practices. Surface water within the Area complex 0 0.5 Y, 2 of City Impact includes the Boise River and several perennial Other Types Miles and intermittent creeks, plus an extensive network of canals, Pits and Dumps March 2022 bbard aD laterals and drains.These surface water features contribute to a � complex and robustly recharged aquifer system. Groundwater 5 2002 City of Meridian eh Comprensive Plan. Source:City of Meridian,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5B. Agricultural Tax Exempt Land in Meridian is currently the only source of potable water for the City. Water meeting EPA safe drinking water standards is readily w accessible, however, aesthetic contaminants, such as ironstate—�— ywy.aa� and manganese are present and must be avoided or treated. The primary regulated contaminant of concern for Meridian is uranium, which occurs naturally in shallow aquifer units. ' Although treatment is possible, the City's primary strategy . . ... • . . {hinden� i for dealing with this contaminant is to avoid it by drilling test wells and completing production wells at other depths. —McMillan v Sods 5 An understanding of soil properties makes it possible to Ustick predict suitability or limitations for present and future uses. U In some cases, limited soil absorption for a domestic septic ' I 06 tank, combined with a high seasonable water table, limits Cherry Fairview the capacity of the soil to absorb and filter additional liquid je being discharged by a drainfield.The probable result is usually Franklin contamination of groundwater supplies. Soils that are shallow or water-saturated do not have adequate volume to absorb ' `14 Legend :Overland �� O and filter sewage effluent. Figure 5A shows common soil types , v N + + Area of City W in the Meridian area. • + Impact OL Victo/ -- Vegetation City Limits Dry Grazing Trees provide shade and wildlife habitat, reduce heat island Land r-•� _lit W - Amity— effects, reduce soil erosion, and improve air quality.Throughout Meadow ••� the Meridian area are natural tree and shrub corridors, usually Land o along the creeks and drains. Not only do these vegetation Irrigated Ag Lake.HazelPIZ Land resources provide aesthetic values and recreation opportunities, N No Exemption they are also critical for wildlife, allowing for the migration 1 --4Columbia! X LU of species between developed areas. Without these riparian o 0.5 , 2 �Y zone corridors and the ability to move through them, many Miles m Hubbard species would not have habitat areas large enough to support March 2022 5 them. Protection and preservation of natural vegetation along all creeks and drains within the Meridian area assures that ° residents are able to continue viewing wildlife and natural Source:City of Meridian,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 5A. Agricultural Land by Exemption TotalPrime scenery, while preserving a valuable natural resource. There AcreageFarmland if Agency Exemption are no forests in Meridian, but outside of the riparian zones Irrigated previously mentioned, portions of the City are heavily planted Prime Farmland County Exempt 5,008 with trees and shrubs. Parks and subdivisions contribute to Not Exempt 3,958 the recreational and aesthetic values of Meridian, and enhance Meridian Exempt 1,267 the appearance of urban areas as they are typically densely Not Exempt 16,587 landscaped. N Farmla d County Exempt 3,820 Agriculture Not Exempt 2,720 Meridian has a rich agricultural history and the City would like Meridian Exempt I 1,148 to preserve some of its agricultural heritage. Much farmland in Not Exempt 4,573 the Meridian area has, or is being converted into residential, j ir 39,081commercial, and civic uses. However,there are still some primeIL U agricultural lands in production within Meridian's Area of City 06 Note:Data generalized based on soil types,Ada County zoning,and State Impact. For the purposes of this report, prime farmland is defined O agricultral tax exemptions. Unburdened properties are those outside of city U limits with agricultural exemptions.Source:City of Meridian,2022. as land that has a good combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food and other agricultural crops ii with minimum inputs of fossil fuels, fertilizer, pesticides, and Table 5B. Agricultural Land by% Overall Area N labor and with minimal soil erosion, while also having access o Prime Total % of Overall to irrigation water. Most of the remaining agricultural land in N Farmland if Agency . - Area Meridian is not prime farmland, but may still be productive o Irrigated 0- agriculture. Figure 5B shows farmland with State tax exemptions. Prime Farmland Ada County 8,967 22.9% Figure 5A shows soils, organized by whether they are prime City of o farmland (if irrigated) or not. o Meridian 17,854 45.7/0 Not Prime Ada County 6,540 16.7% Today, the City today occupies approximately 23,500 acres of o Farmland _ land. Of the remaining 15,000 acres in the Area of City Impact, U City of 8,800 acres receives agricultural tax exemptions, most of which Meridian 5,721 14.6% } is irrigated; 5,000 of this is prime agricultural (if irrigated, and X Uj goo. which may change seasonally), and 3,800 is agricultural but Note:Data generalized based on soil types,Ada County zoning,and State not prime. agricultral tax exemptions. Unburdened properties are those outside of city limits with agricultural exemptions.Source:City of Meridian,2022. � O ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5C. Prime Farmland by Jurisdiction Table 5C. National Register-Listed Historical Resources Register Resource Name Address Status ■ Prime Farmland ■ Not Prime Farmland Number 05001599 Bell, R.H.and Jessie, 137 E. Pine St. Exists Prime Farmland Not Prime House Farmland 05001600 Hill,Clara, House 1123 N. Main St. Exists 82000210 Hunt, E. F., House 49 E. State St. Exists Ada County, 6,540 82000223 Meridian Exchange Bank 109 E. 2nd St. Resource Removed N N Mittleider Farmstead Resource Ada City of Meridian. 03000122 575 Rumpel Ln. Historic District Removed Meridian,City of 5,721U_ Mountain States 08000905 Telephone and Telegraph 815 N. Main St. Exists Note:See table 5A and 58. Co. Z) Neal, Halbert F.and U 82000227 Grace, House 101 W. Pine St. Exists C45 Special Sites and Historic Resources 96001506 Tolleth House 134 E.State Ave. Exists Historic Resources Note:Registered sites listed are in Meridian.Source:National Park Service, National Register of Historic Places, "Database and Research."Retreived on Meridian has a unique, storied history. Preservation of that March 29,2022 from https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalregister/database- — history is important because of the richness and meaning research.htm. o that it adds to the lives of its residents and the link it provides } between the past and future.As development has increased, o however, rural historic resources throughout the region have is also reflected in the many private historic residences that OL disappeared. have been recorded. N c 0 Ada County has identified a number of architectural resources Lastly,the Meridian Library District contains a large volume of and sites found within Meridian's Area of City Impact.' Historic historic maps, photos,and other historic resources. No Geological o commercial buildings recorded within the City reflect its sites or monuments have been identified in Meridian, nor are U important agricultural heritage. They include grain elevators, there any Native American sites recorded within Meridian's Area a feed mill, a wagon shop, a cheese factory, and a number of City Impact. See also Chapter 4, Commissions, Committees X of shops. Historic public buildings include a public library, and Boards, and Arts and Historic Preservation, under the U Meridian Rural High School, and a municipal pumping station, Parks and Recreation Department, for other preservation and all constructed prior to 1923. The history of town settlement activities. 0 b Ada County,Idaho*n'd."Historic Sites." Accessed March 15,2022. ftz https://adacounty.id.gov/historicpreservation/historic-sites/. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Sustainability which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy's Solar The fundamentals of sustainability within local government Energy Technologies Office,to recognize cities and counties for center on creating balanced solutions; solutions that deliver removing unnecessary obstacles to solar energy development. services at levels citizens expect in an environmentally and Meridian received the SolSmart Bronze designation in April socially responsible way; and ensuring the best economic of 2022 for its efforts to streamline green energy permitting choice in the long term. These fundamentals interact in the activities. process of balancing the needs of protecting and enhancing Air Quality the economy, the natural environment and the community's � built environment today and for future generations. Meridian can't resolve the huge flows of traffic commuting through the City, but in addition working to address integrated a' Over the last decade, the City of Meridian has incorporated land use and transportation planning for its residents, the sustainability concepts in a variety of projects including City is also working to reduce impacts by its employees and energy conservation projects; maintaining a state-of-the-art customers.The following are some of the actions the City has U wastewater treatment and reclamation facility; and creating been involved in, or is currently implementing: 06 Environmental Programs within the Public Works Department. 5 1. Remote work - The City has adopted a remote work Land Use and Transportation Planning policy that allows city workers to telecommute. This As part of its planning process, the City promotes areas of policy allows certain employees to perform their work — mixed-use development that bring shopping, services and from home or other locations. Every trip eliminated from o recreation opportunities within walking distance of dwellings. the City s roadways improves its overall air quality by } Mixed-use developments are envisioned to provide the necessary eliminating vehicle emissions. a density of homes to support bus and transit programs.Through � this type of planning, automobile trips will be reduced along 2. On-line Business - The City of Meridian has expanded c with their emissions. the amount of business that can be conducted with o the City on its website.As an example, all development Because bicycling and walking do not pollute, require no external applications submitted to the Community Development o energy source, and use land efficiently, they effectively move department is done electronically. Further,a vast majority U people from one place to another without adverse environmental of utility bills are paid online instead of in person. The c impacts—they are sustainable forms of transportation. City recognizes that every transaction that can be done online is a potential trip off the road and saves paper. LU Energy ° 3. Radio Read Meters -The City of Meridian's Public Works In 2021 the City approved a Clean Energy Resolution supporting Department staff utilizes radio read meter technology Idaho Powers goal of reaching 100% clean energy by 2045.To and in-vehicle mounted computers to transmit and access o further this pledge,the City worked with the SolSmart program, information in an effort to reduce trips to and from the U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan field and office. This technology not only reduces fuel City has held and continues to support conversations on how costs but also pollutant emissions. to better educate the general public about the importance of these waterways for natural conservation, regulatory needs, Wastewater Treatment, Reclamation and Reuse and for the history of the irrigation districts that support The Public Works Department Wastewater Division operates agricultural industry. Meridian code requires development and maintains a centralized wastewater resource recovery to keep open and improve natural and naturalized corridors facility.This facility is located in northwest Meridian, near the through the City, such as the 5-mile and 10-mile creeks. N Ustick and Ten Mile intersection.With a vision for sustainability, 2? Meridian became the first city in Idaho to be issued a Citywide Hazardous Areas Class A Recycled Water Permit in 2009.This permit signified a A natural hazards risk assessment is conducted every 5 years L_ change in how the City uses existing and finite water resources as part of the Ada County Hazard Mitigation Plan. An overall available in the Treasure Valley Aquifer System.The City is now risk assessment in the Meridian annex of the 2022 plan ranks using highly treated,or recycled water, instead of irrigation water extreme weather, flood and earthquakes as medium risk and U at select City parks, the Ten Mile Interchange Landscaping, a drought, dam/canal failure, landslide and wildfire as low risks. 06 commercial car wash, and other open spaces. This conserves Hazardous area maps by risk type are available in the Hazard 75 ground water and reduces discharge flows into the Boise Mitigation Plan on the Ada County Emergency Management River.As Meridian is located in an arid climate, recycled water & Community Resilience website'. Besides natural hazards is a "drought-proof" water supply that reduces demand on listed above, some heavy industry located primarily near municipal supply, frees up agricultural water for agricultural the rail corridor, and gas stations scattered throughout the o uses, and lowers effluent flow to the Boise River. The City of community,there are few other hazards or hazardous areas that } Meridian Wastewater Division regularly investigates areas for are noteworthy in the Meridian area.Without large industrial a resource recovery and sustainability. complexes, an airport, petroleum tank farms and other uses (D which tend to generate safety and pollution concerns,the City Preservation and Restoration of Natural Resources of Meridian is relatively free of hazardous areas which plague ° A vast majority of Meridian's natural watercourses have been larger metropolitan areas.As more development occurs however, altered by irrigation users. Many residents no longer recognize safety and hazardous areas will likely increase from more U these creeks and watercourses as natural resources. While service stations, increased traffic, storage and conveyance of Meridian residents and visitors are often denied access and hazardous chemicals associated with certain businesses, heavy N potential benefits from these watercourses and associated industrial such as gravel operations or concrete production, ;,X floodplains, these same water courses do provide critical and the attractive demand for housing near to these facilities. a irrigation water delivery. While federal regulations provide protection to a degree, as development increases, so will the potential for spills, accidents, In recent years, there have been renewed efforts to study fires, and conflicts created between disparate uses. additional restoration opportunities to improve and reestablish ,°, ftZ some of the historical and natural conditions of waterways.The Vhttps://adacounty.id.gov/emergencymanagement/mitigation/ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5D. Gas Transmission in Meridian Natural Gas Pipeline and Storage As shown in Figure 5D, there is a high-pressure natural gas -m-State yw,,44 pipeline that runs through the north-west and south-west areas of Meridian. This pipeline which is operated by the Williams Pipeline Company, carries pressurized natural gas. There is typically a 75-foot wide easement that is associated with the pipeline. Coupled with the gas transmission pipeline, there is ¢hinden , an existing Intermountain Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Plant located in the northwest part of the Area of City Impact, at 4014 N.Can-Ada Road.The storage tank which was constructed McMillan a� in 1974 and underwent maintenance in 2022 has a capacity of 7.35 million gallons. The facility continues to operate at ustick design capacity. U LNG is primarily methane in liquid form and is considered a Cherry Fairview cryogenic fluid. LNG is not flammable in liquid form and begins Pine to rapidly return to its natural state as a gas (methane) upon Franklin o exposure to the atmosphere.As the LNG warms a "vapor cloud" — is created and the methane will rise due to it is lighter than air o N and will begin to mix with the air. Should there be a sudden Gas Transmission Overland + CD escape of LNG from the tank, the concern would be the outer Infrastructure W o edge of the vapor cloud with the right mixture of air/gas that + + Area of City victory could be ignited by an irrigation water pump, vehicle, power Impact o) line or other spark or flame.One of the safety features around City Limits o the LNG tank is a containment dyke that will contain all LNG Amity Q Intermountain - - - , in the event of a catastrophic failure at the tank. LNG Tank o ® ff BUG yank Lake Hazel ' U Federal oversight for the LNG Plant is under the U.S. Department Williams } of Transportation, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety ® Pipeline X Columbia LU Administration.The two most relevant standards for the LNG 1 x - - - - a 0 0.5 1 Plant include: Miles March 2022 ' H jbbard 13 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 49, Part 193, Liquified Natural Gas Facilities; Federal Safety o Standards; and ftZ Source:City of Meridian,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 National Fire Protection Association 59A (NFPA 59A), burning activities that can inadvertently set off alarms and/ Utility LP-Gas Plant Code (this is referenced in CFR 49 or shutdown operations. Lastly and related, another safety Part 193). feature with offsite impacts is the outdoor lighting. Due to the inherent risk of fire and per the referenced CFR Part As part of a site impact study, a Fire Study and Prevention Plan 193 and NFPA 59A, LNG facilities are equipped with many safety (FSPP)was conducted by SEA Consultants in 2005 to perform features located throughout the entire LNG Plant and include and determine fire protection requirements and comply with 1) ultra-violet(UV) detectors to detect fires, 2)fire suppression Federal requirements. In addition, the FSPP was also used to equipment, 3) combustible gas sensors to detect leaks and 4) evaluate thermal radiation and vapor dispersion in the event local and remote automatic shutdowns of certain operations. of a catastrophic failure of the LNG tank. The FSPP utilized a Both the UV detectors and gas sensors in all buildings are tied computer model to determine a vapor dispersion distance from " to audible outdoor speaker alarms that are very loud, disruptive the LNG tank based on certain weather standards (wind speed, and unpleasant to be near. In addition, the UV detectors are ambient temperature & relative humidity)which resulted in a U very sensitive and can pick up outside welding or agricultural distance of 1,520 feet to obtain a safe mixture(non-hazardous) U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . of air/methane from the LNG tank. Meaning an LNG tank spill 5 Above:Intermountain Liquified Natural Gas Tank on Star Road,north of ustick. resulting in the tank being completely emptied, the vapor cloud from the warming LNG would travel a distance of 1,520 feet from the LNG tank before becoming a safe mixture in air, which is considered 2.5% methane by volume in air. N 0 m Residential dwellings should not be permitted within 1,500 feet } of the LNG tank to address the worst-case scenario evaluated °Q in the 2005 Fire Study and Prevention Plan. � N C State Highways ° State Highways are typically posted for higher-speeds and are o considered by many in the community to be hazardous.There U are four ITD roadways that currently traverse through Meridian: Interstate 84, SH 55 (Eagle Road), U.S.20/26(Chinden Boulevard), X and SH 69 (Meridian Road). In the very near future, SH 16 will U also traverse through Meridian, near the County Line. Many of a the accidents that occur in Meridian are along State Highways. The City has worked, and will continue to work with ITD,ACHD ]�i and COMPASS on improving safety along State Highways for o motorists and pedestrians. Some additional safety projects ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan I . •r — r - - O •i' - - - - —_— is WA. �s U N N O N } O Q Air Quality is also worse near highways,with disproportionate Idaho when it is considered to be injurious 9to public health, amounts of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and oxides agriculture, recreation, wildlife, or property'to Noxious weeds o overwhelm native plant communities and disturbed areas, of nitrogen discharged into the air from vehicle exhaust spreading steadily year by year. Prevention and inspection are systems, evaporative emissions, and debris. Infants, elderly, the most economical management system for reducing the U and those with preexisting cardiopulmonary disease and lower rate of noxious weed spread.The State of Idaho has laws and socioeconomic status are at higher risk without mitigation'. administrative rules regarding invasive species and noxious N weeds, which can be found in the footnote below. w c a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 EPA,Office of Transportation and Air Quality.n.d."Near Roadway Air � Pollution and Health:Frequently Asked Questions".Accessed March 15, 0 2022.https://www.epa.gov/air-research/research-near-roadway-and- 9 Invasive Species of Idaho.n.d."Noxious Weeds."Accessed march 16, other-near-source-air-pollution. 2022.https:Hinvasivespecies.idaho.gov/plants. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5E. Floodplains in Meridian Floodplains State — 44 \ The City of Meridian is a member of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and regulates development in flood prone 1.�'•_ areas. Although located in the high desert, over 24 miles of intermittent and year-round streams are found within Meridian's - - - - - - - , d -,� Area of City Impact. These streams are unique because they , _ also serve an irrigation purpose.These dual-purpose waterways Qhin en have been channelized and widened to allow them to carry large flows in the event of a canal failure. Even though the McMillan streams have been modified four streams have associated Special Flood Hazard Areas. Flood events have occurred in the ` ustick -: _ early spring when rain and rapid snowmelt combine. Meridian I ; has experienced such flooding events in 1963 and 1982. U Cherry Fairview : 75 As a participating community in the NFIP, Meridian establishes Pine I Floodplain Overlay Districts and regulates all development in Franklin P ; the Districts through permits. Development includes activities Im v �� such as grading, filling, building structures, and even storage 1 • i of materials. The purpose of floodplain management is to N Overland % I p Legend 1 v protect life-safety, guide development in the flood-prone areas N I that is consistent with the requirements for the conveyance of o ip a Area of City I Q Impact --- victot> flood flows, and minimize the expense and inconveniences to (y City Limits ' the individual property owners and the general public caused V) Flood Map � Amity by flooding. O Floodway y I Meridian currently maintains good standing in the NFIP by O ■ 100Year T Lake Hazel ' I meeting or exceeding minimum floodplain development U Flood Flo Year standards.Additionally, Meridian is a member of the Community Flood Rating System (CRS). This is an NFIP program that rewards w Columbia - communities that adopt standards above minimum requirements. 0100001�o.s 1 2Miles ' - - ' - ' v The CRS also provides residents discounts on flood insurance ..9 March2022 Hubbard premiums. O ftZ Source:City of Meridian,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors During the 2007 Idaho State legislative session,the Local Land Use Planning Act was amended to require that Comprehensive Plans incorporate an additional element to address National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors.The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has been tasked with identifying national corridors. N L Designating a National Corridor does not constitute a recommendation or a proposal to build additional transmission Q) facilities;it simply serves to spotlight the congestion or constraints adversely affecting consumers in an area.The DOE issued two draft National Corridor designations; one in the Northeastern U States and one in the Southwestern States. The State of 06 Idaho is indirectly affected as several transmission facilities 5 either cross the state or emanate from the state toward the congested area. Idaho Power has provided maps illustrating their current and proposed facilities within the Meridian Area — of City Impact and the Treasure Valley. Should the Idaho State N Public Utilities Commission notify the County of other federally o mandated corridors, the Comprehensive Plan and this report o will need to be updated. N 0 C- 0 U c } N X LU C 0 C� L 0 ftz www.meridiancity.org/comppIan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan SUMMARY This report is an integral part of the City's Comprehensive Report is not only a valuable planning and decision-making Plan, last adopted in December of 2019. By separating relevant tool, but a means to measure progress. information about the City's history, present day conditions, trends, and current strategic plan for its future, the Existing The source documentation for this report is largely composed Conditions Report 2022 allows the Comprehensive Plan to of material which, with time, changes. Given that, the Existing be a clear and concise vision document. By understanding Conditions Report is a living document, and as sufficient time what Meridian's resources are, some of its history, and some has passed or significant changes occur within the City, updates of its recent initiatives, this document serves to identify will be made to retain its relevance as a companion document. planning, policy, and services which should be addressed in As data becomes more readily generated and easily accessible, the Comprehensive Plan. In this regard,the Existing Conditions it's possible that future updates and versions of this document may become increasingly interactive. 0 E Looking north,from owntown erCN i ian. • N O N } O Q N N O C_ O U c } N - - - X LU _ O O ft Fka� U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— E IDiAN'11--� AH 0 Existing Conditions Report EXCERPTS, HIGHLIGHTS, AND ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS 22 POPULATION AGE ill[-e-n 11 0 0 1179635 MEDIAN AGE MEDIAN AGE INCREASE SINCE 1990 mate � • 33944 Change by % of Whole, Over Time 25.0%Population Percent by Arrival Period — 20.0% - — c 0 15.0% a o Population, 10.0% 2010 to o 2020 0-01 5.0% • 1 I l 0.0% a a a a a V + O V �o Ln +' O O O O O ' • • • O O O O O N M V Ln before 21 10 ■ 1990 02000 2010 r 2020 (SYMBOLS READ LEFT TO RIGHT • - •n's total 2020 Population w. added between 20 1 and 2020. Total Population Change by EDUCATION (25+) Decade High School or Bachelors or Graduate or 2020 Equivalency Higher Higher 2010 40 1 111 1990 ■ 2,938 96.4% 41 . I %4 13.7% : 1 ■ 4 CL 1 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 Change by Gender, 2014 to 2020 Population lit by ' - -6.0% -4.0% -2.0% 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% Less thanFemale H.S. H.S. Only or (or equiv.) Some college 01 • Associate's Male Bachelor's Graduate Male Female 7 33 E Broadway Ave., Ste 102 E IDIAN:--- Meridian, ID 83642 Phone: (208) 884-5533 www.meridiancity.org/compplan Existing Conditions Report 2022 Brian McClure, Comprehensive PlannerAugust 18, 2022Planning & Zoning Commission0049-2022-H Introduction Existing Conditions Report 2022, Cover Photo in the adopted by reference tableComprehensive Plan, most notably throughout the 2019 2017 version is referenced –elementsbut policy and property right all ECR addresses 15 of 17 elements;–6509-Idaho Code 6717 of the elements required under Required to address all Comp Plan. One part of two that make up the –Comprehensive Planan addendum to the Existing Conditions Report (ECR) is  Background Conditions ReportComprehensive Plan text amendment to reference the 2022 version of the Existing –Updated Existing Conditions Report 2022Today!Existing Conditions Report hasn’t been updated since, despite significant change–New (current) Comprehensive Plan adopted.December 17, 2019Most of the data is 2016 and older–Existing Conditions Report 2017 adoptedFebruary 20, 2018 Purpose for the future.), trends, and a strategic plan 20222017 (as of built and natural environment in Meridian today background information and analysis about the The Existing Conditions report includes 3-Page 1•(2022)(2017) Existing Conditions Report (List of Plans and Studies by Reference)Page C •format.underlineand through-strikeSpecific Changes in –versiontext changes referencing the 2017 twoMake –To adopt the 2022 Existing Conditions Report:Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment (CPAT) WHAT’S CHANGED?located in the Existing Conditions Report.Sources and dates for all subsequent slides Population Population Change Population Groups Over Time 65+, almost 10% since 2000•since 200050 to 64, by more than 5% •others:increasing more rapidly than However, some groups are have increased by raw total.Overall, all populations groups Meridian Continues to Age Education or higherhave a graduate degree 13.7% or higherhave a bachelor degree 41.1% EquivalencyHigh School or 96.4% Overall Educational Attainment Labor Force & Employment Labor Force & Employment Origin for Meridian Employment Destination of Meridian Labor Force Housing increased by 0.05Average Family size has •sized has decreased 0.04Average Household has •in 10 years, but…Housing size has changed little Household SizeLittle Change to Family and Housing family-33% Multi•family-67% Single•years show a mix of:-Aggregated new permits in 10whole (MF: 8 to 18% of whole)stock as percent of overall family -change in single to multimore than 10% In 10 years, permitted in the last decade20,000 new unitsMore than Dwelling UnitsSignificant Change to Total Housing Expenditures Less on local business•Less on quality of life•economy.that generally leaves the local mortgage companies, is money More money towards rent and expenditures.afford to spend on housing what a typical household can 30% is a very general rule, for Housing Expenditures Poverty Status be living in poverty.the less likely a household is to Generally, the more education equivalency are far more likely Those without a high school years-2.8% over 10Poverty down for children by years, overall-Poverty down by 2.1% over 10 Recommendation View of the Valley from Downtown Meridian.Questions Report 2022 instead of the 2017 version.staff, to reference the Existing Conditions Plan Text amendment as proposed by City 0049 Comprehensive -2022-approval of the HRecommend to the Meridian City Council Staff Request: Population and Employment Center of the Treasure Valley Extra Resources er/index.html?id=99576f3ff07245e79a29d9183896a3efhttps://gis.meridiancity.org/portal/apps/webappviewPlanning Map: ?id=265879&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCity&cr=1https://weblink.meridiancity .org/WebLink/Browse.aspxLaserfiche Project:  Existing Conditions Report EXCERPTS, HIGHLIGHTS, AND ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS 0 2 2 HOUSING LABORFORCE & EMPLOYMENT 1-Year Unemployment Tr Average Q Q Q Household 2 * 82 Low Average High Size X[2 1 • . ®[?I • . 11-1 © LIOS/0-1i Average M Q Q Q d 1 1 • 1 1 1 Familygze N N3 * 30 Size 1 • • Sector Employment A family is any two or more people residing together,and related by birth,marriage,or Retail Trade 3,860, 90%) adoption.A household may include families and non-families,or even single individuals. Health Care 3.31 Prof. Services 2,880, 17 Dwelling Units by Type Construction 2,720, ; • New Units in 10 Years, Total of All Units ; .. 2012 to 2022 through 2022 MF: 33% MF: 18% Total New jobs,% Increase 6,807 units 9,227 units —0-years, Totalt MeridianNew • • r 11) SF: 67% SF: 82% I 1Total 14,064 units 40,795 units New Meridian129670 ❑ Single-family 0 Mult-family Family Wage Jobs Housing Expenditure MeridianLabor Force by Age Groups of households with expenditures that exceeds 30% of 0 Household Income younger �� ■� Renters 1W 4 3.8•, Owners f jobs, older - .- .•.� 0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0% POVERTY STATUS BY % OF GROUP . . Meridian Labor Force . of jobs) Less than All Others High School 20.4% Equivalency t � JProf. Services Under 18 3,360 Retail 6.8/ High School . , J " ' or Equivalency Support3,610 Accommodation rs ��� • Manufacturing 9 o :0 Total Population Bachelor or 2.0% Higher 33 E Broadway Ave., Ste 102 E IDIAN;---- Meridian, ID 83642 C� Phone: (208) 884-5533 www.meridiancity.org/compplan W IDIAN� AGENDA ITEM ITEM TOPIC: Public Hearing for UDC Text Amendment ZOA-2022-0001 by City of Meridian Planning Division Application Materials: https://bit.ly/ZOA-2022-0001UDC A. Request: UDC Text Amendment for a text amendment to amend certain sections and add new code sections to the City's Unified Development Code pertaining to the regulations through Chapters 1-5. PUBLIC HEARING SIGN IN SHEET DATE : August 18, 2022 ITEM # ON AGENDA : 7 PROJECT NAME : UDC Text Amendment ZOA- 2022 - 0001 Your Full Name Your Full Address Representing I wish to testify ( Please Print ) HOA ? ( mark X if yes ) If yes, please provide HOA name 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 STAFF REPORT E COMMUNITY N -- COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT HEARING 8/18/2022 DATE: ' 16 44 55 0 TO: Planning&Zoning Commission 26 FROM: Bill Parsons, Current Planning Supervisor 208-884-5533 SUBJECT: ZOA-2022-0001 — 2022 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 sections 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 newspaper 8/3/2022 Public Service Announcement 7/29/2022 Nextdoor posting 7/29/2022 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 text amendment provides a broad range of changes and additions to multiple code sections. The most notable changes include new definitions;multi-family and vertically integrated parking standards;new live/work standards;private street standards; and changes to the decision-making authority table in Chapter 5. All the proposed changes to the UDC are included as part of the public record. Staff has purposely not attached the table of changes in the staff report to minimize the size of the report and improve the review quality of document for the public, Commission and Council. Commentary associated with proposed changes are also part of the table that explain the reason for the modification or addition to the code. All of the proposed changes went through an extensive and collaborative review process over several months between City staff and the UDC Focus Group. In summary, City Staff believes the proposed changes will make the implementation and use of the UDC more understandable and enforceable. VI. DECISION A. Staff: Staff recommends approval of the proposed text amendment to the UDC based on the analysis provided in Section W and V, modifications presented in Exhibit A and the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in Section VIII. B. Commission: Enter Summary of Commission Decision. C. City Council: Enter Summary of City Council Decision. Page 2 VII. EXHIBIT A. Proposed Table of Text Changes—Click here to review document 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; Staff 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 Staff 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 as submitted. 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. Staff 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 3 Proposed UDC Text Amendments UDC Section Topic Reason for Change Proposed Change 11-1A-1 Entertainment, adult This definition is outdated and Entertainment, adult. Adult entertainment shall include a place of business or commercial Legal has requested that the establishment providing or selling, as a substantial or significant portion of its stock or trade live or Planning Division update the re-recorded entertainment activity, goods, services or media of a sexually prurient nature meaning- definition to align with state code. any image, depiction, communication or product that in context is obscene lewd lascivious or indecent including: A nude or substantial) nude ersons including persons dancing, stripping, or exhibiting or modeling lingerie, bikinis or similarly styled garmentsm Bpersonal contact of a sexual nature between persons or devices• or C adult stores distinguished or characterized by their emphasis on such matter or which sells or displays for sale devices designed to stimulate sexual arousal b contact with the skin or bodily orifices. Terms used herein shall be defined as set forth in Idaho Code section 18-1514 and 18-4101.Adult entertainment shall be defined in title 3 chapter 10 of this ^^a^ excluding adult stores having only a segment or- section devoted to the sale or- display of: emphasis on matter- �sc-Fibingj or-Felating to adult entertainment; and/O.F 11-1A-1 Heat island Adding a new definition of heat Heat island. In urban areas the absorption of solar radiation from low reflectance materials that leads island to coincide with the to a gradual increase in temperatures versus rural and undeveloped areas. landscape buffer requirements in UDC 11-3B. 11-1A-1 Live/work residential Adding a new definition to the Live work residential 12roiect, A structure used for both residential and nonresidential uses where: 1 project UDC to differentiate live/work the structure includes a dwelling unit 2 the nonresidential square footage exceeds the area allowed residential projects from home for home occupations and is less than 1,500 square feet and 3 the structure is designed to integrate occupations and vertically residential occupancy and work activities including complete kitchen and sanitary facilities and integrated residential projects. working space used by one or more occupants of the unit. 11-1A-1 Muliiuse Pathway ACHD is moving towards multiuse Multiuse pathway. A passageway, typically 10-feet in width, that is designed to provide walking, pathways instead of bike lanes bicycling and other nonmotorized recreational opportunities between areas and facilities. and sidewalks on arterial roadways. May need to amend after ACHD's policy is amended. 11-1A-1 Riparian area Adding a new definition to the Ril2arian area. A native vegetated area along waterways such as flood plains and streambanks that are UDCm distinctly different from surrounding lands because of unique soil and vegetation characteristics that are strongly influenced by the presence of water. 11-1A-1 Urban tree canopy Adding a new definition to the Urban canol2y. The layer of leaves branches and stems of trees that provide shelter of landscaping, UDCm hardscaping, and other improvements beneath when viewed from above. 11-1A-1 Vertically integrated Make it clear that home Vertically integrated residential project. The use of a multi-story structure for residential and residential project occupations are different from a nonresidential uses where the different uses are planned as a unified, complementary whole and vertically integrated residential functionally integrated to share vehicular and pedestrian access and parking. This term shall not project. include "accessory use home occupation" or "live Iwork residentialproject" as herein defined. Table 11-2A-2 Allowed uses in the Add live/work residential project to Use R-2 R-4 R-8 R-15 R-40 residential district the table as a use. Laundromat 1 - - - A A/C Live/work residential project 1 = _ = C C Manufactured home park - - - C - DATE: 08/11/2022 1 Table 11-2B-2 Allowed uses in the Add live/work residential project to Use C-N C-C C-G L-0 M-E H-E commercial district the table as a use. Laundry and dry cleaning P P P - - A Live/work residential project i P P C C Mortuary C P P - - - Table 11-2D-2 Allowed uses in the Add live/work residential project Use 0-T TN-C TN-R traditional neighborhood to the table as a use. Laundry and dry cleaning P P P district Live/work residential project 1 P P P Mortuary C C - 11-3A-5 Bikeways a Multiuse Update this code section to Multiuse pathways shall be constructed in accord with the city's comprehensive plan.the Pathways require a 10-foot wide MUPs to Meridian Pathways Master Plan aid the Ada County Hhighway 4District mMaster sStreet mMaap and replace the requirement for on- Roadways to Bikeways Master Plan. street bike lanes when required by ACHD. May need to define bikeway OR remove entirely. 11-3A-17C Sidewalks and Parkways Align this section of code with C. Detached sidewalks or multiuse pathways shall be required along all arterial and collector streets. ACHD policies as noted in 11-3A- The Director may waive this requirement to detach the sidewalk where: S. 11-313-7C may need amending as well. 1. There is an existing attached sidewalk or multiuse pathway; 2. The sidewalk is less than three hundred (300) linear feet in length and between two (2) adjoining properties with attached sidewalks or multiuse pathways. The Director may waive this requirement for a portion of the street frontage where there is a utility box, mature tree or other impediment that prevents installation of a detached sidewalk or multiuse athwa . 11-3A-19B.2 and 3 Structure and site design The current standard appears to be 2. Site design. guidelines switched for lots with frontage on a public street vs. lots within mixed a. Extend or improve streets, drive aisles, cross access easements or similar vehicular and pedestrian use areas. Building facades in mixed use areas should be closer to connections provided from adjacent properties. the street. This section conflicts b. For lots with frontage on a public street, a minimum of€eFty{40) thirty f30) percent of the buildable with 11-3A-19B.3 which allows frontage of the property shall be occupied by building facades and/or public space. Within mixed use parking & drive aisles next to the areas, and for large multi-building developments, buildings may be placed away from roadways if a street. minimum of thiFty-(30 fort 40 percent of the buildable frontage is occupied by building facades Exempt I-L zoned properties from and/or public space. having to disperse parking throughout the site like a 3. Parking lots. commercial development. City staff has been processing multiple a. For properties greater than two (2) acres in size, no more than fifty (50) percent of the total off alternative compliance requests street parking area for the site shall be located between building facades and abutting streets. This to these standards because of the require ent may be reduced or waived at the determination of the director in industrial districts I-L dimensional standards and here there is an operational need to separate a secure outdoor storage yand from the parking area. many of these sites required a secured yard. DATE: 08/11/2022 2 11-3B-2C Landscape plan The current applicability C.All applications for a conditional use permit (CUP), preliminary plat (PP), final plat (FP), combined applicability statement does not include preliminary and final 12lat PFP short plat SHP certificate of zoning compliance (CZC), applications for combined administrative design review (DES), or planned unit development (PUD). preliminary&final plat and short plat applications. 11-3B-5 Water conserving design With the increase in the concern 0.Water Conserving design. To qualify for the exceptions for water conserving designs as set forth in of water usage, City staff is this chapter, the applicant shall demonstrate the following: looking to incentivize landscaping that utilizes the water conserving 1.The design includes water conserving trees of this section, use of native or drought resistant shrubs, design in the UDC. perennials or ornamental grasses,water conserving plants, boulders, rocks, decorative walls and/or permeable hardscape materials such as pavers and flagstones, and that are visually distinct (size, texture, or color) and clearly visible from the adjacent travel roadway or drive aisle. 2. The design includes plants that can thrive in climates with approximately ten (10) to twelve (12) inches of annual rainfall. 3. Lawn and turf areas shall not comprise more than fifty (50) percent of the total landscaped areas and shall consist of water conserving grasses, including, but not limited to, buffalo grass, blue gamma grass, compact fescue,Xerilawn, turf type tall fescue and/or rhyzomotuous tall fescue. 4. Herbaceous and/or perennial ground cover shall be drought tolerant and able to withstand dry conditions once established.As a guide, refer to the recommended plants in the city of Boise parks and recreation "Water Conservation Guidelines". 5. Excluding lawn and turf, no area larger than three hundred seventy-five (375) square feet may be covered by a single ground cover material without additional hardscape or design feature of no less than one hundred twenty-five (125) square feet. 6. The required street landscape buffer widths in Chapter 2 may be reduced up to fifty (50) Percent. Required landscape aFeas shall he at least forty (40) per-cent covered with vegetation at maturity. 7. Required landscape areas shall be at least fort 40percent covered with vegetation at maturity. DATE: 08/11/2022 3 11-313-7C Landscape buffers along ACHD is moving towards multiuse C.Standards. Standards for landscape buffers along streets shall be as follows: streets pathways, not sidewalks on arterials. The changes account for 1. Buffer size. See Chapter 2, "District Regulations", of this title. either sidewalk or MUP and explain how the landscape buffer is accounted for.As ACHD amends a. Measurement. policy, this standard may need (1) All street buffers with attached sidewalks shall be measured from the back of sidewalk or multiuse amending further. pathway. Where ACHD is anticipating future widening of the street, the width of the buffer shall be measured from the ultimate sidewalk or multiuse pathway location as anticipated by ACHD. (2) All street buffers with detached sidewalks or multiuse pathways shall be measured from the back of curb. Where ACHD is anticipating future widening of the street, the width of the buffer shall be measured from the ultimate curb location as anticipated by ACHD. Detached sidewalks and multiuse pathways shall have an average minimum separation of greater than four (4) feet to back of curb. b. Easements. Where the buffer is encumbered by easements or other restrictions,the buffer area shall include a minimum five-foot wide area for planting shrubs and trees. c. Width reduction. In a development where the required street buffer width results in an otherwise unavoidable hardship to the property, a written request for a buffer reduction may be submitted through the alternative compliance process in accord with Chapter 5, "Administration", of this Title. The request shall demonstrate evidence of the unique hardship caused by the required street buffer and propose a specific alternative landscape plan that meets or exceeds the intent of the required buffer. In no case shall the width be reduced to less than ten (10) percent of the depth of the lot, except in the Old Town district.A reduction to the buffer width shall not affect building setbacks; all structures shall be set back from the property line a minimum of the buffer width required in the applicable zoning district. 11-3C-5A6 Parking standards for all Add a note to encourage/allow 6. Design for standard vehicles.All required parking as determined in Section 11-3C-6 of this Article other uses not specified oversized parking stalls as shall be designed for standard and/or oversized vehicles. Compact stalls are discouraged, but may be directed by the Council. used for any parking above the number of required parking spaces. Table 11-3C-6 Required parking spaces Revisit the parking ratios for Studio 1 per dwelling unit for residential use (MF) multi-family developments. This continues to be a topic of 1 1.5 per dwelling unit; at least 1 in a discussion at public hearings. covered carport or garage Staff may propose that a minimum standard of 2 parking 2 2 per dwelling unit; at least 1 in a covered spaces per unit regardless of the Dwelling, multi-family345(triplex, carport or garage number of bedrooms.Add a note fourplex, apartments, etc.) 3 per dwelling unit; at least 2 in a covered to clarify that clubhouses are not 314+ carport or garage subject to the commercial parking standards. Guest 1 per 10 dwelling units spaces Notes: 5 The required number of parking spaces associated with a nonresidential structure approved as an amenity for a multi-family development (i.e., clubhouse, fitness center, etc.) shall be exempt from the parking standards required for nonresidential uses as listed in subsection B. DATE: 08/11/2022 4 Table 11-3C-6 Required parking spaces Require more parking for Vertically integrated residentia14 Studio 1 1 per dwelling unit for residential use vertically-integrated residential 2/3 11.5 per dwelling unit (Vertically Integrated) projects 4+ 2 per dwelling unit 11-313-7C Landscape buffers along ACHD is moving towards multiuse C.Standards. Standards for landscape buffers along streets shall be as follows: streets pathways, not sidewalks on arterials. The changes account for 1. Buffer size. See Chapter 2, "District Regulations", of this title. either sidewalk or MUP and explain how the landscape buffer is accounted for. a. Measurement. (1) All street buffers with attached sidewalks shall be measured from the back of sidewalk or multiuse athwa . Where ACHD is anticipating future widening of the street, the width of the buffer shall be measured from the ultimate sidewalk or multiuse pathway location as anticipated by ACHD. (2) All street buffers with detached sidewalks or multiuse pathways shall be measured from the back of curb. Where ACHD is anticipating future widening of the street, the width of the buffer shall be measured from the ultimate curb location as anticipated by ACHD. Detached sidewalks and multiuse pathways shall have an average minimum separation of greater than four (4) feet to back of curb. b. Easements. Where the buffer is encumbered by easements or other restrictions,the buffer area shall include a minimum five-foot wide area for planting shrubs and trees. c. Width reduction. In a development where the required street buffer width results in an otherwise unavoidable hardship to the property, a written request for a buffer reduction may be submitted through the alternative compliance process in accord with Chapter 5, "Administration", of this Title. The request shall demonstrate evidence of the unique hardship caused by the required street buffer and propose a specific alternative landscape plan that meets or exceeds the intent of the required buffer. In no case shall the width be reduced to less than ten (10) percent of the depth of the lot, except in the Old Town district.A reduction to the buffer width shall not affect building setbacks; all structures shall be set back from the property line a minimum of the buffer width required in the applicable zoning district. 11-3F-2 Applicability Allow private streets to develop The provisions of this article shall apply to any properties that are located in a residential district. in all residential districts. Private streets are currently not allowed in the R-2, R-4 or R-8 district because these districts require public street frontage per the dimensional standards in Chapter 2. DATE: 08/11/2022 5 11-3F-4 Private street standards Clarify that one gate for every 50 All private streets shall be designed and constructed to the following standards: dwelling units and proposed A. Design standards. developments should not exceed more than 100 dwelling units. 1. Easement. The private street shall be constructed on a perpetual ingress/egress easement or a single Additional units may be allowed platted lot that provides access to all properties served by such private street. In instances where the through the PUD process in subject property is being subdivided, the preference is that the private street be a lot within such Chapter 7. subdivision. 2. Connection point. The private street shall connect to a local or collector street. The private street shall not connect to an arterial street.Where the point of connection of 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 Meridian Fire Department. 4. Gates. Gates or other obstacles shall be allowed subject to the following standards: a. The proposed development shall be for residential uses. b. The proposed development shall have no more than fAy one hundred (100-5-9) dwelling units.A greater number of dwelling units may be approved with a planned unit development. One gated entry shall be provided for every fifty (50) dwelling units: c. The proposed development shall not restrict pedestrian and bicycle access along the private street. The proposed development shall provide unrestricted access to pedestrians and bicycles at a minimum of two (2) additional points within the proposed development. d. The proposed development shall not restrict access to existing or planned multiuse pathways as shown in chapter 3 of the Meridian Pathways Master Plan. e. The applicant shall provide access to the gate for emergency vehicles as determined and approved by the Meridian Fire Department and Public Works Department. f. To allow sufficient stacking 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. S. Culs-de-sac. No private street that ends in a cul-de-sac or a dead end shall be longer than five hundred fo r hundred f; (5004-5,9) feet. 6. Common driveways. No common driveways shall be allowed off of a private street. 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. Table 11-3G-4 Site amenities and point Add a multi-modal amenity Site amenity Point Value value similar to multi-family developments. Multi-Modal Amenities Charging stations for electric vehicles installed with a business center, 2 clubhouse or fitness facility DATE: 08/11/2022 6 11-3G-5B General standards for With the recent update to the B. Improvements and landscaping. common open space and open space standards, there was site amenities section of code that was 1.Common open space shall be suitably improved for its intended use, except that natural features inadvertently removed from code. such as wetlands, rock outcroppings, natural waterways and riparian areas, open ditches, and laterals may be left unimproved. 2. Common open space shall comply with the applicable landscaping requirements set forth in Article 11-313, Landscaping Requirements, of this Title. 3.At a minimum common open s ace areas shall include one deciduous shade tree for every five thousand (5,000) square feet of area and include a variety of trees shrubs lawn or other vegetative round cover. 11-4-3-10 Drinking Establishments Increase parking standards for A. The facility shall comply with all Idaho Code regulations regarding the sale, manufacturing, or this use. distribution of alcoholic beverages. B. The drinking establishment shall not be located within three hundred (300) feet of a property used for a church or any other place of worship, or any public or private education institution, nor shall the drinking establishment be located within one thousand (1,000) feet of an adult entertainment establishment; provided, that this limitation shall not apply to any duly licensed premises that at the time of licensing did not come within the restricted area but subsequent to licensing came therein; the expansion of an existing establishment may be allowed with the approval of a conditional use permit as set forth in section 11-5B-6 of this title. C. For properties abutting a residential district, no outside activity or event shall be allowed on the site, except in accord with chapter 3, article E, "temporary use requirements", of this title. D.At a minimum one 1parking space shall be provided for every two hundred fifty 250 square feet of gross floor area. Upon any change of use for an existing building or tenants ace a detailed parking plan shall be submitted that identifies the available parking for the overall site that complies with the requirements of this title. DATE: 08/11/2022 7 11-4-3-12 Dwelling, secondary Change code to support this A. Permitted. One (1) secondary dwelling unit is permitted on the same property in conjunction with housing choice.Add another and clearly subordinate to a single-family dwelling. element of attainable housing. B. Owner occupancy. To create and maintain a secondary dwelling unit, the property owner shall reside on the property for more than six (6) months in any twelve (12) month period. The applicant for a secondary dwelling unit shall demonstrate that either the single-family dwelling or the secondary unit is occupied by the owner of the property. Owner occupancy is demonstrated by title records, vehicle registration,voter registration or other similar means. Secondary dwelling units shall not be subdivided or otherwise segregated in ownership from the single-family dwelling unit. C. Maximum size. Secondary dwelling units shall be limited to a maximum of seven nine hundred (-7900) square feet or no more than fifty (50) percent of the primary dwelling, whichever is less, and anetwo (472) bedrooms in constructed in accord with the adopted residential building code. D. Location. The secondary dwelling unit may be located within or attached to the primary dwelling; a detached structure; or above or beside a detached structure, such as a garage. Detached secondary dwelling units shall be located to the side or rear of a primary dwelling. No ,,.,Rion of the secondary dwelling unit Sh-All be le-e-Ated- in front of the pFimaFy dwelling unit. E. Parking. Required parking for the property shall be as set forth in section 11-3C-6, table 11-3C-6 of his title for single-family dwellings, as determined by the total number of bedrooms on the property. The conversion of a covered parking area (garage/carport) into a secondary dwelling unit is not allowed unless the required parking can be provided elsewhere on site. F. Entrance. Only one (1) entrance door of either the single-family dwelling or the secondary dwelling unit shall be located facing any one street. G. Design. The secondary unit shall be consistent in design with the single-family dwelling, including roof pitch, siding, color, materials, and window treatments. H. Prohibitions. Manufactured and mobile homes, and recreation vehicles shall be prohibited for use as a secondary dwelling unit. 11-4-3-16 Entertainment Strike C. from the specific use , chap establishment, adult standards as this is no longer 1-0- A4 this Gede. applicable. DATE: 08/11/2022 8 11-4-3-27C Common open space design Clarify which sections are eligible C. Common open space design requirements. requirements for ALT and when common open space adjacent to collector and 1.The total baseline land area of all qualified common open space shall equal or exceed ten (10) arterial streets qualifies. percent of the gross land area for multi-family developments of five (5) acres or more.When multi- family is aDDroved concurrently with single-family, the minimum open s ace requirements in 11-3G-3 shall apply to the gross land area of entire development. 2.All common open space shall meet the following standards: a. The development plan shall demonstrate that the open space has been integrated into the development as a priority and not for the use of land after all other elements of the development have been designed. Open space areas that has been given priority in the development design have: (1) Direct pedestrian access; (2) High visibility; (3) Comply with Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CTED) standards; and (4) Support a range of leisure and play activities and uses. Irregular shaped, disconnected or isolated open spaces shall not meet this standard. b. Open space shall be accessible and well connected throughout the development. This quality can be shown with open spaces that are centrally located within the development, accessible by pathway and visually accessible along collector streets or as a terminal view from a street. c. The open space promotes the health and well-being of its residents. Open space shall support active and passive uses for recreation, social gathering and relaxation to serve the development. DATE: 08/11/2022 9 11-4-3-27C 3.All multi-family projects over twenty (20) units shall provide at least one (1) common grassy area continued integrated into the site design allowing for general activities by all ages. This area may be included in the minimum required open space total. Projects that provide safe access to adjacent public parks or parks under a common HOA,without crossing an arterial roadway, are exempt from this standard. a. Minimum size of common grassy area shall be at least five thousand (5,000) square feet in area. This area shall increase proportionately as the number of units increase and shall be commensurate to the size of the multi-family development as determined by the decision-making body.Where this area cannot be increased due to site constraints, it may be included elsewhere in the development. b.Alternative compliance is available for the standards listed in C1 and C2 above, if a project has a unique targeted demographic; utilizes other place-making design elements in Old-Town or mixed-use future land use designations with collectively integrated and shared open space areas. 4. In addition to the baseline open space requirement, a minimum area of outdoor common open space shall be provided as follows: a. One hundred fifty (150) square feet for each unit containing five hundred (500) or less square feet of living area. b. Two hundred fifty (250) square feet for each unit containing more than five hundred (500) square feet and up to one thousand two hundred (1,200) square feet of living area. c. Three hundred fifty (350) square feet for each unit containing more than one thousand two hundred (1,200) square feet of living area. S.Common open space shall be not less than four hundred (400) square feet in area, and shall have a minimum length and width dimension of twenty (20) feet 6.In phased developments, common open space shall be provided in each phase of the development consistent with the requirements for the size and number of dwelling units. 7.Unless otherwise approved through the conditional use process, common open space areas shall not be adjacent to collector or arterial streets buffers unless separated from the street by a berm or constructed barrier at least four (4) feet in height,with breaks in the berm or barrier to allow for pedestrian access. 8. Buffers : One hundred 100percent of the landscape buffer along collector streets and fifty 50 percent of the landscape buffer along arterial streets that meet the enhanced buffer requirements below may count towards the required baseline open s ace. a. Enhanced landscaping as set forth in Article 11-313, Landscaping Requirements: b. Multi-use pathways: c. Enhanced amenities with social interaction characteristics: d. Enhanced context with the surroundings. DATE: 08/11/2022 10 11-4-3-27 Multi-family development MPD wants a specific code section G. Police access under exigent circumstances. Multifamily developments with units that take access via to address access into MF secured common corridors shall install and maintain a keyless entry system, or suitable alternative to buildings with secured common provide police access to the common corridors under exigent circumstances. The keyless entry system corridors. or alternative shall be subject to review and approval by the Meridian Police Department. 11-4-3-34H Storage facility, self-service Making this section clearer when H. The facility shall have a second means of access for emergency purposes as determined by the Fire secondary emergency access is Marshal. required. 11-4-3-41 Vertically-integrated Add additional design criteria to A.A vertically integrated residential project shall be a structure that contains at least two (2) stories. residential project support this use in other zoning districts. B.A minimum of twenty-five (25) percent of the gross floor area of a vertically integrated project shall be residential dwelling units, ineluding outdoor patio space on the same floor as a residential unit may count towards this re uirement. C.A minimum of ten 10percent of the gross floor area of a vertically integrated project shall be used for nonresidential uses asspecified in subsection E below. DQ The minimum building footprint for a detached vertically integrated residential project shall be two thousand four hundred (2,400) square feet. Ems. The allowed nonresidential uses in a vertically integrated project include: arts, entertainment or recreation facility; artist studio; civic, social or fraternal organizations; daycare facility; drinking establishment; education institution; financial institution; healthcare or social assistance; industry, craftsman; laundromat; nursing or residential care facility; personal or professional service; public or quasi-public use; restaurant; retail; or other uses that may be considered through the conditional use permit process. FR None of the required parking shall be located in the front of the structure. G.A minimum of fifty 50 square feet of private, usable open s ace shall be provided for each residential dwelling unit. This requirement can be satisfied through porches, patios, decks and/or enclosed vards. Landscaping, entryway and other accesswa s shall not count toward this requirement. In circumstances where strict adherence to such standard would create inconsistency with the purpose statements of this section the Director may consider an alternative design proposal through the alternative compliance provisions as set forth in Section 11-5B-5 of this Title. 11-4-3-50 Live/work residential Add new specific use standards to 11-4-3-50 - Live work residential project rp oject incorporate live/work residential project that aligns with the A.A live work structure shall not exceed 3,000 square feet. adopted building code. B. The nonresidential area shall be limited to the first floor only and not exceed fifty 50percent of the gross floor area of the structure. C. The nonresidential area shall be used by the occupant of the dwelling. No more than five 5 employees shall occupy the area at any one time. D. Parking standards shall comply with the vertically-integrated residential project standards. E. The allowed nonresidential uses in a live work project include: arts entertainment or recreational facility artist studio and personal or professional service retail• other uses may be considered through a conditional use permit. DATE: 08/11/2022 11 Table 11-5A-2 Alternative Compliance ALT should be submitted Alternative compliance None D A concurrently with CUP application and included in the analysis of the Alternative compliance (concurrent with conditional use permit) D PZ PH staff report for consideration by the Commission. The official decision would be included in the Findings document for the associated CUP, which includes appeal language. Table 11-5A-2 Conditional use (with ALT and MDA applications should Conditional use (concurrent with annexation, rezone, preliminary plat, alternative PZ CC PH concurrent annexation, be submitted concurrently with compliance, development agreement modification and/or combination plat) rezone,preliminary plat CUP application and included in the and/or combination analysis of the staff report for consideration by the Council. Table 11-5A-2 Decision making authority Aligning code with State Statue Unified Development Code amendment PZ CC PH and process by application 40-203.ACHD is the decision- making body. Vacations: Exempt per Idaho Code § 50-1306A(5) None D A All others D CC PH Table 11-513-3C.3 Annexations and rezones Requiring concept plans 3.Annexation and/or rezone requests are not accompanied by a conditional use permit or planned submitted with annexation unit development, the applicant shall provide a conceptual development plan that depicts streets, site and/or rezone applications to access, internal circulation patterns, connectivity to adjacent properties, parking, general location of include # of dwelling units and square footages of buildings. buildings, including number of dwelling units and nonresidential building square footages. pedestrian walkways and public or private open space. DATE: 08/11/2022 12 Option B UDC SectionTopicReason for ChangeProposed Change Table 11-3C-6 Required parking spaces Revisit the parking ratios for Studio 1 per dwelling unit for residential use (MF) multi-family developments. This 1.5 per dwelling unit; at least 1 in a 1 continues to be a topic of covered carport or garage discussion at public hearings. 2/3 2 per dwelling unit; at least 1 in a covered Staff may propose that a minimum standard of 2 parking carport or garage Dwelling, multi-family345(triplex, spaces per unit regardless of the 4+ 3 per dwelling unit; at least 2 in a covered fourplex, apartments, etc.) number of bedrooms. Add a note carport or garage to clarify that clubhouses are not Guest subject to the commercial parking 1 per 10 dwelling units standards. spaces Notes: 5 The required number of parking spaces associated with a nonresidential structure approved as an amenity for a multi-family development (i.e., clubhouse, fitness center, etc.) shall be exempt from the parking standards required for nonresidential uses as listed in subsection B. 4 Table 11-3C-6 Required parking spaces Require more parking for Vertically integrated residential Studio/1 1 per dwelling unit for residential use vertically-integrated residential 2 or 1 2 per dwelling unit (Vertically Integrated) projects more/3 4+ 1 DATE: 08/11/2022 1