CC - Commission Recommendation and Staff Report 12/6
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HEARING
DATE:
12/6/2022
TO: Mayor & City Council
FROM: Joe Dodson, Associate Planner
208-884-5533
SUBJECT: H-2022-0064
Hadler Neighborhood
LOCATION: Located at 7200 S. Locust Grove Road,
approximately 1/2 mile south of the
Locust Grove and Lake Hazel
intersection on the east side of Locust
Grove, in the N 1/2 of the SW 1/4 of
Section 5, Township 2N, Range 1E.
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Request for Annexation and Zoning of approximately 20.5 acres of land from RUT to the R-15 zoning
district and a Preliminary Plat consisting of 145 144 building lots (52 single-family attached lots & 923
detached single-family lots) and 11 common lots on approximately 20 acres of land in the requested R-15
zoning district, by Laren Bailey, Conger Group.
II. SUMMARY OF REPORT
A. Project Summary
Description Details Page
Acreage AZ – 20.5 acres; PP – 20 acres
Future Land Use Designation Medium Density Residential (MDR, up to 3-8 du/ac)
Existing Land Use(s) County residential
Proposed Land Use(s) Detached Single-family Residential and Attached
Single-family Residential
Lots (# and type;
bldg./common)
156 total lots – 145 144 residential building lots and
11 common lots
Phasing Plan (# of phases) Proposed as two (2) phases
Number of Residential Units 145 144 single-family units (52 attached, 923
detached)
Density Gross – 7.25 du/ac.
Open Space (acres, total
[%]/buffer/qualified)
Approximately 3.5 acres of open space proposed
(approximately 17.5%)
STAFF REPORT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
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Description Details Page
Amenities Four (4) qualifying amenities are proposed worth 11
amenity points – picnic area, playground, a water
feature (fountain), and multi-use pathway segments.
Neighborhood meeting date July 21, 2022
History (previous approvals) No application history with the City
B. Community Metrics
Description Details Page
Ada County Highway
District
• Staff report (yes/no) Yes
• Requires ACHD
Commission Action
(yes/no)
No
Access
(Arterial/Collectors/State
Hwy/Local) (Existing and
Proposed)
Access is proposed via new local street connections to E. Via Roberto Lane, a
new collector street along the entire north boundary. Via Roberto connects to S.
Locust Grove (arterial street) at the northwest corner of the property. This
collector street is not yet constructed; the adjacent developer (Brighton) is
approved to construct this collector with their project (Apex Southeast) to the
north of the subject site.
Stub
Street/Interconnectivity/Cross
Access
No existing stub streets. Applicant is proposing two stub streets with this
project; one to the northeast corner and one to the southern boundary.
Existing Road Network No
Capital Improvements
Plan/Integrated Five Year
Work Plan
Fire Service
• Distance to Fire
Station
4.1 miles from Fire Station #4—within 1 mile of Fire Station #7, currently
under construction.
• Fire Response Time The project currently lies outside of the Meridian Fire response time goal of 5
minutes. It will be within the response time goal once Station #7 is
constructed in summer of 2023.
• Accessibility Proposed project meets all required road widths and turnaround dimensions
including a secondary emergency access to construct more than 30 homes.
Water & Wastewater
• Impacts/Concerns See Public Works Site Specific Conditions in Section VIII.
NOTE: Water and Sewer are currently not available and must be provided
to project by adjacent development to the north, Apex Southeast, but the
third and final phase of Apex Southeast is approved.
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C. Project Area Maps
III. APPLICANT INFORMATION
A. Applicant:
Laren Bailey, Conger Group – 4824 W. Fairview Avenue, Boise, ID 83706
B. Property Owner:
Blackcat1 LLC – 1979 N. Locust Grove, Meridian, ID 83646
Future Land Use Map
Aerial Map
Zoning Map
Planned Development Map
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C. Representative:
Same as Applicant
IV. NOTICING
Planning & Zoning
Posting Date
City Council
Posting Date
Newspaper Notification 10/19/2022 11/20/2022
Radius notification mailed to
properties within 500 feet 10/13/2022 11/17/2022
Site Posting 10/21/2022 11/18/2022
Nextdoor posting 10/13/2022 11/18/2022
V. STAFF ANALYSIS
A. Future Land Use Map Designation (https://www.meridiancity.org/compplan)
Medium Density Residential (MDR) – This designation allows for dwelling units at gross
densities of three to eight dwelling units per acre. Density bonuses may be considered with the
provision of additional public amenities such as a park, school, or land dedicated for public
services.
The subject 20 acres currently contains a large home and other outbuildings with access being
from a private driveway to Locust Grove in the location of the future Via Roberto Lane. The
subject site is abutted by an arterial street to the west, S. Locust Grove, and a future collector
street along the north, E. Via Roberto Lane. Access to the site is proposed via a new local street
access to Via Roberto in alignment with an approved access on the north side of the street within
Apex Southeast Subdivision. Abutting the property to the east and south are large county parcels
that share the same future land use designation of MDR. The City’s newest park, Discovery Park,
abuts the property at the northeast corner of the site offering close proximity to one of the largest
parks in Meridian.
The Applicant is proposing 145 building lots on 20 acres of land within the R-15 zoning district
which constitutes a gross density of 7.25 units per acre, near the maximum density allowed within
the MDR designation. For comparison, the adjacent project to the north, Apex Southeast (H-
2020-0057), was approved with approximately 3.7 du/ac and an average lot size of
approximately 7,000 square feet, compared to 3,600 square foot average lot size within this
development. Staff notes these development facts of the adjacent project because it shares the
same future land use designation of MDR but also includes an area of mixed-use designation
while proposing a less dense project. It should be noted that the Applicant is proposing new
housing types for this area of this City and is proposing a higher open space percentage for the
project than what was proposed with Apex Southeast.
The adjacent county parcels to the south and east do not contain a residence and instead are
used as pasture for rescued horses. Because of this, Staff does not find it necessary for this
Applicant to transition the housing density adjacent to these properties. However, Staff does
have concerns with the proposed street layout in regards to the stub street locations. The
Applicant is proposing a stub street near the north east corner of the property which is a logical
and needed location. The Applicant is also proposing a stub street to the south boundary for
future connectivity that Staff does not have concern with. Staff is concerned with the existing
property layout of the adjacent county parcels in relation to the proposed stub streets.
Specifically, Staff believes an additional stub street should be added along the southeast
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boundary in place of Lots 28 & 29, Block 2. Adding this stub street will provide for two stub
streets to properties currently owned by the same entity and will not force future road
development to avoid such a long stretch of property line without an intersecting street.
In addition to vehicular connectivity, the Comprehensive Plan desires safe and adequate
pedestrian connectivity through and between developments and to-and-from public spaces, like
Discovery Park to the northeast. The proposal to include a micro-path from an internal local
street to Via Roberto, the collector street along the north boundary, is consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan. In alignment with this, the noted revision to add a stub street in this
location would also allow for better pedestrian connectivity in this area of the site from the
southeast through this development and up to Discovery Park. Furthermore, it allows for the
noted open space lot (Lot 30, Block 2) to be fronted by two public streets to increase its visibility
and remove the additional concern of this area being a remnant area tucked away in a corner
behind building lots. The Comprehensive Plan has specific policies related to these types of
design elements (see 4.11.03) that support Staff’s position.
This revision would add both a vehicular and a pedestrian connection between future
subdivisions when the properties to the east and south redevelop—Staff has met with the owner
of the property to the southeast and they have a desire to include connectivity and open space
adjacent to the noted open space of this subject project so Staff finds it even more prudent to
include this stub street in this area.
It is also important to note the Applicant is proposing two housing types within the Hadler
Neighborhood project, single-family detached and single-family attached (two units attached
but on separate building lots). The addition of different lot sizes and housing types is a plus for
this project and this general area as it introduces a different housing type in this area of the
City. However, Staff has some concerns with parking because of the combination of the
proposed density, that most of the proposed building lot frontages are relatively small (32-38
feet wide) when a 20-foot wide driveway is presumed for each lot, and because the Applicant is
proposing a 27-foot wide section that allows parking on only one side of the street and not
both. The Commission or Council should determine if a solution is needed and if so, one
option that could help is to require a wider minimum lot frontage than what is currently being
proposed. At a minimum, the Applicant should provide a parking exhibit showing where guest
parking could occur for this development and quell any concerns of a street section allowing
on-street parking on one side versus both sides.
With Staff’s recommended revisions, Staff finds the proposed project to be generally consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan, as discussed above. Specific Comprehensive Plan policies are
discussed and analyzed below.
The City may require a development agreement (DA) in conjunction with an annexation and
rezone pursuant to Idaho Code section 67-6511A. In order to ensure the site develops as
proposed with this application, Staff recommends a DA that encompasses the land proposed to be
annexed and zoned with the provisions included in Section VIII.A1. The DA is required to be
signed by the property owner(s)/developer and returned to the City within 6 months of the
Council granting the rezone and annexation approval. A final plat will not be accepted until the
DA is executed and the AZ ordinance is approved by City Council.
B. Comprehensive Plan Policies (https://www.meridiancity.org/compplan):
In alignment with the discussion above, Staff finds the following Comprehensive Plan policies
applicable to this project; additional staff analysis to the specific policy may be warranted and is
in italics:
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• “Establish and maintain levels of service for public facilities and services, including
water, sewer, police, transportation, schools, fire, and parks” (3.02.01G). City water &
sewer are not currently available to the site; both sewer and water must be made
available to this site by the developer of Apex Southeast to the north. Public works has
discussed the requirements and outlined the path to receiving services in the Public
Works specific conditions in Section VIII.B. Fire Station #7 will be within ½ mile of
the project and the project will be located wholly within the response time goal of the
City—Station #7 is slated to be completed in later Summer 2023.
The subject site lays within the Kuna School District and not the West Ada School
District. City Staff reached out to the Kuna School District for the purpose of obtaining
a response to this project as they have not opted into our automatic transmittals.
According to this interaction between Staff, all of their schools are over capacity and
they have stated they cannot accommodate additional school-aged children. However,
Kuna School District Staff have not submitted any formal comments and Staff is not
aware of development slowing in Kuna due to these school capacity issues. The subject
site is within walking distance of Discovery Park to the northeast which provides for a
multitude of recreation opportunities.
Staff finds that the existing and planned development of the immediate area create
appropriate conditions for levels of service to and for this proposed project.
• “Encourage a variety of housing types that meet the needs, preferences, and financial
capabilities of Meridian's present and future residents.” (2.01.02D).
• “With new subdivision plats, require the design and construction of pathways
connections, easy pedestrian and bicycle access to parks, safe routes to schools, and the
incorporation of usable open space with quality amenities.” (2.02.01A).
• “Ensure that new development within existing residential neighborhoods is cohesive and
complementary in design and construction.” (2.02.02F).
• “Avoid the concentration of any one housing type or lot size in any geographical area;
provide for diverse housing types throughout the City. (2.01.01G).
• “Elevate and enhance the quality and connectivity of residential site and subdivision
planning.” (2.02.01).
• “Support construction of multi-use facilities that can be used by both schools and the
community.” (2.03.01B).
• “Require all new development to create a site design compatible with surrounding uses
through buffering, screening, transitional densities, and other best site design practices.”
(3.07.01A).
• “Ensure that new development and subdivisions connect to the pathway system.”
(4.04.01A). The Applicant is proposing regional pathways along its west and north
boundaries to total approximately 2,212 linear feet of pathway (nearly half a mile).
• “Provide options for passive recreational opportunities not typically supplied by parks
and facilities such as jogging, walking, and bicycling.” (4.04.01B). Applicant is
proposing micro-paths within the large central open space that have efficient access to
the proposed regional pathway network around the perimeter of the project creating
ample opportunity for these passive recreational elements.
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• “Work with public and private development and management groups to promote and
implement Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) strategies.”
(4.11.03). For the most part, Staff finds the project complies with this policy. The
exception is the noted area along the southeast boundary (Lot 30, Block 2) that Staff is
recommending be opened up more and be fronted by two public streets by adding an
additional stub street to the southeast boundary. Currently, this area is largely tucked
behind buildable lots which decreases its visibility from the public street, an integral
point CPTED strategies aim to alleviate. If the Applicant replaces Lots 28 & 29 with a
stub street and slightly increases the green space, this issue is resolved.
• “Require new development to establish street connections to existing local roads and
collectors as well as to underdeveloped adjacent properties.” (6.01.02C).
Staff finds the aforementioned analysis and policies in general makes the project consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan.
C. Existing Structures/Site Improvements:
According to GIS imagery, there is an existing large home and other outbuildings that will be
removed upon development of Hadler Neighborhood. No other site improvements are known.
D. Proposed Use Analysis:
The proposed use is detached single-family and attached single-family residential with a
minimum lot size of approximately 3,000 square feet and an average lot size of approximately
3,600 square feet, based on the submitted plat (Exhibit VII.B). These residential uses are
permitted uses in the requested R-15 zoning district per UDC Table 11-2A-2. The Applicant has
noted the development is expected to develop in two phases with the number of lots in each phase
appearing to be similar (Applicant has not provided the actual lot numbers within each phase but
the exhibit appears to show slightly more lots in phase 1 than in phase 2). Because the only public
road access allowed for this development is from Via Roberto, no more than 30 homes can be
constructed. Therefore, the Applicant has proposed a temporary emergency access within phase 1
located on a future building lot, Lot 23, Block 1, along the west boundary. Meridian Fire has
approved this temporary emergency access to allow more than 30 homes to be constructed off of
one access.
E. Dimensional Standards (UDC 11-2):
The residential lots are shown to meet all UDC dimensional standards per the submitted plat. In
addition, all subdivision developments are also required to comply with Subdivision Design and
Improvement Standards (UDC 11-6C-3). All lots are shown to meet the minimum lot size
requirement of 2,000 square feet. There is no minimum street frontage requirement for the R-15
zoning district so, as discussed above, the Applicant is proposing lots with either 32 feet or 38
feet of frontage with a few lots having slightly more frontage. The Applicant is also proposing
three (3) common drives within the development; two along the west boundary and one at the
southeast corner of the project.
The three (3) proposed common drives depict 3 lots taking access from each of them and include
at least 5 feet of landscaping adjacent to the abutting lot not taking access from the common
drive. The proposed common drive design complies with UDC 11-6C-3D requirements.
The Applicant is proposing the north east-west local street (shown as W. Vantage Pointe Drive)
within the project to be a long, relatively straight roadway. This street is shown with two
intersecting streets on it which allows it to comply with UDC 11-6C-3 requirements for block
length measurement. However, the overall roadway is still long and straight. For this reason,
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ACHD is requiring traffic calming along this street with future final plat submittals. Staff agrees
with this and is recommending a condition of approval consistent with the ACHD condition.
F. Building Elevations (UDC 11-3A-19 | Architectural Standards Manual):
The Applicant submitted conceptual building elevations for the proposed homes. Note that
detached single-family homes do not require Design Review approval but the single-family
attached single-family homes do require administrative design review approval prior to building
permit submittal. The Applicant is required to submit this Design Review and obtain Planning
approval before building permit submittal.
The submitted elevations depict varying roof profiles and colors with the same or similar field
materials of lap siding and stone accents for the detached homes. All of the attached single-family
elevations depict single-story homes with lap siding and stone accents. Overall, Staff finds the
submitted elevations to comply with the minimum standards but hopes future elevations depict
more variation in finish materials to help delineate the building facades along public streets.
G. Access (UDC 11-3A-3):
Access is proposed via a new local street (shown as S. Peak Avenue) connection to E. Via
Roberto on the south side of this roadway in alignment with the approved collector street access
to the Apex Southeast Subdivision on the north side of Via Roberto. Via Roberto is approved to
be constructed with the Apex Southeast development except for the required detached sidewalk
on the Hadler side of the street. ACHD has approved the Applicant’s proposal to complete Via
Roberto with 8-foot parkway and detached 10-foot pathway its south side but notes if Brighton
does not complete Via Roberto consistent with their approvals, Hadler is required to construct
Via Roberto as half of a 36-foot wide collector street plus an additional 12 feet of pavement.
There are no existing stub streets adjacent to the site as Via Roberto is not yet constructed. The
Applicant is proposing two stub streets according to the submitted plat; one near the north east
corner of the property and one to the south boundary near the southwest area of the project. Staff
has no concern with the two proposed stub streets or their locations. However, as noted within
the Comprehensive Plan section above, Staff is recommending an additional stub street be added
in place of Lots 28 & 29, Block 2. Adding this stub street will provide for two stub streets to
properties currently owned by the same entity to the east and will not force future road
development to avoid such a long stretch of property line without an intersecting street (the
south/southeast boundary of this project). This revision would likely result in the loss of one
building lot and remove one common drive from the project, two points that Staff finds are
positive consequences of improving future road connectivity in this area.
The Applicant is proposing two different street sections within this development, a 27-foot and a
33-foot street section; both have been approved by ACHD as both are considered standard street
sections. The 33-foot street section is proposed for the segment of E. Vantage Point Drive east of
the access to Via Roberto along the north half of the site and for the stub street to the south
boundary. All other streets are proposed with the 27-foot street section that allows parking on
only one side of the street where no driveways exist. Staff notes the Applicant is also proposing a
permanent cul-de-sac at the terminus of Vantage Pointe Drive at the northeast boundary because
this segment of this street segment is greater than 150 feet in length. Staff has requested a
parking exhibit due to concerns with the proposed 27-foot street section in conjunction with the
proposed lot widths, as discussed within the Comprehensive Plan section above. Staff
anticipates the parking exhibit to show adequate parking for the development above the
minimum requirements outlined in code.
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H. Parking (UDC 11-3C):
Off-street parking is required to be provided in accord with the standards listed in UDC Table 11-
3C-6 for single-family dwellings based on the number of bedrooms per unit. Staff will confirm
compliance with these standards at the time of building permit submittal for each residence.
According to the submitted elevations, each home is proposed with a two-car garage which
presumes a 3 or 4-bedroom home and would require a minimum 20-foot wide driveway for each
building lot. In addition, as discussed above, some of the streets within this development are
proposed as 27-foot wide street sections which only allows parking on one side of the street
instead of both sides as allowed on the standard 33-foot section.
I. Sidewalks & Pathways (UDC 11-3A-17 & UDC 11-3A-8):
5-foot wide attached sidewalks are proposed along the internal local streets consistent with UDC
requirements. The Applicant is proposing a 10-foot wide detached multi-use pathway along E.
Via Roberto and an attached 10-foot wide sidewalk/pathway along S. Locust Grove; the pathway
widths are consistent with the UDC, the Meridian Master Pathways Plan, and exceeds ACHD
requirements but the location of the sidewalk along Locust Grove does not comply with Master
Pathways plan as there is a desire to detach these sidewalks/pathways along arterial streets to
improve pedestrian safety. The Applicant is required to place the multi-use pathways within
public access easements adjacent to the public streets unless they are within ACHD right-of-way.
The pathway along Locust Grove appears to be attached to Locust Grove which does not comply
with the UDC or Master Pathways Plan. So, the Applicant should revise the plat and landscape
plan to depict this 10-foot pathway to be located within the required 25-foot buffer to Locust
Grove and at least four (4) feet outside of the ultimate ROW to ensure the pathway remains
detached.
J. Landscaping (UDC 11-3B):
A 25-foot wide street buffer along S. Locust Grove, an arterial street, and a 20-foot wide street
buffer along E. Via Roberto, a collector street, are required and should be landscaped per the
standards in UDC Table 11-3B-7C. All landscape areas should be landscaped per UDC 11-3B-5,
general landscaping standards. Lastly, according to the submitted plans, the Applicant is
proposing micro-paths which should be landscaped in accord with UDC 11-3B-12 standards.
The Applicant is showing a 25-foot wide common lot along Locust Grove that is a 22.5-foot wide
common lot along Via Roberto consistent with code requirements. The landscape buffers are
depicted with trees in excess of code and include landscape beds with shrubs and other vegetative
ground cover, consistent with UDC 11-3B-7. Therefore, Staff finds the proposed street buffers
comply with all UDC requirements. In addition, all open space areas are shown with trees, sod,
and other landscaping in excess of minimum code requirements.
K. Fencing (UDC 11-3A-7):
All fencing is required to comply with the standards listed in UDC 11-3A-7.
According to the submitted landscape plans, the Applicant is proposing 6-foot vinyl privacy
fencing along the perimeter of the property and the rear lot lines and 5-foot tall wrought iron
open vision fencing adjacent to any common open space areas. Both fencing types and their
proposed locations comply with UDC standards.
L. Open Space and Amenities (UDC 11-3G):
The proposed project is approximately 20 acres in size requiring a minimum amount of open
space based on the requested zoning. Per UDC Table 11-3G-3, the R-15 area requires a minimum
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of 15% qualified open space. Per the calculations, the minimum amount of qualified open space
required is 3 acres. According to the submitted plans, the Applicant is proposing 3.49 acres of
qualified open space, exceeding the minimum amount required. The proposed 3.49 acres equates
to approximately 17.45% qualified open space.
The qualified open space proposed
consists of ½ of the arterial street
buffer to Locust Grove, the full
collector street buffer to Via Roberto,
the large central open space area, and
the smaller common open space area along the southeast boundary. However, Staff is not sure if
the landscape buffers to the adjacent public streets meet the enhanced buffer requirements
outlined in UDC 11-3G-3B.3 to count towards the open space. Previously, these areas
automatically qualified towards the minimum open space but this is no longer the case with the
latest open space code updates that desires for more than the minimum to be included within the
required buffers in order to count towards the overall qualified open space for a project. The
Applicant appears to comply with the first two points outlined in code but may not comply with
the last two points: enhanced amenities with social interaction characteristics; and, enhanced
context with the surroundings.
Staff recommends the Applicant provide evidence these buffers are enhanced beyond the
pathway, trees, and grasses. For example, boulders, additional vegetation, decorative elements,
decorative fence/walls, additional micro-pathways, etc. The burden of proof for the proposed
common open space to qualify falls on the Applicant and not on Staff.
If these buffers do not count towards the minimum qualified open space, approximately 1 acre
of land must be removed from the calculation leaving approximately 2.5 acres of qualified
open space which does not comply with the minimum qualified open space requirement.
Therefore, the Applicant should provide evidence that the proposed street buffers are qualified
open space prior to the Commission hearing OR apply for Alternative Compliance to reduce
the amount of qualified open space required due to the project’s proximity to Discovery Park to
the northeast.
The centralized open space area is depicted with playground equipment, a gazebo with picnic
benches, and multiple seating areas all connected to the surrounding local streets via 5-foot wide
micro-pathways. Staff supports the design of the central open space area. As discussed within the
Comprehensive Plan section above, the other common open space area (Lot 30, Block 2) is
approximately 9,300 square feet in size and is tucked behind multiple building lots. Staff does not
have concern with the size of this open space lot but is concerned with its location being a
remnant piece and tucked away. Because of these concerns, Staff recommends the adjacent Lot
29, Block 2 be removed and added to the open space lot to increase the visibility of this open
space area and include an additional micro-path connection to the southeast boundary.
UDC 11-3G-4 dictates the minimum amenity points required for projects over 5 acres in size. The
project size of 20 acres requires a minimum of four (4) amenity points (1 point for every 5 acres).
According to the submitted plans and narrative, the Applicant is proposing the following
qualifying amenities: picnic area, playground, a water feature (fountain), and two segments of
multi-use pathway equaling approximately ½ mile in length. According to UDC Table 11-3G-4,
the proposed amenities amount to eleven (11) amenity points and exceed the minimum amenity
point requirements for a project of this size. Staff finds the proposed amenities within this
development are sufficient due to the size of the property, their proposed locations within the
development, the pedestrian connectivity within the project and to and from the nearby regional
park, and because of the general proximity to Discovery Park to the northeast that offers
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additional recreational opportunities for future residents of this project and in this general area of
the City.
M. Waterways (UDC 11-3A-6):
According to GIS imagery, there is an open irrigation ditch that runs along the shared north
boundary of this site and the Apex Southeast Subdivision to the north. It is not a labeled ditch on
the City’s GIS and it can be presumed it is being tiled and relocated as part of the construction of
Via Roberto Lane by the adjacent developer, Brighton. This Applicant is also required to comply
with UDC 11-3A-6 and ensure this irrigation facility along the north boundary is tiled or
relocated.
N. Utilities (UDC 11-3A-21):
The Applicant is proposing and is required to extend necessary public utilities for the proposed
project. Public Works has reviewed the subject applications for compliance with their standards
and finds them to be in general compliance except for specific conditions outlined in Section
VIII.B of this report. However, it should be noted that both water and sewer services must be
provided to this development through the adjacent development to the north (Apex Southeast)
and are currently not available.
VI. DECISION
A. Staff:
Staff recommends approval of the requested annexation and preliminary plat applications with the
requirement of a Development Agreement per the conditions of approval in Section VIII of this
report per the Findings in Section IX of this staff report.
B. The Meridian Planning & Zoning Commission heard these items on November 3, 2022. At the
public hearing, the Commission voted to recommend denial of the subject Annexation and
Zoning and Preliminary Plat requests.
1. Summary of Commission public hearing:
a. In favor: Laren Bailey, Applicant; Hethe Clark, Applicant Representative
b. In opposition: None
c. Commenting: Hethe Clark; Ronnie Reno, Kuna School District.
d. Written testimony: None
e. Staff presenting application: Joseph Dodson, Associate Planner
f. Other Staff commenting on application: None
2. Key issue(s) of public testimony:
a. Ronnie Reno from Kuna School District (KSD), as a representative of the school board,
testified that KSD cannot accommodate the Hadler Neighborhood development due to
school capacity issues.
3. Key issue(s) of discussion by Commission:
a.
b.
c.
d.
School district capacity and a lack of ability to accommodate Hadler Neighborhood;
Concern with available parking with the combination of the 27-foot wide street section
and common drives;
Concern with proposed density and housing types with no nearby urban services
(grocery, gas stations, medical, office, etc.);
Concern that project is proposed with as many lots as possible within project area
without a true identity;
4. Commission change(s) to Staff recommendation:
a. Commission recommended denial to the City Council due to school capacity issues and
a lack of urban services nearby the density proposed within this development.
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5. Outstanding issue(s) for City Council:
a. None
C. City Council:
Enter Summary of City Council Decision.
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VII. EXHIBITS
A. Annexation and Zoning Legal Descriptions and Exhibit Maps
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B. Preliminary Plat (dated: 10/18/2022)
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C. Landscape Plans (date: 7/29/ 11/2/2022)
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D. Open Space Exhibit:
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E. Phasing Plan:
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F. Common Drive Exhibits:
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G. Conceptual Building Elevations
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VIII. CITY/AGENCY COMMENTS & CONDITIONS
A. PLANNING DIVISION
1. A Development Agreement (DA) is required as a provision of annexation of this property.
Prior to approval of the annexation ordinance, a DA shall be entered into between the City of
Meridian and the property owner(s)/developer at the time of annexation ordinance adoption,
and the developer. A final plat will not be accepted until the DA is executed and the
Annexation and Zoning ordinance is approved by City Council.
Currently, a fee of $303.00 shall be paid by the Applicant to the Planning Division prior to
commencement of the DA. The DA shall be signed by the property owner and returned to the
Planning Division within six (6) months of the City Council granting the annexation. The DA
shall, at minimum, incorporate the following provisions:
a. Future development of this site shall be substantially consistent with the
approved plat, landscape plan, phasing plan, common drive exhibits, and
conceptual building elevations included in Section VII and the provisions
contained herein.
b. The existing home and outbuildings shall be removed upon phase 1 development, as
proposed.
c. The rear and/or sides of homes visible from S. Locust Grove and E. Via Roberto Lane
(Lots 2-27, Block 1 & Lots 2-24, Block 3) shall incorporate articulation through changes
in two or more of the following: modulation (e.g. projections, recesses, step-backs, pop-
outs), bays, banding, porches, balconies, material types, or other integrated architectural
elements to break up monotonous wall planes and roof lines that are visible from the
subject public street. Single-story structures are exempt from this requirement.
Preliminary Plat Conditions:
2. The preliminary plat included in Section VII.B, dated October 18, 2022, shall be revised as
follows prior to submitting for Final Plat approval:
a. Replace Lots 28 & 29, Block 2 with an additional stub street open space and a micro-path
leading to the southeast property boundary for future vehicular and pedestrian
connectivity and to enhance the currently proposed open space on Lot 30, Block 2.
b. Direct lot access to S. Locust Grove and E. Via Roberto Lane is prohibited except for the
emergency access to Locust Grove and the approved access to Via Roberto, in accord
with UDC 11-3A-3.
c. Add a plat note stating that Lot 23, Block 1 is a non-buildable lot until such time that an
additional Fire approved public street connection is provided.
d. Consistent with ACHD conditions of approval, provide traffic calming measures along
W. Vantage Point Drive to help mitigate its long and straight design.
e. Depict the 10-foot pathway along S. Locust Grove to be located within the required 25-
foot street buffer and located at least four (4) feet outside of the ultimate ROW to ensure
the pathway remains detached, consistent with UDC 11-3B-7C.1a.
3. The landscape plan included in Section VII.C, dated July 29 November 2, 2022, shall be
revised as follows prior to submitting for Final Plat approval:
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a. Revise the landscape plan to match the revisions made to the street section of Vantage
Pointe Drive on the latest preliminary plat.
b. Make the necessary revisions to the landscape plans to match the plat revisions noted
above in VIII.A2.
c. Depict the 10-foot pathway along S. Locust Grove to be located within the required 25-
foot street buffer and located at least four (4) feet outside of the ultimate ROW to ensure
the pathway remains detached, consistent with UDC 11-3B-7C.1a.
4. Prior to the Commission hearing, the Applicant shall provide evidence that the proposed
street buffers are qualified open space OR apply for Alternative Compliance prior to the City
Council hearing to request a reduction to the amount of qualified open space required.
5. Prior to the Commission hearing, the Applicant shall provide a parking exhibit showing
available parking within the subject development.
6. Future development shall be consistent with the minimum dimensional standards listed in
UDC Table 11-2A-7 for the R-15 zoning district.
7. Off-street parking is required to be provided in accord with the standards listed in UDC Table
11-3C-6 for single-family dwellings based on the number of bedrooms per unit.
8. The Applicant shall comply with all ACHD conditions of approval.
9. The Applicant shall ensure the irrigation ditch along the north boundary is tiled and/or
relocated consistent with UDC 11-3A-6 standards.
10. Provide a pressurized irrigation system consistent with the standards as set forth in UDC 11-
3A-15, UDC 11-3B-6 and MCC 9-1-28.
11. Prior to the City Engineer’s signature on each final plat, a 14-foot wide public pedestrian
easement shall be submitted to the Planning Division and recorded for the multi-use pathways
along S. Locust Grove and E. Via Roberto as required by the Park’s Department, unless
ACHD requires an easement within their right-of-way.
12. Prior to applying for building permits, Administrative Design Review is required to be
submitted and approved by the Planning Division for the proposed single-family attached
units.
13. Upon completion of the landscape installation, a written Certificate of Completion shall be
submitted to the Planning Division verifying all landscape improvements are in substantial
compliance with the approved landscape plan as set forth in UDC 11-3B-14.
14. The preliminary plat approval shall become null and void if the applicant fails to either: 1)
obtain the City Engineer signature on a final plat within two years of the date of the approved
findings; or 2) obtain approval of a time extension as set forth in UDC 11-6B-7.
B. PUBLIC WORKS
SITE SPECIFIC CONDITIONS:
1. Must provide sewer to and through to parcel R7406180010.
2. Ensure no sewer services pass through infiltration trenches.
3. There currently are no water mains to the site. Water will be coming from the Apex Southeast
Development.
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4. Water and sewer in parallel require a minimum 30' easement. Easement width may be greater
depending on sewer depth.
5. Where water ties into existing line in E. Via Roberto Ln two vales are required.
6. As part of Apex Southeast, a 12" water main will be brought to the corner of Locust Grove
and Via Roberto Ln. Extend 12" water main down Locust Grove to southern property
boundary.
7. A second connection to the 12" water main in Locust Grove is required. The City would
prefer this connection be made in E. Cavalli Ln with an easement.
8. Must install water blow-off per SD W13 at eastern boundary along Vantage Pointe Dr. and at
the southern boundary at Steeple Ave. See changemarks on sheet PE.200 for additional
details.
9. At, the corner of Cadence Ave and Orion Greens Drive, the water mains have multiple odd
bends; remove unnecessary bends in said water main.
10. Water and sewer at the corner of Zenith Ave and Vantage Pointe needs to be laid out
differently. The current configuration adds an extra sewer manhole that isn't needed, multiple
water fittings that are not needed, and a sewer service in a common lot when the house access
is not from the common lot. See the uploaded "Water and Sewer Comments" pdf for
suggestions of a better configuration.
11. Near the common driveway at the southeast corner of the site there is a water service running
across a private property that is not being serviced by the meter. The meter should be located
in the landscaping area of the common driveway. See changemarks on sheet PE.200.
12. As noted in the Geotechnical Engineering Report prepared by Atlas Materials Testing &
Inspection, there are shallow cemented soils across the site. Particular attention needs to be
focused on ensuring that all residences constructed with crawl spaces should be designed in a
manner that will inhibit water in crawl spaces. Applicant should adhere to recommendations
including the installation of foundation drains, and the installation of rain gutters and roof
drains that will carry storm water at least 10-feet away from all residences. Foundation
drains are not allowed to drain into the sanitary sewer system, nor the trench backfill for the
sewer and/or water service lines.
GENERAL CONDITIONS:
1. Sanitary sewer service to this development is available via extension of existing mains
adjacent to the development. The applicant shall install mains to and through this subdivision;
applicant shall coordinate main size and routing with the Public Works Department, and
execute standard forms of easements for any mains that are required to provide service.
Minimum cover over sewer mains is three feet, if cover from top of pipe to sub-grade is less
than three feet than alternate materials shall be used in conformance of City of Meridian
Public Works Departments Standard Specifications.
2. Water service to this site is available via extension of existing mains adjacent to the
development. The applicant shall be responsible to install water mains to and through this
development, coordinate main size and routing with Public Works.
3. All improvements related to public life, safety and health shall be completed prior to
occupancy of the structures. Where approved by the City Engineer, an owner may post a
performance surety for such improvements in order to obtain City Engineer signature on the
final plat as set forth in UDC 11-5C-3B.
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4. Upon installation of the landscaping and prior to inspection by Planning Department staff, the
applicant shall provide a written certificate of completion as set forth in UDC 11-3B-14A.
5. A letter of credit or cash surety in the amount of 110% will be required for all incomplete
fencing, landscaping, amenities, pressurized irrigation, prior to signature on the final plat.
6. The City of Meridian requires that the owner post with the City a performance surety in the
amount of 125% of the total construction cost for all incomplete sewer, water infrastructure
prior to final plat signature. This surety will be verified by a line item cost estimate provided
by the owner to the City. The applicant shall be required to enter into a Development Surety
Agreement with the City of Meridian. The surety can be posted in the form of an irrevocable
letter of credit, cash deposit or bond. Applicant must file an application for surety, which can
be found on the Community Development Department website. Please contact Land
Development Service for more information at 887-2211.
7. The City of Meridian requires that the owner post to the City a warranty surety in the amount
of 20% of the total construction cost for all completed sewer, and water infrastructure for a
duration of two years. This surety amount will be verified by a line item final cost invoicing
provided by the owner to the City. The surety can be posted in the form of an irrevocable
letter of credit, cash deposit or bond. Applicant must file an application for surety, which can
be found on the Community Development Department website. Please contact Land
Development Service for more information at 887-2211.
8. In the event that an applicant and/or owner cannot complete non-life, non-safety and non-
health improvements, prior to City Engineer signature on the final plat and/or prior to
occupancy, a surety agreement may be approved as set forth in UDC 11-5C-3C.
9. Applicant shall be required to pay Public Works development plan review, and construction
inspection fees, as determined during the plan review process, prior to the issuance of a plan
approval letter.
10. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that all development features comply
with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Fair Housing Act.
11. Applicant shall be responsible for application and compliance with any Section 404
Permitting that may be required by the Army Corps of Engineers.
12. Developer shall coordinate mailbox locations with the Meridian Post Office.
13. All grading of the site shall be performed in conformance with MCC 11-1-4B.
14. Compaction test results shall be submitted to the Meridian Building Department for all
building pads receiving engineered backfill, where footing would sit atop fill material.
15. The engineer shall be required to certify that the street centerline elevations are set a
minimum of 3-feet above the highest established peak groundwater elevation. This is to
ensure that the bottom elevation of the crawl spaces of homes is at least 1-foot above.
16. The applicants design engineer shall be responsible for inspection of all irrigation and/or
drainage facility within this project that do not fall under the jurisdiction of an irrigation
district or ACHD. The design engineer shall provide certification that the facilities have been
installed in accordance with the approved design plans. This certification will be required
before a certificate of occupancy is issued for any structures within the project.
17. At the completion of the project, the applicant shall be responsible to submit record drawings
per the City of Meridian AutoCAD standards. These record drawings must be received and
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approved prior to the issuance of a certification of occupancy for any structures within the
project.
18. Street light plan requirements are listed in section 6-7 of the Improvement Standards for
Street Lighting (http://www.meridiancity.org/public_works.aspx?id=272). All street lights
shall be installed at developer’s expense. Final design shall be submitted as part of the
development plan set for approval, which must include the location of any existing street
lights. The contractor’s work and materials shall conform to the ISPWC and the City of
Meridian Supplemental Specifications to the ISPWC. Contact the City of Meridian
Transportation and Utility Coordinator at 898-5500 for information on the locations of
existing street lighting.
19. The applicant shall provide easement(s) for all public water/sewer mains outside of public
right of way (include all water services and hydrants). The easement widths shall be 20-feet
wide for a single utility, or 30-feet wide for two. The easements shall not be dedicated via
the plat, but rather dedicated outside the plat process using the City of Meridian’s standard
forms. The easement shall be graphically depicted on the plat for reference purposes. Submit
an executed easement (on the form available from Public Works), a legal description
prepared by an Idaho Licensed Professional Land Surveyor, which must include the area of
the easement (marked EXHIBIT A) and an 81/2” x 11” map with bearings and distances
(marked EXHIBIT B) for review. Both exhibits must be sealed, signed and dated by a
Professional Land Surveyor. DO NOT RECORD. Add a note to the plat referencing this
document. All easements must be submitted, reviewed, and approved prior to signature of
the final plat by the City Engineer.
20. Applicant shall be responsible for application and compliance with and NPDES permitting
that may be required by the Environmental Protection Agency.
21. Any wells that will not continue to be used must be properly abandoned according to Idaho
Well Construction Standards Rules administered by the Idaho Department of Water
Resources. The Developer’s Engineer shall provide a statement addressing whether there are
any existing wells in the development, and if so, how they will continue to be used, or
provide record of their abandonment.
22. Any existing septic systems within this project shall be removed from service per City
Ordinance Section 9-1-4 and 9 4 8. Contact the Central District Health Department for
abandonment procedures and inspections.
23. The City of Meridian requires that pressurized irrigation systems be supplied by a year-round
source of water (UDC 11-3B-6). The applicant should be required to use any existing surface
or well water for the primary source. If a surface or well source is not available, a single-
point connection to the culinary water system shall be required. If a single-point connection is
utilized, the developer will be responsible for the payment of assessments for the common
areas prior to development plan approval.
24. All irrigation ditches, canals, laterals, or drains, exclusive of natural waterways, intersecting,
crossing or laying adjacent and contiguous to the area being subdivided shall be addressed
per UDC 11-3A-6. In performing such work, the applicant shall comply with Idaho Code 42-
1207 and any other applicable law or regulation.
C. FIRE DEPARTMENT
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=275369&dbid=0&repo=MeridianC
ity
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D. ADA COUNTY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=276691&dbid=0&repo=MeridianC
ity&cr=1
E. MERIDIAN POLICE DEPARTMENT (MPD)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=275370&dbid=0&repo=MeridianC
ity&cr=1
F. BOISE PROJECT BOARD OF CONTROL (BPBC)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=276388&dbid=0&repo=MeridianC
ity
G. MERIDIAN PATHWAYS – CONDITIONS
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=275182&dbid=0&repo=MeridianC
ity
H. ADA COUNTY HIGHWAY DISTRICT (ACHD)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=278590&dbid=0&repo=MeridianC
ity
IX. FINDINGS
A. Annexation and Zoning (UDC 11-5B-3E)
Required Findings: Upon recommendation from the commission, the council shall make a full
investigation and shall, at the public hearing, review the application. In order to grant an
annexation and/or rezone, the council shall make the following findings:
1. The map amendment complies with the applicable provisions of the comprehensive
plan;
Commission finds the proposed zoning map amendment to annex the property into the City of
Meridian with the R-15 zoning district with the proposed preliminary plat and site design is
not consistent with the Comprehensive Plan due to a lack of nearby urban services, the
proposed density does not fit with the existing character of the neighborhood and other
approvals, and because the proposed site design will create unnecessary parking issues.
2. The map amendment complies with the regulations outlined for the proposed districts,
specifically the purpose statement;
Commission finds the proposed zoning map amendment and the request for the development
complies with the regulations outlined in the requested R-15 zoning district and is consistent
with the purpose statement of the requested zone.
3. The map amendment shall not be materially detrimental to the public health, safety,
and welfare;
Commission finds the proposed zoning map amendment will be detrimental to the public
health, safety and welfare for the reasons stated in the first finding.
4. The map amendment shall not result in an adverse impact upon the delivery of services
by any political subdivision providing public services within the city including, but not
limited to, school districts; and
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Commission finds the proposed zoning map amendment will result in an adverse impact on
the delivery of services by any political subdivision providing public services within the City,
specifically the Kuna School District.
5. The annexation (as applicable) is in the best interest of city.
Commission finds the annexation is not in the best interest of the City.
B. Preliminary Plat Findings:
In consideration of a preliminary plat, combined preliminary and final plat, or short plat, the
decision-making body shall make the following findings:
1. The plat is in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan;
Commission finds that the proposed plat is not in general compliance with the adopted
Comprehensive Plan in regard to land use, density, transportation, and pedestrian
connectivity. (Please see Comprehensive Plan Policies in, Section V of this report for more
information.)
2. Public services are available or can be made available and are adequate to accommodate
the proposed development;
Commission finds that public services will not be provided to the subject property with
development due to school capacity issues noted during the public hearing. (See Section VIII
of the Staff Report for more details from public service providers.)
3. The plat is in conformance with scheduled public improvements in accord with the City’s
capital improvement program;
Because City water and sewer and any other utilities will be provided by the development at
their own cost, Commission finds that the subdivision will not require the expenditure of
capital improvement funds.
4. There is public financial capability of supporting services for the proposed development;
Commission finds there is public financial capability of supporting services for the proposed
development based upon comments from the public service providers except for the school
district as they have testified they cannot accommodate additional school-aged children (i.e.,
Police, Fire, ACHD, etc.). (See Section VIII for more information).
5. The development will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or general welfare;
and,
Commission is not aware of any health, safety, or environmental problems associated with
the platting of this property.
6. The development preserves significant natural, scenic or historic features.
Commission is unaware of any significant natural, scenic or historic features that exist on
this site that require preserving.