In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposed three-lot residential development that would front a private street, raising concerns about compliance with local zoning regulations. The development plan includes Lot 3, which measures only 50 feet in width, falling short of the required 100 feet. Additionally, the proposed access road traverses man-made slopes exceeding 30%, prompting staff to recommend approval for the first three items of the request while denying the fourth.
The staff's recommendations include the dedication of a 20-foot public access easement from Lakeline Drive, which would align with a public utility easement for a water line. This easement is intended to facilitate a minimum six-foot-wide trail that must be engineered to withstand water runoff. Furthermore, a fence is to be installed adjacent to the trail, and any disturbed areas during construction are to be revegetated with native plants.
The development team has made revisions to the buildable areas of the lots, increasing their sizes significantly. Lot 1's buildable area has expanded from approximately 13,678 square feet to over 17,000 square feet, while Lot 2 has grown from 15,438 to over 23,000 square feet, and Lot 3 from just over 20,000 to 26,000 square feet. However, the request to build on slopes greater than 30% has raised alarms, with staff emphasizing the importance of preserving the integrity of the steep slopes and the unique hillside environment.
Concerns were also voiced regarding the potential sale of land to Salt Lake Public Lands for open space. To address this, a public access easement has been proposed, ensuring that if the sale does not proceed, public access to the area remains intact.
The staff's recommendation reflects a balance between development interests and environmental preservation, suggesting that while substantial buildable areas remain, the integrity of the steep slopes must be protected. The meeting concluded with the acknowledgment of the need for a geotechnical evaluation prior to any construction permits being issued, ensuring that development adheres to safety and environmental standards.