In a recent government meeting, planners discussed a proposed boundary line relocation and right-of-way creation involving nine parcels of land located just west of Walmart on Mullen Road. The presentation, led by Zach Jones from the county's Planning Development and Sustainability department, outlined the details of the application submitted by property owner Dale Clouse, represented by Wythe Engineering Incorporated.
The proposal aims to adjust the boundary lines of the existing parcels to create an additional lot accessible from Mullen Road, increasing the number of parcels from four to five along the road. The plan also includes the creation of a right-of-way parcel, designated as Track 9, which is intended for future improvements by the city of Missoula.
The nine parcels currently consist of agricultural land, including a poplar farm leased by the city for wastewater purposes. The area is primarily zoned for agricultural use, with portions designated for neighborhood residential development, which requires a minimum density of eight homes per acre. Currently, two houses exist on the property.
Jones emphasized that the boundary line relocation does not create new parcels but merely reconfigures existing ones. He noted that the application does not involve any commercial development, as the land is intended for residential use. The meeting also addressed concerns regarding the floodplain, with assurances that the southern tracks would remain dedicated to agricultural use and not be developed.
Comments from the county floodplain administrator highlighted that the relocation would result in some parcels being within the Clark Fork River Hazard area, but no building is planned for these areas. Additionally, a procedural issue was raised regarding a notarized document required for the right-of-way exemption, which had not been submitted to the county clerk and recorder's office. However, it was clarified that this document would be necessary for recording the survey after approval.
Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of the boundary line relocation in facilitating future development while maintaining the agricultural integrity of the area. The proposal is set to move forward, pending resolution of the documentation issue.