In a recent meeting of the Planning and Zoning Board, a public hearing was held to discuss a lot split application submitted by Chad and Deborah Hackenbush for their property located at 81810 South Meridian Avenue in Valley Center. The proposal aims to divide the existing lot into two parcels, with the intent for future commercial development on one of the parcels.

City staff presented the application, noting that the property is situated in a special flood hazard area. As a result, the applicants have been informed that the land must be elevated and removed from the floodplain before any building permits can be issued. The existing house and detached garage will remain on the second parcel, while the first parcel is earmarked for future development.

The board received no protests or questions from the public regarding the application, leading to a recommendation for approval from city staff. Following the board's vote, the legal survey documents will be filed with the register of deeds, officially designating the two parcels.

During the discussion, board members inquired about the process of removing the property from the floodplain, particularly in relation to upcoming infrastructure improvements planned for the Meridian Project. City officials clarified that the floodplain development permit process involves both state and city approvals, and once the necessary elevation work is completed, a separate application will be submitted to FEMA for final approval to officially remove the area from the floodplain.

The meeting underscored the importance of adhering to floodplain regulations while facilitating future development in the area.