City Council approves vacating Homestead Country Homes plat for new resort development

The Midway City Council convened on November 5, 2024, to address several key agenda items, including financial updates, proposed ordinance changes, and subdivision approvals.

The meeting began with a discussion on the city's financial status, particularly regarding tax revenues. Council members noted an unexpected increase in transient room tax (TRT) collections, which contrasted with concerns about overall sales tax revenues. The council emphasized the importance of local spending to bolster tax income, especially in light of recent financial challenges.

Following the financial review, the council moved to item number five on the agenda, which involved Ordinance 2024-16. This ordinance proposed vacating the First Homestead Country Homes plat map located at 650 North, 650 West. Michael Kaye, a city representative, explained that the vacation would allow for the consolidation of four condominium units into a single ownership structure, effectively converting them into hotel rooms. The council discussed the implications of this change, including the potential for future condominiumization under specific conditions. After deliberation, the council unanimously approved the ordinance.

Next, the council addressed the Love Deen property, which had been discussed in a previous work meeting. The council decided to continue this item until the next meeting to allow for a scheduled field trip to assess the property further.

The final significant item on the agenda was the preliminary approval for the Whispering Creek Subdivision, located at 515 West Cary Lane. This proposal, which had been under consideration since 2020, involves the development of seven lots on a 4.54-acre site that includes sensitive lands such as a FEMA floodplain and wetlands. The council reviewed extensive documentation and studies related to the subdivision, including floodplain management and water rights. After a thorough presentation by city staff, the council expressed concerns about infrastructure, particularly regarding snow management in the cul-de-sac design. The council ultimately decided to grant preliminary approval for the subdivision, contingent upon further discussions about the proposed infrastructure.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to manage financial challenges, streamline property development processes, and ensure responsible land use in Midway. The next steps include further evaluations of the Love Deen property and continued discussions on the Whispering Creek Subdivision's infrastructure requirements.