Perry Homes advances residential special district plan for 3600 units in Tooele

The Tooele City Council convened for a work meeting on April 2, 2025, to discuss significant developments in the city, including a proposed Residential Special District (RSD) and a zoning map amendment for the Western Acres Planned Unit Development (PUD).

The meeting began with a presentation on the RSD, introduced by city staff member Andrew Agard. He explained that this tool allows developers to create their own zoning codes and development standards, providing flexibility in design while ensuring compliance with state and local regulations. The RSD under consideration encompasses approximately 1,227 acres and is expected to accommodate around 3,600 residential units, along with 50 acres of open space. Agard emphasized that this is the first time the city has utilized an RSD, which aims to foster creative community development.

Perry Homes, the applicant, presented their vision for the Compass Pointe development within the RSD framework. They highlighted the importance of diverse housing options to cater to various stages of life, from smaller homes to larger estates. The developers assured the council that they would work closely with city staff to ensure compliance with the remaining unit allotment from a previous settlement agreement, which currently stands at approximately 3,319 units.

The discussion also touched on the integration of open spaces and trails within the development. Perry Homes committed to creating usable open spaces, including a regional park, and a trail system that would be developed in phases alongside the community's growth.

Following the RSD discussion, the council addressed a zoning map amendment request from Doctor Horton concerning the Western Acres PUD. This amendment aims to adjust the rear yard setbacks for townhomes adjacent to a drainage easement, ensuring compliance with city regulations while allowing for continued development. The proposed changes would reduce the required rear yard setback from 20 feet to 8 feet, facilitating the dedication of the drainage area to the city for maintenance.

The council's discussions reflected a commitment to balanced growth and community development, with an emphasis on creating livable spaces that meet the needs of current and future residents. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of these developments in shaping Tooele City's future. Further steps will include detailed planning and continued collaboration between the city and developers to ensure successful implementation of these projects.