Boise Planning Commission supports land use amendment for new Meridian residential development

The Boise City Council meeting on April 16, 2025, focused on a significant land use amendment proposal concerning a property located at 12504 West Amity Road. The amendment seeks to remove approximately 5.6 acres from Boise's area of impact, allowing the property to potentially annex into the City of Meridian for residential development.

The property in question is currently designated as "compact" on the future land use map and is situated about three-quarters of a mile south of Boise's city limits, directly adjacent to Meridian's limits. The applicant aims to develop the land for residential purposes, but due to its location, it cannot voluntarily annex into Boise City. Instead, any development would require the use of septic systems, as a moratorium on new sewer connections outside city limits is in place.

During the meeting, council members discussed the implications of the sewer moratorium, which has been amended multiple times since its inception. The most recent amendment, made in 2017, restricts new sewer connections outside city limits, with exceptions for properties approved before July 22, 2014, or for connections that do not involve new subdivisions. The council acknowledged that reevaluating this moratorium would require a broader discussion and potential ordinance changes.

The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed amendment, citing specific circumstances that support the change. A letter from Meridian's planning department indicated their openness to potentially annexing the property, which would facilitate a more cohesive development with existing subdivisions and pathways.

In conclusion, the council's discussions highlighted the complexities of land use and development in the area, particularly regarding sewer service limitations and the need for collaboration between Boise and Meridian. The next steps will involve further evaluations and discussions to address the proposed changes and their implications for the community.