Andover City Council approves annexation of 1 acre for Southern Hills development

In the heart of Andover, Kansas, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the planning commission meeting on April 15, 2025, to address key developments shaping the community's future. Among the most pressing topics was an annexation petition for a small parcel of land, a sliver of territory intended to be incorporated into the Southern Hills First Edition. This seemingly minor adjustment, described as a cleanup of city boundaries, was crucial for finalizing the associated plat.

The discussion began with a straightforward presentation of the annexation, which involved a red rectangle on the map, representing about an acre of land. The planning commission members quickly recognized the oversight in the original planning process that had left this area unincorporated. With no objections raised, the motion to approve the annexation was swiftly passed, marking a small yet significant step in the city’s ongoing development efforts.

Following this, the commission turned its attention to the Vista Ridge Second Phase, where they reviewed the first phase of a planned unit development (PUD). This phase includes 36 lots and two reserves, designed to connect directly to Yorktown Parkway. The preliminary plans had already received approval in February, and the current meeting focused on minor modifications to the documentation. The commission unanimously approved the PUD with the recommended adjustments, further paving the way for growth in the area.

Another significant item on the agenda was the zoning request for a property located at 2612 East Highway 54. This case had previously come before the commission, and the owner sought to rezone and split the lot. However, the commission reiterated the necessity of annexation before any development could proceed, as the property lies within the city’s planning area. Despite the owner's reluctance, the commission emphasized the importance of adhering to city regulations, ultimately recommending that the application be remanded back to the Butler County Planning Commission for further consideration.

As the meeting concluded, the commission also addressed the lot split for the same property, indicating a clear path forward for the applicant, contingent upon the annexation process. The discussions reflected a commitment to orderly development and adherence to planning protocols, ensuring that Andover continues to grow in a structured and community-focused manner. With each motion passed, the city moves closer to realizing its vision for a well-planned future, balancing development with the needs of its residents.