Colton Baer proposes Anderson Ranch annexation for 166 residential lots in Montana

The Kalispell Planning Commission convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss significant developments that could reshape the community's landscape. A key focus of the meeting was the proposal for the Anderson Ranch project, which includes plans for annexation, zoning changes, and the development of 166 residential lots on approximately 42.5 acres.

Colton Baer presented the application for the Anderson Ranch, which seeks to annex a small portion of land along the Stillwater River and expand operations from Corwin Auto. The proposal includes an initial zoning designation of R-3 residential with a Planned Unit Development (PUD) overlay, allowing for a mix of residential and light industrial uses. This project is an amendment to a previously approved PUD that encompasses a total of 94.5 acres, integrating both residential and commercial elements.

The proposed development aims to create a suburban residential area with a density of 3.9 units per acre, which aligns with the community's growth policy. The project is designed to be executed in three phases, starting with the construction of 40 lots, followed by additional phases that will complete the residential layout.

Commission members discussed the implications of the proposed lot sizes, which would be smaller than the standard requirement, allowing for lots as small as 4,161 square feet. This deviation aims to accommodate a variety of housing options while maintaining community standards. The developers also requested adjustments to roadway designs to facilitate future connectivity as adjacent properties develop.

In addition to the Anderson Ranch discussion, the commission continued its work session on the Montana Land Use Planning Act, focusing on the preliminary draft land use plan. This ongoing dialogue reflects the commission's commitment to aligning local development with broader state planning goals.

As Kalispell continues to grow, the outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the community's future, balancing residential needs with infrastructure and environmental considerations. The commission's next steps will include public hearings to gather community input on these significant proposals.