McCall City Council approves action on Broken Ridge Commons Phase 2 development plan

In the heart of McCall, Idaho, the city council convened for a pivotal meeting on June 26, 2025, where discussions centered around significant developments poised to reshape the community. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as council members deliberated on a series of motions that could impact the local economy and urban landscape.

The meeting kicked off with a unanimous decision to approve a conditional use permit (CUP) and a zoning request, known as CUP 25-01 and ZON 25-01. This approval, which received enthusiastic support from council members, is expected to have a minimal negative economic impact on the surrounding neighborhood, a crucial criterion for the council's decision-making process. Mayor Giles and other council members expressed gratitude for the thorough preparation of the agenda, highlighting the importance of having city staff present to address questions and provide clarity.

As the meeting progressed, the council turned its attention to a public hearing regarding the Broken Ridge Commons Phase 2 project. This planned unit development (PUD) and subdivision preliminary plat, identified as PUD 25-02 and SUB 25-02, has a storied history, having been previously reviewed multiple times since 1994. The COVID-19 pandemic had delayed its progress, necessitating a reauthorization of the entitlement process to honor a development agreement established in 2019.

Meredith Todd, the city’s sustainability planner, detailed the project’s evolution, noting that while the overall vision remains intact, some adjustments have been made to better align with current market demands. Notably, the proposed movie theater has been resized to accommodate a more versatile space that could also host restaurant activities. Additionally, the original distillery concept has been integrated into the restaurant design, reflecting a shift towards multifunctional spaces that cater to community needs.

The council also discussed the implications of the development agreement, which stipulates that residential units cannot be constructed until the commercial components are developed. This strategic approach aims to ensure a balanced growth of both residential and commercial spaces, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

As the public hearing concluded, the council members expressed their commitment to facilitating the project while adhering to the established guidelines. The meeting underscored the council's proactive stance in navigating the complexities of urban development, ensuring that McCall continues to evolve in a way that respects its unique character and meets the needs of its residents.

With the approval of the CUP and the ongoing discussions surrounding the Broken Ridge Commons project, McCall is poised for a transformative period, one that promises to enhance the local economy and enrich the community fabric. As the council adjourned, the sense of progress was palpable, leaving residents eager to see how these developments will unfold in the coming months.