Pocatello Commission approves annexation of 12.4 acres for Trail Creek Estates expansion

The Pocatello Planning and Zoning Commission convened on July 11, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including proposed amendments to zoning regulations and annexation applications. The meeting began with a presentation from city staff regarding an amendment to Title 17 of the zoning regulations. Staff confirmed that the proposed amendment aligns with city standards and is in the community's best interest, consistent with the existing zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan. Following the presentation, the commission opened the floor for questions, with staff clarifying the rationale behind the chosen elevation for development.

No public comments were received on the amendment, leading to a motion by Commissioner Gomez to recommend approval of the proposed changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Geyer and passed unanimously.

The next agenda item involved a public hearing on the annexation application for Trail Creek Estates Divisions 5 through 7, presented by Brady Smith on behalf of McCormick Ranch, LLC. The application seeks to annex a 12.4-acre parcel into the city, proposing a zoning designation of residential low density. Smith noted that this request is part of a larger development plan that has been in progress for several years.

City staff supported the annexation, stating it complies with Idaho state code and municipal regulations. They reported that no written comments had been received from the public regarding this application. After the public hearing, the commission again opened the floor for testimony, but no opposition was voiced.

Commissioner Gomez moved to recommend approval of the annexation application, which was seconded by Commissioner Geyer. The motion passed with unanimous support from the commission.

The final agenda item addressed the preliminary plat application for the same Trail Creek Estates divisions, which aims to subdivide the 12.4 acres into 34 residential lots. Brady Smith reiterated the details of the subdivision, emphasizing its alignment with the proposed zoning designation. The commission proceeded to open the public hearing for this item, continuing the structured approach to community engagement and decision-making.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the commission's commitment to orderly development and adherence to city planning standards, with all proposed amendments and applications receiving favorable recommendations. The next steps will involve formalizing the approvals and continuing the development process for the Trail Creek Estates project.