BOCC approves Powell minor subdivision and Martin exemption after public hearings

The Moffat County Board of County Commissioners on Oct. 14 approved two land-use items after public hearings brought forward by the county planning office: the final plat for the Powell minor subdivision (S-2506) and an exemption to create a 5-acre parcel for Michael and Brenda Martin (E-2503).

Candice Miller, planning and zoning coordinator, told the board that the county planning commission reviewed the Powell sketch plan in September and recommended approval of both the sketch and final plans by a vote of 3–1. Miller said the Powell parcel is a 268.52-acre parent tract; the minor subdivision divides the parcel into two lots (7.192 acres and 11.647 acres) with access from Highway 13, and the remaining acreage (over 35 acres) remains exempt from subdivision on the plat.

Miller explained the Martin exemption as a five-acre parcel surrounding an existing residence that will be sold with the house. She said the Martins had combined a 35.54-acre parcel and a purchased 19-acre parcel to create the acreage needed for a farming operation; the exemption separates the residence and its immediate five acres from the newly acquired farmland. A well location on the five-acre parcel was added to the final plat prior to the hearing, Miller said. The planning commission recommended approval for the Martin exemption by a 3–0 vote.

The chair opened each hearing for public testimony; in both cases no members of the public testified. After presentations and a period for commissioner questions, commissioners moved, seconded and approved both items: the Powell minor subdivision final plat (S-2506) and the Martin exemption (E-2503).