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Council approves Northgate Ridge PUD for 283 townhome lots after public opposition
Summary
The council granted a planned unit development for 20.41 acres east of Portneuf Urgent Care to allow 283 lot-line townhomes with lot-size averaging and two setback waivers; the planning commission had recommended approval with nine conditions.
The Pocatello City Council on Sept. 4 approved a planned unit development (PUD) for the Northgate Ridge project, authorizing lot‑size averaging and waiving certain setback requirements to allow construction of up to 283 lot‑line townhomes on about 20.41 acres east of Portneuf Urgent Care.
Buck Sweeney of Smart Town LLC, the applicant, told the council the project will proceed with the number of units proposed or fewer and that the developer would work with city engineering and planning staff to address technical requirements. "We will remain true to the overall density," Sweeney said.
City senior planner Matthew Lewis summarized the request and said the planning and zoning commission concluded the PUD is compliant with municipal code section 17.02.140 and recommended approval with nine conditions. Lewis said the proposed minimum lot sizes when averaged would be roughly 3,119 square feet in the north portion and 3,154 square feet in the south portion, larger than the base minimum of 2,750 square feet when common areas are included.
Several residents testified in opposition, citing past development concerns, traffic and maintenance. One commenter asked, "Where's that traffic gonna go?" and another said prior promises on nearby projects had not been fulfilled. The developer responded that road capacity had been funded and that the project would deliver attainable housing; he said the townhomes would be "very beautiful" and sited to limit disturbance.
Council member Bates moved to approve the PUD as outlined in the staff report with conditions; Council member Mangum seconded. The council approved the PUD by roll call. The city will track the developer’s compliance with the planning commission conditions during final plat and building permitting.
Staff noted two requested waivers are technical in nature: setback measurements associated with 0 lot-line townhomes and a 2-foot easement for building overhangs; staff said similar waivers have been granted for previous townhome developments.
