Ellis County approves Fairview Patch final plat for 13 residential lots; roads remain private

The Ellis County Commission on July 1 voted 2-1 to approve the final plat for the Fairview Patch addition, which creates 13 residential lots approximately a half-mile north of the intersection of Severn Road and 400th Avenue.

Justin Craig, the county Environmental Services director, presented the application and said required documents and fees had been submitted and that neighboring landowners were notified. “So before you today is the final plat application for the Fairview Patch addition,” Craig said. He explained that soil-profile holes were dug across the site to evaluate septic suitability and that areas with heavy rock could use alternative septic systems if permitted.

The plat indicates internal roadways will be private and built to county specifications but not dedicated to the county for maintenance. County Counselor Bill Jeter told the commission the plat shows the internal roads as private; the only public road dedicated on the plat is 400th Avenue, which is already a county road. The applicants plan to form a homeowners association to maintain private roads and services, Craig said.

James Meiss, representing the applicant and design group, answered commissioners’ questions about soil borings and confirmed about 10 test holes were dug across the development to assess soil conditions.

Commissioner discussion included concerns about the subdivision’s distance from existing development and whether it fit county planning goals. Following debate, the commission approved the final plat and resolution 2025-12 establishing the Fairview Patch addition to Ellis County by a 2-1 vote.

After the vote the applicant said they would bring the plat for signature later.

The county’s planning process for this application included a recommendation for approval from the Ellis County Joint Planning Commission on May 28, according to staff.