Ione planning commission unanimously approves Devore lot split at 712 West Marlette

The City of Ione Planning Commission unanimously approved a tentative parcel map to split the Devore Family Trust property at 712 West Marlette into two parcels during its meeting. The commission adopted Resolution PC 2025-01 approving Tentative Parcel Map 2025-03 with four conditions of approval, including an amended requirement from the Amador Water Agency on water service commitments.

Staff reported that Parcel A (the portion with two existing homes) would be 27,709 square feet and Parcel B (vacant) would be 49,027 square feet, and that both parcels would remain in the R1B residential zone, where the minimum lot size is 6,000 square feet. Susan Peters, the city planner, said the project is consistent with the general plan and zoning and recommended approval. Peters also said the project qualified for a categorical exemption under CEQA Section 15061(b)(3), which applies when a project has no reasonable possibility of causing a significant environmental impact.

Peters explained the four standard conditions of approval: that all development standards be met to the satisfaction of the City Engineer; that all connections to city facilities comply with city standards; that Parcel B obtain a water service and a will‑serve commitment from the Amador Water Agency prior to initiation of service; and that all applicable capacity and impact fees be paid per City of Ione and Amador Water Agency rules. The applicant requested, and the Amador Water Agency staff accepted, an amendment to condition 3 to allow recordation of the final map without requiring the will‑serve letter at recordation so the owner may sell the existing homes; the will‑serve commitment remains required before initiating service to any new development on Parcel B.

Applicant Keith Devore told the commission the family intends to keep the vacant portion for now and sell the two houses together; no development on Parcel B is proposed at this time. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about impact fees and infrastructure; staff reiterated that fees and required improvements would be due at the time of development or when service is requested and that conditions run with the property.

A roll call vote recorded "aye" from the commissioners present, and the commission approved the tentative parcel map and directed staff to file a notice of exemption and to prepare the final resolution amending the condition language to match the Amador Water Agency concession.

The commission noted the amendment will be reflected in the final resolution and that any future development (including sewer or water improvements) would trigger the applicable standards, permits and fees. The decision includes no immediate development approvals for Parcel B; any future changes such as rezoning, subdivision beyond the approved split, or construction would return to the appropriate review process.