Planning commission discusses potential rezoning near Long Street; applicant has not filed formal application

The commission held an initial, informal discussion on a possible rezoning request to change a parcel near Long Street from Residential 1 (R1) to Agriculture 1 (A1). The item was listed as discussion only because the applicant had not submitted a formal application for rezoning.

Commissioners said the parcel in question — described as the former Blaine Evans property and associated with an owner referred to as Herrera — contains a field behind several houses and may already adjoin agricultural zoning in places. The commission discussed whether the west side of Long Street might be appropriate to consider for agricultural designation while the east side would remain typical R1 single-family lots.

Commissioners reviewed minimum lot-size requirements discussed during the meeting: they noted that agriculture zoning typically requires at least 16,000 square feet for a home in areas not connected to public sewer and that the minimum can be smaller (for example, 7,500 square feet) if properties are connected to public sewer. Commissioners emphasized they had not yet received the applicant’s formal paperwork and therefore were only outlining issues staff and the commission would consider if an application is filed.

No motion or vote was taken. Commissioners asked staff to include neighboring parcels in any future staff report if an application is filed and to provide a map showing current zoning boundaries, parcel sizes, and sewer-service status so the commission can assess which adjacent parcels, if any, should be considered together.