Ada County hears hours of opposition to Shadow Valley plan community over water, traffic and wildfire risks

Ada County commissioners on Nov. 14 heard more than three hours of testimony on a proposal to establish the Shadow Valley planned community, a two‑step comprehensive-plan amendment and future implementation process that would eventually allow roughly 395 homes, mixed commercial uses and preserved open space around the existing Shaw Valley Golf Course.

Brent Danielson, county planning staff, said the proposal is the first step — a map and text amendment that would recognize the property as a planned community and adopt goals and policies for a future implementation plan. Danielson said staff recommends approval and that the applicant has submitted traffic, wildlife and water analyses and intends to provide an on‑site water and wastewater system, plus mitigation measures for wildfire and wildlife. "Staff is recommending approval of the project to the board," Danielson said.

Developer Larry Kine presented the project and repeatedly described water and sewer plans intended to protect the golf course and supply residents. He said the…