Plan Commission approves re-subdivision of Lot 888 in Gates of Saint John, 4-1

The Town of Saint John Plan Commission voted 4-1 on Oct. 15 to approve the re-subdivision of Lot 888 in Gates of Saint John Unit 7A, allowing the lot to be split into two residential parcels.

The proposal, presented by the applicant, would create two lots measured roughly 115-by-150 feet and about 95–96-by-150 feet and the developer said the planned homes would be comparable to other custom houses in the neighborhood. Applicant: "This was previously presented at a study session ... this is a lot that's obviously been sitting there for 15 years or better," the applicant said during the presentation. The applicant also said homes under construction nearby were listed at about $1,200,000.

Neighbors objected during the public hearing. Doug Blocker, who lives in the Orchard Gate subdivision within Gates of Saint John, urged denial, citing the project's effect on the PUD, setbacks adjacent to a roundabout, street width and potential impacts to the look and function of open space. "I ask that you deny this request," Blocker said, citing concerns about the number of lots shown in the PUD and possible extensions of HOA control.

Town counsel explained the town's PUD chapter and how the ordinance differentiates "major" and "minor" changes to an approved PUD. Counsel said the ordinance permits the town manager to approve minor changes if written findings show the revisions comply with PUD standards, but that the plan commission has authority to decide major changes and to act after a public hearing. The counsel told the commission: "If the town manager finds that it's perhaps more appropriately identified as a major change, then it would be referred to the plan commission for approval."

Staff told the commission that engineering review (an engineer, Adam McAlpine) found the proposed re-subdivision to conform with current town standards and recommended approval. The applicant said the lots would meet PUD requirements and landscape and housing standards would be met as with surrounding homes.

After discussion the chair called for a motion. Russ Vogel moved to approve Lot 888 with the findings of fact; the motion was seconded and the commission then took a roll-call vote. Justin Nestor, Colin Entgway, Russ Vogel and Ashley Abernathy voted yes; Joe Gomez Segel voted no. The motion passed, 4-1.

The commission’s action was a re-subdivision approval; any further building permits, plats and compliance with PUD conditions will be handled through the town’s standard plat and permitting process.