Planning commission backs preliminary Lindenwoods plat despite routine DEQ plan-review comments

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a preliminary plat for a second phase of the Lindenwoods single-family development, while noting outstanding plan-review comments from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

Staff said DEQ returned comments described in the packet as 'deficiencies' on water and lift-station specifications that must be addressed during plan review. "They were more of a Philip Hight they were sent to Philip Hightower," a staff member said when summarizing the DEQ correspondence, and later clarified the items were plan-review notes concerning manhole specifications and lift-station generator details.

Applicant Ryan Hackett told the commission the DEQ items are routine plan-review clarifications rather than substantive project deficiencies. "I don't think there was anything of concern... We just missed a couple of notes," Hackett said, adding his team expects to resubmit the outstanding specification and expects DEQ approval once the additional manufacturer information is provided.

Hackett also said the preliminary-plat request would allow the developer to loop the water system and that the second phase is included in financing, which would help utility service for the first phase. He asked the commission not to hold the preliminary plat until DEQ completes its review, arguing that the required clarifications are part of standard engineering submittals.

Commissioners and staff agreed the preliminary plat is acceptable pending resolution of DEQ's plan-review queries. A motion to recommend approval passed unanimously; the item will be heard by City Council next week.