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Council reviews DCM Farms concept plan proposing about 262 homes; lot widths and amenities draw heavy debate
Summary
A developer’s revised concept for the DCM Farms neighborhood—roughly 262 units combining single-family, villas and detached townhomes—prompted council discussion over lot widths, density calculations, easements for existing homeowners, a possible commercial node and the project’s traffic and stormwater design.
City planner Speaker 8 and developer representatives presented a revised concept plan for DCM Farms, a 90-acre development that the packet described as about 262 homes (59 single-family and 203 detached townhomes) and a commercial area. The planning commission’s recommendation retained detached townhomes where earlier versions had proposed apartments in the northwest corner and suggested alley-loaded garages and view corridors to stormwater ponds.
Councilmembers debated density and lot sizes. Speaker 4 said the project felt too tightly packed and preferred wider lots: “I just I don't like it, personally … I mean, it's a fire department's nightmare,” he said, urging 55-foot lots rather than 40- or 45-foot products. Staff noted gross vs. net density distinctions; Speaker 6 estimated a net density closer to 3.8 units per acre once stormwater, roads and open space are excluded from calculations.
Members also pressed the developer on access and easements for existing Fernbrook homeowners. Staff described an easement option that would allow future alley access and sewer/water hookups for adjacent homes if property owners decide later to connect. Council discussed whether commercial space should be held as an outlot or subdivided later; members said a mixed commercial/residential approach or a plan B (apartments) could be considered if commercial tenants don’t appear.
The council gave a preliminary response and requested follow-up: larger lot options, architectural standards (four-sided elevations and LP/hardy siding were discussed), parking/garage stalls, and further traffic and emergency-flow review to resolve stormwater and emergency overflow considerations. The planner noted the project will require an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) when it reaches the preliminary-plat stage.
What’s next: Staff and the developer will refine lot mixes and return with updated materials; the project will proceed through PUD review and a formal EAW/preliminary-plat submittal when ready.
