Council continues Cherry Blossom East subdivision to allow more neighbor–developer negotiations on access

Meridian City Council on Dec. 9 continued the public hearing for Cherry Blossom East (file H2025-0030), a proposed three-lot subdivision of a 0.79-acre parcel, to Jan. 13, 2026 to give the developer and adjacent homeowners time to negotiate a cross-access agreement and resolve technical issues.

Staff explained that the parcel was previously approved in 2018 but the prior approval had lapsed; the current application includes a common-drive solution and conditions to address water, sewer and fire access. The developer presented technical adjustments intended to comply with fire and service standards: a hammerhead turnaround meeting alternative turnaround geometry, a 4-inch fire service for sprinkler-fed protection on the furthest lot to avoid a 30-foot water/sewer easement, and design improvements to the pressurized irrigation pump after Precision Pumping Systems identified delivery deficiencies.

Neighbors to the south raised persistent concerns about the adjacent 11–12-foot existing driveway that they have used for decades. Several speakers said the existing pavement and power-pole locations reduce usable width and make large-vehicle access (garbage trucks, ladder trucks) problematic without using portions of private property. Marjorie Williams told council that the existing geometry "means a ladder truck will never fit without trespassing on our property," and urged a legally enforceable cross-access agreement and clear maintenance/financial commitments rather than an informal arrangement.

Applicant representatives said they remain willing to pursue a cross-access agreement and described construction controls (temporary fencing, signage and a finalized driveway design) to prevent trespass during building. Staff said pump and irrigation improvements will be required as conditions of approval and indicated the city prefers a documented cross-access agreement but cannot force private parties to accept terms; if the parties cannot reach agreement, staff described a side-by-side driveway solution that meets code and allows the subdivision to proceed.

Given the outstanding access, utility and neighbor-cooperation issues, Councilman Taylor moved to continue H2025-0030 to Jan. 13, 2026 so the developer and southern neighbors can attempt one more negotiated resolution; the motion passed by voice vote. The continuance leaves open final plat and construction approvals pending either an executed cross-access agreement or compliance with conditions that will allow independent, code-compliant access.