The Grand County Planning Commission recommended approval on Nov. 24 of a rezone request by Juliet and [first name not specified] Bates to change a 3.46‑acre portion of a larger parcel to small‑lot residential.

Staff explained the request affects only the western portion of a single tax parcel (a proposed lot split will create the smaller developable lot) and that the rest of the parcel is encumbered by a conservation easement held by The Nature Conservancy that extinguishes development rights on that portion. Because the action pertains to the smaller, west‑side parcel, commissioners were instructed to evaluate the 3.46‑acre area on its own merits.

Before deliberation, one commissioner announced a recusal because of professional involvement with conservation easement certification; the recused commissioner stepped away from the vote. After limited public comment, a motion to recommend approval passed and the chair reported a 4–1 vote in favor of the rezone.

Staff noted that the developer will need to finalize a lot split (subdivision) and record required deed restrictions and that county engineering and subdivision review will follow the zoning action. The commission directed staff to include the recorded easement documentation and the subdivider’s final plans when the item proceeds to the county commission for final action.

The planning commission’s recommendation and supporting materials will be forwarded to the county commission with staff findings and the required exhibits for consistency review.