Westminster City Council on Jan. 12 approved amendments to the Summit Point at Briar Heights preliminary and official development plans, allowing a 50-unit townhome extension designed to provide “missing-middle” housing. Senior planner Reb Batesol reported proper noticing and staff recommendation for approval; the planning commission previously recommended approval.

The developer’s presentation described alley-loaded townhomes, a central green and several passive open spaces, and an overall mix of building types (duplexes through 6-plexes). The applicant said unit sizes would range approximately from 1,300 to 1,800 square feet, with most units offering two-car garages. The application requested several exceptions, including higher retaining walls adjacent to the Allen Ditch and slightly reduced interior garage dimensions from city standard; staff and the applicant said railings and other safety features would address pedestrian impacts where walls exceed standard heights.

Councilors asked about setbacks, functional open-space usability, and the narrower garage interiors; staff confirmed the project provides more parking than minimum requirements and that the developer intends to either join or create an HOA to maintain common areas. After discussion, council approved the fifth-amended PDP and the tenth-amended ODP, each on a 6–0 roll-call vote.

Next steps: The applicant will proceed with plan details and construction coordination consistent with approved exceptions and city conditions.