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Planning commission discusses Heart Valley plan inclusion in general plan and reviews concept plan for mixed residential/commercial development
Summary
Commissioners discussed adding the Heart Valley plan to Gunnison's general plan and reviewed a concept plan proposing three commercial buildings and townhome units fronting Highway 89, including a proposed relocation of a firearms business. Staff outlined the public‑hearing process required for a general‑plan amendment and noted potential infrastructure and traffic issues for the subdivision concept.
The Gunnison Planning and Zoning Commission on March 26 discussed two interrelated planning matters: adopting the Heart Valley vision as a component of the city’s general plan and reviewing a concept plan for a property fronting Highway 89 that would include commercial buildings and townhome structures.
Staff explained that incorporating the Heart Valley plan into the general plan requires a public‑hearing process before the planning commission and a formal ordinance adoption by the City Council. “Any general plan amendment under state law is required to go through a public process,” staff reminded commissioners; making the plan part of the general plan would give it greater force in subsequent zoning and regulatory decisions.
Separately, staff presented a concept layout submitted recently that shows three buildings fronting Highway 89 with parking and truck access, and four‑unit townhome structures on the rear portion. The applicant indicated some business operations currently based in Sevier County could relocate to the site. Staff noted significant infrastructure questions — sewer access, utility extensions, and required road improvements on 400 South — and said the project would likely require a master development agreement and careful review because it could be treated as a major subdivision.
Commissioners raised traffic‑safety concerns at the 200 East/400 South intersection, citing a hill and curve near a bridge where children play. Staff also noted the county approved a $20,000 economic grant to support Fierce Firearms’ move and mentioned heavy equipment investment figures discussed by the applicant.
No final rezoning, plat, or ordinance decisions were made; staff said future steps include drafting detailed language, holding public hearings, and returning to the commission with materials for recommendation to the City Council.
