Planning commission tables decision on Tim Hoyt’s Frost Lane modular housing after neighbors raise traffic and parking concerns

The Orderville Planning and Zoning Commission on Oct. 30 tabled a conditional use permit application from Tim Hoyt to develop up to six modular rental units at 4850 Frost Lane after nearby residents pressed commissioners on traffic, parking and neighborhood character and staff said a UDOT access approval and a fire‑department review were required before the commission could forward a recommendation to town council.

"So what I'm proposing is ... up to 6, 1,200 square foot, 2‑ or 3‑bedroom, 2‑bath units," the applicant said during the public hearing, describing the proposal as long‑term family rentals rather than short‑term units. He said units would be roughly 28 by 48 feet and that a phase‑two storage area was possible for tenants.

Neighbors repeatedly said they welcomed more housing but objected to the scale proposed. "I think that that is just way too many," said Lynn Frost, who identified herself during public comment and urged a smaller footprint for the cul‑de‑sac. Resident Robert Lacey echoed concerns about affordability and traffic, noting that local employees earning roughly $30,000 a year could not afford rents the applicant estimated at about $1,500 to $1,700 per month.

Commissioners and staff reviewed the town code during discussion. Planning staff cited the R‑2 zone provisions and explained that under Chapter 3 of the ordinance a set of exceptions allows three or more dwellings under single ownership to be treated as a multi‑unit complex. Commissioners also noted required conditions the applicant must meet, including obtaining UDOT approval for access from Frost Lane onto the highway and confirmation from the fire department that operations and suppression access are adequate.

Chair (meeting host) told the applicant, "I will not advance it to town council until we have an approval for UDOT," underscoring that the commission intends to present a complete record to the council. With at least two commissioners indicating they might abstain because of close ties to the area and because the UDOT determination was pending, Commissioner S5 moved to table the request and Commissioner S7 seconded; the motion carried.

The commission noted practical standards it will expect if the town later considers a recommendation: two parking spaces per dwelling unit, consideration of visitor parking, and enforceable lease provisions that could limit on‑street parking or short‑term rental use. Commissioners asked the applicant to pursue UDOT access review and to coordinate with the fire department before the item returns to the commission.