Planning commission forwards applicant—uilding permit for horse-friendly RV/campsites to town council

An applicant presented plans for a small, high-end RV and campsite project designed to accommodate horses and pets and the Bicknell Planning and Zoning Commission voted to forward the building-permit application to town council for final approval.

The applicant described two mirrored site groupings that would each include a 12-by-12 three-sided loafing shed, an attached 6-by-12 enclosed storage area for hay and supplies, private 12-by-24 dog runs, and a 12-by-60 concrete pad for each site. "The idea is to make it . . . high end camping sites, but also allow people that are traveling with their horses . . . to bring their horses along and stay with them," the applicant said during the presentation.

Commissioners reviewed technical details and local requirements, including setback distances (the applicant said the frontage on Highway 24 is approximately 6 to 7 feet from the front, with about 30 feet on the south side), septic permitting and a completed perk test, and the need for an 8-inch-thick concrete pad to support Class A motorhomes. The applicant noted a potential need to pipe a small west-side ditch if a secondary drain field is required.

After questions about zoning compatibility and whether some commercial operations should be handled differently than residential uses, a commissioner moved to approve the permit and send it to town council; another commissioner seconded. The commission recorded that Commissioner Darcy made the motion and Commissioner Diane seconded; Commissioner Jim abstained and the remaining commissioners present voted to forward the permit. The commission did not record any nays.

Next steps: the town council will consider the permit in its next available meeting; the applicant said they are hoping to open this summer if permits and construction proceed as planned.