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Commission tables proposed subdivision change requiring 50‑foot fee‑simple access way
Summary
The Plan Commission discussed edits to the subdivision ordinance that would require parcels to include a 50‑foot fee‑simple access way and minimum lot dimensions; commissioners agreed to table the change until the county surveyor (Emily) can explain technical reasons for the standard.
Plan Commission members reviewed proposed edits to the subdivision ordinance that would affect administrative subdivisions and residential building-tract requirements.
Lisa summarized the edits: an administrative subdivision parcel would need a fee‑simple conveyed access way at least 50 feet wide to be deemed a residential building tract; parcel minimum width and depth would be 150 feet, and the measurement excludes any access way. She said the change is intended to prevent landlocked parcels and ensure utilities and emergency access can be provided.
Several commissioners and members of the public raised practical questions: would the 50‑foot requirement create undue expense for small‑acreage owners (culverts, grading, driveway construction), and would it eliminate options for shared easements or previously existing shared driveways? Commissioners noted the 50‑foot access‑way language has appeared in earlier drafts and that the surveyor, Emily, has seen recurring problems that motivated the standard.
Commissioners ultimately concluded the issue needs more technical explanation. A motion to table the access‑way/subdivision section until Emily (the county surveyor) can attend and explain the rationale was moved, seconded and approved. The board left intact the broader direction to review solar and other ordinances at the next meeting.
No ordinance was adopted tonight; the access‑way proposal is pending further staff and surveyor input and will be reconsidered at a future session.
