Idaho Falls council approves broad lot-frontage variance for landlocked parcel after split debate

The Idaho Falls City Council voted to grant a subdivision variance that reduces the municipal requirement of 50 feet of lot frontage on public streets to 0 for a large parcel north of West Anderson Street, authorizing the change after a lengthy public hearing and robust council deliberation.

The request, presented by Community Development Director Center and the applicant, who identified himself as developer Blake Jumper, would allow interior lots to be accessed by easements and cross-access rather than conventional frontage. Center told the council staff had prepared the required analysis and that "staff recommends approval" in the report because the parcel’s shape, limited access and existing easements create development constraints. Jumper said his immediate plan is a 55-unit affordable senior housing project and argued the parcel is effectively landlocked: "we truly do view it as a hardship," he said, describing why standard frontage would make development…