Council adopts subdivision code amendments requiring HOAs to manage irrigation; vote 4–1

Mendon — Following a public hearing and debate over curb-and-gutter versus swale systems, the Mendon City Council adopted ordinance amendments Feb. 12 that revise subdivision standards and require homeowner associations to manage irrigation in new subdivisions.

Planning and Zoning Chair Keilani Ludlow, who led the public-hearing presentation, and others discussed maintenance challenges and costs tied to overflow/settlement ponds and swale systems used in place of curb and gutter. The presentation noted that maintaining private settlement ponds in other cities had previously cost $500–$1,500 per month.

The proposed changes clarified definitions for subdivision features (cul-de-sacs, knuckles, hammerheads), updated fence and clear-view-triangle standards, and reiterated that curb-and-gutter systems would not be allowed in new Mendon subdivisions. Keilani and city staff recommended HOAs manage subdivision irrigation systems; the minutes record that developers set HOA fees initially and that state law governs HOA organization and disclosure requirements.

Councilmember Amy Garbe moved to adopt Resolution 2026-05 accepting the ordinance amendments and the HOA irrigation requirement; Councilmember Brian Myers seconded. The council voted 4–1: Myers, Garbe, Watkins and Heers voted aye; Bob Jepsen voted nay. Jepsen expressed preference for curb and gutter and raised concerns about on-street parking and lot pricing when swales reduce road width.

The ordinance amendments were adopted as recorded. The minutes do not show a specific effective date beyond adoption or a separate implementation schedule in the meeting record.