Adelanto planning commission approves tentative tract map 20757 for 98 single‑family lots

The Adelanto Planning Commission voted on Nov. 19 to adopt Resolution 20 and approve Tentative Tract Map 20757, a proposal to subdivide roughly 23.88 acres in the RS‑5 single‑family residential zone into 98 lots.

Planner Espinosa told the commission the map shows seven lettered lots — four intended as retention basins — and average lot sizes of "over 6,600 square feet." Espinosa said the project is presented as a tentative tract map only, with no development proposed at this time, and stated the project is exempt from CEQA under "section 15,183 of the Environmental Quality Act." Espinosa also noted state law changes, saying SB 8 has been extended through 2030.

Applicant Beau Cooper answered commissioners' questions about drainage and access, saying some basins and alignment choices reflect flood‑protection and water‑quality rules. A member of the public suggested enlarging one basin and placing homes on another part of the site to better match runoff patterns from Victorville; Cooper responded that much of the current basin layout is intended for flood protection and that the project will require improvement plans and additional access paving. Cooper said improvement plans likely will be submitted to the city "after the first of the year."

Commissioner Johnson questioned why the tract map was being processed without a developer attached. Johnson said he wanted clarity on whether an approved map would trigger vacancy‑tax exemptions if a parcel later went into development. "So even with the advancement of technology... if there is no proposed development, then where do you sit with that?" Johnson asked. Secretary Allen replied she would consult the city clerk for clarification and follow up.

Cooper and others also described market and permitting constraints that can delay building. Cooper said builders are often waiting for ITPs and other environmental permits — mentioning Joshua Tree ITPs and concerns about species such as the burrowing owl and a bumblebee candidate — and that many builders will not buy and build until those permits are secured.

Chair Wagner moved to adopt the categorical exemption, make the required findings, and approve Tentative Tract Map 20757 (assessor parcel numbers 3132‑041‑01, 3132‑041‑03 and 3132‑041‑04); Commissioner Johnson seconded. The commission called the question and the motion carried. One member was recorded as not on the call.

The commission's approval advances the subdivision entitlement; future steps flagged in the discussion include submission of improvement plans, required road paving (including Koala and connections to Seneca), and any environmental permitting or mitigation required before building can begin.

The commission also heard routine Parks & Recreation announcements and adjourned. Its next scheduled meeting dates were discussed, with Dec. 3 noted and Dec. 19 listed as possibly canceled.