Stillwater Planning Commission recommends two final plats, approves Admiral Avenue short-term rental

STILLWATER, Okla. — The Stillwater Planning Commission on April 7 recommended city council approval of two final plats and approved a short-term rental license, voting unanimously on each item after staff presentations and limited commissioner questions.

Henry Biegelheimer of Development Services opened the meeting and presented the final plat for The Canyons Section 6, a proposed subdivision at 5502 North Perkins Road. "The proposed final plat does meet all of the subdivision and zoning requirements," Biegelheimer said, and staff recommended the commission accept the findings and recommend approval to city council. Commissioners moved, seconded and the motion passed 4-0.

The commission then considered Park Valley Section 2, a final plat for property at 1823 West 26th Avenue that would create 93 residential lots and connect to existing Park Valley sections. Commissioner Shanahan and others pressed staff on traffic and access questions. "There's a significant impact to the traffic system as a result of Fry Farms and Park Valley additions," David Barr of Development Services said, noting that the applicant provided a traffic impact analysis that did not warrant a traffic signal at 26th and Western and that interim measures — including a four-way stop — had been installed. Barr said the city plans to use triggers in the traffic study and a development agreement to collect funds from the developer for future improvements such as turn or deceleration lanes. After discussion, the commission voted 4-0 to recommend city council approval.

The commission moved into a public hearing on a short-term rental license for 1618 West Admiral Avenue. Biegelheimer summarized the STR process, noting the city notifies property owners within 300 feet and brings applications to the commission if complaints are received. Applicant David Cole, who identified himself and provided an out-of-town mailing address, described property improvements and a management plan that includes a local host, a professional cleaning company and a two-night minimum stay. "I have a local host ... he can be there in 10 minutes if there's any issues," Cole said, adding he enforces an age minimum of 25, no parties and a maximum of three vehicles for the listing. He reported that his existing Stillwater STR was booked about 17% of the time in 2025 and that most stays are two nights.

A neighbor submitted an objection by letter raising concerns about a "party house," which city staff paraphrased for the record. Staff and several commissioners said the applicant's proposed rules and management plan addressed the neighbor's concerns. With no one present to speak in opposition, commissioners closed the public hearing and approved the short-term rental license 4-0.

The commission approved the March 24 meeting minutes (vote: three in favor, one abstention), heard no additional reports from officers and boards, set the next regular meeting for April 21 and adjourned by unanimous vote.

What happens next: The commission's recommendations on the two final plats will go to the Stillwater City Council for final action. The short-term rental license granted by the commission takes effect according to city procedures.