Planning council approves Nelson Meadows concept plan with conditions on sewer, easements and flood study

The Bannock County Planning & Development Council approved the Nelson Meadows subdivision concept plan after staff and the applicant described the proposal as a minor lot-line adjustment that adds one lot and dedicates Lot 3 as open space.

Planning director Hal Jensen told the council the proposal ‘‘meets Bennett County's zoning ordinance section 326 for density requirements’’ and aligns with comprehensive-plan goals promoting a balance of urban and rural amenities and mixed lot sizes. The council and staff agreed the tentative plan, as presented on the plat, conforms to applicable subdivision and zoning rules.

Applicant Stuart Ward described Nelson Meadows as ‘‘a fairly simple subdivision’’ with existing wells on Lots 2 and 5, Lot 3 set aside as open space and no new easements proposed. Council members asked how Lot 4 would be accessed; staff explained access would be through the existing open-space parcel and Jackson Creek Road because common ownership links underlying parcels.

Council members raised a concern about sewer-service feasibility if Lot 4 were built. Staff cited comments from the state Department of Environmental Quality noting a proximity issue and recommended condition 8: provide written comment from the City of Inkom regarding the distance to the city sewer line and the ability to connect. One council member noted a discrepancy in materials between ‘‘DEQ and health departments internal policy that it's within 2,000 ft’’ and a referenced state-code figure of ‘‘200 feet.’’ The council added that, if staff cannot obtain a city response, applicants should document at least two attempts to contact the city.

Before the final plat stage the council required several conditions, including: depiction of stormwater detention/retention measures and a detailed flood-evaluation study completed by an Idaho-licensed engineer; a recorded note that Lot 3 is restricted against further development (allowed uses such as farming or timbering excepted); a 15-foot public easement along Jackson Creek Road outside the roadway within Lot 5; creation of a minimum 60-foot legal access to Block 1 upon sale of Lot 3 or 4; and proof of contact or written comment from the City of Inkom about sewer connectivity.

A motion to approve the concept plan ‘‘as described in the application and staff report with the following conditions’’ passed on roll call, recorded as a 3–0 vote in favor. The council closed the public hearing and proceeded to business items.