Cache County council approves River Side 2 rezone near Paradise to Rural‑5

Cache County on May 12 approved a rezone for a 15.47‑acre parcel near Paradise, clearing the way for lower-acreage rural residential development under the Rural‑5 (RU5) zone.

The council voted to suspend the rules and adopt Ordinance 2026‑20 after the Planning Commission recommended approval. Development Services Director Brian Abbott and planner Conner Smith told the council the RU5 designation permits moderate-density residential uses compatible with the county’s comprehensive plan when parcels meet access, water and service requirements.

Applicants Wayne, Travis and Cody Ruud spoke in favor during the public hearing, saying the change would allow their family to build homes while maintaining productive farmland. Staff noted the parcel’s configuration and topography mean the maximum number of new lots is three but that non-developable steep slopes and wetlands make two or fewer lots more likely.

Paradise Town submitted a written statement saying it does not oppose the rezone and that five‑acre parcels would conform to its annexation policy in the area. Councilmembers asked questions about road access and required roadway standards for 7800 and 7900 South; county staff said some frontage roads are substandard and that any subdivision would be subject to roadway improvement standards.

Councilmember David Erickson moved to approve the ordinance; the motion passed 7–0. The ordinance takes effect 15 days after adoption; any future subdivision or building permits will be reviewed separately to confirm access, services and development standards.