Commission backs Palomino Estates preliminary plat and flag‑lot conditional use with conditions

The Nowthen Planning Commission voted to approve a conditional use permit for a flag lot and to recommend approval of a preliminary plat for Palomino Estates, a four‑lot subdivision proposed by H Midwest LLC.

Planner Nash described the proposal: subdivide an existing parcel into four lots, including a ‘‘flag lot’’ (a lot with a narrow access strip) that requires a conditional use permit under city code. Nash said winter weather had delayed septic and wetland field work so several technical items were left as conditions to be satisfied before final plat.

Commissioners focused on accessory structures on the lot containing the existing farmhouse, where several buildings and a large barn may encroach on lot‑size or setback requirements. The commission added a top‑level condition giving the developer three options to resolve those issues before final plat: remove accessory buildings, adjust lot sizes, or apply for variances. Nash said the condition could be satisfied either prior to or concurrent with the final plat submittal.

Members of the public raised concerns about preserving rural character and ensuring that the proposed new lots remain single‑family, and asked about timing for build‑out and septic/well arrangements. The planner said final plat and engineering work could make the parcels shovel‑ready in 2026 but stressed that final approvals depended on completing wetland and septic reviews and obtaining any necessary variances.

The commission approved the conditional use permit for the flag lot and voted to recommend the preliminary plat with the additional condition about accessory buildings and pending technical reviews. The matter will advance to the city council with the indicated conditions.

Next steps: Developer must address septic and wetland reviews, and either remove/adjust accessory buildings or apply for variances, before final plat can be approved.