Planning Commission unanimously approves reduced setbacks for new fire station

The Planning Commission voted unanimously May 21 to approve a reduction in required setbacks for the new Hideout fire station, allowing the rear-yard setback to be reduced from the standard 30 feet to 20 feet.

Thomas (staff) presented the site plan and said the building ‘‘does creep into the rear yard setback of 30 feet on that top left side... Instead of 30, it’s 20.’’ He noted an accessory dumpster also sits close to the property line and that the request is intended to ensure the station fits on the parcel while meeting health, safety and welfare standards that the ordinance requires be demonstrated for reduced setbacks.

A commissioner motion to approve the recommendation was seconded and put to a roll call vote; the chair declared the motion unanimous. Commissioners discussed that site work is already underway and that crews have begun excavation and encountered large boulders, but no commissioner asked to reopen public comment for this item.

The action taken was procedural approval of the setback reduction for the fire station site plan as presented; staff said the approval aligns with a prior ordinance change permitting such exceptions for public‑safety buildings when the commission finds the health, safety and welfare standard is met. The commission did not open a formal public hearing on the request at this meeting.

What’s next: staff and the developer will proceed with site work consistent with the approved setback reduction; any subsequent amendments to the site plan would return to the commission if required.