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Planning commission conditionally approves The Landing at Saint John's, a 40‑lot Phase 1
Summary
The Fairmont Planning Commission conditionally approved PC25‑11, The Landing at Saint John's, a 41‑acre major subdivision with a 40‑lot Phase 1. Commissioners required technical conditions on utility easements, a 10‑foot paper alley for utilities, and final street naming/addressing before final plat stamping.
The Fairmont Planning Commission voted unanimously April 15 to conditionally approve PC25‑11, the master plan for The Landing at Saint John's, a roughly 41‑acre residential subdivision whose Phase 1 would create about 40 lots, three new streets and necessary infrastructure.
Shay, the planning director, said staff recommends conditional approval with a set of technical items to be resolved prior to final stamping: unifying the right‑of‑way width where feasible, ensuring drainage swales have utility easements, and establishing a public 10‑foot paper alley along rear lot lines to protect access to underground utilities. "We have to protect utility access and keep a clear public record — alleys help us do that," Shay said.
Keith Axton, project engineer for the petitioners (Ascent Consulting Engineering), told commissioners the team already holds a Department of Highways permit for the existing Kaufman Drive access and that Phase 1 will include sidewalks (one side) and street lighting at intersections. "We already have a DOH permit in hand to access off of 250," Axton said. He added the developer has posted a construction bond so the city could complete required improvements — sidewalks, utilities and lighting — if the developer fails to do so.
Nearby residents asked about Beach Lane connections and pedestrian safety; one resident, John Erso, said the proximity to his home raised safety concerns for his young children. Erso also said he and neighbors had noticed an old graveyard near the trees; Axton and staff said the site is labeled as conservation/open space on the plat and that surveyors found two headstones which will remain undisturbed.
Commissioners asked about transit access and long‑term maintenance; staff said a bus stop is located about 0.25 mile from the subdivision entrance and that adding a new stop is not required for Phase 1 but could be considered in later phases. After discussion of staff‑recommended conditions (easements, alley width, street‑naming clarifications to meet USPS guidance), Commissioner Yan moved to forward PC25‑11 favorably with conditions; the motion carried unanimously by roll call.
The conditional approval allows staff and the petitioner to finalize technical details administratively; the developer may proceed toward construction once those conditions are satisfied and final plats are stamped.
