Planning commission approves Artemis/Obsidian Mountain tentative map and waivers with neighborhood conditions

The Henderson Planning Commission approved waivers of development standards and a tentative map for the Artemis/Obsidian Mountain subdivision subject to findings, conditions and additional neighborhood outreach requirements. The multi‑part application asked permission for increased vertical cut/fill heights, adjusted street geometry, expanded site disturbance limits and eight single‑family lots on 33.2 acres in McDonald Ranch.

Applicant Tyler Jeffrey Faggart described the proposal as a reapplication of a plan approved previously and emphasized its design changes, added open space, and economic benefits: “Jobs, homes, and community,” he said. Neighbors turned out in force to oppose the waivers, raising longstanding complaints about exposed cut, tailings and recurring flooding. Beverly Zimmerman, a Roma Hills resident, told commissioners she opposed increasing development on the steep volcanic hillside and warned that past blasting and grading had altered natural drainage and left debris that now contributes to runoff and localized flooding.

City public‑works staff told the commission that a drainage study is required and was in review and that improvements could be required as part of civil work; staff also explained bond and restoration conditions to ensure hillside revegetation. Commissioners debated whether approval would create a path to necessary drainage fixes or simply permit further disturbance. The approved motion attached roughly 40 conditions already in the staff report and included an additional condition requiring biannual neighborhood meetings until project completion (or until parties agree that the meetings are no longer necessary). The commission’s approval was framed as subject to findings, conditions, and applicant follow‑through on required civil reviews and bonds.