Council renews SUP for 249‑unit Hidden Hills apartments after extended architecture debate

The Midlothian City Council voted to approve a specific‑use permit renewal for the Hidden Hills at Westside Preserve multifamily development, a reapplication that reduces the previously approved unit count and drew lengthy council scrutiny over elevations and site layout.

Marion Spencer, assistant director of planning, explained the project is a reapplication for a 17.38‑acre site in PD‑146 proposing 249 units, a reduction from 294 or the PD cap of 302. She said the proposal includes variances for detached garages and modified landscaping placement behind a new retaining wall. Developer Patrick McGee of High Park Capital said the firm “reduced the site by 45 units” and presented a fully designed site plan with amenities including a resort‑style pool, pickleball court and elevated masonry accents; he asked the council to “renew the SUP so that we can begin this project.”

Several council members pressed on design changes from the 2023 approval. Councilman Rogers said the newer renderings appeared “a lot plainer” than the prior approval and asked the applicant to show the closest match to the earlier architecture; architect Mark Leon explained site engineering and waterproofing decisions drove some changes and that seven of eight building types retain the articulated elevations shown in exhibit C. Councilors also questioned parking, retaining wall heights (about eight feet), and the maintenance and usability of an HOA‑maintained buffer behind the wall. After discussion and motions, council approved the SUP (vote recorded as 4–2). The developer and staff said they will maintain required landscaping and screening.