Developer: slope and utility conflicts forced Sienna Lake lot realignment; framing expected in March

During the public hearing on the Sienna Lake plat amendment, applicant representative Jim Cooper said on-site slope changes and utility locations prompted adjustments to the subdivision layout. "By the time we get done with construction, a lot of the topo had changed," Cooper said, describing combinations of lots and conversions of several parcels to open space.

Cooper acknowledged the developer will lose some lots as part of the realignment but said the changes improve buildability and buyer outcomes: "We're actually improving, we believe, the phase 1 side with some of this realignment...when you add it, when you change a lot line and then shift 3 feet here or there, it just helps out the house and the individual buying the houses." Project manager Nick Tillecki gave a construction update, saying the team pulled the first 23 building permits, has basements under construction, and expects to start framing the first houses in mid-March once lumber deliveries are complete.

Commissioners pressed whether any of the affected lots had been presold; staff and the applicant said most affected lots were not sold and that sales agreements include provisions to accommodate minor lot changes before closing. The commission approved the plat amendment later in the meeting.