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Commission backs amendment to allow up to 30 units on a single access, forwards Ordinance 2026-05
Summary
The Commission voted 5–1 to recommend City Council consider Ordinance 2026-05, raising the maximum units allowed on a single access from 25 to 30 for single-family, two-family and townhome developments, subject to Fire Authority discretion.
The Vernal Planning Commission voted to forward a positive recommendation to the City Council on Ordinance 2026-05, an amendment to Section 16.58.120 (Layout and Access) that would increase from 25 to 30 the maximum number of units allowed on a single access for single-family, two-family and townhome developments.
Staff (Braeden Christofferson) said the change is intended to align city standards with Uintah County and the International Fire Code, and that the Fire Authority would retain discretion to require fewer units or additional access if safety concerns warranted it. Commissioners debated trade-offs between higher allowed densities on single-access streets and neighborhood safety; some expressed preference for lower density and multiple access points while others cited benefits of consistency with wider standards.
Public comment split: Riley Todich opposed the change, saying it "would reduce safety" by allowing more units on a single access point; Jacob Speirs supported alignment with state and international standards and warned that restricting development could hinder housing availability. On a motion by Samantha Chapoose, seconded by Troy Allred, the Commission voted in favor, with Hailee Todich the lone dissenting vote.
