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Commission approves amendment to allow twin-home units after 2–1 vote
Summary
The Iron County Commission approved an amendment to a development agreement allowing up to 32 twin-home buildings (64 units) in the Equestrian Trails subdivision after a 2–1 vote; the Planning Commission had recommended denial citing incompatibility and precedent concerns.
The Iron County Commission voted 2–1 on July 27 to approve a developer request to allow attached twin-home units within the Equestrian Trails master-planned subdivision in Cedar City.
Brett Hamilton, Iron County planner, explained the applicant, Equestrian Trails Ranch, LLC, sought an amendment to permit up to 32 twin-home buildings (resulting in as many as 64 units). The Planning Commission recommended denial, stating that introducing attached housing at this location "was not compatible with the surrounding development pattern" and "would set an undesirable land use precedent."
During the public hearing neighbors raised objections. Beverly Flud told the commission she was concerned about precedent, that twin-homes would harm property values and would compromise the subdivision's rural, equestrian character. Bruce Anderson, Public Works director, said attached units could complicate trash pickup and road maintenance because of on-street parking. Supporters, including Sam Williams and Frank Nichols, said infrastructure already exists and that twin-homes would provide more attainable housing for younger families. Nate Kaplan, representing the applicant, described the project's intent and infrastructure readiness.
Commissioner Michael Bleak moved to approve what the meeting minutes record as the "Iron County Resolution 2026-4 amendment, as presented," and Commissioner Paul Cozzens seconded. The motion passed 2–1 (Bleak Aye; Cozzens Aye; Robinson Nay). The minutes refer to Ordinance 2026-17 as the subject of the public hearing and also record the motion under the label "Resolution 2026-4;" the minutes contain both references.
The approval alters the development agreement for the parcel located between 4000 N and 1600 N, and 3700 W and 4400 W in Cedar City; the commission did not provide additional conditions in the record. The Planning Commission's written recommendation for denial remains part of the public record and may be referenced in future land-use proceedings.
