Board approves Blackstone Ranch North final map amid questions about HOA votes and public access

The Board of Supervisors approved the final subdivision map for Blackstone Ranch North after an extended hearing that centered on access, common open space and homeowner‑association (HOA) concerns tied to a large for‑rent development.

Staff described changes to the tentative map and noted that the new owner (AMH Development / American Homes for Rent) reconfigured lots after reconstructing a sewer alignment. “We own over 61,000 homes across The United States. We're publicly traded company,” Michael Mistriel, AMH director of land development, told the board, noting AMH will retain ownership of parcels and pay assessments to a master HOA. He added, “We retain our voting rights, so that the residents, the renters do not, vote with the HOA.”

Supervisors asked whether the common open space would be legally recorded as public, raised concerns that a single owner holding votes for multiple parcels could influence an established HOA, and pressed staff about secondary access and maintenance. Planning staff said some multiuse pathways will be recorded as public (multiuse pathways along Matterhorn are public), but other common open space parcels are not currently recorded with public‑use easements and could remain privately owned and maintained. AMH said it would maintain common areas until annexation; staff confirmed the development remains subject to the previously approved LMD (land management district) and associated obligations.

After discussion and a motion, the board approved the final map on a recorded vote (4–1), with Supervisor White voting no. Staff noted they will continue to work with the applicant and surrounding HOA entities to document maintenance and annexation details as necessary.