FARMINGTON -- Plans to develop a 19-lot subdivision on the city's west side cleared a key hurdle Tuesday.
City council members voted unanimously to approve a schematic plan for the Meadow View Conservation Subdivision, at 425 North and 1525 West, after hearing some potential concerns from neighbors about a trail in the area and water runoff.
The project still needs to undergo more review, with a preliminary plat and then final plat approval, before developers can initiate work on the 10.6-acre site.
Northstar Homes is the developer. The builder received preliminary and final plat approval for a planned unit development in 2007, but a slowing economy forced them to back off those plans -- and the delay means the project needs to undergo the approval process again.
The builder has changed the outline for the plan to be a conservation subdivision and has made some minor changes, said Christy Alexander, associated city planner.
Sheri Ellis lives on the border of the project, and she used a public hearing to raise early concerns about a proposed trail and water issues.
She said the rough outline for the trail has it going right next to her property line.
"I'm not in favor of the trail, and my neighbors aren't either," Ellis said.
She expressed concerns about privacy and said trying to make adjustments to where the trail will be located will be difficult because of drainage problems in the area.
She said the area is currently so wet, you can't drive a riding lawn mower on the land.
George Chipman, chairman of the city's trails committee, said he thinks planners will be able to find a spot to place the trail.
City Manager Dave Millheim reminded council members that the project is only in the schematic stage and all of the key questions will be addressed as the project moves forward.
Jerry Gardner, of Northstar Homes, says he is eager to see the plans move forward.
"It's been a long stretch," Gardner said of the project. "I'm excited to see this thing finalized."
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