Harmony Meadows, LLC and James Weber submitted a petition to annex land they own using the provisions of Section 7-2-4600, MCA. The subject property is Lot 1 and Lot 2, Block 1, Harmony Meadows Subdivision, 1st Filing totaling about 90 acres. The property is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Elysian Road and Mullowney Lane south of the King Avenue exist off Interstate 90. The property has been used primarily for agricultural operations and the owners are requesting annexation in order to begin developing the property in the City with commercial and residential uses. The property is currently zoned Highway Commercial, Community Commercial, and Residential Multi-Family Restricted.

The property is located within the five-year annexation area of the City's Limits of Annexation Map and appears to meet some of the City's criteria in its Annexation Policy. A detailed review and analysis of the Annexation Policy criteria will be provided in the Council's public hearing memo. The City Council’s policy is to consider annexations at two separate Council meetings. At the first meeting, the Council acknowledges receipt of a petition and sets a public hearing date. At the second meeting, the Council conducts the hearing and takes action on the annexation petition.

Section 7-2-4600, MCA, allows owners of more than 50% of the property to petition the City for annexation. The only alternative that is consistent with City Council policy is to acknowledge receipt of the petition and set a public hearing date.

Analysis by City staff of how City services may be provided to this property and a recommendation on the annexation will be prepared and presented at the public hearing.

Staff recommends that the City Council acknowledge receipt of the annexation petition and schedule a public hearing for December 14, 2015 to consider annexing this property.