Tule Ridge Developments, Robert Wattenbarger, agent, submitted a petition to annex land it owns using the provisions of Section 7-2-4600, MCA. The subject property is 11 acres in size and described as Lot 8, Sunny Cove Fruit Farms. The property is located at the southeast corner of Rimrock Road and 62nd Street West. The property is vacant and has been used for agricultural. The owner is requesting annexation in order to develop the property in the City for commercial uses. The property was recently zoned Community Commercial in the County and would retain this zoning upon annexation into the City.

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 August 8, 2016 to consider annexing this property.