The final plat for the Amended Lot 6A, Sunny Cove Fruit Farms is being presented to Council for approval. On October 20, 2011, City staff held a pre-application meeting with the applicant to discuss the creation of a two-lot subdivision of 14.2 acres of land. It was determined at that time that the subdivision qualifies for the expedited plat review process, which allows, under certain conditions, subdivisions creating just two lots to proceed straight to final plat review. The subject property is located on the south side of Rimrock Road, east of 60th Street West. It is zoned Residential 9600 (R-96). There is an existing single-family residence with outbuildings on the property. The subdivision will create a 0.36-acre lot for the farmhouse and buildings, and a 13.3-acre lot for the remaining agricultural land. The property owner is Thomas Romine, and the agent is Blueline Engineering. Upon City Council approval, these documents are appropriate as to form for filing with the Clerk and Recorder.

The City Council may approve or deny the final plat of Amended Lot 6A, Sunny Cove Fruit Farms. If the City Council chooses to deny the final plat, it must base the denial on the criteria outlined in MCA 76-3-611 and BMCC Section 23-305(F).

Should the City Council approve the final plat, the City special assessment taxes on the subject property will be reconfigured. The large lot will be reclassified as vacant agricultural land which may reduce the tax and assessment burden for the owner, and decrease revenues for the City.

Staff recommends that the City Council approve the final plat of Amended Lot 6A, Sunny Cove Fruit Farms.