On April 1, 2015, the Planning Division received an application for preliminary plat approval for Amended Lot 4, Block 1, Exchange Subdivision. The plat contains 2 lots on approximately 1.82 acres of land generally located at 1148 1st Avenue North.  The property is currently developed with two buildings on it and occupied with businesses. The owner is Christian Brothers Real Estate, LLC, and the representing agent is Blueline Engineering, LLC.

In accordance with state law, the City Council has 35 working days to act upon this preliminary subsequent minor plat.  The 35 working day review period for the proposed plat ends on May 20, 2015.  State and City subdivision regulations also require that preliminary plats be reviewed using specific criteria, as stated within this report.  The City may not unreasonably restrict an owner’s ability to develop land if the subdivider provides evidence that any identified adverse effects can be mitigated.  Within the 35-day review period, the City Council is required to:

1. Approve;
2. Conditionally Approve; or
3. Deny the Preliminary Plat

If the City Council approves the preliminary plat, the subject property may further develop under separate private ownership, resulting in additional tax revenues.

General location:                                             1148 1st Avenue North
 
Legal Description:                                           Lot 4, Block 1, Exchange Subdivision
 
Owner/Subdivider:                                          Christian Brothers Real Estate, LLC
 
Engineer and Surveyor:                                  Blueline Engineering
 
Existing Zoning:                                              East Billings Industrial Sanctuary
 
Existing land use:                                            Commercial
 
Proposed land use:                                         Commercial
 
Gross/net area:                                               1.82 acres / 1.82 acres
 
Proposed number of lots:                                2
 
Lot size:                                                          Max:    39,672 square feet
                                                                        Min.:   39,650 square feet
 
Parkland requirements:                                   Parkland is not required as this is a commercial subdivision.

A public hearing is not scheduled for the City Council meeting, however nearby property owners may attend the meeting.  The Planning Division has received no public comments or questions regarding the proposed subdivision.

Consistency with the Growth Policy, the 2014 Transportation Plan, the Billings Area Bikeway and Trail Master Plan are discussed within the Findings of Fact.