On January 2, 2020, Northern Engineering and Consulting Inc., agent for Felton Associates, Inc., applied for preliminary major plat approval for Emma Jean Heights Subdivision, 4th Filing. The proposed subdivision creates 43 lots for single-family residential development. This proposal is the fourth filing of a master planned subdivision that was first reviewed in 2006. The subject property is generally located on the west side of Bitterroot Drive, south of Wicks Lane in northeast Billings Heights.  The property is zoned Residential-7000 (R-70).

In accordance with state law, the City Council has 60 working days to act upon this major preliminary plat. The 60 working day review period for the proposed plat ends on March 27, 2020. 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 60 working day review period, the City Council is required to:
1. Approve;
2. Conditionally Approve; or
3. Deny the Preliminary Plat

VARIANCE REQUESTED
No variance has been requested.

Approval of this subdivision will have no direct financial impact on the Planning Division.

PROCEDURAL HISTORY PLAT INFORMATION

• Pre-application meeting September 19, 2019
• Preliminary plat application to the Planning Division on January 2, 2020
• Departmental review meeting January 16, 2020
• Preliminary plat resubmittal January 23, 2020 
• Planning Board plat review February 11, 2020
• Planning Board public hearing February 25, 2020
• Preliminary plat to City Council March 23, 2020
• 60 working-day preliminary plat review period ends March 27, 2020

 PLAT INFORMATION

General location: Legal Description: Owner/Subdivider: Engineer and Surveyor:  Existing Zoning: Existing land use: Proposed land use: Gross and Net area: Proposed number of lots: Lot size: Parkland requirements:

West side of Bitterroot Drive, south of Wicks Lane Lot 1A, Block 19, Emma Jean Heights Subdivision, 3rd Filing Felton Associates, Inc. Northern Engineering and Consulting Inc. R70 Vacant Land Residential 13.61 acres / 8.01 acres 43 Max:  3.308 acres Min: 7,500 square feet The applicant is proposing to provide 1.97 acres of parkland with this submittal.

Staff gave a brief presentation about this proposed plat to the Planning Board. President Woods called for questions and discussion from the members of the Board. There were no questions from the board for staff.  President Woods asked if the applicant or their agent wished to speak. Mr. Felton, applicant, stood and addressed the board saying he feels Planner Green’s presentation covered the request.   He also stated he is anxious for the City to install the proposed storm water line in Bitterroot Drive pursuant with an agreement with the City. There were no questions from the board for Mr. Felton.

President Woods opened the public hearing and asked if there was anyone wishing to speak in favor or against Emma Jean Heights Subdivision, 4th Filing. There was none. The public hearing was closed and a motion made to forward a recommendation of approval to the City Council and adopt the Findings of Fact, the motion was seconded.  The motion passed with an unanimous vote from the Planning Board.
 

Consistency with the 2016 Growth Policy, the 2018 Transportation Plan, Billings Heights Neighborhood Plan and Billings Area Bikeways and Trail Master Plan are discussed within the Findings of Fact.