Snowflake council tables ordinance to adopt Appendix J (grading permits) after debate over property rights

The Town Council engaged in an extended debate Oct. 7 over Ordinance 2025-11, which would adopt Appendix J of the 2018 International Building Code to regulate grading and grading permits in Snowflake.

Town Manager Brian Richards said the appendix would allow the town to require drainage plans and revegetation plans and to limit unchecked removal of native vegetation. Councilmember Travis Kay argued against adopting national building-code provisions, expressing concern that the rules could become onerous for residential property owners who want to grade their lots; Kay said he did not want to 'encumber people's property.' Councilmember Mark Sheen likewise asked for clarity on specific requirements. Bruce Meyer noted current "wildcat development" and said the appendix could help regulate and guide appropriate design. After discussion, Mayor Byron Lewis moved and Councilmember Mark Sheen seconded a motion to table the ordinance until the town attorney could be present to explain details; the motion passed unanimously.

The council did not adopt the grading provisions at this meeting; staff indicated the item will return for further explanation and consideration.