Commission approves Sheet Mountain PUD agreement for 48 deed‑restricted affordable units

The Livingston City Commission approved a development agreement and associated utility easements on June 2 to enable the Sheet Mountain Planned Unit Development (PUD), a developer‑led affordable housing project near the Brookstone subdivision.

Planning Director Jen Severson told the commission the PUD includes two identical rental buildings with 48 units — a mix of one-, two‑ and three‑bedroom apartments — and that 100% of the units will be affordable at or below 100% of the Park County Area Median Income (AMI). Notably, according to staff, all units will be restricted at or below 60% AMI and some at 50% AMI, a level made feasible by a Low‑Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) award. Severson said the LIHTC financing requires deed restrictions that will keep the units affordable for a minimum of 50 years.

Public benefits and conditions: Severson and staff summarized conditions the developer must meet prior to building permits: final civil design addressing grading, stormwater and utilities; a signed agreement with Brookstone Ditch Company to preserve ditch conveyance and water rights; fire‑safety elements (hydrants, fire lanes, connections); parking to comply with the zoning ordinance in place at the time of approval; minimum landscaping and tree plantings; and installation of a bus pad and shelter on site to support transit access. Impact fees were waived because the project met the PUD affordability thresholds.

Public comment included both support and technical questions. Katherine Dailyaly of the Park County Housing Coalition (partnering with HRDC on the project) thanked the commission and staff for city participation that helped secure LIHTC credits. Neighbors asked practical questions about ditch routing, wildlife‑friendly fencing, parking capacity and the project's tax‑exempt status under the LIHTC program; staff answered that LIHTC projects receive tax credits and that deed restrictions and reporting will be required.

Vote and next steps: Commissioner O'Neal moved to approve Resolution 5191 (development agreement) with Exhibit A transmitted by the city clerk; Commissioner Daniels seconded. A roll‑call vote was recorded as unanimous in favor. Commissioners then approved Resolution 5190, accepting three utility easements for the project, by unanimous roll call. Staff said building permits will follow once the outstanding technical conditions are met and the plan set is approved by public works and building services.

Why it matters: The project adds 48 deed‑restricted affordable rental units, with long‑term affordability protections and transit improvements requested as conditions of approval. The developer team and staff said the PUD ordinance and city involvement were important to winning LIHTC support.

What happens next: Developer submits final building permit applications and demonstrates the required conditions have been met; public works and building staff will inspect and confirm conditions during construction and prior to certificate of occupancy.