Planning director reports six rezoning requests, 60-lot subdivision and push to adopt 2018 building code

Thomas, director of resource management, told the commission the county processed six rezoning requests in the quarter that together covered about 55.42 acres and that the planning department forwarded an amendment package and recommendation on permit-fee changes.

He said a major subdivision adding 60 lots was approved in the period and that 26 lot-split or lot-line-adjustment applications resulted in about 36 new parcels — work the department said may yield future residential building sites. Thomas also summarized active commercial projects and named examples such as Strafford Steel and separate commercial proposals in the Billings area.

On codes, Thomas said staff will pursue public meetings and review necessary amendments as part of a plan to adopt the 2018 building code to replace the county's current 2012 version; the process will include public hearings on both sides of the county and a final recommendation back to the commission.