Commission continues South View Estates subdivision after neighbor concerns about easement and drainage

The Riverton Planning Commission on Aug. 27 continued the South View Estates preliminary subdivision (PLZ‑20‑61xx), asking staff and the developer to resolve disputed facts about a rear easement, drainage history and fence placement before returning the item for action.

Staff summarized the site's long history (an initial plan dating to 2007), noted existing but never‑dedicated road improvements and the need to update utilities and testing to current city standards. Applicant Travis Schmidt (representing Sage Homes) said the developer plans to install a continuous 6‑ft concrete/composite fence on three sides and that the fence would be in place prior to vertical construction; he acknowledged there is a discrepancy between a 15‑ft easement shown on the plat and neighborhood testimony claiming a 24‑ft easement.

Neighbors described repeated flooding, clogged storm inlets and damaged fences from decades of neglect. "We have flood issues that it comes down, and it floods my sister's house," Steven Richins told the commission, urging careful investigation of drainage history and a written assurance about access rights and fence replacement. Staff and the developers said they will clean storm drains, work to clarify meter and mailbox locations, and that owner/developer hopes to install the fence within about 60 days.

Commission discussion focused on whether the commission had sufficient evidence to decide fencing and easement placement tonight. Because title/plat/easement facts are disputed and neighbors raised new evidence about tailwater and previous maintenance lapses, Commissioner Clough moved to continue the item to a later date to allow staff and the parties to resolve the questions; Commissioner Beck seconded and the motion passed unanimously.

Next steps: staff will research easement documentation and drainage history, developers will meet neighbors about fence alignment and access, and the item will be renoticed once parties and staff have additional information.