El Dorado County Planning Commission members say they are willing to consider a proposal for a planned development that would result in greater density in a rural area than called for in the county's general plan.
The commission earlier this month conducted a conceptual review of the Indian Creek Ranch project, a potential subdivision with lots ranging from 1 to 2.3 acres on 185.6 acres north of Highway 50 and Echo Lane, west of El Dorado Road. Planning staff members sought direction from commissioners on whether to require a general plan amendment for the project, because a majority of the development would be outside community region boundaries established by the general plan.
Cindy Shaffer, the prospective applicant, questioned how the county measures a planned development's consistency with the general plan. She proposes to create about 77 lots, clustering homes on a portion of the property to preserve open space, which is typically considered a public benefit, Shaffer said.
Under a planned development, the Planning Commission would have ample opportunity to evaluate the project and conduct required environmental reviews, she said.
Planning staff members questioned whether it was appropriate to allow what would amount to medium-density residential development in an area designated for low-density.
Commission members said the proposed density seemed appropriate for the location.
Given its proximity to Highway 50, "that's where we should be directing growth," said Commissioner Dave Machado.
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By Cathy Locke - Bee Staff Writer
