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HomeMy WebLinkAboutNarrative_IronEagleBusinessPark_V1 November 12, 2024 Project No.: 24-157 Ms. Robin Collins Planning & Zoning Director City of Caldwell 205 South 6th Avenue P.O. Box 1179 Caldwell, ID 83605 RE: Iron Eagle Business Park – Caldwell, Idaho Special Use Permit Application Dear Ms. Collins: On behalf of United Metals, Ekart Holdings LLP, and/or their assigns, we are pleased to present Iron Eagle Business Park, a mixed-use industrial development in Caldwell spanning Aviation Way, just north of the Aviation Way and Ustick Rd intersection. Located at 5615 Aviation Way Caldwell, ID 83605. With this application, the applicant would like to propose a Special Use Permit (SUP) to allow for “flex space” within the Light Industrial (M-1) zoning district. In addition, the applicant would like to request alternative compliance to the landscaping provision within the original Development Agreement (DA) to be explicit in its requirements. The Special Use Permit request is consistent with the previously approved DA while providing key updates consistent with Caldwell City Code, Caldwell Comprehensive Plan, and the proposed project. Site Information The property is approximately 1.31 acres identified as parcel number R0307050200 and is North of Ustick Rd, Aviation Way, and I-84. The site is currently zoned M-1 and within the APO-1 (Airport Overlay District) overlay. Background On November 5th 2018, case number ZON-18-08 was heard by the Mayor of Caldwell and City Council at a public hearing. The previous applicant requested a rezone of approximately 1.3 acres from A-D (Airport District) to M-1 and received approval in 2018 with a DA attached. PAGE | 2 Overall Concept Site Plan Iron Eagle Business Park is proposing a diverse mix of light industrial flex space opportunities with a total of 10 units on approximately 1.31 acres. Of these 10 units, 8 will be 60x40 and 2 will be 40x40. Not only does this diversify the usage of the units, but it allows for options based on affordability. Within these units, each specific use will need to align with the M-1 district as outlined in the City’s Land Use Schedule (10- 02-02). Additionally, each use will be required to follow any applicable specific use standards stated within the City’s Code. Special Use Permit Iron Eagle Business Park will accommodate a variety of users while ensuring compliance within the accepted uses per the Land Use Schedule of the M-1 district and the APO-1 overlay. This development will complement the City Code’s purpose of “grouping together light industrial uses” within an area abiding by the outlined standards. Within the M-1 zone, flex space is not a principally permitted use. Because of this, we are now requesting a Special use Permit to allow this use. This application process was also recommended by Staff, as opposed to a development agreement modification. As defined in Caldwell’s City Code, flex space is: The use of a building or portion thereof for small scale warehousing and/or light industry with associated office and/or retail showroom space. Flexibility in use of the interior spaces and low scale, attractive exterior appearances characterize flex buildings. Caldwell Executive Airport was notified of the application request and their comments were included in the application packet. They indicated that they are in support of the request and future uses for the property as allowed by the M-1 zoning district. Compliance with Comprehensive Plan The proposed Iron Eagle Business Park concept plan continues to align with the intent of Caldwell’s adopted Comprehensive Plan, by complementing goals and policies for economic development. In particular, this well-designed project will address Economic Development Goal 3 Policy 3-2, generate employment opportunities that support local economies and reduce vehicle miles traveled between home and work, and Goal 5 Policy 5-1, develop incentives to retain existing businesses or allow an existing business to expand. This is achieved by both the central location of the project and the proposed use. Location Located just south of the Caldwell Executive Airport and off of I-84, this centralized location gives Caldwell residents access to the site and reduces vehicle miles traveled between home and work. With the PAGE | 3 possibility to work within city limits, residents would have a reduced commute resulting in additional support within the local Calwell economy. Incentivizing businesses with additional space that is centrally located will also aid in Caldwell specific economic expansion. Proposed Uses The proposed use of flex space will generate employment opportunities and advancements for a variety of users and residents of Caldwell. As mentioned in the Comprehensive Plan, retaining existing Caldwell businesses is important and this is the perfect addition to the city to not only retain, but improve existing businesses with added growth potential. This Special Use Permit request will allow for multiple job opportunities and will attract a variety of users together that share a common goal. Conclusion We are excited to bring Iron Eagle Business Park to the City of Caldwell. This light industrial project will complement surrounding uses, fulfill comprehensive plan goals, and provide a unique option for new opportunities in this area of Caldwell. The design and mix of uses will draw in a diverse group of individuals who can connect, create, and build their businesses. Further, Iron Eagle Business Park complements the City ’s vision for growth and will be an asset to the community. With the approval of this Special Use Permit, this proposed development is made possible. Should you have questions or require further information in order to process this application, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, KM Engineering, LLP. Connor Lindstrom, CFM Senior Land Planner cc: United Metals, Ekart Holdings, LLP