MINDEN, Nev. – A big housing project proposed north of Minden and Gardnerville has been put on hold.
Douglas County planning commissioners rejected Park Cattle Company's plan to build more than 4,000 homes on a 1,300-acre parcel, though the county commission could overturn the vote at its meeting Sept. 4.
The planning commission's staff concluded last week there was no demonstrated need for the project, which would require a master plan amendment.
Other opposition focussed on its proximity to the local airport. Commissioner Jim Madsen said a fire bomber taking off from the airport would only be 126 feet off the ground when it began to fly over the project.
“I respect the ideas and vision,” said Planning Commission Lawrence Howell. “I'm concerned that the transfer of development rights program is intended to preserve ranch land. This proposal builds home on ranch land..”
Planning commissioner Mike Olson said he wanted to see a lot more work on the plan before he would be ready to approve it.
“I think it is premature,” he said.
Planning commissioner Bob Conner was the lone vote in favor of the project. He said the Park plan was consistent with the master plan and expressed frustration that in order to approve an amendment the project had to meet all four conditions.
Denise Beronio, executive director of the proposed Nevada Horse Park, told commissioners the equestrian facility would be located on 1,634 acres of property at Muller Lane. She estimated it would be a seven- to 10-year project and include a horse park, show facility and events center.
Beronio, speaking in favor of the Park plan, said development of the horse park would bring an “eco-friendly, much-needed” identity to Douglas County.
John Marsalis, vice chairman of the Minden-Tahoe Airport advisory committee, recommended the project be located as far from the airport as possible.
“It's extremely valuable to mitigate the number of people in the area of the noise corridor,” Marsalis said.
Information from: Gardnerville Record-Courier, www.recordcourier.com
