CITY OF KINGMAN

COMMUNICATION TO COUNCIL

SUMMARY:

Robert England of England Holding Company, LLC has submitted this request for a sewer variance for the subdivision known as Arroya Ranches, Tract 6020.  The subdivision is located inside the City Limits and within the Water Service Boundary in Section 20, Township 21 North, Range 16 West.  It is located south of Hualapai Mountain Road at the end of Canyon Del Vista Drive, accessible via Arroyo Vista Lane.

The subdivision will create 13 residential lots ranging in size from at least 0.50 acres to over 7 acres.  There is an existing single family residence located within the proposed boundary of Lot 4 which was previously approved for water service by Resolution No. 4450.  There is an existing 8 inch water main in an easement within the access road to the existing residence which will need to be extended to serve this subdivision.  The closest available public sewer line is located at the west end of Canyon Del Vista Drive.  There is a pressurized private service line from the existing residence that discharges into this public sewer line. The developer proposes to provide gravity service to two lots and individual septic tanks for the remaining 11 lots. The City’s current policy requires that all new subdivisions connect to the sewer system, so a variance is required to allow the 11 lots to construct septic systems.  The option of a central sewage lift station was reviewed and considered for the subdivision.  There were concerns from staff that the cost to maintain an 11 lot lift station would be greater than any revenues received.

This request for variance was previously heard by the Council at their October 3, 2017 meeting.  In 2017 the Council voted 7-0 to DENY the variance request, citing concern over setting a precedent.  At their June 27, 2019 meeting the Municipal Utility Commission voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the variance, stating concerns with lift station costs and noting that the area would not develop otherwise.   

FISCAL IMPACT:

The City will receive water revenue from 13 lots, and will receive sewer revenue from 2 lots. 

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:

The Municipal Utility Commission reviewed this request at their June 27, 2019 meeting and recommended by a vote of 5-0 that the variance be granted.  Staff recommends approval of Resolution No. 5231.