I3. NW Energy Utility Yard Conditional Use Permit_1r%9**kk6
KALISPELL
Development Services Department
201 lst Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone: (406) 758-7940
Fax: (406) 758-7739
www.kalispell.com/plannine
REPORT TO: Jarod Nygren, City Manager
FROM: Donnie McBath, Planner II of Development Services
SUBJECT: KCU-25-08 — NorthWestern Energy Utility Yard Expansion
Conditional Use Permit
MEETING DATE: January 5, 2026
BACKGROUND: NorthWestern Energy has submitted an application for a Conditional Use Permit
(KCU-25-08) to allow for the expansion of an existing legally established non -conforming utility
yard. The proposal includes an addition to the existing utility building and an expansion of the
enclosed yard area to continue long-standing operational use. The site is located at 890 North
Meridian Road in Kalispell, Montana.
The property is legally described as Lot 1 of Montana Power Addition No. 139, according to the map
or plat thereof on file and of record in the office of the Clerk and Recorder of Flathead County,
Montana.
The Kalispell Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on December 9, 2025, to
consider the request. Staff presented staff report KCU-25-08, providing details and an evaluation of
the proposal. Staff recommended that the Commission adopt the staff report as findings of fact and
recommend that the request be granted subject to eight (8) conditions of approval. One public
comment was received at the public hearing. The public hearing was closed and a motion was
presented to adopt the staff report as findings of fact and recommend to the Kalispell City Council
that the conditional use permit be granted subject to eight (8) conditions of approval. Board
discussion concluded that the request was appropriate, and the motion passed unanimously on a roll
call vote.
RECOMMENDATION:
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT: It is recommended that the Kalispell City Council approve a request
from NorthWestern Energy for Conditional Use Permit KCU-25-08, a conditional use permit to allow
the expansion of an existing legally established non -conforming utility yard, subject to eight (8)
conditions of approval, located at 890 North Meridian Road and more particularly described as Lot 1
of Montana Power Addition No. 139, as shown on the map or plat thereof on file and of record in the
office of the Clerk and Recorder of Flathead County, Montana.
FISCAL EFFECTS: There are no anticipated fiscal impacts at this time.
ALTERNATIVES: Deny the request.
ATTACHMENTS: Conditional Use Permit
December 9, 2025, Kalispell Planning Commission Minutes
Staff Report
Application Materials & Maps
Aimee Brunckhorst, Kalispell City Clerk
Return to:
Kalispell City Clerk
PO Box 1997
Kalispell, MT 59903
City of Kalispell
P. O. Box 1997
Kalispell, Montana 59903-1997
GRANT OF CONDITIONAL USE
APPLICANT: Tetra Holdings LLC
Neil Johnson
411 Summit Ridge Drive
Kalispell, MT 59901
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Lot I of the Amended Plat of Lot 1 of Village Heights Professional
Center Subdivision and Lot 2 of Village Heights Professional Center
Subdivision, according to the map or plat thereof on rile and of record
in the office of the Clerk and Recorder of Flathead County, Montana.
ZONE: RA-2, Residential
The applicant has submitted an application for a Conditional Use Permit to allow for the
development of a 36-unit multifamily residential project. The proposal includes a twelve -unit
residential building and a twenty -four -unit residential building along with interior parking and
circulation, sidewalks, municipal water and sewer service, landscaping, and associated site
improvements. The site is located at 95 Village Loop in Kalispell, Montana in the RA-2
(Residential) zone.
The Kalispell City Planning Board and Zoning Commission, after due and proper notice, on
December 9, 2025, held apublic hearing on the application, took public comment and Commission
recommended that the application be approved subject to fifteen (15) conditions.
After reviewing the application, the record, the Kalispell Planning Department report, and
after duly considering the matter, the City Council of the City of Kalispell, pursuant to the Kalispell
Zoning Ordinance, hereby adopts Kalispell Planning Department Conditional Use Report #KCU-25-
07 as the Council's findings of fact, and issues and grants to the above -described real property a
conditional use permit to develop of a 36-unit multifamily residential project, including a twelve -unit
residential building and a twenty -four -unit residential building at 95 Village Loop in Kalispell,
Montana, subject to the following conditions:
1. That commencement of the approved activity must begin within 18 months from the date of
authorization or that a continuous good faith effort is made to bring the project to completion.
2. That the development and use of the site shall be insubstantial conformance with the submitted
application and architectural/site plan drawings.
3. To ensure the traffic flow and access comply with Kalispell Design and Construction Standards,
as well as compliance with other site development standards, the development shall receive Site
Review Committee approval prior to issuance of the building permit.
4. To ensure the property is fully landscaped and is compatible with the surrounding
neighborhood, a landscape plan shall be submitted along with the building permit. The
landscape plan shall be in substantial compliance with the submitted application and approved
by the Parks and Recreation Director prior to issuance of the building permit.
5. A minimum of 500 square feet of land per unit that provides recreational value, as determined
by the Kalispell Parks and Recreation Director, or recreational amenities equivalent to the fair
market value of 500 square feet of land, shall be provided on site. Final design, materials,
access, and functionality of the recreation area must be reviewed by the Parks and Recreation
Department and approved prior to issuance of building permits.
6. The developer shall submit to the Kalispell Public Works Department for review and approval a
storm water report and an engineered drainage plan that meets the requirements of the City of
Kalispell Standards for Design and Construction and shall include, but not be limited to,
stormwater quality treatment and drainage design for the development.
7. Prior to construction, the developer shall submit to the Kalispell Public Works Department an
erosion/sediment control plan for review and approval, as well as a copy of all documents
submitted to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality for the General Permit for
Storm Water Discharge Associated with Construction Activities.
8. Access to the property shall meet fire code as determined by the City of Kalispell Fire Chief.
9. The garbage enclosure shall be sized and placed in a location acceptable to the Kalispell Public
Works Department.
10. Pedestrian connections shall be provided from both buildings to the public sidewalk system
along Village Loop, consistent with City access standards.
11. All sewer extensions necessary to serve the development shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the City of Kalispell Standards for Design and Construction and shall be
reviewed and approved by the Kalispell Public Works Department. All domestic water
extensions necessary to serve the development shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with the applicable water provider's standards and coordinated with that provider during
engineering review. Prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, the developer shall submit
certification to the Kalispell Public Works Department that the sewer infrastructure has been
built and tested as designed and approved, and shall provide confirmation from the water
provider that the water infrastructure has been constructed and tested in accordance with their
standards.
12. All development shall comply with the recommendations contained in the Alpine Geotechnical
Investigation Report (October 13, 2025), including prohibiting surcharge loads within
approximately 40 feet of the bluff crest and prohibiting stormwater detention, retention, or
infiltration facilities within 150 feet of the bluff crest. Final engineering documents shall
demonstrate compliance prior to issuance of building permits.
13. Lot 1B and Lot 2 of Village Heights Professional Center Subdivision shall be aggregated into a
single parcel prior to issuance of building permits.
14. A Category 0 Traffic Impact Study memorandum shall be submitted to and approved by the
Kalispell Public Works Department prior to issuance of building permits. The memorandum
shall address trip generation, access placement, driveway geometry, internal circulation, turning
movements, and any recommended mitigation measures.
15. The developer shall coordinate with the City of Kalispell Public Works Department to review
and approve a potential crosswalk connection adjacent to the project site to ensure safe and
functional pedestrian access. If determined appropriate by Public Works, the crosswalk
improvement shall be installed as part of the development's frontage improvements_ and
construction shall be completed prior to issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.
Dated this 5th day of January, 2026.
STATE OF MONTANA
ss
County of Flathead
Ryan Hunter
Mayor
On this day of , 2026 before me, a Notary Public, personally
appeared Ryan Hunter, Mayor of the City of Kalispell, known to me to be the person whose name is
subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he executed the same on behalf of
the City of Kalispell.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Notarial Seal, the
day and year first above written.
Notary Public, State of Montana
KALISPELL CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
December 9, 2025
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL
The regular meeting of the Kalispell City Planning Board and
CALL
Zoning Commission was called to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission
members present were Chad Graham, Pip Burke (Zoom), Joshua
Borgardt, Cate Walker and Rory Young. Jarod Nygren, PJ
Sorensen, Donnie McBath, and Kari Barnhart and Kirstin
Robinson represented the Kalispell Planning Department.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Young moved and Walker seconded a motion to approve the
minutes of the November 12, 2025 meeting of the Kalispell City
Planning Board and Zoning Commission.
VOTE BY ACCLAMATION
The motion passed unanimously on a vote of acclamation.
HEAR THE PUBLIC
Kyle Voigtlander — 840 4' St W — Has concerns for new
development straining the city's infrastructure, the number of
vacant rental units in the city, and the impact HOAs have on
homeowners, He would like for the commission to consider these
concerns when voting on projects.
KCU-25-06 — FATT BOYS
File #KCU-25-06 — FU LLC (Fatt Boys Restaurant & Casino) -
Fatt Boys has submitted an application for a Conditional Use
Permit to allow for the expansion of the existing casino floor area
at 1307 Highway 2 West. The proposal involves increasing the
casino area from 792 square feet to 947 square feet within the
existing 5,5 82-square -foot restaurant and casino building. No
exterior expansion is proposed. The Conditional Use Permit will
be reviewed as a new permit for an accessory casino. The
property is located within the B-2 (General Business) zoning
district.
STAFF REPORT
Donnie McBath representing the Kalispell Planning Department
reviewed Staff reports #KCU-25-06.
Staff recommends that the Kalispell City Planning Commission
adopt Staff Report #KCU-25-06 as findings of fact and
recommend to the Kalispell City Council that the Conditional Use
Permit be approved, subject to the conditions of approval on the
staff report.
BOARD DISCUSSION
McBath advised Walker that the sidewalk plans would be on the
building permit site plan. Sorensen confirmed with Graham that
this CUP would not fall under the pending zoning text amendment
that Council will be voting on 12/15/25 but there would always
be potential enforcement mechanisms.
PUBLIC HEARING
Kyle Voigtlander — 840 4' St W — Opposes the CUP and has
concerns that the City's requirements put a strain on the business
owner and would like the condition removed.
Kalispell City Planning Commission
Minutes of the meeting of December 9, 2025
Page I 1
MOTION — KCU-25-06
Young moved and Walker seconded that the Kalispell City
Planning Commission adopt Staff Report #KCU-25-06 as
findings of fact and recommend to the Kalispell City Council that
the Conditional Use Permit be approved, subject to the conditions
of approval on the staff report.
BOARD DISCUSSION
Nygren advised Young that the required sidewalk would connect
the entire corridor, that the city standard requires them, and that
they are on the Transportation Plan and Growth Policy. Borgardt
stated that the sidewalk is a good option for patrons. Sorensen
added that the owner wanted to make the sidewalk connection as
a business investment.
ROLL CALL — KCU-25-06
Motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
BOARD MEMBER SEATED
Young recused himself from KCU-25-07 & KCU-25-08; he is a
representative for the applicants.
KCU-25-07 — VILLAGE LOOP
File #KCU-25-07— Neil Johnson / Village Loop Multifamily - A
MULTIFAMILY
request for a Conditional Use Permit to allow the development of
two multi -family residential buildings located at 95 Village Loop,
within the RA-2 (Residential Apartment) zoning district. The
proposal includes one 12-unit residential building and one 24-unit
residential building, along with internal parking and circulation,
sidewalks, municipal water and sewer connections, stormwater
facilities, and associated site improvements. Multi -family
residential development is allowed within the RA-2 zoning
district subject to Conditional Use Permit approval.
STAFF REPORT
Donnie McBath representing the Kalispell Planning Department
reviewed Staff reports #KCU-25-07.
Staff recommends that the Kalispell City Planning Commission
adopt staff report #KCU-25-07 as findings of fact and recommend
to the Kalispell City Council that the Conditional Use Permit for the
Village Loop Multifamily project be approved, subject to the
conditions on the staff report.
BOARD DISCUSSION
Sorensen clarified the recreational amenities and the Site Review
process to Walker.
PUBLIC HEARING
Kyle Voigtlander — 840 4' St W — Opposes the CUP and feels
that the project doesn't fit the area, there aren't enough parking
spaces, and the fire station is too far away.
Ron Jarvis — 85 Village Loop — opposes the CUP and feels that
the project doesn't fit the area, there aren't enough parking
spaces, and has concerns about the soil stability.
Katie Ramey — 60 & 63 Village Loop — Has concerns about
parking, traffic, and children walking to the nearby elementary
school.
Kalispell City Planning Commission
Minutes of the meeting of December 9, 2025
Page 12
Neil Johnson — 411 Summit Ridge Dr — He is the applicant and
wants to provide entry level housing for young families. He stated
the parking is sufficient, the traffic flow will be different and
understands the concerns of the previous commenters.
Lynette Jarvis — 85 Village Loop — Opposes the CUP, has
concerns with the impacts to the sewer services and water
buildup, and feels that 3 story buildings are too tall for the area.
MOTION — KCU-25-07
Walker moved and Borgardt seconded that the Kalispell City
Planning Commission adopt staff report #KCU-25-07 as findings of
fact and recommend to the Kalispell City Council that the
Conditional Use Permit for the Village Loop Multifamily project be
approved, subject to the conditions on the staff report.
BOARD DISCUSSION
Sorensen advised Borgardt and Graham that the site will undergo
stormwater review by Public Works and the historical runoff rate
must be maintained or improved by the developer. Sorensen
advised Walker that a traffic impact study was not triggered.
Nygren advised the Commission that it could require a crosswalk
due to the close proximity to Edgerton Elementary school.
Graham confirmed with Sorensen the use meets the zoning and
the parking meets the requirements which will be dropping in the
future due to state laws. Walker and Graham stated that a
crosswalk by the school would be appropriate.
MOTION — KCU-25-07
Walker made a motion and Borgardt seconded to amend the CUP
AMENDMENT
to include evaluation of a public crossing on Whitefish Stage Rd
to be coordinated with the Public Works department as condition
#15.
ROLL CALL — KCU-25-07
Motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
AMENDMENT
ROLL CALL — KCU-25-07
Motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
KCU-25-08 — NORTHWESTERN
File #KCU-25-08 — NorthWestern Energy Shop Addition - A
ENGERGY SHOP ADDITION
request from NorthWestern Energy for a Conditional Use Permit
to allow the expansion of the existing utility storage yard and
office located at 890 N. Meridian Road within the B-1
(Neighborhood Business) zoning district. The proposal includes
the construction of a 5,305 square foot building addition to
provide enclosed space for equipment and fleet storage. The use
of the property will remain the same, and no change to site access,
circulation, or operational hours is proposed. A Conditional Use
Permit is required because utility storage yards and associated
offices are a non -conforming use in the B-1 zone.
STAFF REPORT
Donnie McBath representing the Kalispell Planning Department
reviewed Staff reports #KCU-25-08.
Staff recommends that the Kalispell Planning Commission adopt
staff report #KCU-25-08 as findings of fact and recommend to the
Kalispell City Planning Commission
Minutes of the meeting of December 9, 2025
Page l3
Kalispell City Council that the conditional use permit be approved
subject to the staff report.
BOARD DISCUSSION
None.
PUBLIC HEARING
Arthur Fretheim — 240 9th St E — Wanted to know if this is
unrelated to the NWE data centers.
Drew Digman — Jackola Engineering — Advised the commission
that the project is not related to the data centers and would be
happy to answer any questions.
MOTION — KCU-25-08
Walker moved and Borgardt seconded that the Kalispell Planning
Commission adopt staff report #KCU-25-08 as findings of fact and
recommend to the Kalispell City Council that the conditional use
permit be approved subject to the staff report.
BOARD DISCUSSION
None.
ROLL CALL
Motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
BOARD MEMBER RE -SEATED
Young resealed.
OLD BUSINESS
Sorensen updated the commission on city council action on items
from the November Planning Commission meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
Sorensen updated the board on the upcoming Tuesday, January
13, 2026 Planning Commission Meeting and Work Session.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:19 PM.
WORK SESSION
Transitioned into work session on the Montana Land Use
Planning Act.
Chad Graham
President
APPROVED as submitted/amended:
Kirstin Robinson
Recording Secretary
Kalispell City Planning Commission
Minutes of the meeting of December 9, 2025
Page 14
NORTHWESTERN ENERGY
REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
KALISPELL PLANNING DEPARTMENT
STAFF REPORT #KCU-25-08
DECEMBER 9, 2025
A public hearing on this matter will be held before the Kalispell City Planning Commission on
December 9, 2025, beginning at 6:00 PM in the Kalispell City Council Chambers. Following the
hearing, the Planning Commission will forward a recommendation to the Kalispell City Council for
final action.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
NorthWestern Energy previously pursued a Conditional Use Permit to expand the existing non-
conforming utility yard at 890 North Meridian Road. The request was evaluated under Staff Report
#KCU-20-06 dated December 2, 2020, and received a public hearing before the Kalispell Planning
Board on December 15, 2020. That review resulted in City Council approval of a 5,305 square -
foot addition to the existing 13,975 square -foot structure, consistent with the non -conforming use
provisions that allow cumulative expansions of up to 50% with a Conditional Use Permit.
Following approval, the applicant did not commence construction, submit follow-up permits, or
advance the project within the required timeframe. Without development activity or continuous
progress, the 2020 Conditional Use Permit lapsed. The current application therefore represents a
renewed request to expand the legally established non -conforming use and seeks new approval
under current zoning standards.
The proposed scope remains materially consistent with the previously reviewed project. The
applicant again proposes a 5,305 square -foot addition to the existing 13,975 square -foot building.
When combined with the prior 1,720 square -foot administrative CUP granted in 2011, this request
reaches the maximum 50% cumulative expansion allowed for non -conforming uses.
Since the original review, surrounding conditions have continued to evolve. North Meridian Road
has intensified as a mixed commercial corridor, incorporating a wider range of quasi -public,
service, and neighborhood -scale uses, while Glenwood Drive remains the primary transition into
adjacent residential neighborhoods to the west. These changes inform the present review and
warrant focused attention on circulation, compatibility, and operational characteristics of the
proposed expansion, rather than solely on building footprint.
A: Applicant: Northwestern Energy
3010 W 69th St
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
B: Location: The property is located at 890 North Meridian Road. The property can be
described as Lot 1 of Montana Power Addition No. 139, as shown on the map or plat thereof on
file and of record in the office of the Clerk and Recorder, Flathead County, Montana.
1
C: Existing Land Use and Zoning: The subject property is an existing utility storage yard
with associated offices. It includes a paved parking lot in front for the public and a fenced, unpaved
area serving as the storage yard with no public access. The B-I zoning is intended to provide
"certain commercial and professional office uses where such uses are compatible with the adjacent
residential areas. This district would typically serve as a buffer between residential areas and other
commercial districts. Development scale and pedestrian orientation are important elements of this
district. This district is also intended to provide goods and services at a neighborhood level. The
district is not intended for those businesses that require the outdoor display, sale and/or storage of
merchandise, outdoor services or operations to accommodate large-scale commercial operations.
This zoning district would typically be found in areas designated as neighborhood commercial or
urban mixed use on the Kalispell Growth Policy Future Land Use Map."
Kalispell Zoning
KALISPELL KCU-25-08 Northwest Energry
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D. Size: The subject property is approximately
2.88 acres.
E: Adjacent Zoning:
North:
RA-2/R-3/R-5/RA-1
East:
B-I
South:
B-2
West:
RA -I
F: Adjacent Land Uses:
North: Single-family and multi- family residential;
offices
East: Homeless shelter; retail
South: Retail and fairgrounds
West: Townhomes and multi -family residential
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G: General Land Use Character: The subject property is located in one of the main commercial
corridors within the city along North Meridian Road. It contains a mix of uses which runs most
of the spectrum. To the east and south, the County Fairgrounds property is the dominant use. Most
of the properties to the south are retail and office which tend to increase in intensity as one
approaches US Highway 2, including the US Post Office. Immediately to the east across Meridian
is the Flathead Warming Center. To the west, there is residential development including primarily
townhomes and multi -family residential. To the north, there are offices and residential uses before
transitioning again into commercial/industrial developments
H: Relation to the Growth Policy: The City of Kalispell Growth Policy Plan -It 2035, Chapter 4B,
Land Use -Business and Industry, encourages the development and growth of commercial and
industrial districts, but notes that, particularly in neighborhood commercial areas, "uses should be
architecturally designed, landscaped and buffered to fit the surrounding neighborhood." The land use
designation of the subject property is Urban Mixed Use, which is the appropriate land use designation
for the B-1 Zone and anticipates the type of use requested.
L• Utilities/Services:
Sewer: City of Kalispell
Water:
City of Kalispell
Refuse:
City of Kalispell
Electricity:
Flathead Electric Cooperative
Gas:
NorthWestern Energy
Telephone:
Lumen
Schools:
School District 95, Russell Elementary/Glacier High School
Fire:
City of Kalispell
Police:
City of Kalispell
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EVALUATION OF THE REQUEST
This application has been reviewed in accordance with the conditional use review criteria in the
Kalispell Zoning Ordinance. A conditional use permit may be granted only if the proposal, as
submitted, conforms to all of the following general conditional use permit criteria, as well as to all
other applicable criteria that may be requested.
1. Site Suitability:
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Adequate Useable Space: The subject property is approximately 2.88 acres. The
entire project site is flat with no significant impediments, thus leaving the entire site
developable. When the project is submitted for building permit and site review, the
specific layout of the site, including parking, will be addressed.
b. Height, bulk and location of the building: The building is existing. The purpose of
the conditional use permit is to allow an addition to the building. Under the ordinance,
up to a 50% cumulative increase of the building is allowed with a conditional use
permit (applies to both building footprint and floor area). There was an administrative
conditional use permit issued in 2011 for a 1720 square foot storage building. The
prior permit and the proposed addition would utilize all of the allowable increase and
no further additions would be allowed. There are no issues relating to height, bulk or
location of the building in terms of setbacks, lot coverage, or other property
development standards under B-1 zoning.
Adequate Access: There are two access points to the property. The public access is
off of North Meridian Road. There is a secured access to the storage yard from both
the parking lot in front and off of Glenwood Drive on the west side of the property.
There is adequate access for the proposed expansion.
4
d. Environmental Constraints: There are no known environmental constraints, such as
steep slopes, streams, floodplains, or wetlands on the property, which could affect the
proposed use.
2. Appropriate Design:
a. Parking Scheme/Loading Areas: Due to the nature of the use of the addition as inside
storage for equipment, there would only be a minimal increase in the number of
required parking spaces. While there is more than enough area to provide for any
additional parking spaces that may be necessary, there may need to be some increase
in the paved area to meet the minimum number of spaces if any are required or for
access purposes. The specific layout will be reviewed through the building permit
and site review process to ensure that all city parking standards are met prior to
building permit issuance.
b. Lighting: Chapter 27.26 of the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance sets standards for all
outdoor lighting on commercial or residential structures. Exterior lighting installed in
conjunction with the development will be reviewed for compliance with the zoning
ordinance during site development review and prior to building permit issuance.
C. Traffic Circulation: Public traffic can only access the property from Meridian Road,
which provides access to a parking lot. Access to the storage yard on the property is
controlled and public access is not allowed. Driveway aisles meet minimum
requirements for ingress and egress, and any changes will be reviewed prior to
building permit issuance.
d. Open Space: There are no open space requirements associated with the utility storage
yard or associated office.
e. Fencin_ Screenin_ andscaping: Because the utility yard is adjacent to residential
neighborhoods to the north and west, enhanced buffering is necessary to reduce visual
and operational impacts. The existing chain -link fence provides security but little
screening. Additional measures —such as solid fencing, evergreen landscaping, or a
combination of both —should be installed along the north property line and the
Glenwood Drive frontage to block views of equipment storage, mitigate light and
glare, and create a more compatible edge with nearby homes. Rocked areas near the
Glenwood entrance should incorporate landscaping to soften the site's appearance and
reinforce the transitional role of the B-1 district.
f. Sim: The development shall comply with all of the sign standards as set forth in
Chapter 27.22 of the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance.
3. Availability of Public Services/Facilities:
a. Police: Police protection will be provided by the Kalispell Police Department. No
unusual impacts or needs are anticipated from the project.
5
b. Fire Protection: Fire protection will be provided by the Kalispell Fire Department.
Station 61 is approximately 1.2 miles from the subject property, giving good response
time. The addition will be constructed subject to a building permit, ensuring that the
addition will meet building and fire code standards.
C. Water: City water is available and currently serves the property. A new four -inch fire
service line is proposed as part of the project
d. Sewer: Sewer service is also available and currently serves the property. The plans
call for the addition of a sand oil separator and a new four -inch sewer service line
connecting to Glenwood Drive.
Storm Water Drainage: Roof drains and a catch basin will be provided and will tie
into a treatment facility before discharging into the city stormwater system. On -site
storm drainage will be reviewed as part of the site review process. Along Glenwood,
a stormwater main will need to be installed. The main is anticipated to be constructed
outside of the roadway. The details of those improvements should be coordinated
with Public Works.
Solid Waste: Solid waste pick-up will be provided by the City.
g. Streets: The primary street frontage is North Meridian Road, an existing road which
provides access to the greater City of Kalispell circulation system. No improvements
are necessary to Meridian other than removing an existing driveway access that is not
currently used. It should be rebuilt to city standards, including, but not limited to, a
sidewalk matching the existing sidewalk on each side and curb/gutter. The property
also has frontage along its western side on Glenwood Drive, but has only a private
restricted access. Glenwood will need to be upgraded to an urban local standard for
the full length of the frontage, including, but not necessarily be limited to, the street,
street lighting, street signage, drainage, curb, gutter, boulevard and sidewalks.
h. Sidewalks: There is an existing sidewalk along the full frontage of the property along
Meridian Road that should be rebuilt as discussed above. There is no sidewalk along
the Glenwood frontage. A sidewalk should be added as part of providing the standard
street profile, and the sidewalk should be extended through the driveway per city
standards.
i. Schools: This site is within the boundaries of School District 95. There would not be
an impact on schools.
Parks and Recreation: No parkland or recreational amenities are required.
4. Neighborhood impacts:
Traffic: There is minimal impact on traffic in connection with the proposed use. The
addition would not create increased public access to the facility.
b. Noise and Vibration: The expansion of the building of the property will not create
additional noise and vibration, and will likely reduce those impacts because the
purpose of the addition is to provide inside equipment storage.
Dust, Glare, and Heat: The use of the property would not generate any unreasonable
dust, glare, and heat beyond what is already part of the existing use as the proposal is
for inside equipment storage.
d. Smoke, Fumes, Gas, or Odors: The expansion of the building of the property will not
create additional smoke, fumes, gas and odors, and, as with noise and vibration, will
likely reduce them because the purpose of the addition is to provide inside equipment
storage.
Hours of Operation: They will maintain existing hours, which are 8:00 AM to 5:00
PM Monday through Friday with occasional after hour emergencies.
5. Consideration of historical use patterns and recent changes: The property is located in
one of the main commercial corridors within the city along North Meridian Road, with a
mix of uses that have developed over time. In recent years, Meridian was expanded from
a two-lane road to a three -lane (plus a turn lane) as commercial development occurred
along what was previously the edge of town. This particular property has been used as a
utility yard for some time.
6. Effects on property values: No significant impacts on property values are anticipated as
a result of the requested conditional use for the expansion of the existing non -conforming
use.
7. Impact on surrounding area: After considering the foregoing review criteria, it is found
that the proposed use conforms to the requirements set forth in Chapter 27 of the Kalispell
Zoning Ordinance. Furthermore, the application of generally applicable design standards and
the conditions of approval provided for herein ensure that the proposed use of the property
will have no more adverse effect on the health, safety, or comfort of persons living or working
in the area and will be no more injurious, economically, or otherwise, to property or
improvements in the surrounding area than would any use generally permitted in the district.
RECOMMENDATION
The staff recommends that the Kalispell Planning Commission adopt staff report #KCU-25-08 as
findings of fact and recommend to the Kalispell City Council that the conditional use permit be
approved subject to the following conditions:
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
That commencement of the approved activity must begin within 18 months from the date
of authorization or that a continuous good faith effort is made to bring the project to
completion.
2. That the development and use of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the
submitted application and architectural/site plan drawings.
Prior to occupancy, the applicant shall apply for a building permit through the City of
Kalispell Building Department to review the proposed addition and improvements.
4. To ensure the traffic flow and access comply with Kalispell Design and Construction
Standards, as well as compliance with other site development standards, the development
shall receive Site Review Committee approval prior to issuance of the building permit.
5. The northern existing driveway on North Meridian Road shall be removed and rebuilt to
city standards, including, but not limited to, a sidewalk matching the existing sidewalk on
each side and curb/gutter.
6. Glenwood Drive shall be upgraded to an urban local standard for the full length of the
frontage. This infrastructure shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the street,
street lighting, street signage, drainage, curb, gutter, boulevard and sidewalks. The
sidewalk shall be extended through the existing driveway per city standards.
7. Additional screening shall be installed along the north property line and the west frontage
on Glenwood Drive. Screening shall consist of solid fencing, evergreen landscaping, or a
combination of both sufficient to block views of the utility yard and stored equipment,
subject to approval by the Parks Director. Landscaping shall also be incorporated into the
rocked areas at the Glenwood entrance.
8. The purpose of the conditional use permit is to allow an addition to the building. Under
the ordinance, up to a 50% cumulative increase of the building is allowed with a
conditional use permit (applies to both building footprint and floor area). There was an
administrative conditional use permit issued in 2011 for a 1720 square foot storage
building. The prior permit and the proposed addition would utilize all of the allowable
increase and no further additions will be allowed.
Development Services
CITY OF Department
Kalispell, MT 59901
KAILI[SPEILIL 201 1st Avenue East
Phone (406) 758-7940
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
Email: planning(a-)kalispell.com Website: www.kalispell.com
Project Name
Northwest Energy Addition Modifications
Property Address
890 N. Meridian Road
NAME OF APPLICANT
Thomas Moody
Applicant Phone
(406) 498-7386
Applicant Address
890 N. Meridian Road
City, State, Zip
Kalispell, MT 59901
Applicant Email Address
thomas.moody@northwestern.com
If not current owner, please attach a letter from the current owner authorizing the applicant to proceed with the application.
OWNER OF RECORD
Northwestern Energy
Owner Phone
(888) 467-2669
Owner Address
3010 W 69th Street
City, State, Zip
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Owner Email Address
CONSULTANT (ARCHITECTIENGINEER)
Jackola Engineering and Architecture
Phone
(406) 755-3208
Address
2250 US 93 S.
City, State, Zip
Kalispell, MT 59901
Email Address
POINT OF CONTACT FOR REVIEW COMMENTS
Ned Halling
Phone
(406) 755-3208
Address
2250 US 93 S.
City, State, Zip
Kalispell, MT 59901
Email Address
nhalling@jackola.com
List ALL owners (any individual or other entity with an ownership interest in the property):
Legal Description (please attach a full legal description for the property and a copy of the most recent deed).
Lot 1 of Montana Power Addition No. 139
Before the application will be deemed to be accepted for review, our office must receive an approval of the legal
description from the Flathead County Plat Room. Please submit the legal description to their office
(plat@flatheadcounty.gov).
CITY 7
KALISPELL
1. Zoning District and Zoning Classification in which use is propsed:
2. Attach a site plan of the affected lot which identifies the following items:
a. Vicinity map and surrounding land uses
b. Dimensions and shape of lot
c. Topographic features of lot
d. Size(s) and location(s) of existing buildings
e. Size(s) and location(s) of proposed buildings
f. Existing use(s) of structures and open areas
g. Proposed use(s) of structures and open areas
h. Existing and proposed landscaping, screening, fencing, open space &
signage
i. Exisiting and proposed parking, loading, lighting & traffic circulation
j. Exisiting and proposed garbage collection, streets & utilities
k. Floodplain if applicable
I. Adjacent sidewalks & bike trails
Development Services
Department
201 1st Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone (406) 758-7940
3. Attach Building Elevations - (drawing of any proposed building and/or addition showing views from north, south, east and west )
4. On a separate sheet of paper, discuss the following topics relative to the proposed use (please elaborate beyond referencing
materials listed above):
a. Traffic flow and control
b. Access to and circulation within the property
c. Off-street parking and loading
d. Refuse/garbage collection and service areas
e. Utilities (water, sewer, electric, etc.)
f. Screening and buffering
g. Signs, yards and other opens spaces
h. Height, bulk and location of structures
i. Location of proposed open space uses
j. Hours and manner of operation
k. Noise, light, dust, odors, fumes, vibration, glare and heat
I. Storm drainage
m. Fire/Police
5. Attach supplemental information for proposed uses that have additional requirements (consult Planner)
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury and the laws of the State of Montana that the information submitted herein, on all other
submitted forms, documents, plans or any other information submitted as a part of this application, to be true, complete, and accurate
to the best of my knowledge. Should any information or representation submitted in connection with this application be incorrect or
untrue, I understand that any approval based thereon may be rescinded, and other appropriate action taken. The signing of this
application signifies approval for the Kalispell City staff to be present on the property for routine monitoring and inspection during the
approval and development process.
Applicant Signature
Date
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT APPLICATION
A pre -application meeting with the planning director or member of the planning staff is
required.
Application Contents:
1. Completed application form.
2. Appropriate attachments listed under items 2, 3, and 4 on the application.
3. Application fee based on the schedule below, made payable to the City of
Kalispell:
Conditional Use Permit:
Single-family
(10 or fewer trips/day)
Minor Residential
(2-4 units or 11-49 trips/day)
Major Residential
(5 or more units or 50+ trips/day)
Churches, schools, public / quasi -public uses
Commercial, industrial, medical, golf courses, etc
$250
$300 + $25/unit or
10 trips
$350 + $50/unit or
every 10 trips
$350
$400 + $50/acre or
unit or $.05/sf of
leased space over
5,000 sq. ft.
whichever is greater
4. Electronic copy of the application materials submitted. Either copied onto a disk
or emailed to PlanningLy kalispell.com (Please note the maximum file size to email
is 20mg)
5. A bona fide legal description of the subject property and a map showing the
location and boundaries of the property. * Note verify with the Flathead County
Clerk and Recorder that the legal description submitted is accurate and
recordable. The Flathead County Clerk and Recorder can be reached at (406) 758-
5526.
Application must be completed and submitted a minimum of thirty five (351 days prior
to the planning board meeting at which this application will be heard.
The regularly scheduled meeting of the planning board is the second Tuesday of each
month.
After the planning board hearing, the application is forwarded with the board's
recommendation to the city council for hearing and final action.
Once the application is complete and accepted by Kalispell planning staff, final approval
usually takes 60 days, but never more than 90 days.
9
Narrative
Narrative
3. NorthWestern Energy Shop Addition CUP Application
a. Traffic flow and control
The subject property is located at 890 N Meridian Road, Kalispell, Montana. This project is a developed
site that is expanding its currentfacility. The use of the lot will not change and the expansion will be utilized
for inside storage of existing equipment and as such will not increase the current traffic in or out of the
site.
b. Access to and circulation within the property
The subject property is accessed from N Meridian Road as well as Glenwood Drive. Circulation of public
traffic and employees enter the site from Meridian Road that accesses the facility's existing parking lot.
The rear access from the property onto Glenwood drive is a gated yard that is utilized for company vehicle
and equipment ingress and egress. The west access from Glenwood Drive will continue to serve the facility
as -is, however, a sidewalk will be installed as part of the frontage improvements along Glenwood. The
improvements will provide a 9-foot boulevard between the existing curb and the sidewalk. Minimal
grading is anticipated to be required to allow the proposed sidewalk to cross at grade per city standard.
The existing drainage ditch along Glenwood Drive is intended to be filled in at the time of construction of
the stormwater main discussed below. Current site circulation is not changing with the current proposed
project.
c. Off-street parking and loading
Off-street parking is provided in close proximity to the building. The number of parking spaces provided
exceeds the requirements of the zoning ordinance with the new addition taken into account. Parking is
currently not an issue for the existing site and is not anticipated to be an issue after the proposed addition.
d. Refuse and service areas
Trash service is provided to the existing site and is not proposed to change or to be modified by the
proposed building addition project.
e. Utilities
The shop addition proposes the addition of a sand oil separator and new 4" sewer service line connecting
to the sewer main in Glenwood Drive. A new 4" fire service line is also proposed to connect to the water
main in Meridian Road. Existing water and sewer service will be maintained from Meridian Road.
Roof drains and a catch basin in the shop yard will be provided to improve on -site stormwater
management. They will be tied into a mechanical treatment system prior to entering the municipal
stormwater system. Peak flows are not anticipated to be increased as the site currently exists of mostly
impervious areas. A storm report supporting this will be provided with engineering plans. The treatment
system will likely be designed to account for future paving of the yard.
This document was created by an application that isn't licensed to use novaPDF.
Purchase a license to generate PDF files without this notice.
As part of frontage improvements along Glenwood Drive, a stormwater main will be constructed outside
of the roadway to avoid a water main in Glenwood. The stormwater main will include adding a manhole
south of the existing driveway on Glenwood. That manhole will connect the existing culvert under the
driveway. A main will extend from that new manhole to a new manhole at the south end of the property
along the existing drainage ditch. The drainage ditch will be stripped of topsoil and filled with compacted
fill. The manhole at the south end of the property will include a discharge pipe that allow stormwater to
continue south along the existing ditch.
f. Screening and buffering
An existing chain link fence may need to be relocated slightly once a final survey is performed to define the
property line.
g. Signs, yards and other open spaces
Existing signage will be maintained. The site has a fenced storage yard with gated access only. The gate
accessing from Meridian will be moved east within the property approximately 50 feet.
h. Height, bulk and location of structures
The Existing building is 13,975 SF and the proposed addition of 5,305 SF bringing the total square footage
to 19,281 SF. The addition will match the existing building appearance. Building height allowed is 60 ft and
proposed building height is 21 ft. The addition will be outside all building setbacks.
i. Location of proposed open space uses
On site open spaces are primarily landscaped along Meridian Road and a fenced -in contractor storage
yard behind the warehouse.
j. Hours and manner of operation
The existing facility hours will not change and will be 8 am to 5 pm week days with occasional emergency
after hour emergencies.
k. Noise, light, dust, odors, fumes and vibration
No adverse impacts are expected to these items. During construction the contractor will be required to
mitigate the impacts. Most activity will be performed during normal business hours and should not
adversely impact any surrounding lots.
This document was created by an application that isn't licensed to use novaPDF.
Purchase a license to generate PDF files without this notice.
EXHIBITS
-Certificate of Survey
-Land Use Exhibit
-CO.10 Existing Site Plan
-C1.10 Proposed Site Plan
-C1.20 Utility Plan
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