MONROE — The developer of a small, rural subdivision who has filed a $3 million damage claim against Snohomish County, has received the initial go-ahead for its project, with a condition.
The Snohomish County Council on Monday asked staff to draw up documents to grant preliminary approval to
Highbridge Estates, a proposal for 35 homes on 85 acres. That action, when finalized, would deny an appeal brought by neighbors trying to overturn an earlier hearing examiner approval.
The council vote was 4-0.
Council members said they were satisfied that the developer, Highbridge Road LLC of Bellevue, had met requirements to plan for utilities and infrastructure. That includes a way to link the rural-cluster subdivision to public water.
During deliberations, Council Chairman Dave Somers said he still had “some questions about the viability of what they’re proposing financially,” but felt the developer met county code requirements.
Highbridge Road LLC originally proposed connecting to well water. That idea was nixed by a county hearing examiner. The developer since has worked to connect to the Cross Valley Water District.
It also filed a $3 million damage claim against Snohomish County and the Snohomish Health District. The claim accused officials of misrepresenting the ability to use exempt wells for the project.
As a condition of their approval, council members on Monday said the developer would need to move a proposed detention pond or consult with the state Department of Fish and Wildlife on the pond’s design. Final approval could occur once that change, and other infrastructure, is in place.
The County Council is scheduled to vote to formalize its decision Wednesday.
Noah Haglund: 425-339-3465, nhaglund@heraldnet.com.
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