On June 7, a small group representing the Morgan Creek HOA Board and the MCHC met with two senior members of the Placer County Planning Department. The purpose was to find current information regarding the County review and approval process for any proposed residential development of the golf course land. The meeting clarified the county review process and confirmed many of the challenges any developer would face.

• Could a developer build 100+ houses on golf course land? Not necessarily. There is no a priorientitlement to build 100+ houses. The area could accommodate more homes, but the number would depend on a complex analysis of zoning requirements, lot size/density restrictions, natural preserve and floodplain restrictions, and a specific proposed arrangement of lots.
• Could the area be rezoned to facilitate development? Yes, but rezoning would be a long and difficult process of its own.
• Would this be an unusually difficult area to develop? Yes, due to the nature of the area, open questions regarding vehicle and utility access, anticipated significant community objections, etc.
• How long would it take a developer to obtain approval for their project? A recommendation by the Planning Commission would normally take about 18 months from initial plan submittal. However, possible multiple iterations of plan reviews and revisions or significant community opposition could extend the process for years. Rezoning or an appeal of the Planning Commission’s decision would require additional project review and approval by the Board of Supervisors, further extending the time and cost.
• Would an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) be required? This scope of project would almost certainly require an EIR, which could take 18 months or more and cost from $200,000 to $1,000,000. The developer would be required to post funds to pay for the EIR in advance.
• Does community opinion carry much weight? Yes, community opinion is a significant factor in any project review process.
• How can the community voice its opinion? Besides informal meetings, there are multiple formal opportunities for public comment. They include public hearings regarding the EIR, Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) hearings, County Planning Commission hearings, and County Board of Supervisors hearings.
• Are the Dry Creek West Placer Community Plan and the Dry Creek Greenway Regional Vision still significant guiding documents for developments in the area? Yes, and both place strong emphasis on preservation of natural assets and open space.
• Could development occur within the floodplain or other preserve areas? No modification of or building on the floodplain would be allowed. Other restricted preserves would only be possible home sites if acceptable mitigation plans were presented.
• How can we stay informed if development plans are presented to the county?The planners agreed to notify us if a developer submits any plans for the golf course, as such actions are public information.