A. Purpose. The purpose of the preapplication procedure is to afford the subdivider an opportunity to informally avail himself of the advice and assistance of the plat officer and planning commission before having to go to the expense of preparing a preliminary plat. This step is not required, nor does it require formal application fee or filing of a plat. The plat officer is required by this provision to inform the subdivider about the general legal requirements and objectives for subdivisions as specified in this title, that all required information has been provided and that the subdivider is following proper procedure. If the subdivider exercises this option, he or she shall adhere to the requirements set forth herein.

B. Information. Prior to the filing of an application for approval of a preliminary plat, the subdivider shall submit to the plat officer the following information:

1. Supportive data, including a description or outline of the existing conditions, such as topography of the site and the type of proposed development. This description may include data on existing covenants, land characteristics, and available community facilities and utilities. Also included shall be information describing the subdivision proposal, such as number of lots, lot width and depth, proposed protective covenants and proposed utilities, street improvements and other capital improvements.

2. A sketch plat which shows in simple sketch form the subdivider’s plan for the location of the proposed subdivision in relation to the existing community, existing main traffic arteries, and the proposed layout of streets, lots, sanitary sewage disposal, storm water drainage and other features in relation to existing conditions. The sketch plat may be a free-hand pencil sketch, but should include such data as the plat officer might need for his or her consideration of the proposed sketch plat.

C. Filing Procedure. In choosing to utilize the preapplication option, the subdivider shall submit the preapplication to the plat officer who will ensure that all recommended information has been included. The plat officer shall then submit the preapplication to the planning commission for review, the review being at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the planning commission. The plat officer shall inform the subdivider of the time and place of this meeting, at which the subdivider’s attendance is urged, though not required.

Within thirty-one days of this meeting, the planning commission shall inform the plat officer that the plans and other data as submitted do or do not appear to meet the objectives of this title. If the plans and data do not appear to meet the objectives, the planning commission shall direct the plat officer to inform the subdivider for what reasons the plan does not meet the objectives of this title. (Subdivision Ordinance dated 6/3/03 § 2-1)