The Woodbury City Council approved a controversial subdivision on Ranch Road Tuesday night, allowing three new single-family homes on a 5-acre property despite concerns from neighboring residents about drainage and traffic impacts.

The council voted 3-2 to approve both the rezoning from R1 Urban Reserve to R4 Urban Residential and the preliminary plat for the Ranch Road Addition. The project, submitted by applicant Nate Labat, will create three additional lots at 8040 Ranch Road, north of the Bridalwood Farms development.

Neighboring property owners Arlland Marcus and Tom Harter spoke against the proposal during the public hearing, citing concerns about stormwater runoff, increased traffic on the private gravel road, and loss of the area's rural character. Marcus, whose property is east of the development, said he would receive all the stormwater runoff from the new impervious surfaces. "There's no benefit to the neighbors, only a cost," Marcus told the council.

The Planning Commission had previously deadlocked 3-3 on the proposal, with commissioners expressing concerns about site access, stormwater management, and parking impacts on neighboring properties. Following neighborhood meetings, the developer agreed to pave Ranch Road and modify drainage plans to address some concerns.

Council Member Kim Wilson voted against the project, arguing it should be part of a larger planned development rather than a piecemeal subdivision. "We're taking these acreage lots and we're dividing them up and putting three city lots on this," Wilson said. "It doesn't fit in with the surrounding areas." However, Council Member Steve Morris supported approval, citing property owner rights and noting the project meets city ordinances and follows the comprehensive plan.