The Hayden City Council unanimously approved the preliminary plat of a “single phase major subdivision” after tabling the matter earlier this month.

The preliminary plat includes 23 single-family residential lots on the 10-acre Woodman property, a mostly wooded parcel of land bordering East Viceroy Avenue and East Sandmyrtle Avenue to the east.

Though the Planning and Zoning Commission had unanimously recommended approval of the preliminary plat during its July 21 meeting, Councilor Ed DePriest had motioned to table the matter after many questions and issues arose during the Aug. 12 public hearing.

Many residents spoke out against the development of the property during both the Planning and Zoning meeting and the Aug. 12 council meeting.

“One of the reasons I bought my house in this community was because it was surrounded by trees,” resident Conrad Wentzel wrote in a comment submitted Aug. 10. “Now I am hearing they will be clear-cut down, reducing the value of the home I just bought.”

Under the preliminary plat, most of the trees on the property would need to be removed.

Other residents cited concerns over increased traffic in the area and questioned whether the city’s current infrastructure could support additional development.

“We are already having trouble getting out of our homes (and) neighborhoods due to the traffic,” resident Jackie Sadler wrote in a comment submitted Aug. 10.

The preliminary plat was ultimately approved, however, due to its being in accordance with the city code.

“The city council recognized the participation from the public but ultimately approved the request with Staff Recommended Conditions of Approval,” said community development director Donna Phillips.