Alpine council approves a Healey Boulevard lane deal with a water-line reimbursement

Alpine city's council voted 3–2 on Sept. 22, 2026 to approve a development agreement for five lots on a private lane on the south side of Healey Boulevard. Brent Rummler, Jessica Smuin and Chrissy Hannemann voted yes; Sarah Blackwell and Andrew Young voted no. ^[2]

According to the minutes, city code does not allow private roads or lots without frontage on a public street, so the agreement grants exceptions. The Planning Commission had recommended denial by a 4–2 vote. ^[2]

What the developer would provide

The minutes say Lovell Development Group would dedicate a 5-foot strip to the city, build a drainage swale, have a homeowners association maintain the private lane and park strip, use a single access point and build a fence along Healey Boulevard. ^[2]

The developer's contribution toward a 24-inch water line rose from $100,000 to $180,000, according to the minutes. ^[2]

What the city would pay

Section 6 of the draft agreement in the council packet provides that the city reimburses the developer's actual costs for the city improvements minus $180,000, after the improvements are accepted, with payment due within 60 days of receiving supporting detail. If the city installs the improvements itself, the developer pays the city $180,000. ^[1]

In discussion, Blackwell estimated the dedication at about $50,000, a 505-foot 24-inch line at about $200,000 or more, and a steel loop at $30,000 to $50,000. Those are estimates given at the meeting. ^[2]

Conditions and concerns

Rummler's motion approved the agreement as proposed, subject to a legal and staff review and on the condition that police and fire agree the lane is sufficient for emergency response. ^[2]

Blackwell and Rummler raised emergency access concerns, and Young said the exception would set a precedent. City Attorney Steve Doxey said the agreement needs stronger indemnification and maintenance language. ^[2]