Gallatin Planning Commission reviews Foxland Harbor mixed-use waterfront development proposal

The Gallatin City Council meeting on July 9, 2025, focused on the proposed Foxland Harbor development, which aims to revitalize the waterfront area with a mixed-use project that includes a new marina, residential living, and commercial spaces. A significant point of discussion was the proposed building heights for the project, which have raised concerns among council members and the Planning Commission.

The current Maximum Residential Overlay (MRO) limits building heights to 35 feet. However, the developers are requesting an exception to allow heights of up to 87 feet for some buildings, including four 60-foot condominiums and two 75-foot mixed-use structures. This request has sparked debate about whether such a variance is appropriate, especially given that previous developments in the area, like the Reverie Pointe buildings, reached a maximum height of 68 feet.

Council members expressed the need for clarity on the proposed heights and their visual impact on the surrounding area. Mayor Brown emphasized the importance of having conceptual renderings to better understand the scale of the buildings, particularly in relation to the existing structures and the waterfront. The absence of these renderings during the Planning Commission's review was noted as a missed opportunity for thorough evaluation.

Matt Huff from Campbell Design Collaborative, representing the developers, presented the vision for Foxland Harbor, highlighting its potential to enhance public access and community amenities. He described the project as a rare opportunity to blend residential and commercial spaces in a way that complements the existing Foxland community.

The council's discussions indicate a cautious approach to the height variance request, with members seeking more information and visual aids before making a decision. The outcome of this meeting could significantly influence the future development of the waterfront area in Gallatin.