Business Shuts Down After Maricopa County Court Ruling

By Matthew Holloway |

In a significant development, Growers Market, a composting operation based in Laveen, is set to cease its activities in South Phoenix following legal action from the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.

The county disclosed that Growers Market reached a settlement restricting the business from continuing composting operations on the contested Laveen property. As part of the agreement, the company must adhere to stringent conditions that mandate a swift cessation of operations and removal of composting materials from the site.

The legal issues surrounding the facility, situated near 27th Avenue and Dobbins, surfaced on December 18th when a complaint was filed against Growers Market. Court records indicate that the composting activity violated the property’s RU-43 zoning designation, which does not allow composting without a special use permit. Growers Market failed to apply for or gain the necessary permit, as stated in the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance.

In August, the county issued a Notice and Order compelling compliance with zoning regulations. This was followed by a hearing summons in September. The hearing officer rendered a Judgment and Order on November 8th, confirming the zoning violation, which was not contested by Growers Market.

Supervisor Steve Gallardo, representing the affected District 5, commented on the implications of the settlement. “This decision is a major victory for the Laveen community,” he asserted. He emphasized that swift action was essential for residents, highlighting the importance of addressing community concerns seriously.

Under the terms of the court order, Growers Market must vacate the premises by March 1st to avoid incurring fines of $1,000 per day. The company is allowed to process materials until January 20, but must halt grinding or screening of mulch thereafter and remove all equipment from the property.

Prior to the March deadline, Growers Market can continue to haul away remaining materials during weekdays from 7 AM to 5 PM, subject to regular inspections and weekly progress updates to county officials.

Gallardo clarified the intent behind the legal action, stating, “Supporting small businesses is important, but when their operations jeopardize the health of local residents, intervention is necessary.” He expressed relief that the settlement provides closure for the Laveen community, allowing residents to return to normalcy.

The county plans to repurpose the cleaned property as a tree farm once the removal process is completed.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.