Dissenting Commissioner Challenges Staff on Rezone Request: ‘Where’s the Plan?’

The Maricopa Planning and Zoning Commission approved a contentious rezoning request on June 9, 2025, allowing commercial development along White and Parker Road. This decision followed a split vote, with one measure failing amidst opposing views.

The commission voted 5-1 in favor of changing a 5-acre parcel located at Blazen Trail and Seven Ranch Road from rural to commercial zoning. Commissioner Robert Klob opposed the request, expressing concerns over the absence of a development plan and the potential implications for the community.

“There’s no plan? We’re creating a specialized zoning piece in the middle of one of our prime arterial roads, and we don’t know what it will be,” Klob said, questioning city officials in a four-minute discussion before the vote. He raised doubts about the long-term effects of such an approval.

City planning staff acknowledged that no development proposal accompanies the rezoning, which was initiated by ETP Investments from Mt. Pleasant, Mich., and represented by Pender Engineering from Cottonwood. Their project narrative noted that “no development will be taking place” in the near future.

In their report, staff argued that this rezoning aligns with a trend toward mixed-use development in the Seven Ranches neighborhood, emphasizing the importance of commercial growth near major roads. However, when asked whether office or retail spaces could be established on the site, staff admitted they were uncertain.

During discussions, Klob urged caution over potential “checkerboard” zoning patterns that isolated approvals could create. While city staff claimed compliance with zoning regulations, they dismissed the idea of rezoning a larger area for uniformity. Klob warned that arbitrary approvals could result in complications years later.

Records indicate that the property is situated within a FEMA-designated flood zone, necessitating substantial drainage and infrastructure improvements prior to any construction. The public response to the rezoning was minimal, with only one local resident attending the required meeting, showing conditional support but voicing concerns about road expansion affecting his property.

Ultimately, city staff recommended approval, framing the rezoning as a pathway to future economic growth despite the lack of a current development plan. The issue will now advance to the city council for final deliberation on July 15.

Additional developments planned for the Seven Ranches neighborhood include an upscale custom-home community, two rental housing projects, five apartment buildings, and an elementary school.