Attachment B - VPC Summaries - Z-TA-1-19.pdf

City of Phoenix — Formal (2020-09-02)

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Village
Date
Recommendations
Vote
Ahwatukee Foothills
2/24/20
Canceled
N/A
Alhambra
1/28/20
Approved
8-6
Camelback East
1/7/20
Approved
13-6
Central City
3/9/20
Approved
12-5
Deer Valley
2/20/20
Approved
10-0
Encanto
1/6/20
Approved
6-3
Estrella
1/21/20
Approved
5-0
Laveen
2/10/20
Approved
9-1
Maryvale
1/8/20
Approved
10-0
North Gateway
2/13/20
Approved
4-0
North Mountain
2/19/20
Approved
14-0
Rio Vista
3/10/20
Approved
5-0
South Mountain
1/14/20
Approved
9-4
ATTACHMENT B
TA-1-19: Off-Premise Advertising within PUDs located 
on Publicly Owned Land Used for a School 
-                                                 
Village Planning Committee Summary Results
4/17/2020

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
February 24, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school.
VPC Recommendation 
No quorum 
VPC Vote 
No quorum  
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
No quorum.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19  
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
January 28, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix 
Zoning Ordinance to address off-premise advertising 
within PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a 
school. 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, as recommended by staff 
VPC Vote 
8-6 
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDATION: 
 
Committee member Pamela Fitzgerald arrived during this item bringing the 
quorum up to 14.  
 
Sarah Stockham, staff, presented a brief overview of the request, displaying 
staff’s recommendation and proposed language for the text amendment.  
 
Jeff Boles, the applicant, with Creighton Community Foundation, presented an 
overview of the request. He displayed an aerial map with the five schools near a 
freeway that would be impacted by the text amendment. Ben Graff, 
representing the applicant, with Quarles & Brady LLP, reviewed the components 
of the request and emphasized that applicants will still have to apply to rezone to 
a Planned Unit Development which requires additional notification and public 
hearings.  
 
Jonathan Ammon shared that he has seen opposition from communities for 
digital billboards.  
 
Elizabeth Sanchez asked about how the revenue will be distributed. Jeff Boles 
responded that 50% of the revenue will go to the foundation to be distributed to 
the school districts via grants.  
 
Christian Solorio asked if other school districts that would be impacted by the 
text amendment have reached out to the applicant. Ben Graff responded that 
they have been notified.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Jak Keyser sought clarification regarding the provision for publicly-owned land 
and commented that some charter schools operate out of retail centers. He 
asked what would happen to the billboard if a school ceased operation. Ben 
Graff responded that the language of the text amendment calls out publicly-
owned land to benefit schools and not commercial property owners. He stated 
that he believes if a school ceases to operate the billboard would be a legal non-
conforming structure.  
 
 
Vice Chair Marshall Shore asked what the anticipated revenue is for the signs. 
Jeff Boles responded that they estimate around $150,000 a year.  
 
Public Comment 
 
Lawrrie Fitzhugh with the Sevilla Neighborhood Association shared the 
following concerns: 
 
• Notifications sent out to surrounding impacted neighborhoods 
• Clarification on if the signs will be digital, one-sided or two-sided 
• Enforcement for digital signs 
 
Ben Graff responded that this text amendment does not change any zoning. 
Notifications for specific properties will be sent through the Planned Unit 
Development rezoning process where applicants are required to perform 
extensive outreach. He added that the sign specifics and what the community 
will allow will be discussed through that process.  
 
Jamaar Williams asked how the communities at the school sites feel about the 
text amendment. Jeff Boles responded that they have support from the 
neighborhood associations around the schools.  
 
Motion 
Charles Jones motioned to recommend approval. Christian Solorio seconded 
the motion.  
 
Jak Keyser made a friendly amendment to limit the provision of the text 
amendment to the three Creighton Schools my means of an overlay. The 
amendment was not seconded.   
 
Vote 
8-6, motion passes with committee members McCabe, Shore, Ammon, Ender, 
Farina, Jones, Solorio and Williams in favor and committee members Becker, 
Fitzgerald, Keyser, Krietor, Ochoa-Martinez and Sanchez in opposition.   
 
 
 STAFF COMMENTS: 
None.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
January 7, 2020 
Request 
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school. 
VPC Vote 
13-6 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
Ms. Samantha Keating provided an overview on the proposed language and staff’s 
recommendation.  She highlighted that if the amendment were to be approved, any 
schools subject to the highlighted requirements would still need to pursue PUD 
zoning. 
 
Mr. Danny Sharaby asked about regulation of content.  Ms. Keating responded 
that the city could not regulate content, but the applicant could provide more detail 
on how content could be looked at during a future RFP process for signage. 
Mr. Barry Paceley asked if the proposal applied citywide and stated concerns that 
this could just get the ball rolling for more schools.  Ms. Keating replied that the text 
would apply citywide, but would currently only apply to five properties.  Mr. Paceley 
indicated concerns that school properties were owned by tax payers and this leads 
to potential conflict with the school board as they do not technically own the 
property.  The proposal is not clear cut and clean. 
Mr. Craig Tribken asked if this only applied to public schools.  Ms. Keating replied 
affirmatively. 
Mr. Jeff Boles, applicant, explained that he was before the committee tonight with a 
request from the Creighton School District and Community Foundation.  They have 
invested three to four years in the community to try and make this happen.  The 
schools are suffering from not having funding for things like school resource officers.  
The proposed text is about investing in schools and carefully crafted to avoid 
proliferation.  The sites that staff outlined are all Title I schools. 
Mr. Sharaby asked about limitations on signs, who will manage the project and will 
be responsible.  Mr. Boles explained that the land will be leased from the school 
district.  This will provide more flexibility for funding of wrap around services.  The

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
funds would go to the foundation.  Members of the board of the foundation also sit 
on the school board to provide oversight.  The project will go out to an RFP. 
Mr. Marc Scher asked if the board of directors would be paid with the funds 
procured.  Mr. Boles responded they would not. 
Mr. Dan Rush stated that if this was good for the area it should be available 
throughout the city.  Billboard companies have a lot of pull. 
Mr. Tribken commented that he has concerns with the leaded area.  Ms. Keating 
explained that the proposal and language has been vetted by the city’s Law 
Department. 
Ms. Ashley Nye commented that it is sad we need to find additional revenue to 
keep kids safe.  She asked if a use permit would be needed for the signs.  Ms. 
Keating responded that sites would need to process a PUD and potentially a use 
permit to permit an off-premise sign. 
Ms. Christina Eichelkraut asked if the funds would be programmatically 
appropriated.  Mr. Boles responded that they would. 
Mr. Greg Abbott commented that he was generally in favor of the proposal but had 
concerns with the limitations restricting use by colleges. 
Mr. Sharaby asked for additional details regarding the RFP process and if signs 
would be digital.  Mr. Boles explained it was a state RFP process where the 
proposer would need to follow state guidelines for advertising on school property.  
Signs are planned for digital signs. 
Mr. George Garcia discussed how this was a long-term situation with a large initial 
expense.  Mr. Boles explained that pro bono work was being provided by Gammage 
and Burnham and other local law offices.  Fundraising and his own out-of-pocket 
funds were also being used. 
Motion 
 
Ms. Ashley Nye made a motion to recommend approval.  Ms. Hayleigh Crawford 
seconded the motion. 
 
Vote 
13-6, Motion passes with Committee Members Swart, Fischbach, Crawford, 
Eichelkraut, McKee, Miller, Nye, O’Malley, Rush, Scher, Sharaby, Trauscht and 
Tribken in favor.  Committee Members Abbott, Bair, Beckerleg Thraen, Garcia, 
Hardy and Paceley opposed. 
 
Discussion 
 
Ms. Beckerleg Thraen commented that the proposal sounds great as the schools 
could use this money but is concerned it is too broad for appropriate controls. 
 
Mr. Blake McKee said from a land use perspective, he does not care for billboards, 
but he has concern for underfunded schools.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Mr. Dan Rush commented he is supportive because the good outweighs the bad.  
These schools have deep issues and thanked Mr. Boles for taking this on 
personally. 
 
Mr. Marc Scher said he agreed with the concerns and hopes issues are addressed 
in the future. 
 
Mr. Danny Sharaby commented that he is impressed with the efforts, but feels that 
the business plan is not the best. 
 
Mr. Ryan Trauscht commented he wants to ensure safeguards are in place. 
 
Chairman Jay Swart commented that the presentation tonight was a bit of course 
and just the text should have been provided.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting: 
March 9, 2020 
Request: 
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix 
Zoning Ordinance to address off-premise advertising 
within PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a 
school. 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, as recommended by staff. 
Vote: 
12-5 
 
VPC DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDED STIPULATIONS: 
 
Four speaker cards were submitted in favor, wishing to speak. 
One speaker card was submitted wishing to speak,  
 
Sarah Stockham, staff, presented an overview of the request and staff’s 
recommendation of approval.  
 
Sean Sweat asked what zoning districts schools fall under. Manjula Vaz with 
Gammage & Burnham representing the applicant responded they are zoned 
residential.  
 
Dana Johnson commented that he believes the City is conceding to help the schools 
and that he does not want to see more billboards.  
 
Darlene Martinez asked about the outreach the applicant has done throughout the 
city. Eva Olivas added that the text amendment for group homes was added very 
quickly. Manjula Vaz replied that the applicant has gone to the Village Planning 
Committees twice.  
 
Shannon Dubasik asked who manages the signs. Jeff Boles, with the Creighton 
Community Foundation, answered that the sign company will perform maintenance on 
the signs.  
 
Will Gaona asked if signs are on public land, is there a free speech issue. Jeff Boles 
answered that they do not believe there is a free speech issue.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Vice Chair Janey Peal Starks asked where the revenue will go from the signs. 
Manjula Vaz replied that the school board will determine how the revenue is spent. Ms. 
Vaz added that they have two PUDs pending, one in Central City and one in 
Camelback East, and that they will explain the how the money mechanism works in the 
narrative. Ms. Vaz explained that Arizona State University uses billboard funding as 
well, and that this request is just to get general permission to allow billboards on school 
sites.  
 
Christopher Colyer asked if there are provisions to limit the brightness of the sign. 
Manjula Vaz replied that those standards will be addressed in the PUD.  
 
Public Comment 
Bramley Paulin stated that the State of Arizona is sovereign, the City of Phoenix does 
not have jurisdiction for this request, and that this request is illegal.  
 
Vice Chair Janey Pearl Starks asked how much revenue the applicant expects to 
receive. Jeff Boles estimated $150,000 per year per sign.  
 
Motion 
Chris Colyer motioned to approve the request, adding that it was an innovative 
solution to bring more revenues to schools. Zach Burns seconded the motion. 
 
Vote 
12-5, Motion to approve passed, with Committee Members Burns, Cabrera, Colyer, 
Gaona, Goode, Langley, Lockhart, Martinez, Sonoskey, Starks, Sweat, and Uss in 
favor and Dubasik, Johnson, Olivas, Stark and R. Johnson opposed.  
 
 
  
 
STAFF COMMENTS: 
 
None.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
February 20, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school. 
 
VPC DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDATION: 
 
2 speaker cards were submitted in favor, wishing to speak.  
 
Mr. David Simmons, staff, gave a brief presentation as to what the Text 
Amendment entails including the requirement for each school site to rezone to 
PUD prior to sign installation, which goes through its own rigorous public hearing 
process. Mr. Simmons shared that if this Text Amendment were to be approved, 
it does not give the applicant a green light to install billboards on school sites.  
 
Mr. Jeff Boles executive director of Creighton Community Foundation in 
partnership with Michael Merowitz, with Gammage and Bernham, explained 
they were before the committee to discuss a text amendment filed on behalf of 
the Creighton Community Foundation and school district.  The Text Amendment 
would modify the current standards for off-premise signs to allow for them to be 
placed on publicly owned land used for school purposes, located next to a 
freeway and rezoned PUD. Based on information provided by the city, this would 
potentially affect 5 school districts and 4 villages. The addition of billboards on 
school properties would provide much needed revenue to the district which is 
more than 96 percent Title 1. Mr. Merowitz went over the code changes 
proposed in detail.  
 
Chairman Joseph Grossman asked if this would affect every school site within 
the City of Phoenix.  
 
Mr. Boles shared that they did include every school site in their study within the 
City of Phoenix, however, very few would qualify under the proposed changes.  
 
Vice Chair Trilese DiLeo asked if the school site was required to have freeway 
frontage in order to qualify.  
 
Mr. Merowitz stated that yes, the school site has to be within 300 feet of a 
freeway to qualify.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Mr. Ricardo Romero inquired about content regulations on the billboards.  
 
Mr. Merowitz shared that there were multiple layers of regulation on content 
from state to local level.  
 
Mr. Boles also shared that the RFP’s would have restrictions on content as well.  
 
Mr. Ozzie Virgil asked who was going to pay the electrical bill on the digital 
billboards.  
 
Mr. Boles shared that the vendor would be responsible for constructing and 
maintaining the billboards, which would include paying the electrical bill.  
 
Mr. Russell Osborn asked if the applicant had maps of the qualifying school 
sites.  
 
Mr. Boles pulled up maps of the school sites on the presentation screen.  
 
Chairman Grossman asked if they were going to do IGA’s and RFP’s.  
 
Mr. Boles shared that they plan on only doing RFP’s.  
 
Vice Chair DiLeo asked if there were a limitation on number of billboards on 
school sites.  
 
Mr. Merowitz shared that there were limitations due to distance requirements.  
 
MOTION: Ms. Ann O’Brien made a motion to recommend approval of Case No. 
Z-TA-1-19 per staff’s recommendation.  Committee member Mr. Bill Levy 
seconded the motion. 
 
VOTE:  10-0, motion to approve passed, with Committee Members 
Grossman, DiLeo, Gardner, Kenney, Levy, O’Brien, Osborne, Romero, 
Shipman and Virgil in favor. 
 
STAFF COMMENTS: 
None.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
January 6, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix 
Zoning Ordinance to address off-premise advertising 
within PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a 
school. 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, per staff recommendation 
VPC Vote 
6-3 
 
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDED STIPULATIONS: 
 
Prior to the presentation commencing committee member Rick Mahrle declared a 
conflict with this item and left the room. A quorum of nine members remained.  
 
Joshua Bednarek, staff, provided a brief overview of the request and explained that the 
proposed Text Amendment would not rezone any property. The request would create 
new criteria in the Zoning Ordinance that would allow certain properties to pursue a 
rezoning to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) that would permit an off-premise 
advertising structure. 
 
Mr. Michael Maerowitz of Gammage and Burnham Law Firm addressed the committee 
as the applicant’s representative on the request and Mr. Jeff Boles from the Creighton 
Community Foundation introduced himself as the applicant. Mr. Maerowitz discussed 
the reasons why the Creighton Community Foundation had come forward with the 
request and highlighted the potential school sites it would apply to if approved. Mr. 
Maerowitz noted that none of the subject schools were within the Encanto Village 
boundaries.  
 
Mr. Bryck asked why schools could not just do this by right if they were not subject to 
municipal zoning ordinances.  
 
Mr. Maerowitz explained that while public schools are exempt from complying with 
municipal zoning ordinances, this exemption only applies to school related functions. 
The provision of an off-premise sign on a public-school campus, while providing a 
revenue stream to the school, would not be considered a school related function and 
therefore requires adherence to the Phoenix Zoning Ordinance.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Ms. George raised several concerns and questions she had about the distinction 
between the Creighton Community Foundation and Creighton Communities.org.  
 
Mr. Boles explained that Creighton Communities.org is just another domain name for 
the Creighton Community Foundation website.  
 
Ms. George noted she had concerns with the text amendment’s proposed reduction of 
the minimum size requirements for land area of a PUD from 20 acres to 15 acres for K-
12 schools.  
 
Mr. Boles noted that the reason for the request and its restriction to only apply to K-12 
schools, is that most of the school campuses who would look to pursue a PUD have 
less than 20 acres in land area.  
 
Chairman Adams asked Mr. Boles who is paying for the expenses associated with the 
application. Mr. Boles stated that Gammage and Burnham was donating most of their 
services and that the Creighton Community Foundation was only paying for some minor 
administrative costs.  
 
Mr. Procaccini stated he was concerned with the proposed reduction of the minimum 
distance required from single-family residential from 500 feet to 250 feet.  
 
Mr. Boles responded that most schools are generally located within or next to single-
family neighborhoods making the 500-foot minimum distance requirement difficult, if not 
impossible, to adhere to. Mr. Boles noted that with the revenue from the off-premise 
sign, the goal would be to help address some of the challenges in the surrounding 
neighborhoods. Mr. Boles discussed the concept of developing a community garden at 
one of the schools on a portion of the property that has been a source of vandalism and 
crime.  
 
Ms. George stated that the scope of the text amendment is fairly narrow and would 
appear to only be applicable to a limited number of schools.  
 
Mr. Boles replied that this was very intentional. Their intent was not to create a situation 
where dozens of additional billboards would be permitted throughout the city.  
 
Ms. Coates asked for verification that the text amendment would only apply to K-12 
public schools.  
 
Mr. Maerowitz responded that Ms. Coates was correct and added that charter and trade 
schools would not be eligible.  
 
Mr. Bryck stated that while he appreciated the Creighton Community Foundation’s 
efforts, it was unfortunate that they are needing to pursue these types of strategies for 
additional revenue. Mr. Bryck stated that is difficult to decide on a land use related 
request that is attempting to solve a larger social issue.  
 
Mr. Boles stated he understood Mr. Bryck’s perspective.  
 
Neal Haddad from the Neighborhood Coalition of Greater Phoenix spoke in opposition 
of the request. Mr. Haddad emphasized the potential negative land use ramifications the

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
committee’s approval of the request would present. Mr. Haddad encouraged the 
committee to separate the social needs of the community from the zoning / land use 
question they have in front of them. Mr. Haddad noted some of the items he saw as 
negative impacts from the request which include the potential for additional light 
pollution and the introduction of a commercial use into residential neighborhoods.  
 
Chairman Adams inquired if Mr. Haddad had brought any additional neighbors with him 
to address the committee.  
 
Mr. Haddad stated that many of the Coalition’s members were diligently working on two 
appeal cases related to off-premise signs scheduled to be heard later in the week by the 
Board of Adjustment.  
 
Mr. Maerowitz and Mr. Boles addressed Mr. Haddad’s comments by emphasizing the 
PUD process calls for extensive community input and will allow each school to 
collaborate with the surrounding community regarding development standards for the 
site. Mr. Boles reiterated that the text amendment proposes no changes to the current 
billboard spacing requirements. 
 
Mr. Procaccini inquired how the community would be assured that the funding from the 
billboard would be going to the school.  
 
Mr. Boles stated that the Creighton Community Foundation is a registered 501C3 
organization that is overseen by a board. The board ultimately decides how the money 
will be spent in collaboration with the area school district and the subject school. The 
school district ultimately has the control because they own the land. The Creighton 
Community Foundation makes it easier for the school and the school district because it 
is difficult for both entities to accept and administer donations or funds from private 
entities.  
 
Mr. Procaccini asked Mr. Boles what would happen if the Creighton Community 
Foundation were to leave or cease operations.  
 
Mr. Boles responded that the Foundation’ s involvement would be tied to a public 
request for proposal (RFP) by the school district. If circumstances change and the 
Foundation were no longer associated with the school or school district, then a new 
RFP would need to be issued.  
 
Mr. Paul Benjamin asked Mr. Boles if he knew if the Creighton schools sold advertising 
space on their campuses now.  
 
Mr. Boles replied that the schools do not sell advertising on their campuses or buses, 
but does believe there is some space dedicated for advertising in the parent teacher 
organization’s newsletter.  
 
Mr. Bryck asked Mr. Boles if all the Foundation’s employees are volunteers.  
 
Mr. Boles responded that the Foundation has two paid staff members.  
 
Mr. Boles then made a closing statement by reinforcing the benefits additional 
investments would have in the schools and their surrounding communities.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Mr. Kleinman called for the question.  
 
Motion 
Ms. George motioned to deny the request and Mr. Bryck seconded.  
 
Vote 
Yes – Paul Benjamin, Drew Bryck, G.G. George, Steve Procaccini (4) 
No – Katie Coates, Brent Kleinman, Jayson Matthews, Vice Chair Ann Cothron, 
Chairman Jake Adams (5) 
 
Motion to deny failed by 4 to 5 vote. 
 
Motion 
Mr. Kleinman made a motion to approve the request and Mr. Matthews seconded.  
 
Vote 
Yes – Paul Benjamin, Katie Coates, Brent Kleinman, Jayson Matthews, Vice Chair Ann 
Cothron, Chairman Jake Adams (6) 
No – Drew Bryck, G.G. George, Steve Procaccini (3)  
 
Motion to approve passed by a 6 to 3 vote. 
 
 
 
 
STAFF COMMENTS REGARDING VPC RECOMMENDATION & STIPULATIONS: 
 
None.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
January 21, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school. 
 
VPC DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDATION: 
 
Mr. Klimek shared the history of the request, explained the request would set the 
foundation to eventually allow schools which meet certain conditions to construct a 
billboard on their properties. 
The current regulation permits billboards in properties zoned Planned Unit 
Development, of 20 acres or greater, within 300 feet of a qualifying 
freeway, and a minimum 500 feet from a residential use and residential 
zone.  
The proposed change would permit billboards on properties zoned 
Planned Unit Development, of 15 acres or greater, within 300 feet of a 
qualifying freeway, a minimum 250 feet from a residential use or 
residential zone, on publicly owned land, used for a K-12 school. 
Staff recommends approval of this request. Regarding outreach, because the 
amendment would apply city-wide, it is being presented to all 15 village planning 
committees, first for information and then for recommendation.  
In response to conversations raised at the informational session in December: 
content will be managed by a state procurement contract and be subject to 
additional restrictions based on its location at a school. 
 
Mr. Jeff Boles, executive director of Creighton Community Foundation, explained 
the request which would permit off-premise signs on school properties meeting 
certain criteria, as described by staff. The purpose of the request is to enable the 
creation of a revenue stream for public schools to provide wrap-around services for 
their students. There are only five schools that could potentially be eligible, 
however, even if the amendment is approved, the schools would need to rezone to 
a Planned Unit Development which requires significant investment and outreach. 
 
Discussion indicating that several members felt it was a good idea and the 
proposed change was thoughtfully written to limit unforeseen outcomes.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Chair Perez asked about how content would be managed, whether this usurps 
existing public processes, and if there are any processes in place to revoke 
permissions if the property no longer complies with city requirements.  
 
Mr. Klimek responded that this does not permit any schools within the City of 
Phoenix to construct a billboard. A school seeking to utilize this text amendment 
would be required to pursue a Planned Unit Development and potentially a Use 
Permit which requires a significant public process. A use permit can be revoked 
and a use which is no longer permitted by the conditions of the Zoning Ordinance 
can be ceased through enforcement action. 
 
Mr. Boles expanded that the cost of a Planned Unit Development is approximately 
$80,000 for an average school property and that billboards adjacent to freeways 
are also subject to an annual review by ADOT. 
 
MOTION: 
 
Mr. Cardenas motioned to approve the request per staff recommendation, with a 
second from Mr. Danzeisen, to approve.  
 
DISCUSSION: 
 
None. 
 
VOTE:  
 
5-0, motion passed, with Committee Members Ademolu, Cardenas, Perez, 
Barquin, and Danzeisen in favor 
 
STAFF COMMENTS: 
None.

Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
February 10, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix 
Zoning Ordinance to address off-premise advertising 
within PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a 
school. 
VPC Vote 
9-1 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
Ms. Samantha Keating, staff, presented the request and explained the request 
would set the foundation to eventually allow schools which meet certain conditions to 
construct a billboard on their properties. The current regulation permits billboards in 
properties zoned Planned Unit Development, of 20 acres or greater, within 300 feet 
of a qualifying freeway, and a minimum 500 feet from a residential use and 
residential zone. The proposed change would permit billboards on properties zoned 
Planned Unit Development, of 15 acres or greater, within 300 feet of a qualifying 
freeway, a minimum 250 feet from a residential use or residential zone, on publicly 
owned land, used for a K-12 school. She explained that this request is being 
presented to all Villages as it would apply city-wide. She provided the staff 
recommendation for approval. 
 
Chairman Branscomb asked what the process for a Planned Unit Development 
entails. Ms. Keating explained that the Planned Unit Development is a unique 
zoning district, but that the process is the virtually the same as a rezoning, in which a 
property owner submits an application and proceeds to go through the full public 
hearing process. What makes a PUD rezoning unique is that the applicant creates a 
development narrative which outlines the development and design standards for the 
site, as opposed to choosing an existing zoning district from the Zoning Ordinance. 
In order to rezone to a PUD, an applicant must show how the proposed development 
goes above and beyond the existing city standards. 
 
Mr. Jeff Boles, executive director of Creighton Community Foundation, presented 
the request which would permit off-premise signs on school properties meeting 
certain criteria, as described by staff. The purpose of the request is to enable the 
creation of a revenue stream for public schools to provide wrap-around services for 
their students. There are only five schools that could potentially be eligible, however,

even if the amendment is approved, the schools would need to rezone to a Planned 
Unit Development which requires significant investment and outreach. 
 
Mr. Ben Graff, representative for the Creighton Community Foundation, explained 
that the intent of this proposed text amendment is to provide a revenue stream to the 
school district, and not to the billboard companies. He stressed that they are not 
seeking to bring an influx of billboards into Phoenix, and that the proposed 
amendment in worded in a way that ensures applicability only for publicly-owned 
properties that are used as schools. He explained that the request to change the 
property size requirements to 15 acres is due to the fact that no schools in the city 
have 20-acre lots. 
 
Mr. Carlos Ortega asked how much of the revenue the school district will receive. 
Mr. Boles replied that the revenues will be split in half, so the school district will 
receive 50 percent. 
 
Mr. John Mockus asked how the revenues will be allocated among schools. Mr. 
Boles explained that the monies from the billboards will be distributed among the 
schools as needed. 
 
Ms. Tonya Glass asked how many employees the Foundation has. Mr. Boles 
replied that they have six grant-funded employees. 
 
Ms. Linda Abegg asked if the billboards on school property will still be subject to all 
other off-premise sign regulations if this text amendment is approved. Mr. Graff 
replied yes. Ms. Keating outlined the proposed text amendment language and 
explained that these billboards would still be subject to all other code and ordinance 
requirements. 
 
Mr. Phil Hertel expressed his concern with users other than the school district 
taking advantage of the new proposed language to install more billboards around the 
city.  
 
Mr. Dan Penton urged the city to be cautious of city-wide text amendments as it 
may open the floodgates for other billboard companies. 
 
Mr. Graff addressed these concerns, stating that the proposed language was 
drafted in a very specific way so as to guarantee that no users other than the school 
district would be able to use these new requirements.  
 
MOTION: 
 
Ms. Cinthia Estela made a motion to approve the request per the staff 
recommendation. Mr. Ortega seconded the motion. 
 
VOTE:

9-1 Motion passed; with members Abegg, Estela, Flunoy, Harlin, Hurd, Mockus, 
Ortega, Rouse, and Branscomb in favor and member Glass in opposition. 
 
STAFF COMMENTS: 
None.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
January 8, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school. 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, per staff’s recommendation 
VPC Vote 
10-0 
 
VPC DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDATION: 
 
Mr. David Simmons, staff, gave a brief presentation as to what the Text 
Amendment entails including the requirement for each school site to rezone to 
PUD prior to sign installation, which goes through its own rigorous public hearing 
process. Mr. Simmons shared that if this Text Amendment were to be approved, 
it does not give the applicant a green light on the sign installations.  
 
Mr. Jeff Boles executive director of Creighton Community Foundation, explained 
he was before the committee to discuss a text amendment filed on behalf of the 
Creighton Community Foundation and school district.  The Text Amendment 
would modify the current standards for off-premise signs to allow for them to be 
placed on publicly owned land used for school purposes, located next to a 
freeway and rezoned PUD. Based on information provided by the city, this would 
potentially affect 4 school districts and 4 villages. The addition of billboards on 
school properties would provide much needed revenue to the district which is 
more than 96 percent Title 1.  
 
Chairman Jeff Armor asked the applicant to please clarify the request.  
 
Mr. Zeke Valenzuela stated that the purpose of this request was to gain 
additional revenue for the schools through advertising costs associated with the 
billboards.  
 
Mr. Boles concurred with Mr. Valenzuela.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Chairman Armor asked if the applicant had received any pushback from any of 
the other villages he has presented to.  
 
Mr. Boles shared that he had received feedback regarding light pollution from 
the billboards as well as concerns about their placement on the sites in close 
proximity to residential areas.  
 
Chairman Armor asked if the applicant had received any feedback from citizens.  
 
Mr. Boles shared that he had not to date.  
 
Vice Chair Derie asked if the billboards were to be standard or digital.  
 
Mr. Boles shared that the billboards would most likely be digital.   
 
Motion: 
Vice Chair Gene Derie motioned to recommend approval of Case No. Z-TA-1-19 
per staff’s recommendation.  Committee member Christopher Demarest 
seconded. 
 
Vote: 10-0, Motion to recommend approval passes with committee members     
Armor, Derie, Battle, Demarest, DuBose, Garcia, O’Toole, Sirochman,   
Valenzuela and Weber in favor.  
 
 
STAFF COMMENTS: 
None.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19  
 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
February 13, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school. 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, as recommended by staff. 
VPC Vote 
4-0 
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDED STIPULATIONS: 
 
Mr. Joél Carrasco, staff presented a brief overview of the requests, including the 
locations, context, analysis, findings and staff recommendations.  
 
Mr. Jeff Boles, Creighton School District, Community Works program, provided an 
overview presentation on the Text Amendment request to provide an exception to allow 
schools an opportunity to partner with billboard companies as a funding mechanism.  
Mr. Boles provided additional technical background regarding the request by 
highlighting the specific language changes and a map identifying the properties which 
would be eligible. 
 
Chairman Mr. Jason Stokes thanked the applicant for his diligence and work on this 
request.  
 
The committee had no further questions or comments.  
 
MOTION: Committee member Ms. Shannon Simon made the motion to approve the 
Z-TA-1-19 as recommended by staff. 
  
Committee Member Ms. Michelle Ricart seconded the motion.  
 
VOTE: The motion was approved, 4-0, with Committee members Stokes, Simon, Ricart, 
and Tome, in favor.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
February 19, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school. 
 
 VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
Mr. Nick Klimek, staff, explained that the request would set the foundation to 
eventually allow schools which meet certain conditions to construct a billboard on 
their properties. 
 
The current regulation permits billboards in properties zoned Planned Unit 
Development, of 20 acres or greater, within 300 feet of a qualifying freeway, 
and a minimum 500 feet from a residential use and residential zone.  
 
The proposed change would permit billboards on properties zoned Planned 
Unit Development, of 15 acres or greater, within 300 feet of a qualifying 
freeway, a minimum 250 feet from a residential use or residential zone, on 
publicly owned land, used for a K-12 school. 
 
Staff recommends approval of this request. Regarding outreach, because the 
amendment would apply city-wide, it is being presented to all 15 village planning 
committees, first for information and then for recommendation. He noted that no 
properties eligible under the proposed amendment exist in the South Mountain 
Village.  
 
Mr. Jeff Boles, executive director of Creighton Community Foundation, explained 
the request which would permit off-premise signs on school properties meeting 
certain criteria, as described by staff. The purpose of the request is to enable the 
creation of a revenue stream for public schools to provide wrap-around services for 
their students. There are only five schools that could potentially be eligible, 
however, even if the amendment is approved, the schools would need to rezone to 
a Planned Unit Development which requires significant investment and outreach. 
 
Chairman Carrell asked how the villages directly impacted by this proposal voted 
on the request. Mr. Mike Maerowitz, of Gammage and Burnham, responded that 
Maryvale, Estrella, and South Mountain voted to approve the request while the case

North Mountain Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
February 19, 2020 
Page 2 of 2 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
has not been presented to Camelback East or Central City for recommendation. 
 
Ms. Elizabeth Perez asked about the projected revenue and use of funds 
generated by the lease including whether the income could be allocated to teacher 
pay. Mr. Boles responded that after the 50/50 revenue share with the billboard 
company, the foundation anticipates approximately $150,000 per billboard, per 
year. Revenue will be directed to the Creighton Community Foundation and will be 
used for wrap around services for school operations and creating adult-supportive 
relationships.  
 
Mr. Sommacampagna asked how the neighborhood felt about the reduced 
separation requirement from residential dwellings. Mr. Boles responded that the 
reduced separation only applies to the Gateway Elementary campus and that in 
that example, he closest neighbors have been the greatest advocates for the 
billboard and additional revenue. He further noted that the text amendment does 
not entitle any property for billboards and that, if approved, each school campus 
would need to pursue a Planned Unit Development. A Planned Unit Development 
requires neighborhood outreach and approximately 4 public meetings. 
 
Chairman Carrell noted that the committee typically does not like requests that are 
so narrowly focused that they only effect a single party or a very particular 
circumstance. Mr. Maerowitz responded that the amendment includes layers of 
regulations including some at the State of Arizona, the Arizona Department of 
Transportation, and now with the City of Phoenix.  
 
 
 
MOTION:   
 
Member Whitney made a MOTION to approve the request per staff 
recommendation. Member Ford seconded the motion.   
 
 
 
VOTE:   
 
14-0, motion passed, with Committee Members Carrell, McBride, Church, 
Ford, Jaramillo, Larson, Krentz, Magallanez, O’Hara, Alauria, Whitney, 
Sommacampagna, O’Conner, and Perez in favor; no members dissenting or 
abstaining.  
 
STAFF COMMENTS: 
 
None

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
March 10, 2020 
Request 
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school.
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, as recommended by staff.  
VPC Vote 
5-0 
 
VPC DISCUSSION:
 
Samantha Keating provided an overview of the request and the staff 
recommendation.  She relayed this was the technical zoning ordinance change to 
allow PUD zoning for schools to be pursued. 
 
Ozzie Virgil asked if a Use Permit would be required.  Samantha Keating replied that 
is would if the sign were to meet a certain height threshold or if a digital sign were 
requested. 
 
Mike Maerowitz with Gammage & Burnham, explained that the Creighton Community 
Foundation was a non-profit formed in 2013 to support the Creighton School District.  
Their underlying mission is to provide wrap around services.  The proposed text in the 
application is intended to provide an exception to the 20-acre PUD rule for schools. 
 
Vice Chair Steven Scharboneau asked for clarification on what off-premise means.  
Mike Maerowitz explained it described advertising for things not on the subject 
property. 
 
Ozzie Virgil asked where signs would be located on the two Creighton schools.  Mike 
Maerowitz pointed out the planned locations on the sites and explained that the 
1,000-foot spacing requirement would still be required. 
 
Judy Lorch asked if the signs would be dimmed at night.  Mike Maerowitz explained 
the city requirements for lighting would still remain.  Samantha Keating added that 
digital signs required an 11 pm turn off, which can be discussed during the Use Permit 
process. 
 
MOTION: Ozzie Virgil made a motion to approve per the staff recommendation. The 
motion was seconded by Vice Chair Steven Scharboneau.

Rio Vista Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
March 10, 2020 
Page 2 of 2 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
VOTE: 5-0 with Committee Members Sommacampagna, Scharboneau, Holton, Lorch 
and Virgil in favor.

City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-TA-1-19 
 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
January 14, 2020 
Request  
A request to amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning 
Ordinance to address off-premise advertising within 
PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school. 
 
 VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
1) Z-TA-1-19: Presentation, discussion, and possible recommendation on a request to 
amend Section 705.2 of the Phoenix Zoning Ordinance to address off-premise 
advertising within PUDs located on publicly owned land used for a school.      
 
Mr. Klimek, staff, shared the history of the request, explained the request would set 
the foundation to eventually allow schools which meet certain conditions to 
construct a billboard on their properties. 
 
The current regulation permits billboards in properties zoned Planned Unit 
Development, of 20 acres or greater, within 300 feet of a qualifying freeway, 
and a minimum 500 feet from a residential use and residential zone.  
 
The proposed change would permit billboards on properties zoned Planned 
Unit Development, of 15 acres or greater, within 300 feet of a qualifying 
freeway, a minimum 250 feet from a residential use or residential zone, on 
publicly owned land, used for a K-12 school. 
 
Staff recommends approval of this request. Regarding outreach, because the 
amendment would apply city-wide, it is being presented to all 15 village planning 
committees, first for information and then for recommendation. He noted that no 
properties eligible under the proposed amendment exist in the South Mountain 
Village.  
 
In response to conversations raised at the informational session in December: 
content will be managed by a state procurement contract and be subject to 
additional restrictions based on its location at a school; if a school ceases to 
operate, the billboard would no longer be compliant with the zoning ordinance and 
could be removed through the revocation of a use permit (if required) or through 
pro-active enforcement.

South Mountain Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
January 14, 2020 
Page 2 of 3 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
Mr. Jeff Boles, executive director of Creighton Community Foundation, explained 
the request which would permit off-premise signs on school properties meeting 
certain criteria, as described by staff. The purpose of the request is to enable the 
creation of a revenue stream for public schools to provide wrap-around services for 
their students. There are only five schools that could potentially be eligible, 
however, even if the amendment is approved, the schools would need to rezone to 
a Planned Unit Development which requires significant investment and outreach. 
 
Mr. Glueck asked if the billboards would be digital or print and if a vender has been 
selected. If the billboards are digital, content must be monitored closely. Mr. Boles 
responded that billboards could be either digital or static and that content is 
managed through a state procurement contract and subject to additional restrictions 
due to the location on school property. No vender had been selected.  
 
Ms. Christopherson asked about the projected revenue and how it would be 
directed to the schools. Mr. Boles responded that revenue would be split in half 
between the Creighton Community Foundation and the billboard company. The 
Creighton Community Foundation would then function as a grant-making entity is 
support of wrap-around services for students. 
 
Mr. Larios asked if there were any restrictions on the use of funds, specifically 
noting that many unsheltered individuals reside along the freeway corridors and that 
often well-intentioned clean-up efforts dehumanize and harm these most vulnerable 
populations. He expressed concern that grants made through these revenues 
would continue to harm unsheltered individuals. Mr. Boles responded that often 
wrap-around services do include funding for additional school resource officers and 
this practice focuses primarily on the security of school campuses and does not 
always handle issues of unsheltered individuals with due sensitivity. He thanked Mr. 
Larios for the comment. 
 
Mr. Aguilar asked for clarity on projected revenue to the Community Foundation 
and asked for the philosophy behind their grant making efforts. Mr. Boles 
responded that only nine percent of life between the age of 0 and 18 occurs in a 
school; therefore, the philosophy of giving is focuses on the creation of supportive 
adult relationships to ensure students have engaged role models in their lives. The 
projected per-billboard revenue to the Community Foundation is $150,000 annually.  
 
Ms. Tunning asked how their outreach efforts were received by those most directly 
impacted by the proposed billboard locations. Mr. Boles responded that any school 
wishing to pursue a billboard would also need to rezone their campus to a Planned 
Unit Development which would require additional public input. Regarding specific 
conversations, the neighbors have been the greatest champions for the project at 
Gateway School and the collaboration between the foundation, the neighbors, and 
the students have led to the creation of a neighborhood association; the

South Mountain Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
January 14, 2020 
Page 3 of 3 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
neighborhood wants a community garden near the freeway to activate the area and 
make it an amenity for the community. 
 
Chairwoman Trites recommended that when it comes time to pursue a Planned 
Unit Development on the applicable sites, outreach should include both owners and 
renters; this is becoming the standard for the South Mountain Village and is 
necessary to truly engage with the relevant community.  
 
MOTION: 
 
Ms. Busching made a motion approve the request per staff recommendation. Mr. 
Holmerud seconded the motion.  
 
DISCUSSION: 
Mr. Larios stated that he cannot vote in favor of the request due to the concern that 
there is a history of harming unsheltered individuals by the applicant and that no 
assurances have been made that funds will not be used to create further harm. 
 
VOTE:  
9-4-0 Motion passes; with members, Christopherson, Glueck, Holmerud, Kotake, 
Kutnick, Shepard, S. Smith, Busching, and Trites in favor; members Aguilar, 
Tunning, Larios, and Brooks dissenting.  
 
STAFF COMMENTS: 
 
Depending on how the TA is worded in final form, there may be an issue broadly 
describing ‘school use’ as K-12 because this could imply a requirement that all grades 
(K-12) be provided on site; perhaps a minimum number of K-12 grades.