Attachment C - VPC Summary - Z-136-24-Y.pdf

City of Phoenix — Formal (2024-11-20)

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ATTACHMENT C 
Z-136-24-Y: Adaptive Reuse and Multifamily (ARM) Overlay District 
Village Planning Committee Summary Results 
 
Village 
Recommendation 
Date 
Recommendations 
Vote 
Alhambra 
10/22/24 
Approval, per the staff 
recommendation 
11-2 
 
Camelback 
East 
10/1/24 
Approval, per the staff 
recommendation 
16-0 
Central City 
10/21/24 
Approval, per the staff 
recommendation 
10-0 
Encanto 
10/7/24 
Denial 
8-4-1 
Estrella 
10/15/24 
No quorum 
n/a 
Maryvale 
10/9/24 
No quorum 
n/a 
North 
Mountain 
10/16/24 
Approval, per the staff 
recommendation, with direction 
13-0 
South 
Mountain 
10/8/24 
Approval, per the staff 
recommendation 
12-0

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-136-24-Y 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
October 22, 2024 
Request 
Map the initial ARM Overlay boundaries within the 
approved transit-oriented development district 
boundaries generally bounded by Peoria Avenue on 
the north, State Route 51 on the east, South Mountain 
Avenue on the south, and 83rd Avenue on the west. 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, per the staff recommendation 
VPC Vote 
11-2 
 
VPC DISCUSSION 
 
STAFF PRESENTATION 
 
Samuel Rogers, staff, provided a presentation regarding the proposed text amendment 
Z-TA-3-24-Y and Z-136-24-Y, highlighting the background of the legislation approved by 
the Arizona Legislature, the proposed Adaptive Reuse and Multi-Family (ARM) Overlay 
District, the areas of applicability, the proposed allowances for multifamily development 
and adaptive reuse, and the timeline for the proposal.  
 
QUESTIONS FROM THE COMMITTEE 
 
Committee Member Charles Jones asked about the mile distance requirement. Mr. 
Rogers explained that state law requires cities to allow 10% of their commercial areas 
to develop up to five stories with densities equivalent to the highest zoning district within 
one mile of the subject property. Mr. Rogers stated that the City of Phoenix applied this 
by allowing sites within existing Transit-Oriented Communities (TOC) to develop 
according to Walkable Urban (WU) Code T5:5 standards, permitting unlimited density 
and five-story buildings. 
 
Committee Member Martin Shultz stated that this policy originated from state law and 
questioned whether cities should control zoning or if state involvement is appropriate. 
Committee Member Shultz stated that the motivation behind some legislation is to 
create challenges for transit-oriented development. Mr. Rogers discussed the balance 
of benefits and risks in the relationship between city zoning authority and state 
regulations. Committee Member Shultz explained that determining zoning jurisdiction is 
complex and raised the importance of regional planning and described the politics that 
opposed the Capitol Mall light rail expansion.

Alhambra Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
October 22, 2024 
Page 2 of 4 
 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Committee Member Quanta Crews expressed support for how Phoenix applied the 
state law through an overlay, explained she supported the law as a state legislator due 
to its potential to create affordable housing, and asked about the public engagement 
process. Mr. Rogers clarified that the application of the ARM Overlay will be an 
administrative process that does not require public hearings, stated that the overlay will 
not alter existing rezoning procedures, and reiterated that the ARM Overlay applies 
within established high-intensity policy areas. 
 
Committee Member Marshall Pimentel highlighted the benefit of affordable housing 
through this process, stated that the overlay is a small but positive step, and explained 
that Arizona’s prohibition on mandatory inclusionary housing presents barriers. 
 
Committee Member David Krietor raised concerns about the proposed five-story 
allowance, stated that some commercial properties in the ARM Overlay are adjacent to 
single-family homes, and described previously conflicts over height within the Alhambra 
Village. Mr. Rogers explained that developments within 100 feet of single-family zoning 
are limited to two stories. 
 
Committee Member Jones requested clarification on the ARM Overlay boundaries. 
Mr. Rogers presented the ARM Overlay boundaries. 
 
Committee Member Jones asked if affordable housing was mandatory for projects 
utilizing the ARM Overlay and asked about funding. Mr. Rogers confirmed that 
affordable housing is required for multifamily developed under the ARM Overlay, stated 
that the affordable housing is funded by developers, and explained that developers 
could choose to rezone if they wish to avoid providing affordable housing. 
 
Committee Member Crews questioned the appropriate distance requirement for the 
two-story height limitation near single-family zones and whether 300 feet would be more 
appropriate. Committee Member Krietor described Alhambra’s support for affordable 
housing, explained conflicts over height near single-family areas, and stated that 
overlay may lead to potential disputes regarding height. Committee Member Jones 
explained that step-downs are sometimes required and stated that determining an 
optimal distance from single family to limit the height is challenging. 
 
Committee Member John Owens asked whether the presentation’s reference to 20% 
of commercial areas being within ARM Overlay included the downtown and airport 
areas. Mr. Rogers explained that he is unsure. 
 
Committee Member Jones inquired about potential consequences if the City did not 
adopt the ARM Overlay by the deadline and asked about other cities' approaches. Mr. 
Rogers stated that failing to adopt the overlay could expose the City to lawsuits, 
explained that other cities generally applied the state law city-wide, and stated that 
Phoenix’s approach applied the overlay to existing high-intensity policy areas.

Alhambra Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
October 22, 2024 
Page 3 of 4 
 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Committee Member Jones asked about potential changes to the state law. Mr. 
Rogers stated he was unaware of any planned changes. Committee Member Crews 
stated that she may try to potentially modify the state law to increase the distance a 
property must be from single-family homes in order to allow five-story developments. 
 
Committee Member Pimentel stated that the bill was the result of compromise 
between major cities, developers, and the League of Cities and Towns. Committee 
Member Crews echoed Committee Member Pimentel‘s comments and added that 
significant compromise was involved in the bill’s development. 
 
Committee Member Keyser asked about the most challenging parts of process up to 
this point. Mr. Rogers noted difficulties in interpreting legislative intent and emphasized 
the importance of applying the overlay selectively to protect low-intensity areas. 
 
Committee Member Keyser stated that affordable housing materials might be less 
expensive because affordable units do not require luxury amenities and may be smaller 
in size. 
 
Committee Member Dina Smith asked for clarification on the state law’s requirements. 
Mr. Rogers explained that cities must allow 10% of commercial properties to build up to 
five stories, with density equivalent to the highest density allowed within one mile of the 
property.  
 
Committee Member Smith asked about the rationale behind the state law and raised 
concerns about the cumulative density impact, especially on schools and property 
values. Mr. Rogers explained that the state aims to increase housing availability and 
address the affordable housing shortage, and stated that limiting the overlay to TOC 
areas is an effort to manage density impacts. Committee Member Keyser discussed 
the negative consequences of sprawl, including increased infrastructure costs, pollution, 
and urban heat effects, and highlighted the role of impact fees for new development. 
Committee Member Smith reiterated concerns about potential over-development 
impacting property values and local schools. 
 
Committee Member Jak Keyser asked if there is a possibility that the overlay may be 
amended in the future. Mr. Rogers explained that it is possible that the City may revisit 
the ARM Overlay and explained that Proposition 207 makes it easier to grant changes 
than to take them away. 
 
Committee Member Keyser asked about the possibility of tabling the discussion. Mr. 
Rogers explained that the text amendment will be heard by the City Council before the 
next Alhambra VPC meeting. 
 
Committee Member David Krietor expressed his support and stated that he would 
second a motion.

Alhambra Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
October 22, 2024 
Page 4 of 4 
 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Committee Member Crews thanked Committee Member Smith for her comments and 
emphasized that the goal of the state law is to encourage greater density and provide 
more housing options for everyone. Committee Member Crews described the urgency 
of the situation, explained that the City is experiencing a significant population increase 
and a housing shortage, and expressed appreciation for how the City is implementing 
the state law through the overlay. Committee Member Crews explained that state laws 
can change, stated that the current measures are a temporary solution, and 
emphasizing the need to explore more comprehensive solutions. Committee Member 
Smith cautioned that sometimes temporary solutions can become problematic. 
Committee Member Crews explained that failing to act will result in more families facing 
homelessness. Committee Member Smith expressed concern that new housing is too 
expensive, and that young people are struggling to afford housing. Committee Member 
Crews explained that unless the government steps in to subsidize housing and increase 
taxes, negotiations with developers will be necessary to find workable solutions. 
 
PUBLIC COMMENTS 
 
None. 
 
FLOOR/PUBLIC DISCUSSION CLOSED: MOTION, DISCUSSION, AND VOTE 
 
MOTION 
Committee Member Jak Keyser made a motion to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y 
per the staff recommendation. Committee Member Elizabeth Sanchez seconded the 
motion.  
 
VOTE 
11-2, motion to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y per the staff recommendation 
passed with Committee Members Crews, Farina, Harris, Keyser, Krietor, Owens, 
Pimentel, Sanchez, Shultz, Camp, and DeGraffenreid in favor and Committee Members 
Jones and Smith opposed. 
 
STAFF COMMENTS REGARDING VPC RECOMMENDATION: 
 
Staff has no comment.

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-136-24-Y 
*REVISED November 1, 2024 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
October 1, 2024 
Request 
Map the initial ARM Overlay boundaries within the 
approved transit-oriented development district 
boundaries generally bounded by Peoria Avenue on the 
north, State Route 51 on the east, South Mountain 
Avenue on the south, and 83rd Avenue on the west 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, per the staff recommendation  
VPC Vote 
16-0 
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
No members of the public registered to speak on this item. 
 
John Roanhorse, staff, provided a summary on the text amendments and noted there 
were two distinct items for review and voting, following a previous discussion Mr. 
Roanhorse stated that TA-3-24-Y focuses on adaptive reuse, a critical issue for 
promoting growth in underdeveloped areas and aligns with the state legislative actions 
encouraging adaptive reuse, creating a streamlined process within the zoning ordinance 
to facilitate such projects. Mr. Roanhorse discussed TA-136-24-Y noting the focus on 
the maps to accommodate development, particularly addressing how zoning maps will 
support adaptive reuse and multifamily developments. Mr. Roanhorse noted previous 
presentations to the committee that detailed changes to the zoning ordinance aimed at 
making multifamily and adaptive reuse developments more cohesive. Mr. Roanhorse 
said one key area of concern involved allowing administrative approvals of certain 
developments without public input, particularly for commercial and office mixed-use 
buildings. Mr. Roanhorse stated additionally, the potential for increased height and 
density in transit-oriented communities was noted as a recurring concern, but the 
amendments seek to balance these factors with the existing zoning framework. 
 
QUESTIONS FROM THE COMMITTEE: 
 
Committee Member Paceley asked about the 10 percent allocation for affordable and 
workforce housing and how would requirements for development be implemented. Mr. 
Roanhorse responded that during the review process applicants and developer may 
access how to include various housing types. Committee Member Paceley asked if the

Camelback East Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
Page 2 of 2 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona 85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Village Planning Committee will see plans and be able to add stipulations for housing 
and development. Mr. Roanhorse responded that for rezoning cases that come to the 
Committee they may review and provide feedback and if practical include stipulations.  
 
Committee Member Augusta asked if parking would change as a result of this 
proposed text amendment considering the implications of previous parking 
amendments. Mr. Roanhorse responded that proposals would still meet the required 
parking based on the zoning. Mr. Cameron McCutchen, staff, responded that with 
parking requirements, instead of maximums the City utilized minimums to provide 
allowance for a specific number of parking spaces. Mr. McCutchen stated that in some 
cases options like the Walkable Urban Code allow flexibility in different transects to 
incentivize measures to reduce automobile parking. 
 
PUBLIC COMMENTS: 
 
None. 
 
STAFF RESPONSE: 
 
None.  
 
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: 
 
Committee Member Paceley commented the proposed text amendments are a good 
idea to include access to light rail and improve multifamily development and it makes 
good sense. 
 
MOTION 
 
Committee Member Paceley motioned to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y per the 
staff recommendation. Committee Member Sharaby seconded the motion. 
 
VOTE 
 
16-0; motion to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y per the staff recommendation 
passes with Committee members Abbott, Augusta, Baumer, Bayless, Beckerleg 
Thraen, Garcia, Guevar, Jurayeva, Langmade, Paceley, Schmieder, Sharaby, 
Whitesell, Williams, Fischbach and Swart in favor. 
 
STAFF COMMENTS REGARDING VPC RECOMMENDATION: 
 
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-136-24-Y 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
October 1, 2024 
Request 
Map the initial ARM Overlay boundaries within the 
approved transit-oriented development district 
boundaries generally bounded by Peoria Avenue on the 
north, State Route 51 on the east, South Mountain 
Avenue on the south, and 83rd Avenue on the west 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval per the staff recommendation with 
modifications passes 
VPC Vote 
16-0 
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
No members of the public registered to speak on this item. 
 
John Roanhorse, staff, provided a summary on the text amendments and noted there 
were two distinct items for review and voting, following a previous discussion Mr. 
Roanhorse stated that TA-3-24-Y focuses on adaptive reuse, a critical issue for 
promoting growth in underdeveloped areas and aligns with the state legislative actions 
encouraging adaptive reuse, creating a streamlined process within the zoning ordinance 
to facilitate such projects. Mr. Roanhorse discussed TA-136-24-Y noting the focus on 
the maps to accommodate development, particularly addressing how zoning maps will 
support adaptive reuse and multifamily developments. Mr. Roanhorse noted previous 
presentations to the committee that detailed changes to the zoning ordinance aimed at 
making multifamily and adaptive reuse developments more cohesive. Mr. Roanhorse 
said one key area of concern involved allowing administrative approvals of certain 
developments without public input, particularly for commercial and office mixed-use 
buildings. Mr. Roanhorse stated additionally, the potential for increased height and 
density in transit-oriented communities was noted as a recurring concern, but the 
amendments seek to balance these factors with the existing zoning framework. 
 
QUESTIONS FROM THE COMMITTEE: 
 
Committee Member Paceley asked about the 10 percent allocation for affordable and 
workforce housing and how would requirements for development be implemented. Mr. 
Roanhorse responded that during the review process applicants and developer may 
access how to include various housing types. Committee Member Paceley asked if the 
Village Committee will see plans and be able to add stipulations for housing and

Camelback East Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
Page 2 of 2 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
development. Mr. Roanhorse responded that for rezoning cases that come to the 
Committee they may review and provide feedback and if practical include stipulations.   
 
Committee Member Augusta asked if parking would change as a result of this 
proposed text amendment considering the implications of previous parking 
amendments. Mr. Roanhorse responded that proposals would still meet the required 
parking based on the zoning. Mr. Cameron McCutchen, staff, responded that with 
parking requirements, instead of maximum the City utilized minimums to provide 
allowance for a specific number of parking spaces. Mr. McCutchen stated that in some 
cases options like the Walkable Urban Code allow flexibility in different transects to 
incentivize measures to reduce automobile parking. 
 
PUBLIC COMMENTS: 
 
None. 
 
STAFF RESPONSE: 
 
None.   
 
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: 
 
Committee Member Paceley commented the proposed text amendments are a good 
idea to include access to light rail and improve multifamily development and it makes 
good sense. 
 
MOTION 
 
Committee Member Paceley motioned to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y per the 
staff recommendation. Committee Member Sharaby seconded the motion. 
 
VOTE 
 
16-0; motion to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y per the staff recommendation 
passes with Committee members Abbott, Augusta, Baumer, Bayless, Beckerleg 
Thraen, Garcia, Guevar, Jurayeva, Langmade, Paceley, Schmieder, Sharaby, 
Whitesell, Williams, Fischbach and Swart in favor. 
 
STAFF COMMENTS REGARDING VPC RECOMMENDATION & STIPULATIONS: 
 
None.

Village Planning Committee Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y  
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
October 7, 2024 
Request  
Map the initial ARM Overlay boundaries within the 
approved transit-oriented development district 
boundaries generally bounded by Peoria Avenue on 
the north, State Route 51 on the east, South Mountain 
Avenue on the south, and 83rd Avenue on the west. 
VPC Recommendation 
Denial 
VPC Vote 
8-4-1 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
No members of the public registered to speak on this item. 
STAFF PRESENTATION: 
 
John Roanhorse, staff, provided a summary on the text amendments and noted there 
were two distinct items for review and voting. Mr. Roanhorse stated that TA-3-24-Y 
focuses on adaptive reuse, a critical issue for promoting growth in underdeveloped 
areas and aligns with the state legislative actions encouraging adaptive reuse, creating 
a streamlined process within the zoning ordinance to facilitate such projects. Mr. 
Roanhorse discussed TA-136-24-Y noting the focus on the maps to accommodate 
development, particularly addressing how zoning maps will support adaptive reuse and 
multifamily developments. Mr. Roanhorse noted previous presentations to the 
committee that detailed changes to the zoning ordinance aimed at making multifamily 
and adaptive reuse developments more cohesive. Mr. Roanhorse said one key area of 
concern involved allowing administrative approvals of certain developments without 
public input, particularly for commercial and office mixed-use buildings. Mr. Roanhorse 
stated additionally, the potential for increased height and density in transit-oriented 
communities was noted as a recurring concern, but the amendments seek to balance 
these factors with the existing zoning framework.

Encanto Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
Page 2 of 5 
 
QUESTIONS FROM THE COMMITTEE: 
 
Chair Wagner commented that House Bill 2297, stipulates that no more than 10 percent of 
eligible properties within the city can be developed for adaptive reuse. Chair Wagner stated that 
the current TOC overlay seems to include over 20 percent of commercially zoned properties, 
exceeding the 10 percent cap. Mr. Roanhorse responded that the 10 percent cap does not 
necessarily apply to every property in the TOC, as the city has mapped areas where adaptive 
reuse is appropriate. Mr. Roanhorse stated the focus is on working within the existing zoning 
framework, ensuring consistency with what is already allowed by zoning ordinance. Mr. 
Roanhorse stated the amendments will streamline adaptive reuse in areas that can 
accommodate it without increasing zoning entitlements, maintaining balance between 
development and current zoning laws. 
 
Chair Wagner asked how the City will track commercial properties within the overlay to ensure 
compliance with the amendments. Mr. Roanhorse responded that the City is currently 
gathering data on the percentage of commercial properties and their square footage and are 
aware of the need to monitor this information for future development. Mr. Roanhorse stated that 
in a previous presentation staff explained that exact numbers are still being collected. 
 
Committee Member George asked whether the committee would be notified about specific 
properties or buildings eligible for development. Mr. Roanhorse responded that the committee 
would be notified of any rezoning cases or changes, and that notices would still be provided for 
developments that were by-right. Mr. Roanhorse stated that notifications would go to 
neighborhoods and associations when significant changes or developments were made. 
 
Committee Member Jewett stated there was not clarity regarding height restriction and 
reiterated that what he understood in the presentation, and it did not align with what he was 
reading in the legislation. Committee Member Jewett stated concern about buildings being 
classified as functionally obsolete and noted the potential for manipulation by neglecting repairs 
or setting rent prices high enough to keep properties vacant. Committee Member Jewett stated 
that properties may be left to deteriorate intentionally and asked if there were any measures in 
place to prevent such manipulation and noted the issue of neglected properties in his 
neighborhood. Mr. Roanhorse responded that is a concern and will be a challenging issue and 
stated the PDD (Planning and Development Department) is focused on fostering development 
potential rather than driving economic disinvestment. Mr. Roanhorse said that the City can 
collaborate with departments like Neighborhood Services to address repairs or underused 
properties and noted that the City's Economic Development Department has measures in place 
to intervene when necessary and some initiative falls on the private development community. 
Mr. Roanhorse explained that the text amendment aims to prevent intentional disinvestment and 
supports development in appropriate areas, particularly near transit corridors. 
 
Chair Wagner expressed frustration that neither the City nor the State have provided clear 
answers to important questions that were brought up during the review. Chair Wagner said that 
there is a growing need for accessible workforce housing and noted the limitation of the

Encanto Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
Page 3 of 5 
 
adaptive reuse program is just 6 percent of the City's land, primarily around 50 TOD areas. 
Chair Wagner stated that only 18 percent of service workers live in the TOD areas, leaving 88 
percent of service workers without affordable housing options near transit locations. Chair 
Wagner said the City should expand opportunities for adaptive reuse beyond the current 
limitations, noting that more affordable housing options should be available in other areas like 
Desert Ridge and Camelback East, rather than restricting it to a small percentage of land near 
transit areas. Chair Wagner stated disappointment in the current approach and hoped that the 
City will make adjustments by January to better address the housing needs of Phoenix's 
workforce. Mr. Roanhorse responded that the overlay does promote the creation of affordable 
housing by requiring that 10 percent of units be dedicated to affordable or workforce housing. 
Mr. Roanhorse stated the importance of defining affordable and workforce housing, which has 
been clarified in the amendment. Mr. Roanhorse stated that the multifamily overlay and adaptive 
reuse provisions encourage development in areas near transit, especially around light rail, while 
allowing flexibility for developers to adapt projects to the unique characteristics of those zones. 
Mr. Roanhorse stated that historic preservation remains unaffected by these changes. 
 
Vice Chair Rodriguez said there is concern about the complexity of the proposed changes, 
particularly in relation to HB 2297, noting that these types of amendments can be difficult to 
understand. Vice Chair Rodriguez stated that there needs for more accessible and visual 
presentations, as well as clearer communication from the City to help the public understand the 
details of proposed changes. Vice Chair Rodriguez stated that staff working on proposals 
should make them more digestible, particularly for community members unfamiliar with zoning 
language. Vice Chair Rodriguez stated that while developers are not mandated to use the 
adaptive reuse and multifamily overlay, they must meet the affordability requirements if they 
choose to participate. Mr. Roanhorse responded that there are challenges in responding to 
legislative requirements while maintaining practical zoning interaction with the public and 
despite these challenges public involvement remains crucial, as various committees and 
organizations are regularly engaged in the planning and review processes. 
 
Vice Chair Rodriguez expressed frustration with the lack of feedback opportunities regarding 
the TOC presentation. Vice Chair Rodriguez stated she walks, bikes, and uses public transit, 
and it feel like a dead zone with lack vibrancy around Central Avenue. Vice Chair Rodriguez 
said there is a need for improvements and the importance of providing workforce housing close 
to transit corridors. Vice Chair Rodriguez said there are challenges faced by service workers 
and teachers who deserve to live near where they work but currently do not have sufficient 
options. Mr. Roanhorse responded the challenges in providing affordable housing and 
workforce opportunities are significant and the City is in the process of expanding opportunities. 
 
Committee Member Doescher stated concern with the current state legislation affecting 
affordable housing and the pressing need for housing options near employment centers, 
particularly for healthcare workers who often face challenges due to irregular hours. Committee 
Member Doescher stated that while some developments may be located near light rail, this 
approach does not address the diverse needs of all residents, especially those with limited 
housing options. Committee Member Doescher said it is frustrating that state laws that do not 
consider local realities, stating that these mandates could hinder cities' ability to address their

Encanto Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
Page 4 of 5 
 
unique housing challenges and the concern that developers might prioritize profit over 
affordable housing. 
 
Committee Member Warnicke expressed concerns about certain properties within the 
TOD area, stating that some should not be designated for five-story buildings. 
Committee Member Warnicke said that instead of focusing solely on the light rail 
corridor for affordable housing, the city should also consider properties along bus routes 
and mass transit lines and this approach would help protect neighborhoods from 
changes like large out-of-place buildings and create affordable housing along existing 
transit routes. 
 
Chair Wagner stated that the state legislation originally intended to apply the TOD 
statewide, but the City of Phoenix chose to focus on 60 percent of its land area. Chair 
Wagner said it was disappointing that the City's current approach focuses on expensive 
properties along the light rail corridor may not become affordable housing. Chair 
Wagner said there might be an opportunity for small developers to convert underutilized 
buildings across the entire City, rather than concentrating on a limited area and there is 
a need for more meaningful progress and that they have until January to reconsider 
their approach. 
 
Vice Chair Rodriguez stated that when the City initiated the Walkable Urban (WU) Code, it was 
a citywide proposal. Vice Chair Rodriguez said there were concerns at the time, including the 
potential for overdevelopment in areas not ready for it, which led to opposition against it. Vice 
Chair Rodriguez stated there is some confusion about the current situation, where there is now 
interest in focusing citywide development around transportation, such as the light rail and asked 
for clarification on the approach now, comparing it to previous concerns about the broader 
application of the WU Code. Mr. Klimek responded that the WU Code was proposed citywide 
and that it was reviewed by all 15 Village Planning Committees and stated that many projects 
have successfully utilized the code in various areas of the city. Mr. Roanhorse responded that 
while the WU Code had been applied successfully in some areas, it was not practical 
everywhere and noted it has been adapted in a few projects, driving innovation in development, 
particularly in mixed-use areas. 
 
Vice Chair Rodriguez stated there is difficulty in balancing the need for flexibility in 
development with protecting neighborhoods from rapid development. Vice Chair 
Rodriguez said there were past concerns about certain developments, such as the 
Phoenix Country Club, which raised worries about similar projects taking an easier route 
for approval and there needs to be better understand with the current perspective on 
expanding development citywide, especially focusing on transit corridors. Mr. 
Roanhorse responded that some areas are better suited for mixed-use or dense 
development, while others may need a more specialized approach and there are many 
challenges for future development. 
 
Committee Member Procaccini asked about the potential for expanding development 
beyond the current overlay boundaries and whether there are plans or metrics guiding

Encanto Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
Page 5 of 5 
 
future development areas. Mr. Roanhorse responded that the City is planning future 
text amendments and noted that the City is trying to be more responsive in addressing 
development needs, particularly around transportation hubs and with a focus on 
increasing housing options, including single-family and multifamily developments. Mr. 
Roanhorse referenced the Housing Phoenix Plan as a guide for future residential 
growth. 
 
PUBLIC COMMENT: 
 
None. 
 
STAFF RESPONSE: 
 
 
None. 
 
MOTION FOR Z-136-24-Y: 
Committee Member George motioned to recommend denial of Z-136-24-Y. 
Committee Member Warnicke seconded the motion.  
VOTE FOR Z-136-24-Y: 
8-4-1; motioned to recommend denial of Z-136-24-Y passes with Committee Members 
Doescher, George, Kleinman, Mahrle, Perez, Montaño Searles, Warnicke and Wagner 
in favor; and Jewett, Procaccini, Tedhams and Rodriguez in opposition; and Cardenas 
abstaining. 
 
STAFF COMMENTS REGARDING VPC RECOMMENDATION: 
 
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-136-24-Y 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
 
October 15, 2024  
Request  
 
Map the initial ARM Overlay boundaries within the 
approved transit-oriented development district 
boundaries generally bounded by Peoria Avenue on the 
north, State Route 51 on the east, South Mountain 
Avenue on the south, and 83rd Avenue on the west. 
VPC Recommendation 
 
No quorum 
VPC Vote 
No quorum 
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
No quorum. 
 
Staff comments regarding VPC Recommendation:  
 
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-136-24-Y 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
 
October 9, 2024  
Request  
 
Map the initial ARM Overlay boundaries within the 
approved transit-oriented development district 
boundaries generally bounded by Peoria Avenue on the 
north, State Route 51 on the east, South Mountain 
Avenue on the south, and 83rd Avenue on the west. 
VPC Recommendation 
 
No quorum 
VPC Vote 
No quorum 
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
No quorum. 
 
Staff comments regarding VPC Recommendation:  
 
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-136-24-Y 
 
 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
October 16, 2024 
Request 
Map the initial ARM Overlay boundaries within the 
approved transit-oriented development district 
boundaries generally bounded by Peoria Avenue on 
the north, State Route 51 on the east, South Mountain 
Avenue on the south, and 83rd Avenue on the west. 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, per the staff recommendation, with direction 
VPC Vote 
13-0 
 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
No members of the public registered to speak on this item. 
 
STAFF PRESENTATION 
 
Ms. Stockham, staff, provided a brief presentation regarding the proposed text 
amendment Z-TA-3-24 and companion case Z-136-24-Y, sharing elements of the 
legislation (HB 2297) and the proposed Adaptive Reuse and Multi-Family (ARM) Overlay 
District, the areas of applicability, the proposed Zoning Ordinance revisions, and the 
hearing schedule for the cases.  
 
QUESTIONS FROM COMMITTEE 
 
None. 
 
PUBLIC COMMENTS 
 
None.  
 
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION 
 
Vice Chair Joshua Matthews shared his understanding of the proposal and the 
timeline for compliance with state law and shared a desire to recommend approval of 
the proposal and to expand the applicability to other areas, such as Village Cores, in the 
future.

North Mountain Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
Page 2 of 3 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
Committee Member Gabriel Jaramillo added that this is an opportunity to expand it to 
other areas now.  
 
Committee Member Arick O’Hara stated that he agreed with Committee Member 
Jaramillo but not on the deadline to push this through by January. Committee Member 
O’Hara stated that with a deadline to comply by January, the committee could vote no 
without direction, and shared that when the committee makes a recommendation with 
direction, there is a concern that the committee’s direction could not be listened to by 
other hearing bodies. Committee Member O’Hara shared that he does not disagree with 
the proposal but disagrees with the way it is being done and that he did not want to limit 
it to an area now and expand it later. 
 
Committee Member Mike Krentz shared that state law will be effective in January, this 
proposal will serve as a template to expand it to other areas, and reminded the 
committee of a previous proposal to expand the Walkable Urban Code applicability area 
citywide which was met with opposition. 
 
Vice Chair Joshua Matthews stated that City Council will take action before January, 
and that he would also like to add direction regarding tracking and reporting the use of 
the overlay provisions back to the Village Planning Committees. 
 
Committee Member Joshua Carmona asked if other hearing bodies take into 
consideration the direction provided by Village Planning Committees.  
 
Vice Chair Joshua Matthews replied that from a Planning Commissioner perspective, 
he reads the Village Planning Committee recommendations and if, for example, a 
Village Planning Committee recommended denial of a case unanimously, he will take a 
close look at the discussion, and that Village Planning Committee recommendations 
could impact the Planning Commission recommendation. 
 
Committee Member Gabriel Jaramillo stated he would also like to add direction to 
include Village Cores, along the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line, and other major 
transportation corridors.  
 
MOTION – Z-136-24-Y 
Committee Member Mike Krentz motioned to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y per 
the staff recommendation with direction that the boundaries be expanded in the future to 
include other areas in the city such as the Bus Rapid Transit line, Village Cores, and 
other transportation corridors and that the Planning and Development Department track 
and report the use of the overlay provisions to the Village Planning Committees. Vice 
Chair Joshua Matthews seconded the motion.  
 
VOTE – Z-136-24-Y 
13-0; Motion to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y per the staff recommendation with 
direction passed; with Committee Members Alauria, Carmona, Garbarino, Jaramillo, 
Krentz, Larson, McBride, Molfetta, O’Hara, Pamperin, Sommacampagna, Matthews and 
Fogelson in favor.

North Mountain Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
Page 3 of 3 
 
 
City of Phoenix • Planning & Development Department 
200 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor • Phoenix, Arizona  85003-1611 • (602) 262-6882 
 
STAFF COMMENTS REGARDING VPC RECOMMENDATION: 
 
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-136-24-Y 
 
Date of VPC Meeting 
October 8, 2024 
Request 
Map the initial ARM Overlay boundaries within the 
approved transit-oriented development district 
boundaries generally bounded by Peoria Avenue on 
the north, State Route 51 on the east, South Mountain 
Avenue on the south, and 83rd Avenue on the west. 
VPC Recommendation 
Approval, per the staff recommendation 
VPC Vote 
12-0 
 
VPC DISCUSSION: 
 
No members of the public registered to speak on this item. 
 
STAFF PRESENTATION 
 
Samuel Rogers, staff, provided a presentation regarding the proposed text amendment 
Z-TA-3-24 and Z-136-24-Y, highlighting the background of the legislation approved by the 
Arizona Legislature, the proposed Adaptive Reuse and Multi-Family (ARM) Overlay 
District, the areas of applicability, the overlay’s interaction with other policy plans, the 
proposed allowances for multifamily development and adaptive reuse, and the timeline for 
the proposal.  
 
QUESTIONS FROM THE COMMITTEE 
 
Committee Member Tamala Daniels inquired about the locations of the properties 
presented as examples of sites that could be developed under the ARM Overlay. Mr. 
Rogers stated that the presented example properties are not in South Mountain and 
explained he does not know the exact locations. 
 
Chair Trent Marchuk asked for clarification on conflicts with the ARM Overlay and the 
Baseline Area Overlay District (BAOD). Mr. Rogers explained that the ARM Overlay 
allows commercial properties to develop under the Walkable Urban (WU) Code Transect 
T5:5 standards and explained the T5:5 maximum setback is less that the BAOD minimum 
setback. Mr. Rogers explained that work had been done on an amendment to the BAOD 
in the past but had never gone to City Council for approval. Committee Member T. 
Daniels asked for clarification on why the amendment to the BAOD was not completed in 
the past and stated that there had been a Text Amendment (TA) to expand the WU 
Code’s applicability area. Mr. Rogers explained that he was not aware of the specific 
reasons why the BAOD amendment was not completed and explained that the TA to 
expand the WU Code’s applicability area ended up failing.

South Mountain Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
October 8, 2024 
Page 2 of 3 
 
 
Committee Member Marcia Busching clarified the boundaries of the BAOD, stated that 
she initiated the original effort to amend the BAOD, and explained that staff had informed 
her that other TAs would need to occur before the BAOD text amendment, resulting in the 
effort being paused. Committee Member Busching stated it is a good idea to include 
initialization of the BAOD amendment in the motion.  
 
Committee Member T. Daniels expressed confusion and frustration that the Transit-
Oriented Development (TOD) plan had been worked on for two years, but the BAOD 
conflicts had not been addressed, and explained that the City had tried to put forth a 
separate TA to reduce parking requirements for multifamily developments, but WU Code 
already addresses reduced parking requirements. Mr. Rogers explained that for staff to 
continue working on the BAOD amendment, the committee would need to include a 
recommendation to amend the BAOD. Mr. Rogers stated that he does not have 
information regarding the order in which TAs are brought to the VPC, explained that 
House Bill 2297 requires municipalities to implement new rules by the beginning of next 
year, and stated the ARM Overlay brought renewed attention to the conflicts with the 
BAOD. 
 
Committee Member Greg Brownell asked for clarification on whether resolving the 
conflicts between the BAOD and the WU Code would require the WU Code to supersede 
the BAOD. Committee Member Busching stated that the BAOD boundaries could be 
amended to end at 7th Street. 
 
Chair Marchuk asked for clarification on what process would be triggered if the 
committee recommended amending the BAOD. Mr. Rogers explained that such a 
recommendation would trigger an additional Text Amendment. 
 
Committee Member T. Daniels discussed the area within the South Central TOD 
Community Plan and the BAOD and asked about the boundaries of the BAOD. 
Committee Member Busching clarified the boundaries of the BAOD. Mr. Rogers 
explained that the City generally supports rezonings to the WU Code only if the site is 
within a TOD plan area, and clarified that sites governed by the WU Code within the 
BAOD cannot functionally develop due to conflicting regulations. 
 
Chair Marchuk inquired whether the committee would discuss the matter next month. 
Mr. Rogers stated that he would need to consult with his team to determine a timeline 
moving forward. 
 
Committee Member Brownell suggested that the committee could also make a motion 
to modify the ARM Overlay to address the conflicts. Mr. Rogers explained that the ARM 
Overlay is not likely to change much and a modification of the BAOD would likely need to 
be an amendment to the BAOD. Committee Member Brownell asked for confirmation 
that, if there was an R1-6 property where a second story was being added, this process

South Mountain Village Planning Committee 
Meeting Summary 
Z-136-24-Y 
October 8, 2024 
Page 3 of 3 
 
would not be impacted. Mr. Rogers confirmed that the ARM Overlay will not change the 
process of permitting on an R1-6 property. 
 
FLOOR/PUBLIC DISCUSSION CLOSED: MOTION, DISCUSSION, AND VOTE 
 
MOTION 
Committee Member Marcia Busching made a motion to recommend approval of Z-136-
24-Y per the staff recommendation. Committee Member Emma Viera seconded the 
motion.  
 
VOTE 
12-0, motion to recommend approval of Z-136-24-Y per the staff recommendation passed 
with Committee Members Alvarez, Beehler, Brooks, Brownell, Busching, Coleman, F. 
Daniels, T. Daniels, Shepard, Viera, Greathouse, and Marchuk in favor.