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December 7, 2022
CPA2022010
Page 1 of 2
Report to the Board of Supervisors
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
Board Hearing Date:
December 7, 2022
Case #/Title:
CPA2022010 – Harquahala Sun III
Supervisor District:
5
Applicant:
Kimley-Horn
Owners:
Multiple – See Parcel Exhibit in Planning & Zoning Packet
Request:
Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) to change
the land use designation in the Vision 2030 Maricopa County
Comprehensive Plan from Rural Development Area to Utilities.
CPA approval is by Resolution.
Site Location:
Generally located between Lower Buckeye Rd. to the north,
Elliot Rd. to the south, 539th Ave. to the west and the 487th
Ave. alignment to the east
Site Size:
Approx. 9,033 acres
County Island Status:
No
Additional
Comments:
The
applicant
seeks
a
Major
Comprehensive
Plan
Amendment to change the land use designation in the
Comprehensive Plan to utilities in order to develop a solar
installation. The subject site is identified as having Rural
Development Area land use designation in the Vision 2030
Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan. All approx. 9,033
acres are designated as Rural Development Area (0-1
d.u./acre). This designation encourages low-density rural
residential and agricultural uses. Staff received three (3)
letters from adjacent/internal jurisdictions (Town of Carefree,
Yavapai County, Pima County) expressing no concerns. AZ
Dept. of Game & Fish commented on the site regarding
wildlife and hydrology. AZSHPO and AZAG had no concerns.
Luke Air Force Base requested that the applicant complete
the DOD Siting Clearinghouse review. The applicant agreed
to complete the DOD Siting Clearinghouse review at the time
of a future zone change. Staff received no opposition to this
case.
December 7, 2022
CPA2022010
Page 2 of 2
Commission
Recommendation:
On 11/3/22, the Commission voted 9-0 to recommend
approval of CPA2022010 subject to conditions ‘a’ – ‘d’:
a.
Development and use of the site shall be substantial conformance with the
narrative report entitled “Harquahala Sun III” dated revised October 7, 2022 and
stamped received October 17, 2022, except as modified by the following
conditions.
b.
Development and use of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the land
use exhibit entitled “Harquahala Sun III” dated revised October 7, 2022 and
stamped received October 13, 2022, except as modified by the following
conditions.
c.
The land use designation of utilities approved as part of case CPA2022010 shall be
subject to any applicable time limits set forth in the subsequent zone change.
d.
The applicant is proposing to develop a photovoltaic solar electric generating
facility which, pursuant to the Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan,
necessitates a change in the land use designation from Rural Development Area
to Utilities. The proposal by the applicant represents a comprehensive approach
to the subject property and will allow the applicant to pursue the proper
entitlements pursuant to state law so that they can lawfully operate in
unincorporated Maricopa County. This particular proposal is an appropriate plan
for the property and is consistent with the overall intention of the comprehensive
plan. However, in the event that the zone change or a zone change phase for this
particular proposal is not approved by Maricopa County Board of Supervisors
(BOS) within five (5) years from the date of Board approval of this comprehensive
plan amendment, this amendment shall no longer be effective as the planning
justification for this comprehensive plan amendment will no longer be present. In
such instance, a change of the land use designation from Utilities to Rural
Development Area will occur, and all comprehensive plan land use maps shall be
altered to reflect as such, because this represents superior long-range planning by
Maricopa County.
Presented by:
Adam Cannon, AICP, Senior Planner
Reviewed by:
Darren Gerard, AICP, Planning Manager
Attachments:
11/3/22 P&Z Packet (71 pages)
CPA2022010 Resolution (2 pages)
Note:
11/3/22 Draft P&Z Minutes are not available as of the writing of this report, but can
be provided upon request later when available.
CPA2022010
Page 1 of 10
Report to the Planning and Zoning Commission
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
Case:
CPA2022010 – Harquahala Sun III
Hearing Date:
November 3, 2022
Supervisor District:
5
Applicant:
Kimley-Horn
Owners:
Multiple – See Parcel Exhibit in Attachments
Request:
Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) to change the land
use designation in the Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive
Plan from Rural Development Area to Utilities
Site Location:
Generally located between Lower Buckeye Rd. to the north, Elliot
Rd. to the south, 539th Ave. to the west and the 487th Ave. alignment
to the east
Site Size:
Approx. 9,033 acres
Density:
N/A
County Island:
No
County Plan:
Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan – Rural
Development Area (0-1 d.u./ac.)
Municipal Plan:
N/A
Agency Comments:
Yavapai County, Pima County, Town of Carefree, Luke Air Force
Base (LAFB), Arizona Game & Fish Department (AZGFD), ADOT ROW
Project Management, ADOT Southwest District, Arizona Attorney
General’s Office, Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (AZSHPO)
Support/Opposition:
None received
Recommendation:
Approve with conditions
CPA2022010
Page 2 of 10
Project Summary:
1.
Kimley-Horn is requesting a Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) to change the
land use designation in the Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan from Rural
Development Area to Utilities to allow development of a phased utility-scale solar electric
generating project generating approximately 1-gigawatt (GW) of electricity along with
a battery energy storage system. Due to the size of the project at 9,033.17 acres, a Major
CPA is required. The applicant will subsequently be required to obtain a Zone Change
with Overlay (including a precise Plan of Development) to IND-2 IUPD as part of the
entitlement process within five (5) years (on initial phase or for the entirety of the
development).
2.
The site is comprised of sixty-three (63) privately-owned, contiguous parcels located in
the Harquahala Valley. The valley is situated in between the Eagletail Mountain
Wilderness area to the west and Saddle Mountain to the east. Parcels adjacent to the
site include a mix of private, state and federal ownership including land owned by the
Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Several
rural residential subdivisions such as Eagletail Ranches are located on the perimeter of or
near the site. A single parcel internal to the subject site that is not a part of the CPA
request serves as an APS substation. The applicant’s narrative does not specify whether
site control options are secured for all of the parcels.
3.
Nearly all land used for solar energy projects are developed with the large fields of solar
collectors that capture the energy through photovoltaic technology. The topography is
flat which allows for development of solar energy with little or no additional grading. The
site includes vacant, native desert land and some large agricultural parcels utilized for
row crops. Some washes are also present throughout the site. In addition, the general
area contains significant local electrical infrastructure including the aforementioned APS
substation.
4.
Adjacent to the site are vacant, agricultural, industrial and rural residential uses. Board
approved CPAs and zone changes for solar projects adjacent to the site include Saddle
Mountain Solar and Eagletail Solar Farm. Additionally, the Board approved the Maricopa
Solar and Storage Project in 2020 under CPA2020002. The Maricopa Solar and Storage
Project is an approx. 11,260 acre site to the northeast of the subject request. Harquahala
Sun III is expected to interconnect to the APS Delaney Substation.
5.
The narrative asserts that the proposed development meets the Comprehensive Plan
Amendment criteria in the following manner:
Whether the amendment constitutes an overall improvement to the Comprehensive Plan
and is not solely for the good or benefit of a particular landowner or owners at a particular
point in time.
The narrative states that Harquahala Sun III is an improvement to the Comprehensive Plan
due to the benefits to the state, county, local and regional economy. According to the
narrative, a future solar and battery storage development will provide employment for
approximately 400-600 construction employees per 30 month construction phase for up
to 4 construction phases. The site is also expected to have 15 part-time seasonal
employees and 20 part-time employees for equipment repair and replacement. The
CPA2022010
Page 3 of 10
applicant will make efforts to hire individuals from the local area and region. The
applicant’s narrative references APS’s request for proposals to supply renewable energy
to APS customers within the regional grid to meet Arizona’s Renewable Portfolio Standard
which includes standards for investor-owned utilities at 45% by 2030 and 100% by 2050.
Additionally, there will be little transportation infrastructure or water resources required to
serve the site. Therefore, the amendment constitutes an overall improvement to the
Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan and is not solely for the good or
benefit of a particular landowner/owners at a particular point in time.
Whether the amendment will adversely impact all or a portion of the planning area.
A.
Altering acceptable land use patterns to the detriment of the plan – According to
the narrative, the amendment will not alter any surrounding land uses or land use
patterns. The land is currently vacant or agricultural. While this land will be
unavailable during the life of the project, the land can return to its agricultural
function when the project ceases. Moreover, this site is situated in the vicinity of
other utility uses in Maricopa County and comprises a key use-sector of
unincorporated Maricopa County including utilities (solar and electric generating
stations), agriculture and rural-residential.
B.
Requiring public expenditures for larger or more expensive infrastructure - The
narrative states that the project would not require public expenditures for larger
or more expensive infrastructure. The costs of the project’s infrastructure needs
shall be borne by the developer.
C.
Requiring public improvements to roads, sewer, or water systems that are needed
to support the planned land uses – The narrative states that the project would
require improvements to roads (underground cabling and access) and on-site
water and wastewater service using hauled or well water and septic. Existing
roads are expected to serve the project and any additional project infrastructure
needs shall be borne by the developer.
D.
Adversely impacting planned uses because of increased traffic – The narrative
indicates there would be increased traffic during the four construction phases
(approximately 30 months per phase) for the delivery of equipment / supplies and
the commuting of the construction work force, but there would be no significant
increase in traffic during the operational life of the project following the
construction phase. Access to existing uses within and around the site area would
remain open to owners. A traffic statement will be provided in a future zone
change proposal if the CPA is approved.
E.
Affecting the livability of the area or health or safety of present and future residents
– During the construction period, dust control measures shall be utilized to minimize
fugitive dust generation including proper grading and erosion control.
Additionally, the project will follow federal, state and local regulations regarding
the production, use, storage, transport or disposal of hazardous materials, but the
construction or operation is not expected to include hazardous activities,
materials, processes or outputs. Wildlife prevention and mitigation measures will
be incorporated into the Plan of Development. Fire hazard risks will be controlled
CPA2022010
Page 4 of 10
through weed control. Therefore, the project will not affect the livability of the
area or health or safety of present and future residents.
F.
Adversely impacting the natural environment or scenic quality of the area in
contradiction to the plan – The applicant states that the project will not significantly
impact the natural environment or overall scenic quality of the area. There are
key measures of responsibility that demonstrate an applicant’s commitment to
avoiding adverse impacts to the natural environment and scenic quality of a site.
These measures are subjective in a sense, but may include animals, plants,
historical resources, scenic views and hydrology/ground disturbance.
Animals
The applicant performed a preliminary site investigation to identify habitats for
creatures. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) has commented on
the proposed project regarding measures to protect wildlife encountered on the
site such as the Mule Deer, Sonoran Desert Tortoise, Sonoran Pronghorn, Kit Fox,
Gila Monster, Arizona Toad, Western Burrowing Owl, LeConte’s Thrasher and Bald
Eagle. Satisfaction of those comments are only required at the Zone Change with
Overlay stage (where a precise Plan of Development is required); however, Staff
expects coordination to occur during the CPA process. The applicant
demonstrated some coordination with AZGFD.
Plants
The applicant will salvage or dispose of protected native plants in accordance
with AAC Title 3, Chapter 3, Article 11.
Historical Resources
The applicant indicated that they performed a preliminary site inspection to
identify cultural resources, but did not perform a survey. AZSHPO did not comment
on the proposal. Satisfaction of SHPO comments is only required at the time of
construction permitting. Development will avoid any known archeological sites
and any discovery of human remains or funerary objects will be reported to the
Director of the Arizona State Museum upon discovery per state law.
Scenic Views
The narrative indicates that the height of panels and any screening from
residential will not obscure scenic views. The applicant noted that screening from
residential will be required to minimize the visual impact of the solar panels on
residence owners.
Hydrology/Ground Disturbance
The applicant does not address hydrology in detail in the narrative; however, notes
that any environmental impacts will be evaluated as part of the zone change and
plan of development stage if approved. For ground disturbance, it is not
expected that major road or transportation network improvements will be
required. Additionally, the applicant will implement dust mitigation, erosion
control BMPs and select soil stabilization/enhancement where existing erosion is
encountered.
CPA2022010
Page 5 of 10
Whether the amendment is consistent with the overall intent of the Comprehensive Plan.
The applicant’s narrative states that the request is consistent with the overall intent of the
Comprehensive Plan by addressing the Strategic Priorities for Maricopa County such as
protecting public health and safety, promoting stable economic growth, maintaining a
healthy environment, providing adequate community services and ensuring tax money
is spent efficiently. The applicant argues that the consistency to the intent is found within
the request’s consistency to the specific goals and policies each addressing the county’s
quality of life. Staff does not share the argument that consistency to the specific goals
and policies indicates outright consistency to the intent of the Plan; however, it would be
likely that a proposal does if it is overwhelmingly consistent. The applicant states the
proposal provides fiscally responsible alternative energy services and effective and
efficient infrastructure to implement delivery of services that help promote and
contribute to a healthy community that residents can enjoy. Staff feels that this statement
supports a component of the mission of the Plan which is providing responsible, necessary
public services so that residents can enjoy living in a healthy and safe community.
The extent to which the amendment is consistent with the specific goals and policies
contained within the plan.
The applicant’s narrative contains a substantial list of Goals and Policies from the Vision
2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan. This staff report identifies which Goals and
Policies the applicant’s narrative addressed.
Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
Land Use Element – Goal 3, Policy 7, Policy 20, Policy 22, Policy 27, Policy 31, Policy 33
Transportation Element – Goal 1, Goal 2, Goal 3, Policy 11, Policy 12, Policy 14
Environment Element – Goal 1, Policy 2, Policy 3, Policy 4, Policy 5
Economic Growth Element – Goal 1, Policy 5, Policy 10
Growth Area Element – Goal 1, Policy 1
Open Space Element – Goal 1
Water Resources Element –Goal 4, Policy 2, Policy 4, Policy 5, Policy 7
Energy Element – Goal 1, Goal 2, Policy 6
Cost of Development Element – Goal 2, Policy 2
Other pertinent information as requested by the Maricopa County Planning Department
Staff.
The applicant was responsive and provided quality information as requested by
Maricopa County Planning Department Staff.
CPA2022010
Page 6 of 10
2018 Aerial Map
Zoning Map – Rural-190, Rural-43 Zoning Districts & Surrounding Districts
CPA2022010
Page 7 of 10
Land Use Exhibit Excerpt – Current & Proposed Land Use – Rural Development Area to Utilities
Existing On-Site and Adjacent Zoning / Land Use:
6.
On-site:
Rural-43 & Rural-190 / Vacant/Agricultural
North:
Rural-43 / Vacant/Agricultural & Rural Residential
South:
Rural-43 & Rural-190 / Vacant/Agricultural, Rural Residential & Utilities
East:
Rural-43 & Rural-190 / Vacant/Agricultural, Rural Residential & Utilities
West:
Rural-43 / Vacant/Agricultural & Rural Residential
Utilities and Services:
7.
Water:
Private Well or Hauled Water
Wastewater:
Septic
School Districts:
Buckeye Union High School District #1
Arlington Elementary School District #47
Fire:
Harquahala Valley Fire District
Police:
MCSO
Right-of-Way:
8.
The following table includes existing and future right-of-way* and the future classification*
based upon the Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Major Streets
and Routes Plan.
CPA2022010
Page 8 of 10
Street Name
Existing ½ Width R/W
Future R/W* (Full)
Future Classification*
Baseline Rd.
65’ (Varies)
130’
Minor Arterial
Harquahala Valley Rd.
55’ (Varies)
200’
Parkway
Elliott Rd.
Unknown (Varies)
130’
Minor Arterial
539th Ave.
40’ (Varies)
130’
Minor Arterial
*Required dedication and future classification of ROW is tentative and subject to change
and will be established by MCDOT during a future Plan of Development review.
Adopted Plan:
9.
Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan: The entire site (approx. 9,033.17
acres) is designated as Rural Development Area (0-1 d.u./ac.). The Rural Development
Area land use designation encourages low-density rural residential and agricultural uses.
Public Participation Summary:
10.
The applicant posted the subject site and staff notified all property owners within 300’ of
the site. Pursuant to state law, Staff issued enhanced notification letters to all adjacent
and internal jurisdictions to Maricopa County, select state and regional agencies and
Luke Air Force Base (LAFB). Staff received three (3) letters from adjacent/internal
jurisdictions (Town of Carefree, Yavapai County, Pima County) expressing no concerns.
LAFB sent two comment letters to Staff asking the applicant to undergo informal review
through the DOD Siting Clearinghouse for Energy. LAFB did not issue a determination
stating whether the proposal would impact flying operations though noted in a phone
conversation that they were pleased with what the applicant included in their narrative.
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office stated that there are no objections to the request
as the site does not have an adverse impact on LAFB and does not appear that the site
will have a significant impact on automobile traffic. ADOT Right-of Way Project
Management and ADOT Southwest District had no comments. Comments received from
Arizona Game & Fish Department (AZGFD) and associated responses by the applicant
are included in the attachments section and are not actionable from the County’s
perspective until the Zone Change and Plan of Development stage. The Arizona State
Historic Preservation Office (AZSHPO) commented that they had no comments at this
time.
11.
According to the Public Participation Results Report submitted by the applicant, the
applicant did not conduct a public meeting and felt it was unnecessary to do so
because the applicant received approval on a previous case, remoteness of the site and
lack of surrounding facilities. Staff does not share this position; however, the applicant is
free to conduct public participation as the applicant desires outside of what is required
by County or State law.
12.
The Public Participation Results Report included a record of all phone calls and their
communications. All of the communications are information requests. One individual
asking for information also asked if their property could be included in the request.
13.
County Staff received no opposition or support letters for the request.
CPA2022010
Page 9 of 10
Outstanding Concerns from Reviewing Agencies:
14.
N/A
Staff Analysis:
15.
The state and Maricopa County recognize the potential environmental and economic
benefits that solar technology can provide. Harquahala Sun III will use photovoltaic
technology that generates energy from sun absorption. Photovoltaic technology differs
from other techniques that required vast amounts of water to cool the units. In contrast,
very little water is utilized for photovoltaic technology. As a result, this development
would not pose a threat to groundwater depletion. The battery storage component
associated with this proposal assists with additional production and any concerns
associated with fire will be resolved prior to any construction permit issuance.
16.
Staff believes the proposed solar facility is well suited to this rural area. Solar facilities
require large amounts of relatively flat land, and the vast majority of the subject site is
flat. Staff agrees with the applicant that the subject site is suitable due to relative
proximity to electrical transmission lines, nearby stations and substations, and because
the surrounding area is undeveloped. Staff agrees with the applicant that the project
will not detrimentally affect the visual quality of the area. Since the area is primarily
undeveloped vacant land in near proximity to other existing utility-scale solar projects,
staff believes there will be minimal impacts to the surrounding area.
17.
Promoting the development of solar energy over the past several years in Maricopa
County reinforces the County’s interest in promoting the County as an economic leader
for solar development. Staff believes Harquahala Sun III would add to this effort in a
positive way by providing the potential for 400-600 temporary construction jobs for up to
4 construction phases lasting approximately 30 months each. There will also be small
number of seasonal employment opportunities for County residents.
18.
Staff believes Harquahala Sun III is consistent with and meets the goals and policies of the
Comprehensive Plan. Staff’s position is that this project, as proposed and as governed by
the recommended conditions, represent proper long-term land use planning in the
region and for Maricopa County as a whole.
Recommendation:
19.
For the reasons outlined in this report, staff recommends the Commission motion for
Approval, subject to conditions ‘a’ – ‘d’.
a.
Development and use of the site shall be substantial conformance with the
narrative report entitled “Harquahala Sun III” dated revised October 7, 2022 and
stamped received October 17, 2022, except as modified by the following
conditions.
b.
Development and use of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the land
use exhibit entitled “Harquahala Sun III” dated revised October 7, 2022 and
stamped received October 13, 2022, except as modified by the following
conditions.
CPA2022010
Page 10 of 10
c.
The land use designation of utilities approved as part of case CPA2022010 shall be
subject to any applicable time limits set forth in the subsequent zone change.
d.
The applicant is proposing to develop a photovoltaic solar electric generating
facility which, pursuant to the Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan,
necessitates a change in the land use designation from Rural Development Area
to Utilities. The proposal by the applicant represents a comprehensive approach
to the subject property and will allow the applicant to pursue the proper
entitlements pursuant to state law so that they can lawfully operate in
unincorporated Maricopa County. This particular proposal is an appropriate plan
for the property and is consistent with the overall intention of the comprehensive
plan. However, in the event that the zone change or a zone change phase for this
particular proposal is not approved by Maricopa County Board of Supervisors
(BOS) within five (5) years from the date of Board approval of this comprehensive
plan amendment, this amendment shall no longer be effective as the planning
justification for this comprehensive plan amendment will no longer be present. In
such instance, a change of the land use designation from Utilities to Rural
Development Area will occur, and all comprehensive plan land use maps shall be
altered to reflect as such, because this represents superior long-range planning by
Maricopa County.
Presented by:
Adam Cannon, AICP, Senior Planner
Reviewed by:
Matthew Holm, AICP, Planning Supervisor
Attachments:
Case Map (1 page)
Land Use Exhibit (reduced 8.5”x11”, 1 page)
Narrative Report (25 pages)
Parcel Exhibit (1 page)
MCESD Comments (1 page)
AZGFD Comments & Applicant Responses (17 pages)
AZSHPO Comments (1 page)
LAFB Comments (3 pages)
AZAG Comments (2 pages)
ADOT ROW Project Management Comments (2 pages)
ADOT Southwest District Comments (3 pages)
Yavapai County Comments (1 page)
Pima County Comments (1 page)
Town of Carefree Comments (1 page)
MARICOPA COUNTY
/
Maricopa County Planning & Development - Phoenix, AZ
5
Gross Acres: 9033.17 approx.
Generated October 24, 2022 15:28 PM
CPA2022010
Application Name:
Legal Description
Harquahala Sun III
Applicant
Case Address
T01S R09W 4, T1N R09W 20, T1N R09W 21, T1N R09W 22, T1N R09W 25, T1N R09W 26, T1N R09W 27, T1N R09W 28, T1N R
KEITH NICHTER for KIMLEY-HORN
Applicant Phone/Email
Parcel Primary:401-57-006
602.313.7206
KEITH.NICHTER@KIMLEY-HORN.COM
Map scale 1:85,412
Supervisor District No.
401-55-007G, 401-55-024, 401-55-026+
MAJOR CPA TO CHANGE THE LAND USE DESIGNATION IN THE VISION 2030 MARICOPA COUNTY
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FROM RURAL DEVELOPMENT AREA TO UTILITIES
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N
0'
2,000'
4,000'
HARQUAHALA SUN III
MARICOPA COUNTY, AZ
EXISTING & PROPOSED LAND USE EXHIBIT
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
DRAWN BY: JK
SCALE: APPROX.
LEGEND
PROPOSED CPA
BOUNDARY
ARIZONA STATE LAND
DEPARTMENT (ASLD)
BUREAU OF LAND
MANAGEMENT (BLM)
RURAL DEVELOPMENT
AREA
UTILITIES
PRIVATE LAND
TOWNSHIP/RANGE LINE
T01N R08W
T01S R08W
T01N R09W
T01S R09W
T01N R09W
T01N R08W
T01S R09W
T01S R08W
W LOWER BUCKEYE RD
S 487TH AVE
S 539TH AVE
W ELLIOT RD
W BASELINE RD
W SOUTHERN AVE
W LOWER BUCKEYE RD
S 487TH AVE
S 539TH AVE
W ELLIOT RD
W BASELINE RD
W SOUTHERN AVE
S 507TH AVE
S 507TH AVE
S HARQUAHALA VALLEY RD
S HARQUAHALA VALLEY RD
T01N R08W
T01S R08W
T01N R09W
T01S R09W
T01N R09W
T01N R08W
T01S R09W
T01S R08W
W LOWER BUCKEYE RD
S 487TH AVE
S 539TH AVE
W ELLIOT RD
W BASELINE RD
W SOUTHERN AVE
W LOWER BUCKEYE RD
S 487TH AVE
S 539TH AVE
W ELLIOT RD
W BASELINE RD
W SOUTHERN AVE
S 507TH AVE
S 507TH AVE
S HARQUAHALA VALLEY RD
S HARQUAHALA VALLEY RD
CPA2022010
REVISED:
FRIDAY,OCTOBER 7,2022
EXISTING LAND USE - RURAL DEVELOPMENT AREA
PROPOSED LAND USE - UTILITIES
kimley-horn.com
1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
480 207 2666
Kimley-Horn and Associates
HARQUAHALA SUN III
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
PROJECT NARRATIVE
CPA2022010
05-31-2022,
Revised Friday, 09-16-2022
Page 1
kimley-horn.com
1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
480 207 2666
Contents
A. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................................................... 2
I. ON-SITE AND REGIONAL LOCATION ............................................................................................ 3
II. CPA SIZE AND DESCRIPTION OF LAND USE TYPES BY ACREAGES....................................... 4
III. ROADS/TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS SERVING THE PROPOSED PROJECT ........................ 4
IV. SUITABILITY WITH SURROUNDING LAND USES......................................................................... 5
EXISTING SURROUNDING SOLAR (UTILITY) LAND USE APPROVALS .......................................... 6
B. WHETHER THE AMENDMENT CONSTITUTES AN OVERALL IMPROVEMENT TO THE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND IS NOT SOLELY FOR THE GOOD OR BENEFIT OF A
PARTICULAR LANDOWNER OR OWNERS AT A PARTICULAR POINT IN TIME............... 7
C. THE AMENDMENT WILL NOT ADVERSELY IMPACT ALL OR A PORTION OF THE
PLANNING AREA BY: .......................................................................................................... 8
I.
ALTERING ACCEPTABLE LAND USE PATTERNS TO THE DETRIMENT OF THE PLAN. ...... 8
II.
REQUIRING
PUBLIC
EXPENDITURES
FOR
LARGER
AND
MORE
EXPENSIVE
INFRASTRUCTURE. .............................................................................................................................. 8
III.
REQUIRING PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS TO ROADS, SEWER, OR WATER SYSTEMS THAT
ARE NEEDED TO SUPPORT THE PLANNED LAND USES. ............................................................... 9
IV.
ADVERSELY IMPACTING PLANNED USES BECAUSE OF INCREASED TRAFFIC. ............... 9
V.
AFFECTING THE LIVABILITY OF THE AREA OR HEALTH OR SAFETY OF PRESENT AND
FUTURE RESIDENTS. ........................................................................................................................ 10
VI.
ADVERSELY IMPACTING THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT OR SCENIC QUALITY OF THE
AREA IN CONTRADICTION TO THE PLAN. ...................................................................................... 10
D. WHETHER THE AMENDMENT IS CONSISTENT WITH OVERALL INTENT OF THE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN:.................................................................................................. 12
E. THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE AMENDMENT IS CONSISTENT WITH THE SPECIFIC
GOALS AND POLICIES CONTAINED WITHIN THE PLAN. ............................................... 12
F. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT MAP EXHIBIT.................................................... 21
G. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS EXHIBITS .................. 22
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A. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
HV Sunrise, (hereafter, “Applicant”) on behalf of the subject property owners (CV Harquahala LLC, WPI II-
Harq III Farm AZ LLC, Rancho Amable SPE LLC, CV Farming LLC, Shelli Lamoreaux Living Trust/ETAL,
PSC-94 Site LLC, Waydon Farms LLC, Davenport Stephanie/TMV Income Trust) is requesting a major
Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) of the Vision 2030 Comprehensive Plan to change the land use
designation of ±9,033.17 acres from Rural Development Area to Utilities. The CPA request will be
accompanied by a subsequent zone change request to rezone the underlying parcels from RU-190 and
RU-43 to the IND-2 IUPD Zone. The CPA will affect the land use designation of the following sixty-three
(63) underlying parcels:
Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN’s): 401-55-023, 401-55-024, 401-55-026, 401-55-027, 401-55-028, 401-
55-029, 401-55-030, 401-56-001, 401-56-002, 401-56-018, 506-27-014, 506-27-015, 506-27-016, 506-27-
017, 506-27-018, 506-27-019, 506-27-020, 506-28-001, 506-28-002, 506-28-004, 506-28-010, 506-28-011,
506-28-012, 506-28-013, 506-28-014, 506-28-015, 506-28-016, 506-28-020, 401-55-007G, 401-55-032A,
401-55-032B, 401-56-025B, 506-27-034A, 506-28-007B, 506-28-008A, 506-28-009B, 506-28-025A, 506-
28-026A, 506-28-027A, 506-27-033, 401-56-007, 401-56-008, 401-56-009, 401-56-010, 401-56-011, 401-
56-013, 401-56-021, 401-56-012B, 401-56-003C, 401-56-003D, 401-56-003E,401-56-003F, 401-56-025A,
506-27-011, 506-27-010, 401-57-006, 506-28-018, 506-28-019, 401-57-007B, 401-56-006, 401-56-024,
506-28-009C, 506-28-009D.
The Applicant proposes to construct, operate, and maintain up to approximately 1-gigawatt hybrid solar
photovoltaic (PV) and battery power plant and associated infrastructure for the Harquahala Sun III Project
(Project).
The Project will be constructed in approximately four (4) phases with each phase including an approximately
250-MWac or more hybrid solar PV and battery power plant constructed on approximately 1,500 to 2,500
acres. Each phase of the project will include approximately 600,000 solar modules (~4,000,000 modules
total) mounted on single axis trackers, inverters to convert direct current into grid-compatible alternating
current, transformers to increase the voltage of the electricity generated, and battery energy storage
system. The Project will also include two 500 kV utility substations and one or more small buildings to house
telecommunication equipment. The Project is expected to interconnect to the transmission grid at the
Delaney Substation operated by Arizona Public Service (APS).
Off-site supporting improvements, infrastructure, and/or uses are expected to include up to a 200-foot-wide
gen-tie route corridor that extends approximately 10 miles through private land and to the Project
substation.
The proposed CPA in support of the ±9,033.17-acre Project will not adversely impact the planning area in
part nor portion. Approval of the proposed CPA, subsequent rezone and associated development plans for
the proposed Project will not generate undue nor unmitigated impacts to the following areas of consideration
identified in the Comprehensive Plan, which include, but are not specifically limited to: land use; public
transportation system improvements; drainage and/or stormwater management; environmental
considerations (air & water quality, potable water & wastewater treatment), areas of geologic concern,
hazard, and/or significance; plant and wildlife habitat/migration environs and/or patterns; aviation and
military installation operations and flight paths/patterns; economic growth; growth areas; open space, water
resources; energy; and/or the cost of development.
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Issues relating to these are addressed by the required reports, plans, and analysis submitted in support of
the CPA and subsequent rezone application.
I. ON-SITE AND REGIONAL LOCATION
The proposed Project is located southwest of Saddle Mountain, and northeast of the Eagle Tail
Mountains in Township 1 North, Range 8 and 9 West, Township 1 South, Range 8 and 9 West. The
site is approximately 20 miles west of the City of Buckeye, Arizona in unincorporated Maricopa
County, Arizona with parcels lying south of the intersection of W Lower Buckeye Rd and S
Harquahala Valley Rd which generally bisects the site. The Project area is generally bound on the
north side, just south of the W Lower Buckeye Rd, on the west side by S 539th Ave, on the east side
by S 487th and on the south by Elliot Rd.
The CPA is inclusive of sixty-three (63) parcels which are held under eight (8) separate ownerships.
The cumulative area of the property included in the CPA request is ±9,033.17 acres. The subject
properties are mostly being used for irrigated agricultural uses or vacant along with a few limited
residential structures (APN:401-56-021, 56-024, 55-029, 55-032, 28-009C). A detailed list of the
parcels considered under this CPA are listed in Appendix A.
HARQUAHALA
SUN III SITE
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II. CPA SIZE AND DESCRIPTION OF LAND USE TYPES BY ACREAGES
The CPA request is inclusive of sixty-three (63) parcels totaling ±9,033.17 acres in the Rural
Development Area which is intended to conserve and protect farms and other open land uses, foster
orderly growth in rural and agricultural areas, to prevent urban and agricultural land use conflicts, and
to encourage sustainable development. The current RU-43 and RU-190 zoning districts have
residential densities of one (1) dwelling unit per acre (du/ac) and 0.22 du/ac. Principal permitted uses
in the Rural zoning districts include both farming and non-farming related residential uses, farms, and
recreational and institutional uses.
III. ROADS/TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS SERVING THE PROPOSED PROJECT
The roadway network serving the proposed Project from the I-10 corridor includes the I-10/Salome
Highway interchange that connects Salome Hwy to Harquahala Valley Rd. The site can be accessed
from the I-10/ Salome Highway interchange. Salome Highway provides connections to Harquahala
Valley Road which extends southerly past W. Lower Buckeye Road to the site. Primary access to the
site is via Harquahala Valley Road which generally bisects the irregular shaped site with W. Lower
Buckeye Road near the northern side, 539th Ave alignment on the west side, 487th Ave alignment on
the east side and W Elliot Rd as the southernmost boundary. There are a number of smaller, existing
roads, both named and unnamed, that traverse the Project site, which are anticipated to be used and
improved for construction and ongoing operations of the Project. Site access will be identified with
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the zone change and plan of development applications. Final access locations will be determined in
accordance with access management policies and permitting requirements of Maricopa County.
Properties within the Project area are located between W. Lower Buckeye Road to the north and E.
Elliot Road to the south as well as 529th Avenue to the west and 487th Avenue to the east. The
Maricopa County Department of Transportation may request ROW dedications/preservations along
the following alignments:
Baseline Road: 65’ half, 130’ full ROW
Harquahala Valley Road: 65’ half, 130’ full ROW
Dobbins/Eagletail Road: 65’ half, 130’ full ROW
North/south – east/west mid-section alignments: 40’ half, 80’ full ROW
There would be no significant increase in traffic during the operational life of the Project that would
require road improvements. There would be a relatively minor increase in the level of traffic during
the approximately 30 months required for each phase of Project construction. This increased traffic
is expected to be fewer than 100 trips during single peak morning and evening hours, primarily for
the delivery of equipment and supplies and the commuting of the construction workforce. A traffic
impact study will be completed as part of the zone change process associated with the Project. The
Applicant has agreed to financial responsibility for repair of existing roads used during construction,
including bonding for such work, so that there is not public expenditure for transportation
infrastructure associated with the Project.
IV. SUITABILITY WITH SURROUNDING LAND USES
The surrounding area is characterized by active and passive agricultural land uses, natural gas-
powered electric generation facilities, solar powered electric generation facilities, and native desert
lands. The dominant private land use within the area surrounding the current CPA is solar generation
facilities, which occurs on parcels or combinations of parcels totaling several hundred to thousands
of acres in irregular configurations. Other surrounding land uses include publicly owned and managed
Local, State, and Federal Lands. These include lands controlled by the Maricopa Flood Control
District, Arizona State Land Trust, and Bureau of Land Management. Other surrounding land uses
include vacant and active agricultural uses with limited and sparse distribution of privately owned
parcels used for residential purposes within the surrounding area. Additionally, Luke Air Force Base
(LAFB) is known to have military training routes out in this area. Under the Department of Defense
(DOD) Clearinghouse process, energy projects greater than 199’ above ground level are required to
go through a Formal Review. The routes in this area already fly over several existing 500kV lines and
fly nearby several other solar projects. The proposed gen-tie pole heights will vary slightly, but no
pole height is expected to exceed 150’. Although, the Project team will be proactive in addressing
any potential concerns and will submit under the Informal Review DOD Clearinghouse process during
the zoning process.
Property owners and residents will be notified of the project and efforts will be made to identify
concerns over visual impacts and incorporate effective mitigation and screening of the site against
any residential boundaries.
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Considerations for buffering and screening of the Project and mitigation of visual impacts during
construction and operational activities. Screening and mitigation of visual impacts will be addressed
in greater detail at the rezone and plan of development submittals.
Site parcels will be enclosed by perimeter security fencing located along each phase project
boundaries and adjacent rights of way. No fencing will impede or otherwise enclose existing roads
within the project boundaries.
Harquahala Sun III looks to expand upon the upcoming improvements to be constructed as a part of
the recently approved Harquahala Sun CPA (CPA2021007) and Zone Change with a Plan of
Development (Z2021111). Additionally, the proposed Utility land use contemplated by the
Harquahala Sun III CPA is compatible with other similar approved and implemented solar Projects
within the general area. Associated facilities within this area include approved CPA’s for Utility (solar)
land uses, PV solar generation facilities, utility corridors, transmission lines and a utility substation.
Many of the surrounding parcels around the Harquahala Sun III CPA boundary have been subject to
previous CPA approvals, by the BOS, including the adjacent solar and storage generation projects
of Maricopa Solar & Storage Project (CPA2020002), Saddle Mountain Solar (CPA2011015 & 16) and
Eagletail Solar Farm (CPA2010023 & 24). Other nearby projects are as follows:
EXISTING SURROUNDING SOLAR (UTILITY) LAND USE APPROVALS
Project
Location (Township/Range)
Maricopa Solar and Storage Project
T1N R8W; T1N R9W; T2N R8W; T2N R9W
Harquahala Sun
T1N R9W
Saddle Mountain Solar
T1N R9W
Eagletail Solar Farm
T1S R9W
Almeria Solar
T2N R8W
Sun Valley North
T2N R8W
Sun Valley South
T2N R8W
Areva Solar AZ II
T2N R7W
Papago Solar
T2N R8W
Tonopah Photovoltaic
T2N R8W
Most notable of these approvals is the recently approved the Maricopa Solar and Storage Project
(CPA2020002), as seen below. BOS approved the change in land use of 11,260 acres from Rural
Development Area to Utilities. This CPA is adjacent to the subject Project boundary, establishing the
precedent for a primary alternative energy corridor that Harquahala Sun III looks to build upon.
(The remainder of this page is left intentionally blank)
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B. WHETHER THE AMENDMENT CONSTITUTES AN OVERALL IMPROVEMENT TO
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND IS NOT SOLELY FOR THE GOOD OR BENEFIT
OF A PARTICULAR LANDOWNER OR OWNERS AT A PARTICULAR POINT IN TIME.
Per the Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan (2016), Major Plan Amendments should
improve the County’s overall condition and not undermine the plan’s core principles. The Plan recognizes
the need to redesignate land uses in response to changing market conditions and to address the increasing
demands of growth to the public infrastructure needs, specifically energy generation and consumption
demands within the local economy.
As stated, and reinforced in the Plan, the supply of energy is essential to the region’s transportation and
manufacturing sectors. Energy resources significantly impact economic development by contributing to the
region’s overall attractivity on basic and corresponding non-basic employment, primary and secondary
employment sectors and markets, and research and development within existing and emerging markets
and industries. Additionally, energy availability and even surplus opportunities function as an incubator for
innovations within all segments of the local, regional, and state economy.
The Project is anticipated to generate approximately 400-600 jobs in the construction, contracting,
administrative, and project management fields during the construction and implementation of each Project
phase over an estimated 30 months. Operation of the site will employ zero full-time employees daily.
Routine maintenance activities will require up to 15 part-time or seasonal employees and up to 20
employees for equipment repair and replacement as needed per phase. The Project could enter
construction as early as 2023 and is expected to be operational in 2025.
The Project supports the County and greater region within the state by providing additional renewable
energy resources, battery storage for local energy reliability and resiliency. The location and surrounding
utility land uses minimize impacts to neighbors and lessen the impact to the environment based on proximity
to the APS Delaney Substation by minimizing very long electrical interconnects. The electricity generated
through these facilities would be distributed to the regional electrical grid, supplying the County, State and
wider west/southwest regions while directly benefitting Arizona corporations seeking competitively priced
renewable energy. Additionally, local projects like Harquahala Sun III will help contribute to the regional
economy by providing tax revenue and construction jobs, long term technical careers, and use local
engineering and development contractors in Maricopa County.
The Plan is intended to promote and incentivize the production and delivery of renewable energy resources
that meet and otherwise support consumption needs of existing and emerging markets which benefit the
regional and state economies and tax bases. The availability of sustainable, renewable, and economically
efficient energy and the resulting cost savings, both immediate and over time, creates opportunity for
reinvestment of public and private capital back into the local and regional economy.
The proposed Harquahala Sun III Project is in direct support of this stated goal, the implementation of which
is evidenced by the current approved CPA and rezoning of property within the current Project vicinity for
solar Projects. The need for this Project is established by growing demand for renewable energy as
evidenced by APS’s request for proposals to supply renewable energy and by Arizona’s Renewable
Portfolio Standard (RPS). RPS are policies designed to increase the use of renewable energy sources for
electricity generation. These policies require or encourage electricity suppliers to provide their customers
with a stated minimum share of electricity from eligible renewable resources. Most states, including Arizona,
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have enacted their own RPS programs to diversify their energy resources, promote domestic energy
production and encourage economic development. Arizona has set their standards for investor-owned
utilities at 45% by 2030 and 100% by 2050.
Approval of the Project strengthens the overall energy production output within Maricopa County. The
increased local production over time will create energy surplus within the market resulting in a reduction of
cost and consumption by additional sectors of the local and regional economy. Project approval facilitates
a larger Regional share of renewable energy generation activities within the national production mix thereby
promoting energy independence throughout related national industries and markets.
C. THE AMENDMENT WILL NOT ADVERSELY IMPACT ALL OR A PORTION OF THE
PLANNING AREA BY:
*EACH CRITERION IS ADDRESSED SEPARATELY WITH THE CRITERIA LISTED AND GENERAL
RESPONSES TO THE CRITERIA CITED AS SUBHEADINGS IN THE PROCEEDING
SUBSECTIONS BELOW:
I.
ALTERING ACCEPTABLE LAND USE PATTERNS TO THE DETRIMENT OF THE PLAN.
The proposed CPA will not alter the acceptable land use patterns in the planning area in an adverse
manner to the detriment of the plan. The proposed change in land use is consistent with existing
approved utility land use patterns and subsequent zone change requests. Previous land use approvals
should not be construed to imply future precedents, nor obligate future Board of Supervisor decisions.
However, the infrastructure investment and development within this portion of the planning area make
the Project site a more suitable and logical location for future development of solar powered generation.
The single Renewable Energy Strategy in the Plan promotes/encourages the “[attraction] of solar and
other alternative energy research and development to Maricopa County.” Approval of the CPA is
consistent with this strategy and the utility pattern that has been established in the Project area by
recent BOS approvals in favor of large-scale solar powered generation facilities within this remote area.
Increasing the County’s investment (in terms of land use planning) in local solar powered generation
facilities and infrastructure has a long-term tangible impact of lowering costs of energy production,
delivery, and consumption. This goal is achieved in part by increasing local/regional energy
production/generation. The increased supply has a proportionate impact on the accessibility of the
resource and encourages integration of applied uses and transitions away from reliance on outdated
and inefficient modes of energy generation and transmission creating efficiencies in these areas.
Increased supply and efficiencies will promote increased integration into the market for various sectors
of the economy (housing, manufacturing, transportation, etc.).
The CPA to change the land use from Rural Development Area to Utilities to accommodate the
proposed solar facility is in substantial conformance with renewable energy policies identified in the
Plan, addressed in the Energy Goal and Policy Considerations in Section D of this report.
II. REQUIRING
PUBLIC
EXPENDITURES
FOR
LARGER
AND
MORE
EXPENSIVE
INFRASTRUCTURE.
Any and all expenditures for larger and more expensive infrastructure that are required as a result of
the development shall be borne by the developer. Improvements for adjacent access roads will be
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borne solely at the expense of the developer proportionate to the impacts placed on the transportation
network. Any public or private electric transmission infrastructure improvement costs needed in support
of the Project will be borne solely by the developer.
III. REQUIRING PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS TO ROADS, SEWER, OR WATER SYSTEMS THAT
ARE NEEDED TO SUPPORT THE PLANNED LAND USES.
The amendment will not adversely impact the planning area by requiring public improvements to roads,
sewer, or water system needed to support the planned land uses. The provision of these services will
be the responsibility of the developer in a manner that does not detract or negatively impact the
availability, delivery, and/or use of existing services within the planning area. All costs for public
improvements or services necessary to support the planned development will be borne solely by the
developer.
It is anticipated the Project would not connect to any existing sewer system. Personnel who are on-
site to perform module washing (up to four times per year) would be provided with portable restrooms
serviced by a licensed provider. Construction staff would also utilize portable restrooms serviced by a
licensed provider.
Options for construction and operational water needs is currently under examination by the applicant,
and none of these options would require improvements to public water systems.
Each phase of the Project is anticipated to require approximately 210 acre-feet of water over the
construction period. This water will be sourced from an on-site well, a nearby well, or delivered from
the Harquahala Valley Irrigation District. Neither water storage tanks nor holding ponds are expected
to be needed or placed within the adjacent road ROW. During the O&M phase, up to approximately 10
acre-feet of water would be required per year for module washing and maintenance. The Project will
be consistent with Maricopa County’s water and wastewater treatment programs during all phases of
the development.
Underground wet/dry utility service or transmission lines within adjacent right-of-way will be solely at
the developer’s expense. Required on-site water and wastewater service and/or treatment for
construction, operations, and maintenance, activities will be the sole financial burden of the developer.
Required services and the developer’s plan of provision will meet County and State requirements for
water and on-site wastewater disposal criteria, permitting, and monitoring standards.
IV. ADVERSELY IMPACTING PLANNED USES BECAUSE OF INCREASED TRAFFIC.
Existing and planned uses surrounding the site which are dependent on the surrounding transportation
system are not anticipated to be impacted due to increased traffic. Planned uses on-site will not be
adversely impacted due to increased traffic. Increased traffic will be limited to construction and
implementation activities associated with this Project and not from others. It is not anticipated that
surrounding approved, but not yet implemented solar utility Projects will begin construction activities at
the same time as the Harquahala Sun III Project. During the construction period less than 100 additional
ADT are expected for each phase of Project construction; therefore, per the MCDOT Traffic Impact
Study Manual, a traffic statement will be required for each phase of the proposed site. A traffic impact
study will be provided in support of the necessary zone change and plan of development application
and review process. A traffic statement is a scaled down and simplified version of the traffic impact
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study and is intended for smaller Projects that will have lesser impacts on existing traffic as compared
to the larger type master plan developments. At that time, a clearer Projection of traffic impacts will be
available which will consider construction and operational ADT, construction haul routes, necessary
ROW dedications, and road improvements.
V. AFFECTING THE LIVABILITY OF THE AREA OR HEALTH OR SAFETY OF PRESENT AND
FUTURE RESIDENTS.
The CPA will not adversely affect the livability of the area or health or safety of present and future
residents of the area. As previously discussed, there are relatively few residences in the area. Site
preparation, construction, or operation will not include any hazardous activities, materials, processes,
or outputs. Noise impacts would be limited construction activities during specified construction hours.
Fugitive dust control will be achieved during construction and operational periods by implementation of
proper grading and erosion control measures, BMP’s to include appropriate dust control and mitigation
of dust on unpaved roads. Standard operational activities conform to applicable noise ordinances. Fire
hazard and wildfire mitigation will be addressed with the plan of development. Harquahala Sun III will
comply with all applicable local and County fire laws and regulations. All reasonable measures will be
taken to prevent fires on the site including the control or suppression of weeds. If necessary, all weed
control would be in compliance with County regulations. The CPA will not result in undue or unmitigated
social, visual, traffic, air quality, water quality, or other impacts which may have a disproportionate
affecting the livability of the area.
VI. ADVERSELY IMPACTING THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT OR SCENIC QUALITY OF THE
AREA IN CONTRADICTION TO THE PLAN.
The Project site has mostly been disturbed to accommodate agricultural uses and is not anticipated to
generate adverse impacts to the natural environment or the scenic quality of the area. Preliminary site
investigations have not identified any significant, unique, or critical wildlife habitats, endangered and/or
protected flora/fauna species, or significant cultural resources within the Project area.
The Project team will conduct onsite investigations and implement appropriate protective measures as
needed for biological and historical/archaeological resources to either avoid or mitigate impacts to the
natural environment, in coordination with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and
Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD). High level conversations have been had with AZGFD
and the project team recognizes that appropriate coordination, proper planning, and implementation of
best management practices allow projects to be developed that avoid, minimize, or mitigate potential
impacts to wildlife and recreational access during development and operation of the facilities. This
coordination will continue in a more detailed fashion with the subsequent zone change and plan of
development to minimize any potential impacts to the surrounding wildlife including proper treatment
or preservation of drainage ways and wildlife corridors. Specific to wildlife, AZGFD has recommended
surveys and monitoring to identify the species in the area. Based on previous approvals, it is known
that this site is located south and west of the known big horn sheep movement patterns in the area
which occur to the north and east through the Saddle Mountain range. Best management practices will
be introduced to address Avian safety. Future 500 kv lines do not pose significant threat to avian
species because of their spacing due to voltage. However, in general the Project team will follow best
practices in the industry to protect avian species such as adhering to APLIC standards. Our biologist
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team has reviewed these designs and indicated that these power lines pose an almost negligible risk
to avian species. Additionally, a burrowing owl survey will be required prior to final plan approval.
As discussed in the transportation sections, no major offsite road or transportation network
improvements are required to support the Project. Dust control measures will be provided to protect air
quality during construction activities. Ground disturbing activities may also require dust mitigation,
erosion control BMPs, and select soils stabilization or enhancement where existing erosion is
encountered to maintain compliance with local, state, and federal air and water quality standards.
The site is predominately flat and will require little to no grading for access, PV pedestals, or supporting
accessory equipment or storage structures. Construction activities will implement accepted BMP’s for
solar PV facility development, which include minimum ground disturbance and non-disturbance of
existing low-lying vegetation and vegetation for erosion control purposes. Vegetation may require
mowing to heights approved by the fire district or other environmental agencies to maintain appropriate
levels of fire mitigation and erosion control.
The site will have minor visual impacts to surrounding areas and properties. The site will be screened
with a minimum 6-foot fence to provide separation and security. Details of proposed fencing will be
provided with subsequent zone change and plan of development applications and finalized through
coordination and input from residents and impacted property owners.
The solar arrays will extend to an approximate 10-foot vertical height (typical) when panels are nearly
vertical during sunrise and sunset. The site is adjacent to a future utility use (solar farm) to the north
and northwest, vacant agricultural land adjacent to the north, east, and west; current utility use (SunE
AZ2 LLC solar farm) in the northwest corner of W. Baseline Road and 523rd Avenue; the vacant
Harquahala Ranches 3 residential platted subdivision to the west separated by S. 535rd Ave; and a
commercial nursery on agricultural exempt land to the south. One residence is located within 60 feet of
the site opposite the 483rd Avenue frontage. Most residences within this subdivision are more than 300
feet away from the Project area’s eastern most boundary.
No adverse or otherwise unmitigated impacts to the natural environment or scenic quality of the area
are anticipated.
The site will be surveyed prior to construction activities to identify plant/vegetation species which are
protected by the Arizona Department of Agriculture under the Arizona Native Plant Law. Protected plant
life and/or vegetation will be relocated or otherwise salvaged. All activities associated with the removal,
relocation, or sale of protected plants/vegetation will comply with the notice requirements of Title 3,
Chapter 3, Title II, of the Arizona Administrative Code.
Additional detailed analysis of environmental impacts will occur with pending zone change and plan of
development submittals. Any identified impacts will be evaluated together with Planning and other staff
within affected local, state, federal regulatory agencies and corresponding County departments and
agencies, and participating stakeholders to identify appropriate mitigation strategies and/or other
acceptable offsetting measures. The Project will maintain compliance with applicable Maricopa County
Air Quality Department permitting and operational standards, including conformance with U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
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D. WHETHER THE AMENDMENT IS CONSISTENT WITH OVERALL INTENT OF THE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN:
Maricopa County’s original Comprehensive Plan was adopted in 1997 as a sensible approach to addressing
the regions fast paced growth and associated development issues. A lot has changed since 1997, including
a relevant update to introduce energy efficiency and renewable energy into the plan 2002, and the County
looks to build on the past and lessons learned to achieve a healthy, vibrant and prosperous future. This can
be seen in the County’s current Vision 2030 Comprehensive Plan, which is a planning mechanism that
looks to balance the County’s future growth with a high quality of life. The Comprehensive Plan looks to
accomplish this challenge by providing policies and recommendations on how to protect public health and
safety, promote stable economic growth, maintain a healthy environment, provide adequate community
services, and ensure that tax money is spent efficiently. These policies and recommendations also guide
Maricopa County’s decisions regarding future development, and for when changes to this plan are justified.
Applicant initiated changes to the comprehensive plan, like this change in land use designation, may occur
with Board approval to account for changing conditions provided that such revisions benefit the County as
a whole. This benefit can be weighed through the goals and policies of a series of plan elements, which
each address a subject that affects the County’s quality of life. While each element is distinct, combined
they reinforce the County’s strategic priorities and the core principals of Vision 2030, and promote
consistent interpretation and implementation of its policies and recommendations. Harquahala Sun III
meets the overall intent of the Comprehensive Plan by providing a future need in renewable energy, which
has been identified as a strategic priority, that benefits the region and County as a whole. Additionally, this
Project will improve the quality of life as identified in the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan as
discussed in the following section.
E. THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE AMENDMENT IS CONSISTENT WITH THE SPECIFIC
GOALS AND POLICIES CONTAINED WITHIN THE PLAN.
The County’s Vision 2030 Comprehensive Plan considers growth-related topics that will affect the County’s
future. The following nine (9) plan elements examine key issues that shape the goals and policies that
Maricopa County uses to implement its mission, vision, strategic priorities and make informed and effective
decisions.
Land Use
Transportation
Environment
Economic Growth
Growth Areas
Open Space
Water Resources
Energy
Cost of Development
Harquahala Sun III and the Utilities land use designation are affirmed by many of the goals, objectives, and
policies identified within these identified plan elements. The relevant goals, objectives, and policies
contained in the Comprehensive Plan are listed below with specific examples and guarantees of how each
is relevant to the proposed use and why it is consistent.
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LAND USE GOALS AND POLICIES
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Land Use Goal #3: Protect public
health, safety and well-being
Harquahala Sun III is a low impact land use, consistently found in
the area, that provides renewable energy generation to the
region. The Project requires minimal water usage, minimal traffic,
minimal operational employment or activity and no wastewater.
Additionally, it improves air quality and will provide necessary
ROW dedications, circulation, screening, and appropriate buffers.
Altogether, this passive land use will help contribute to the public
health, safety and well-being of the area.
Land Use Policy #7: Maricopa
County supports coordinating land
use and infrastructure planning with
state
agencies,
counties,
and
municipalities.
The process requires ongoing coordination with local, state, and
federal agencies to ensure protections of public services, utilities,
infrastructure, and natural resources. Coordination has occurred
directly
with
Maricopa
County
Planning
and
Zoning,
Environmental Services, the Maricopa County Department of
Transportation, and Arizona Game and Fish Department
(AZGFD). Feedback from state agencies, other counties and
municipalities located in close proximity to the Project has been
received as well through Maricopa County’s enhanced notification
process. Additional coordination will occur with these groups in
addition to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and
Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA). The coordination
includes preparation of necessary reports and considerations for
the provision as well as protection of natural resources and public
services including, but not limited to, water resources
(ground/surface water supplies), flora and fauna impacts, air and
water quality, and stormwater impacts, open spaces, buffering
and screening, and transportation facilities and rights-of-way.
Land Use Policy #20: Maricopa
County
supports
reducing
the
impacts of new urban development
on existing rural land uses and
agriculture.
The Project is a land use already found in the surrounding area,
reducing the impact on nearby agricultural and rural land uses.
Additionally, at the end of the life of the project, agricultural uses
could continue on the site due to the flat terrain and minimal
impact to underlying soils.
Land Use Policy #22: Maricopa
County
supports
reducing
the
impacts of new development on
environmentally
sensitive
areas,
including native flora and fauna
habitat and corridors.
The Project does not include environmentally sensitive areas
requiring avoidance or mitigation that we are aware of at this time.
Initial analysis hasn’t identified any flora or fauna species
requiring special mitigation or preservation. All development
activities will remain compliant with applicable environmental
regulations requiring flora/fauna habitat and/or environmental
protection or relocation. Ongoing coordination with the
appropriate agencies, including AZGFD, SHPO and AZDA,
throughout the Project life cycle will ensure appropriate site
treatments
and
regulatory
compliance
with
applicable
environmental policies, protocols, and regulations.
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TRANSPORTATION GOALS AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Transportation Goal #1: Promote
and protect public health through a
safe transportation system.
One of Maricopa County’s strategic priorities is creating a safe,
efficient and effective transportation system. Harquahala Sun III
will further this priority by addressing some of their related
concerns specific to the preservation of road alignments and air
pollution. The Project will be responsible for ROW dedication of
the necessary roadway alignments, as indicated by MCDOT from
its respective boundaries to comply with the Maricopa County
Transportation Plan and road/ROW dedication standards of the
County. Exceptions will be negotiated with MCDOT and
authorized by the MC BOS and may require specific development
agreements to memorialize terms of negotiated dedications,
preservation, and/or and deferments or exemptions. Because no
full-time employees are proposed on-site, outside of the limited
construction traffic, Harquahala Sun III provides a use that will
limit automobile usage and reduce air pollution.
Transportation Goal #2: Contribute
to a safe, seamless and effective
transportation system.
The Project will support a safe, seamless, and effective
transportation system by dedicating and/or preserving required
ROW in support of future road alignments as coordinated with
MCDOT in a manner consistent with Departmental planning
objectives and the Maricopa County Transportation Plan.
Transportation
Goal
#3:
Coordinate land use decisions with
transportation investments to help
the County exercise sound financial
management and build the County’s
fiscal strength.
All transportation improvements required to support the planned
use or any expansion thereof will be borne solely by the
developer, subject to all required agreements, financial
assurances and/or performance bonds.
Transportation
Policy
#11:
Maricopa County supports National
Ambient
Air
Quality
Standards
(NAAQS) compliance.
The Project will maintain compliance with National Ambient Air
Quality Standards throughout development phases. Operation of
the Project will result in lower overall emissions.
Transportation
Policy
#12:
Maricopa
County
supports
improving low volume dirt roads as
directed
by
its
PM-10
Dust
Abatement Program.
The Project will maintain compliance with the permitting and
operational standards of the Maricopa County Air Quality
Department dust control requirements as governed by activities
regulated by a dust control permit or Rule 310.01.
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ENVIRONMENTAL GOAL AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Environment
Goal
#1:
Provide
regional leadership to promote all
aspects of regional environmental
quality.
One of the reasons Maricopa County supports state and local
efforts to attract solar research and development to this region is
due to the environmental benefits. Harquahala Sun III would
further Maricopa County’s potential to be a leader in renewable
energy research and development, with respect to solar energy,
and would benefit their Green Government Program to help
protect the environment with a use that promotes low water
usage and better air quality. Additionally, throughout the
Harquahala Sun III approvals, reports, plans, and permits will be
prepared, for all on-site and off-site Project activities and phases,
to identify areas of environmental concern, demonstrate
proposed methods of mitigation and compliance, and identify
compliance with environmental performance criteria.
Environmental Policy #2: To help
improve air quality Maricopa County
supports balanced and efficient land
use patterns where employment,
retail and residential land uses are
proximate rather
than separate.
Harquahala Sun III supports improved air quality by proposing
an alternative energy use that decreases emissions that result
from electricity produced by fossil fuels. Compared to other
power producers, solar powered plants significantly decrease
carbon dioxide emissions and eliminate sulfur, nitrous oxides,
and mercury emissions generated by conventional electric
generation facilities. Additionally, compared to the current
agricultural uses on-site, this Project which will treated to reduce
potential fugitive dust will improve local air quality impacts from
fugitive dust emissions.
Environment Policy #3:
To
help
protect
water
quality
Maricopa
County
supports
compliance with its Drinking Water
program
and
its
Water
and
Wastewater Treatment program.
The Project as proposed is consistent with and will maintain
compliance with Maricopa County Drinking and Wastewater
Treatment program including water supply of the Maricopa
County Environmental Health Code. As proposed, drinking water
will be delivered by truck. If a local well is required for water use,
such well will comply with local and state permitting, operations,
monitoring, and recharge requirements. The Project, as
proposed, will not have wastewater demands or discharge. A
septic system will be used if an O&M building is required.
Environment Policy #4: Maricopa
County supports innovative Project
design and development techniques
that protect and mitigate damage to
important plant and animal habitat
and migration corridors.
The Project will be designed to minimize, avoid, and/or mitigate
negative impacts to flora and fauna habitat and wildlife migration
corridors during implementation and operational activities.
Comments from the Arizona Game and Fish Department
(AZGFD) will be addressed in a manner consistent with the intent
of this policy, which may include preservation and/or relocation
of impacted flora and/or fauna species. Best management
practices will be employed to address flora/fauna impacts.
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1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
480 207 2666
Environment Policy #5: As directed
by SHPO and Arizona Game and
Fish Department, Maricopa County
supports
cultural
resource
and
biological surveys being completed –
and needed mitigation measures
established
–
prior
to
new
development.
Cultural and biological reporting and surveys as required by the
State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and AZGFD will be
submitted with the zone change and plan of development
application to identify sensitive areas requiring protection,
preservation, and/or mitigation of impacts to respective natural,
biologic, and/or cultural resources. Mitigation identified by these
or by the respective agency’s staff or other guidance documents
will be adhered to during implementation, and operation of the
use.
ECONOMIC GROWTH GOAL AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Economic
Growth
Goal
#1:
Contribute to an effective Regional
economy.
The physical development of the site will employ hundreds of
specialized construction and skilled trade workers and laborers
from unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities
within Maricopa County. Construction activities will generate
employment opportunities for qualified workers over a
construction period which is anticipated to occur from
approximately 2023 through 2025. Local businesses including,
but not limited to retail, food service, gas station/convenience,
and hospitality businesses will be supported by workers
commuting to the site or lodging near the site for short/long terms
during their respective periods of construction activities. No
construction camps or on-site housing are proposed during the
implementation (construction) phase of the Project. No on-site
security or maintenance housing is proposed during the
operational phase of this development.
Economic
Growth
Policy
#5:
Maricopa County supports programs
that attract a variety of Basic Sector
industry clusters that have long-term,
stable growth prospects.
Economic
Growth
Policy
#10:
Maricopa County supports leveraging
its solar resource potential to attract
solar-related
industries
and
alternative
energy
research
and
development.
More accessible energy sources will attract energy dependent
employment sectors to the region and allow existing basic sector
industries to reinvest energy savings into expansions, research
and development, and retrofitting activities to increase
productivity in response to growing demands and competition in
the regional and national share of their respective industries.
Increasing the supply of locally generated renewable energy
increases the attractiveness of the region on the demand for
technological innovations to meet the demand for additional
skilled and specialized workers. There will also be an increase
in the demand for specialized workers to respond to changes
and innovations in the solar powered generation industry and in
the development of spin off applications in the manufacturing,
transportation, and research/development industries.
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1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
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GROWTH AREA’S GOAL AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Growth Areas Goal #1: Achieve
orderly urban growth that is fiscally
and
environmentally
responsible,
protects public health and safety and
promotes
sensible
annexation
patterns.
The Project is located near existing and approved generation
facilities and has convenient access to existing electrical
infrastructure, major transmission corridors, and a major
electrical substation. Proximity to existing transmission lines,
corridors, and easements reduces the applicant’s expenditures
to utilize existing infrastructure and to obtain necessary
easements to interconnect to the electrical grid. Construction
and operational activities will maintain compliance with
applicable environmental criteria, regulations, and permitting to
ensure protection of biologic and natural resources.
Growth Areas Policy #1: Maricopa
County
supports
consistent
implementation of its urban growth
area except in the noted instances.
The proposed Project is considered an industrial land use
requiring large amounts of land to operate that do not require a
corresponding level of urban services and infrastructure and can
be located in rural remote areas. As the plan recommends, this
land use is acceptable outside the urban growth area. These
uses could include electric generating facilities, proving grounds
and test facilities, agriculturally oriented businesses, and other
rural-type industrial uses on a case-by-case basis.
(The remainder of this page is left intentionally blank)
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1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
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WATER RESOURCES GOAL AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Water Resources Goal #4: Increase
water conservation.
The switch in land use from agriculture to solar will significantly
increase water conservation in the county. The Project will utilize
photovoltaic (PV) modules to generate electricity. PV technology
is the most water-efficient solar generation technology available.
The Applicant recognizes that the proposed site receives a high
degree of solar radiation and that water supplies in the vicinity
are limited. The Project will implement water conservation
measures while utilizing water-efficient technology. Solar uses
roughly 835 gallons of water per acre per year where agriculture
uses roughly 3,340 gallons of water per acre per year. Solar
plants use approximately 25 percent of water required for a
similar parcel of land growing alfalfa or other agricultural uses.
Construction Peak Water Usage would be roughly 5,690 AF/YR
and Operations & Maintenance Water Usage would be roughly
54 AF/YR for the Harquahala Sun III 1,000 MW Facility.
Water
Resources
Policy
#2:
Maricopa County supports water
conservation
techniques
in
the
planning
and
design
of
new
development.
The Project will include a comprehensive Water Conservation
Plan with established BMPs for water conservation. The
Project’s water-conscious design and implementation is
consistent with the applicable water goals and policies of the
Comprehensive Plan.
Water
Resources
Policy
#4:
Maricopa
County
supports
compliance with its Drinking Water
and
Water
and
Wastewater
Treatment Programs.
Drinking water will be delivered by truck. If a local well is required
for water use, such well will comply with local and state
permitting, operations, monitoring, and recharge requirements.
The Project will maintain compliance with Maricopa County’s
wastewater treatment programs during the construction activity
period. The Project as proposed will not have wastewater
demands or discharge. A septic system will be used if an O&M
building is required. Alternatively, portable restroom facilities will
be provided for employee use during the implementation and
operational phases.
Water
Resources
Policy
#5:
Maricopa County supports low water
use
solar
electric
generating
technologies.
Harquahala Sun III will require very little water except for
maintenance for cleaning the solar panels and equipment. This
water will either be hauled to the site during construction and
operation or obtained from existing wells on-site or new wells
permitted through the Arizona Department of Water Resources
(ADWR), as needed. Water hauled to the site would be from
permitted sources.
Water
Resources
Policy
#7:
Maricopa County supports low water
use and drought tolerant landscaping.
If landscape treatments are required to provide visual buffering,
they will be selected from drought tolerant xeric species which
will require low water use to establish and maintain.
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1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
480 207 2666
ENERGY GOAL AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Energy Goal #1:
Provide
leadership
to
promote
regional environmental quality.
Harquahala Sun III will have a long-term environmental impact
of improving air quality by reducing emissions associated with
conventional electric energy generation. The County has
adopted environmental performance standards intended to
preserve and sustain biologic, cultural, and environmental
resources of the region which are evidence of the County’s
regional leadership role in the promotion of environmental
quality.
Energy Goal #2:
Make Maricopa County a leader in
alternative
energy
research
and
development.
Harquahala Sun III provides the opportunity to implement, test,
and evaluate the efficiencies of the most current PV solar
generation equipment and battery energy storage systems.
Evaluation of their operational performance is key to the
research and development of more efficient equipment and
related processes. An operational facility provides opportunities
to implement advances in the associated technologies over the
life of the Project. Approval of the facility provides opportunities
to test storage systems in response to increasing demands for
the use of stored energy.
Energy Policy #6:
Maricopa County supports being a
responsible leader in alternative
energy research and development.
Harquahala Sun III will be reflective of the Maricopa County
Board of Supervisor’s regional and statewide leadership in the
attraction, promotion, and delivery of renewable energy
resources and infrastructure.
COST OF DEVELOPMENT GOAL AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Cost of Development Goal #2: New
development pays its proper and
reasonable share of the costs of new
infrastructure, services and other
public improvements.
All Project costs, including, but not limited to, on-site
improvements, gen-tie line infrastructure and connections,
collection lines, off-site road improvements, and water and
wastewater treatment service, shall be borne solely by the
Developer.
Cost of Development Policy #2:
Maricopa County supports recouping
the costs of its products and services
without unfairly burdening those most
in need of its products and services.
All development costs will be borne solely by the developer,
including, but not limited to, applicable fees for service, impact
fees, performance bonds and sureties, and property taxes.
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1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
480 207 2666
OPEN SPACE GOAL AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
COMP PLAN ELEMENT
(GOALS/POLICIES)
CPA CONSISTENCY/JUSTIFICATION
Open Space Goal #1: Provide
regional
leadership
to
promote
environmental quality, including the
preservation of open, natural park
and recreation lands.
Despite the Project being mostly disturbed for agricultural
purposes, Harquahala Sun III encourages the preservation of
natural open space in the form of drainage corridors and wildlife
linkages. The Project, which is adjacent to the Centennial Wash,
will conduct onsite investigations and implement appropriate
protective
measures
as
needed
for
biological
and
historical/archaeological resources to either avoid or mitigate
impacts to the natural environment, in coordination with the
Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and Arizona
Game and Fish Department (AZGFD). This project will be
developed to avoid, minimize, or mitigate potential impacts to
wildlife and recreational access during development and
operation of the facilities. This coordination will continue in a
more detailed fashion with the subsequent zone change and
plan of development to minimize any potential impacts to the
surrounding wildlife including proper treatment or preservation of
drainage ways and wildlife corridors.
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F. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT MAP EXHIBIT
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G. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS EXHIBITS
(Legal descriptions for the 63 parcels are available in a separate deed attachment.)
Page 23
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1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
480 207 2666
APPENDIX - A ‘Site Parcels’
Sixty-three (63) parcels that constitute the +/-9,033.17-acre site.
# of
Parcels
APN
Owner
Assessor
Parcel S.F.
Assessor
Parcel
Acres
* CPA
Parcel
Acres
1
401-55-023
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
9,854,579
226.23
226.23
2
401-55-024
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,427,301
78.68
78.68
3
401-55-026
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
1,820,808
41.80
41.80
4
401-55-027
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,563,208
81.80
81.80
5
401-55-028
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
6
401-55-029
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,969,600
160.00
130.00
7
401-55-030
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
1,742,400
40.00
40.00
8
401-56-001
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
9
401-56-002
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
7,125,980
163.59
163.59
10
401-56-018
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
14,094,709
323.57
323.57
11
506-27-014
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
13,939,200
320.00
320.00
12
506-27-015
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
13
506-27-016
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,484,800
80.00
80.00
14
506-27-017
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,484,800
80.00
80.00
15
506-27-018
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
16
506-27-019
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,484,800
80.00
80.00
17
506-27-020
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,484,800
80.00
80.00
18
506-28-001
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
19
506-28-002
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,864,011
157.58
52.53
20
506-28-004
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,824,415
156.67
156.67
21
506-28-010
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,484,800
80.00
80.00
22
506-28-011
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
10,454,400
240.00
197.00
23
506-28-012
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,824,415
156.67
156.67
24
506-28-013
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
819,843
18.82
18.82
25
506-28-014
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
26
506-28-015
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,004,572
137.85
137.85
27
506-28-016
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
28
506-28-020
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
13,939,200
320.00
320.00
29
401-55-007G
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
1,132,560
26.00
26.00
30
401-55-032A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,708,240
154.00
154.00
31
401-55-032B
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
261,360
6.00
6.00
32
401-56-025B
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
14,069,880
323.00
323.00
33
506-27-034A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
6,801,505
156.14
156.14
Page 24
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1001 West Southern Avenue Suite 131, Mesa, AZ 85210
480 207 2666
34
506-28-007B
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
5,227,200
120.00
120.00
35
506-28-008A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,412,185
78.33
78.33
36
506-28-009B
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,049,200
70.00
70.00
37
506-28-025A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,412,200
78.33
78.33
38
506-28-026A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,412,200
78.33
78.33
39
506-28-027A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
3,484,800
80.00
80.00
40
506-27-033
DAVENPORT STEPHANIE/TMV
INCOME TRUST
13,939,200
320.00
320.00
41
401-56-007
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
1,742,400
40.00
40.00
42
401-56-008
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
1,742,400
40.00
40.00
43
401-56-009
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
2,613,600
60.00
60.00
44
401-56-010
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
1,742,400
40.00
40.00
45
401-56-011
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
4,356,000
100.00
100.00
46
401-56-013
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
1,742,400
40.00
40.00
47
401-56-021
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
13,939,200
320.00
320.00
48
401-56-012B
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
6,969,600
160.00
80.00
49
401-56-003C
SHELLI LAMOREAUX LIVING
TRUST/ETAL
9,583,200
220.00
220.00
50
401-56-003D
SHELLI LAMOREAUX LIVING
TRUST/ETAL
1,755,032
40.29
40.29
51
401-56-003E
SHELLI LAMOREAUX LIVING
TRUST/ETAL
1,801,642
41.36
41.36
52
401-56-003F
SHELLI LAMOREAUX LIVING
TRUST/ETAL
871,200
20.00
20.00
53
401-56-025A
SHELLI LAMOREAUX LIVING
TRUST/ETAL
14,069,880
323.00
323.00
54
506-27-011
WAYDON FARMS LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
55
506-27-010
WAYDON FARMS LLC
6,969,600
160.00
160.00
56
401-57-006
CV FARMING LLC
14,052,892
322.61
322.61
57
506-28-018
CV FARMING LLC
13,545,243
310.96
310.96
58
506-28-019
CV FARMING LLC
13,623,826
312.76
312.76
59
401-57-007B
CV FARMING LLC
12,950,824
297.31
297.31
60
401-56-006
WPI II-HARQ III FARM AZ LLC
13,939,200
320.00
320.00
61
401-56-024
WPI II-HARQ III FARM AZ LLC
13,939,200
320.00
320.00
62
506-28-009C
PSC-94 SITE LLC
362,985
8.33
8.33
63
506-28-009D
PSC-94 SITE LLC
52,795
1.21
1.21
TOTALS
404,725,490
9,291.22
9,033.17
* Note: The CPA cover the entirety of each parcel which exception of APN’s 401-55-029, 506-28-002, 506-
28-011 and 401-56-012B.
T01S R09W
T01S R08W
T01N R08W
T01S R08W
T01N R09W
T01S R09W
T01N R09W
T01N R08W
29
28
27
26
25
32
33
34
35
36
20
21
22
23
24
17
16
15
14
13
30
29
28
27
26
31
32
33
34
35
19
20
21
22
23
18
17
16
15
14
05
04
03
02
01
06
05
04
03
02
08
09
10
11
12
07
08
09
10
11
W LOWER BUCKEYE RD
487TH AVE
S 539TH AVE
W ELLIOT RD
W BASELINE RD
W SOUTHERN AVE
W LOWER BUCKEYE RD
487TH AVE
S 539TH AVE
W ELLIOT RD
W BASELINE RD
W SOUTHERN AVE
S 507TH AVE
S 507TH AVE
S HARQUAHALA VALLEY RD
S HARQUAHALA VALLEY RD
WAYDON FARMS LLC
APN: 506-27-011
WAYDON FARMS LLC
APN: 506-27-010
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-27-014
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-20-001
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-004
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-002
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-27-015
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-27-019
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-27-016
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-014
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-015
CV HARQ-
UAHALA
LLC
APN:506
-28-013
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-025A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-026A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-011
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-008A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-007B
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-027A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-010
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-009B
PSC-94 LLC
APN: 506-28-009C
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-012
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-016
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-27-018
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-27-017
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-27-020
DAVENPORT TRUST
APN: 506-27-033
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-27-034A
CV FARMING LLC
APN: 401-57-007B
CV FARMING LLC
APN: 401-57-006
CV FARMING LLC
APN: 506-28-018
CV FARMING LLC
APN: 506-28-019
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 506-28-020
LAMOREAUX
TRUST
APN: 401-56-003E
LAMOREAUX TRUST
APN: 401-56-003C
LAMOREAUX TRUST
APN: 401-56-025A
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-56-025B
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-56-018
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-56-002
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-56-001
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-55-024
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-55-023
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-55-028
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-55-029
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-55-027
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-55-026
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-55-030
CV HARQUAHALA LLC
APN: 401-55-032A
WPI II-HARQ FARM AZ LLC
APN: 401-56-024
WPI II-HARQ FARM AZ LLC
APN: 401-56-006
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
APN: 401-56-021
RANCHO AMABLE SPE LLC
APN: 401-56-012B
RANCHO AMABLE
SPE LLC
APN: 401-56-010 APN: 401-56-007
APN: 401-56-013 APN: 401-56-008
RANCHO AMABLE
SPE LLC
APN: 401-56-009
APN: 401-56-011
LAMOREAUX TRUST
APN: 401-56-003F
APN: 401-55-032B
APN: 401-55-029
APN: 506-28-009D
APN: 401-56-012B
APN: 506-28-002
LAMOREAUX
TRUST
APN: 401-56-003D
APN:
506-28-011
APN: 401-55-007G
N
0'
HARQUAHALA SUN III
MARICOPA COUNTY, AZ
PARCEL OWNERSHIP MAP
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
DRAWN BY: JK
SCALE: APPROX.
LEGEND
PROPOSED CPA
BOUNDARY
ARIZONA STATE LAND
DEPARTMENT (ASLD)
BUREAU OF LAND
MANAGEMENT (BLM)
PRIVATE LAND
TOWNSHIP/RANGE LINE
2,000'
4,000'
CPA2022010
REVISED:
THURSDAY,OCTOBER 6,2022
Subdivision Infrastructure &
Planning Program
1001 N. Central Avenue #150
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
Phone: (602) 506-1058
Fax: (602) 506-5813
TDD 602 506 6704
Maricopa County
Environmental Services Department
Water and Waste Management Division
DATE:
June 24, 2022
TO :
Adam Cannon, Planning & Development Dept.
Planner
FROM:
Souren Naradikian, P.E.
Senior Civil Engineer
SUBJECT:
Harquahala CPA Comprehensive Plan Amendment. 2078
The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) has reviewed
revised documents received from the Maricopa County Planning and Development
Department for the above referenced project. This project is s requesting a major
Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) of the Vision 2030 Comprehensive Plan to
change the land use designation of ±9,291 acres from Rural Development Area to
Utilities. The CPA request will be accompanied by a subsequent zone change request
to rezone the underlying parcels from RU-43 to the IND-2 IUPD Zone. at APN# 401-
57-006. Water and Sewer services will not be impacted by the proposed CPA.
MCESD has no concerns.
Based on the above, MCESD raised no objections to the Planning & Development
Department in Accela: on June 24, 2022 and will allow the project to proceed at this
time subject to the following stipulations
Stipulations:
None.
It should be noted that this document does not approve the referenced project.
Comments are provided only as advisory to Maricopa County Planning and
Development Department to assist staff to prepare a staff report. Other Maricopa
County agencies may have additional requirements. Final review and approval will be
made through Planning and Development Department procedures. Applicant may
need to submit separate applications to the Maricopa County Environmental Services
Department for approval of proposed facilities regulated by the Department. Review
of any such application will be based on regulations in force at the time of application.
July 27, 2022
Mr. Adam Cannon
Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
301 West Jefferson Street, Suite 170
Phoenix, Arizona 85003
Electronically submitted to Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov
RE:
Harquahala Sun III Solar Project Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment
(CPA2022010)
Dear Mr. Cannon:
The Arizona Game and Fish Department (Department) appreciates the opportunity to review the
Harquahala Sun III Solar Project Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA2022010). The
Department understands that HV Sunrise is proposing construction and operation of an
approximately 1 GW photovoltaic (PV) solar facility with battery storage on 9,291 acres of land
in unincorporated Maricopa County (County) southwest of Tonopah, Arizona, between the Eagle
Tail Mountains and Saddle Mountain. The majority of the project area is currently agricultural
fields with small portions of natural desert scrub and riparian habitat. The project would be
constructed in four phases, with each phase including approximately 250 MW of energy on
1500–2000 acres of land. The project will also include a utility substation and an approximately
10-mile-long generation interconnection (gen-tie) line.
Under Title 17 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the Department, by and through the Arizona
Game and Fish Commission (Commission), has jurisdictional authority and public trust
responsibilities to conserve and protect the state fish and wildlife resources. In addition, the
Department manages threatened and endangered species through authorities of Section 6 of the
Endangered Species Act and the Department’s 10(a)(1)(A) permit. It is the mission of the
Department to conserve and protect Arizona's diverse fish and wildlife resources and manage for
safe, compatible outdoor recreation opportunities for current and future generations.
The Department recognizes the importance of planning efforts to develop renewable energy
locations that contribute to regional and state economic growth needs and would like to work
closely with HV Sunrise, Kimley-Horn and Associates (Kimley-Horn), and the County during
the planning and development of this economically-important facility. The Department
recognizes that appropriate coordination, proper planning, and voluntary implementation of best
management practices allow projects to be developed that avoid, minimize, or mitigate potential
impacts to wildlife and recreational access during development and operation of the facilities.
For your consideration, the Department provides the following comments based on the agency's
AZGFD - Harquahala Sun III Solar Project Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA2022010)
July 27, 2022
Page 2
statutory authorities, public trust responsibilities, and special expertise related to wildlife
resources and recreation.
Arizona has recently seen an increase in the number of proposed and in-development solar
energy generation projects, including several in the vicinity of the proposed Harquahala Sun III
facility. Within a 30-mile radius of the Harquahala Sun III project, solar projects have been
proposed on nearly 100,000 acres of land. Although each individual project may have a minimal
impact on the broader landscape, these projects cumulatively would result in substantial loss of
habitat, impact wildlife movements, and affect wildlife related recreation. It is important for this
project to be evaluated in association with other similar projects in the region. Long-term effects
to wildlife can extend several kilometers beyond the footprint of a project area ( Sawyer et al.
2022 ), and the Department recommends that the County consider these effects in its evaluation
1
of this application. Department staff are available to assist in identifying potential cumulative
impacts to wildlife and associated voluntary conservation measures that can be implemented for
the project.
To help determine wildlife species presence and potential conflicts, the Department recommends
surveys and monitoring be conducted during the planning phase. As referenced in Guidelines for
Solar Development in Arizona , these surveys should be of sufficient duration and intensity to
2
adequately assess all habitat types and potential species occurrence in and adjacent to the project
area. If this project is approved, Department staff are available to assist HV Sunrise in
determining appropriate design features and best management practices that can help minimize
potential impacts. The Department offers the following recommendations to reduce impacts to
wildlife and habitat:
● The endangered Sonoran pronghorn could occur in the project area and adjacent lands.
Sonoran pronghorn have specific habitat requirements based on their life history and
survival strategy. The Department would like to work with HV Sunrise to minimize any
potential impacts to this species and requests coordination prior to construction activities
in order to exchange information on current Sonoran pronghorn use in the project area. If
pronghorn are detected during project activities, please notify the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) Arizona Ecological Services Office (AESO) and the Department’s
3
Sonoran Pronghorn Program Lead ( jbright@azgfd.gov ) as soon as possible.
● Kit fox are likely to occur within the project area and could be influenced by loss of
habitat and connectivity. Surveys for this species are recommended to determine potential
impacts and to inform pre-construction activities. Department staff are available to assist
in identifying suitable conservation measures if foxes or their burrows are detected.
● The Sonoran desert tortoise, which is covered under a Candidate Conservation
Agreement (CCA), could occur in the project area. The Department recommends
conducting surveys, in accordance with the Desert Tortoise Survey Guidelines for
Environmental Consultants , to determine the presence of this species or its habitat. If
4
4 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/2010SurveyguidelinesForConsultants.pdf
3 hƩps://www.fws.gov/office/arizona-ecological-services/contact-us
2 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/planningFor/wildlifeFriendlyGuidelines/
FinalSolarGuidelines03122010.pdf
1 https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fee.2498
AZGFD - Harquahala Sun III Solar Project Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA2022010)
July 27, 2022
Page 3
tortoises are identified, please refer to and implement the Recommended Standard
Mitigation Measures for Projects in Sonoran Desert Tortoise Habitat and Guidelines for
5
Handling Sonoran Desert Tortoises Encountered on Development Projects .
6
● A number of other reptile and amphibian species have potential to occur in the project
vicinity, including Gila monster and Arizona toad, which are Arizona Species of Greatest
Conservation Need (SGCN). To the extent feasible, the Department recommends
avoiding areas where these species occur. If any are observed during construction
activities, the Department recommends moving them no more than 0.25 mile outside the
project boundary. To aid with possible relocations, the Department recommends that all
personnel take venomous reptile safety training from a reputable source so any Gila
monsters or rattlesnakes that may enter the site can be safely relocated out of harm’s way
without injury or mortality to the animal.
● Large-scale solar PV facilities can result in bird mortality due to habitat loss, collision
with panels, attraction due to an optical illusion of water, and unknown causes ( Kosciuch
et al. 2020 ). The Department recommends a qualified biologist survey for bird species
7
within the project area to better understand potential impacts from these projects.
Additional surveys for LeConte’s thrashers, a bird species of conservation concern known
to occur in the area, are recommended. Adjustments to panel spacing could help break up
the illusion of water and reduce bird mortality; research is currently being conducted to
assess this mitigation option (Wilkening and Rautenstrauch 2019 ). Additionally, the
8
Department recommends surveys for nesting birds be conducted prior to construction
activities that occur during the breeding season. The vegetation within the project area
may provide nesting opportunities for avian species that are regulated under the
Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and protected under state law. Breeding season for
birds in this area is generally mid-January through late June. If it is anticipated the project
will not be in compliance with MBTA, the Department recommends contacting the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for technical assistance. The USFWS will provide
options to comply with the MBTA.
● The western burrowing owl, a special status species that is regulated under the MBTA,
could occur within the project area. The Department recommends conducting occupancy
surveys for western burrowing owls throughout the project area to determine if this
species occurs within the project footprints. Guidelines for conducting this survey are
found in Burrowing Owl Project Clearance Guidance for Landowners . Please note that
9
the surveys should be conducted by a surveyor that is certified by the Department. If an
active burrowing owl burrow is detected, please contact the Department and the USFWS
for direction, in accordance with the guidelines.
● Bald and golden eagles, which are regulated under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection
Act (BGEPA), could occur within the project area. If uncertain about the effects of the
project to eagles, or if it is anticipated the project will not be in compliance with the
BGEPA, the Department recommends contacting the USFWS for their Technical
9 https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife/speciesofgreatestconservneed/raptor-management/burrowing-owl-mangement/
8 Wilkening, J., and K. Rautenstrauch. 2019. Can solar farms be wildlife friendly? The Wildlife Professional 13(1):46–50.
7 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0232034
6 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/2014%20Tortoise%20handling%20guidelines.pdf
5 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/MitigationMeasures.pdf
AZGFD - Harquahala Sun III Solar Project Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA2022010)
July 27, 2022
Page 4
Assistance,
as
well as Tuk Jacobson, the Department’s raptor expert, at
raptors@azgfd.gov or 623-236-7575. The USFWS and the Department will provide
options to comply with the BGEPA, such as conservation measures to avoid or minimize
adverse effects to the eagles.
● The northern portion of the project area contains riparian habitat. The Arizona Game and
Fish Commission and the Department recognize riparian habitats as areas of
environmental importance to wildlife. The Department encourages management practices
that will maintain current riparian areas so that there is no net loss of habitat, including
maintaining a 150-foot buffer around these areas and appropriate connections for wildlife
movement. Additional recommendations to maintain the integrity of riparian areas can be
found in these Riparian Area Guidelines .
10
Maintaining habitat connectivity is a high priority for the Department, and wildlife movement
corridors are important for wildlife to respond to changing environmental conditions. Attached
for your review and reference is the Heritage Data Management System (HDMS) Online
Environmental Review Tool (ERT) report (HGIS-16831). As identified in the report, this project
falls within two identified wildlife movement areas. Telemetry data show that mule deer, a
Species of Economic and Recreational Importance to the State, use these corridors as well as the
project area. If this project is approved, the Department is available to share its expertise on
measures to reduce impacts to connectivity, including the following:
● The Department recommends conducting wildlife movement studies in the project area
and surrounding landscape to inform project design. Continued movement studies during
construction and post-construction can help assess the broader footprint of this project
and inform future conservation measures. Department staff are available to assist HV
Sunrise in determining the scope and timeline of these studies.
● The Department recommends establishing a set-back from the identified wildlife
movement areas and maintaining additional open corridors across the project area to
facilitate wildlife movement. The Department is available to assist in development of the
site design to provide input on the set-back, possible corridors, and ways to maintain the
ephemeral washes that occur in the project area in their natural state. These washes serve
multiple functions in the ecosystem. Not only do they provide for hydrologic flow, which
is especially important in areas that receive infrequent and isolated precipitation events,
but these washes also contain crucial riparian habitat and serve as important
landscape-level conveyance corridors for wildlife movement.
● The Department’s Wildlife Compatible Fencing Guidelines provide information on how
11
fencing impacts wildlife, ways to design fencing to prevent wildlife entanglement and
impalement, and to ensure wildlife movement is not restricted. Department personnel are
available as resources to help determine appropriate fencing design and layout that will
achieve its objective while reducing impact to wildlife, such as leaving a 6–8-inch gap
between the ground surface and bottom of the fence to allow for smaller wildlife species
to move freely through the area and make use of any habitat within the project boundary.
11 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/planningFor/wildlifeFriendlyGuidelines/
110125_AGFD_fencing_guidelines.pdf
10 https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife/planning/wildlifeguidelines
AZGFD - Harquahala Sun III Solar Project Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA2022010)
July 27, 2022
Page 5
● To the extent possible, the Department recommends retaining habitat features underneath
the panels, including vegetation and soils, instead of grading the entire site. Keeping the
existing soil and root structures intact would serve to minimize erosional run-off and help
reduce biodiversity loss within the site ( Grodsky and Hernandez 2020 ).
12
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on the Harquahala Sun III Solar Project Major
Comprehensive Plan Amendment. For further coordination, please contact Tiffany Sprague at
tsprague@azgfd.gov or 623-236-7222.
Sincerely,
for
Luke Thompson
Habitat, Evaluation, and Lands Branch Chief
cc:
Michael Sumner - Regional Supervisor - Region IV
Tyler Williford, Region IV Habitat, Evaluation, and Lands Program Supervisor
Ginger Ritter - Project Evaluation Program Supervisor
Tiffany Sprague - Project Evaluation Program Specialist
Attachment:
Harquahala Sun III_HGIS-16831_20220718.pdf
AZGFD #M22-06241452
12 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-020-0574-x
Arizona Environmental Online Review Tool Report
Arizona Game and Fish Department Mission
To conserve Arizona's diverse wildlife resources and manage for safe, compatible outdoor recreation
opportunities for current and future generations.
Project Name:
Harquahala Sun III Solar Project
Project Description:
The Applicant proposes to construct, operate, and maintain up to approximately 1-gigawatt hybrid solar
photovoltaic (PV) and battery power plant and associated infrastructure for the Harquahala Sun III Project
(Project) on ±9,291 acres of county land. The Project will be constructed in approximately four (4) phases with
each phase including an estimated 250-MWac or more hybrid solar PV and battery power plant constructed on
approximately 1,500 to 2,500 acres. Each phase of the project will include approximately 600,000 solar modules
(~4,000,000 modules total) mounted on single axis trackers, inverters to convert direct current into grid-
compatible alternating current, transformers to increase the voltage of the electricity generated, and battery
energy storage system. The Project will also include a 500 kV utility substation and one or more small buildings
to house telecommunication equipment. The Project is expected to interconnect to the transmission grid at the
Delaney Substation operated by Arizona Public Service (APS) or a similar facility. Off-site supporting
improvements, infrastructure, and/or uses are expected to include up to a 200-foot-wide gen-tie route corridor
that extends approximately 10 miles through private land and to the Project substation.
Project Type:
Energy Storage/Production/Transfer, Energy Production (generation), photovoltaic solar facility
(modification/expansion)
Contact Person:
Tiffany Sprague
Organization:
AZ Game and Fish Dept
Page 1 of 12
On Behalf Of:
MARICOPA
Project ID:
HGIS-16831
Please review the entire report for project type and/or species recommendations for the location information
entered. Please retain a copy for future reference.
Page 2 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Disclaimer:
1. This Environmental Review is based on the project study area that was entered. The report must be updated if
the project study area, location, or the type of project changes.
2. This is a preliminary environmental screening tool. It is not a substitute for the potential knowledge gained by
having a biologist conduct a field survey of the project area. This review is also not intended to replace
environmental consultation (including federal consultation under the Endangered Species Act), land use
permitting, or the Departments review of site-specific projects.
3. The Departments Heritage Data Management System (HDMS) data is not intended to include potential
distribution of special status species. Arizona is large and diverse with plants, animals, and environmental
conditions that are ever changing. Consequently, many areas may contain species that biologists do not know
about or species previously noted in a particular area may no longer occur there. HDMS data contains
information about species occurrences that have actually been reported to the Department. Not all of Arizona has
been surveyed for special status species, and surveys that have been conducted have varied greatly in scope
and intensity. Such surveys may reveal previously undocumented population of species of special concern.
4. HabiMap Arizona data, specifically Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) under our State Wildlife
Action Plan (SWAP) and Species of Economic and Recreational Importance (SERI), represent potential species
distribution models for the State of Arizona which are subject to ongoing change, modification and refinement.
The status of a wildlife resource can change quickly, and the availability of new data will necessitate a refined
assessment.
Locations Accuracy Disclaimer:
Project locations are assumed to be both precise and accurate for the purposes of environmental review. The
creator/owner of the Project Review Report is solely responsible for the project location and thus the correctness of the
Project Review Report content.
Page 3 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Recommendations Disclaimer:
1. The Department is interested in the conservation of all fish and wildlife resources, including those species listed
in this report and those that may have not been documented within the project vicinity as well as other game and
nongame wildlife.
2. Recommendations have been made by the Department, under authority of Arizona Revised Statutes Title 5
(Amusements and Sports), 17 (Game and Fish), and 28 (Transportation).
3. Potential impacts to fish and wildlife resources may be minimized or avoided by the recommendations generated
from information submitted for your proposed project. These recommendations are preliminary in scope,
designed to provide early considerations on all species of wildlife.
4. Making this information directly available does not substitute for the Department's review of project proposals,
and should not decrease our opportunity to review and evaluate additional project information and/or new project
proposals.
5. Further coordination with the Department requires the submittal of this Environmental Review Report with a cover
letter and project plans or documentation that includes project narrative, acreage to be impacted, how
construction or project activity(s) are to be accomplished, and project locality information (including site map).
Once AGFD had received the information, please allow 30 days for completion of project reviews. Send requests
to:
Project Evaluation Program, Habitat Branch
Arizona Game and Fish Department
5000 West Carefree Highway
Phoenix, Arizona 85086-5000
Phone Number: (623) 236-7600
Fax Number: (623) 236-7366
Or
PEP@azgfd.gov
6. Coordination may also be necessary under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and/or Endangered
Species Act (ESA). Site specific recommendations may be proposed during further NEPA/ESA analysis or
through coordination with affected agencies
Page 4 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Page 5 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Page 6 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Page 7 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Page 8 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Special Status Species Documented within 5 Miles of Project Vicinity
Scientific Name
Common Name
FWS
USFS
BLM
NPL
SGCN
Antilocapra americana sonoriensis
Sonoran Pronghorn
LE,XN
S
1A
Gopherus morafkai
Sonoran Desert Tortoise
CCA
S
S
1A
Toxostoma lecontei
LeConte's Thrasher
S
1B
Note: Status code definitions can be found at https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife/planning/wildlifeguidelines/statusdefinitions/
.
Special Areas Documented that Intersect with Project Footprint as Drawn
Scientific Name
Common Name
FWS
USFS
BLM
NPL
SGCN
Belmont Mtns - Saddle Mtn - Gila
Bend Mtns
Maricopa County Wildlife Movement
Area - Landscape
Centennial Wash
Maricopa County Wildlife Movement
Area - Riparian/Wash
Note: Status code definitions can be found at https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife/planning/wildlifeguidelines/statusdefinitions/
.
Species of Greatest Conservation Need Predicted that Intersect with Project Footprint as Drawn, based on
Predicted Range Models
Scientific Name
Common Name
FWS
USFS
BLM
NPL
SGCN
Aix sponsa
Wood Duck
1B
Ammospermophilus harrisii
Harris' Antelope Squirrel
1B
Anaxyrus microscaphus
Arizona Toad
SC
S
1B
Anthus spragueii
Sprague's Pipit
SC
1A
Aquila chrysaetos
Golden Eagle
BGA
S
1B
Botaurus lentiginosus
American Bittern
1B
Buteo regalis
Ferruginous Hawk
SC
S
1B
Calypte costae
Costa's Hummingbird
1C
Chilomeniscus stramineus
Variable Sandsnake
1B
Colaptes chrysoides
Gilded Flicker
S
1B
Corynorhinus townsendii pallescens Pale Townsend's Big-eared Bat
SC
S
S
1B
Euderma maculatum
Spotted Bat
SC
S
S
1B
Eumops perotis californicus
Greater Western Bonneted Bat
SC
S
1B
Gopherus morafkai
Sonoran Desert Tortoise
CCA
S
S
1A
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Bald Eagle
SC,
BGA
S
S
1A
Heloderma suspectum
Gila Monster
1A
Incilius alvarius
Sonoran Desert Toad
1B
Lasiurus blossevillii
Western Red Bat
S
1B
Lasiurus xanthinus
Western Yellow Bat
S
1B
Macrotus californicus
California Leaf-nosed Bat
SC
S
1B
Melanerpes uropygialis
Gila Woodpecker
1B
Page 9 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Species of Greatest Conservation Need Predicted that Intersect with Project Footprint as Drawn, based on
Predicted Range Models
Scientific Name
Common Name
FWS
USFS
BLM
NPL
SGCN
Melospiza lincolnii
Lincoln's Sparrow
1B
Melozone aberti
Abert's Towhee
S
1B
Micrathene whitneyi
Elf Owl
1C
Myotis velifer
Cave Myotis
SC
S
1B
Myotis yumanensis
Yuma Myotis
SC
1B
Nyctinomops femorosaccus
Pocketed Free-tailed Bat
1B
Oreoscoptes montanus
Sage Thrasher
1C
Oreothlypis luciae
Lucy's Warbler
1C
Passerculus sandwichensis
Savannah Sparrow
1B
Perognathus longimembris
Little Pocket Mouse
No
Status
1B
Spizella breweri
Brewer's Sparrow
1C
Tadarida brasiliensis
Brazilian Free-tailed Bat
1B
Thomomys bottae subsimilis
Harquahala Southern Pocket Gopher
SC
1B
Toxostoma lecontei
LeConte's Thrasher
S
1B
Troglodytes pacificus
Pacific Wren
1B
Vireo bellii arizonae
Arizona Bell's Vireo
1B
Vulpes macrotis
Kit Fox
No
Status
1B
Species of Economic and Recreation Importance Predicted that Intersect with Project Footprint as Drawn
Scientific Name
Common Name
FWS
USFS
BLM
NPL
SGCN
Callipepla gambelii
Gambel's Quail
Odocoileus hemionus
Mule Deer
Pecari tajacu
Javelina
Puma concolor
Mountain Lion
Zenaida asiatica
White-winged Dove
Zenaida macroura
Mourning Dove
Page 10 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
Project Type: Energy Storage/Production/Transfer, Energy Production (generation), photovoltaic solar facility
(modification/expansion)
Project Type Recommendations:
During the planning stages of your project, please consider the local or regional needs of wildlife in regards to movement,
connectivity, and access to habitat needs. Loss of this permeability prevents wildlife from accessing resources, finding
mates, reduces gene flow, prevents wildlife from re-colonizing areas where local extirpations may have occurred, and
ultimately prevents wildlife from contributing to ecosystem functions, such as pollination, seed dispersal, control of prey
numbers, and resistance to invasive species. In many cases, streams and washes provide natural movement corridors
for wildlife and should be maintained in their natural state. Uplands also support a large diversity of species, and should
be contained within important wildlife movement corridors. In addition, maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem functions
can be facilitated through improving designs of structures, fences, roadways, and culverts to promote passage for a
variety of wildlife. Guidelines for many of these can be found
at: https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife/planning/wildlifeguidelines/.
Consider impacts of outdoor lighting on wildlife and develop measures or alternatives that can be taken to increase
human safety while minimizing potential impacts to wildlife. Conduct wildlife surveys to determine species within project
area, and evaluate proposed activities based on species biology and natural history to determine if artificial lighting may
disrupt behavior patterns or habitat use. Use only the minimum amount of light needed for safety. Narrow spectrum bulbs
should be used as often as possible to lower the range of species affected by lighting. All lighting should be shielded,
canted, or cut to ensure that light reaches only areas needing illumination.
Minimize the potential introduction or spread of exotic invasive species, including aquatic and terrestrial plants, animals,
insects and pathogens. Precautions should be taken to wash and/or decontaminate all equipment utilized in the project
activities before entering and leaving the site. See the Arizona Department of Agriculture website for a list of prohibited
and restricted noxious weeds at https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/unitedstates/az.shtml and the Arizona Native Plant
Society https://aznps.com/invas for recommendations on how to control. To view a list of documented invasive species or
to report invasive species in or near your project area visit iMapInvasives - a national cloud-based application for tracking
and managing invasive species at https://imap.natureserve.org/imap/services/page/map.html.
To build a list: zoom to your area of interest, use the identify/measure tool to draw a polygon around your area of
interest, and select “See What’s Here” for a list of reported species. To export the list, you must have an
account and be logged in. You can then use the export tool to draw a boundary and export the records in a csv
file.
Minimization and mitigation of impacts to wildlife and fish species due to changes in water quality, quantity, chemistry,
temperature, and alteration to flow regimes (timing, magnitude, duration, and frequency of floods) should be evaluated.
Minimize impacts to springs, in-stream flow, and consider irrigation improvements to decrease water use. If dredging is a
project component, consider timing of the project in order to minimize impacts to spawning fish and other aquatic species
(include spawning seasons), and to reduce spread of exotic invasive species. We recommend early direct coordination
with Project Evaluation Program for projects that could impact water resources, wetlands, streams, springs, and/or
riparian habitats.
The Department recommends that wildlife surveys are conducted to determine if noise-sensitive species occur within the
project area. Avoidance or minimization measures could include conducting project activities outside of breeding
seasons.
Page 11 of 12
Arizona Game and Fish Department
project_report_harquahala_sun_iii_solar_pr_52256_53918.pdf
Project ID: HGIS-16831
Review Date: 7/18/2022 05:10:41 PM
For any powerlines built, proper design and construction of the transmission line is necessary to prevent or minimize risk
of electrocution of raptors, owls, vultures, and golden or bald eagles, which are protected under state and federal laws.
Limit project activities during the breeding season for birds, generally March through late August, depending on species
in the local area (raptors breed in early February through May). Conduct avian surveys to determine bird species that
may be utilizing the area and develop a plan to avoid disturbance during the nesting season. For underground
powerlines, trenches should be covered or back-filled as soon as possible. Incorporate escape ramps in ditches or
fencing along the perimeter to deter small mammals and herptefauna (snakes, lizards, tortoise) from entering ditches. In
addition, indirect affects to wildlife due to construction (timing of activity, clearing of rights-of-way, associated bridges and
culverts, affects to wetlands, fences) should also be considered and mitigated.
Based on the project type entered, coordination with State Historic Preservation Office may be required
(http://azstateparks.com/SHPO/index.html).
Based on the project type entered, coordination with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Migratory Bird Treaty Act) may be
required (https://www.fws.gov/office/arizona-ecological-services).
Vegetation restoration projects (including treatments of invasive or exotic species) should have a completed site-
evaluation plan (identifying environmental conditions necessary to re-establish native vegetation), a revegetation plan
(species, density, method of establishment), a short and long-term monitoring plan, including adaptive management
guidelines to address needs for replacement vegetation.
The Department requests further coordination to provide project/species specific recommendations, please
contact Project Evaluation Program directly at PEP@azgfd.gov.
Project Location and/or Species Recommendations:
Analysis indicates that your project is located in the vicinity of an identified wildlife habitat connectivity feature. The
County-level Stakeholder Assessments contain five categories of data (Barrier/Development, Wildlife Crossing Area,
Wildlife Movement Area- Diffuse, Wildlife movement Area- Landscape, Wildlife Movement Area- Riparian/Washes) that
provide a context of select anthropogenic barriers, and potential connectivity. The reports provide recommendations for
opportunities to preserve or enhance permeability. Project planning and implementation efforts should focus on
maintaining and improving opportunities for wildlife permeability. For information pertaining to the linkage assessment
and wildlife species that may be affected, please refer
to: https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife/planning/habitatconnectivity/identifying-corridors/.
Please contact the Project Evaluation Program (pep@azgfd.gov) for specific project recommendations.
HDMS records indicate that one or more Listed, Proposed, or Candidate species or Critical Habitat (Designated or
Proposed) have been documented in the vicinity of your project. The Endangered Species Act (ESA) gives the US Fish
and Wildlife Service (USFWS) regulatory authority over all federally listed species. Please contact USFWS Ecological
Services Offices at https://www.fws.gov/office/arizona-ecological-services or:
Phoenix Main Office
Tucson Sub-Office
Flagstaff Sub-Office
9828 North 31st Avenue #C3
201 N. Bonita Suite 141
SW Forest Science Complex
Phoenix, AZ 85051-2517
Tucson, AZ 85745
2500 S. Pine Knoll Dr.
Phone: 602-242-0210
Phone: 520-670-6144
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Fax: 602-242-2513
Fax: 520-670-6155
Phone: 928-556-2157
Fax: 928-556-2121
HDMS records indicate that Sonoran Desert Tortoise have been documented within the vicinity of your project area.
Please review the Tortoise Handling Guidelines found at: https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife/nongamemanagement/tortoise/
Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org)
Page 12 of 12
From:
Caroline Klebacha
To:
Adam Cannon (PND)
Subject:
Re: 2nd Submittal - CPA2022010 - Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III
Date:
Tuesday, October 18, 2022 1:01:43 PM
Good afternoon,
Thank you for the updated submittal from Kimley-Horn. We note that the applicant has
included cultural resources into their plans. We have no further comments at this time and
look forward to reviewing the reports.
Thank you,
Caroline
Caroline Klebacha, M.A.
Archaeological Compliance Specialist
State Historic Preservation Office
A Division of Arizona State Parks & Trails
Please use azshpo@azstateparks.gov for all consultation!
1110 West Washington Street, Suite 100
Phoenix, AZ 85007-2957
Phone: 602-542-7140
Email: cklebacha@azstateparks.gov
Web: http://AZStateParks.com/SHPO
On Fri, Sep 23, 2022 at 9:26 AM AZSHPO - AZPARKS <azshpo@azstateparks.gov> wrote:
SHPO-2022-0759 (165920)
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Adam Cannon (PND) <Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov>
Date: Thu, Sep 22, 2022 at 8:13 AM
Subject: 2nd Submittal - CPA2022010 - Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for
Harquahala Sun III
To: Adam Cannon (PND) <Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov>
Cc: Adam Cannon (PND) <Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov>
Good morning all,
This e-mail serves as notification of a 2nd Submittal we have received from Kimley-Horn
for a Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III. Applicable documents
for review are available on the Online Permit Manager at:
https://accela.maricopa.gov/CitizenAccessMCOSS/Default.aspx. You can search for the
case by using the CPA case number CPA2022010.
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Adam Cannon, AICP
Planner
Maricopa County Planning & Development Department
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Desk: 602-372-0292
adam.cannon@maricopa.gov
P&D is now 100% digital for construction permit applications.
Find information on our new permit process here.
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
AIR EDUCATION AND TRAINING COMMAND
11 August 2022
Mr. Christopher P. Toale
Director, Community Initiatives Team
56th Fighter Wing
14185 W. Falcon Street
Luke AFB AZ 85309-1629
Mr. Adam Cannon
Maricopa County Planning & Development Department
501 North 44th Street, Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85008
RE: CPA2022010; Harquahala Sun III (APNs: 401-55-023 thru 506-27-033)
Dear Mr. Cannon
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Comprehensive Plan Amendment Application
to change the land use designation from Rural to Utilities in order to develop and operate a solar
generating facility. The site sits on approximately 9,291 acres and is located approximately 20 miles west
of the city of Buckeye, just south of the W Lower Buckeye Rd, west of 539th Ave and east of 487th Ave
in unincorporated Maricopa County, AZ. The applicant proposes to construct, operate, and maintain a 1-
gigawatt hybrid solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery power plant and associated infrastructure.
The site is located under a Military Training Route (MTR) and therefore requires further review
as it could possibly impact the flying operations of Luke AFB. Please ensure the project is submitted for
an informal review through the DoD Siting Clearinghouse for Energy, Installations, and Environment.
Please send the project narrative for review to: osd.dod-siting-clearinghouse@mail.mil. This response is
conditional upon their approval/input.
If you have any questions, please contact my Community Planner, Mr. Mark James at
(623) 856-9981.
Sincerely
CHRISTOPHER P. TOALE
cc:
Colonel Keagan L. McLeese, Vice Commander, 56th Fighter Wing
Mr. Charles E. Buchanan, Director, 56th Fighter Wing Range Management Office
Mr. Timothy A. Forero, GS-13, General Law Attorney, 56th Fighter Wing
From:
JAMES, MARK C GS-12 USAF AETC 56 FW/CVE
To:
Adam Cannon (PND)
Subject:
[WARNING: ATTACHMENT UNSCANNED]DoD Siting Clearinghouse Review Process
Date:
Thursday, July 28, 2022 8:05:29 AM
Adam,
Per our convo yesterday, please see below process to ensure solar applicants
have the right information for their project. Thanks
Informal Review info:
https://www.acq.osd.mil/dodsc/about/faq.html
Informal reviews are recommended early in the siting process. The Military
Aviation and Installation Assurance Siting Clearinghouse recognizes there
may be no definitive plans at this point, but early engagement is key in
preventing issues during the formal review process. The goal of an informal
review is to identify areas of potential impact and, once identified, refer
the proponent to the proper DoD stakeholder for further discussion.
To request an informal review, please send the following information to the
Military Aviation and Installation Assurance Siting Clearinghouse at
osd.dod-siting-clearinghouse@mail.mil. At a minimum, anyone requesting an
informal review must provide:
1. Contact information, including the name of the company, vendor or
developer, as well as address, city, state and zip code; project point of
contact, including first and last name; contact phone, fax, and email; and
project name, nearest city or county, and state.
2. The geographic location of the project, including its latitude and
longitude.
3. The nature of the project (e.g., wind, solar).
In order to provide the most expeditious review, the following information
is recommended:
1. Contact information, including the name of the company, vendor or
developer, as well as address, city, state and zip code; project point of
contact, including first and last name; contact phone, fax, and email; and
project name, nearest city or county, and state.
2. The geographic location of the project, including latitude and longitude:
Please include Lat/Longs in DMS (Degrees, Minutes, Seconds) for each turbine
tower in Excel format and a map of the project in PowerPoint or Adobe pdf
format, if possible.
3. The nature of the project (e.g., wind, solar) and the following
information:
a. Number of Structures
b. Wind Turbine: Include turbine height, hub height, blade tip height, and
turbine farm layout
c. Solar: Include solar tower or panel height, solar layout, and solar array
acreage, with map
d. Geothermal: Include geothermal layout/acreage, with map
e. Transmission, Utility, and Power Lines: Height and type of structure(s),
substation(s) tie-in, if known, KV of line(s), and map of route
f. BLM ID, NEPA number, or any Federal/State/Local identifiers, if
applicable
g. Associated transmission/lines for project and obstructions to structure
(guideline supports, lighting)
h. Intended grid connection with location (DMS)
i. Shapefile for project (Lat/Longs in DMS and decimals)
Respectfully,
Mark James
56th Fighter Wing, Community Initiatives Team
Luke AFB AZ 85309
Office: 623-856-9981
DSN: 896-9981
From:
Katz, Paul
To:
Adam Cannon (PND)
Subject:
RE: CPA2022010 - Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III
Date:
Thursday, June 30, 2022 1:46:00 PM
Mr. Cannon,
I have reviewed the Notice of Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment No. CPA2022010 in reference
to the Harquahala Sun III project on behalf of the Arizona Attorney General. This proposed
Amendment does not have any adverse impact upon Luke AFB nor does it appear to have any
significant impact upon local automobile traffic. Our office has no objection to this proposed
Amendment.
Paul A. Katz
Assistant Attorney General
Arizona Attorney General's Office
2005 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Direct: (602) 542-7785
Fax: (602) 542-4084
Email: paul.katz@azag.gov
From: Adam Cannon (PND) [mailto:Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov]
Sent: Friday, June 24, 2022 8:52 AM
To: bhurley@buhsd.org; chadt@arlingtonk8.org; tvcc.events@gmail.com; dmheisler1@aol.com;
swilken@azmag.gov; Vwolfley@azmag.gov; kcotner@azmag.gov; Rerickson@azdot.gov;
contact.dds@co.yuma.az.us; gramirez@azdot.gov; redletter@azdot.gov; twilliford@azgfd.gov;
pep@azgfd.gov; pe@azland.gov; bfenske@azdot.gov; jgarcia@azdot.gov; Dkrantz@citytocitycre.com;
Frank McWilliams (MCSO); azshpo@azstateparks.gov; proetto1950@gmail.com; ssandell@hfdaz.org;
56fw.cit.communityinitiative@us.af.mil; Eileen Baden (PRK); pdoweb_az@blm.gov;
tbuschatzke@azwater.gov; steve_spangle@fws.gov; mkillian@azda.gov; lc1@azdeq.gov; Katz, Paul;
david.mckay@az.usda.gov; johnson.kathleen@epa.gov
Cc: Adam Cannon (PND)
Subject: CPA2022010 - Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III
Good morning all,
This e-mail serves as notification of an application we have received from Kimley-Horn for a Major
Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III. Applicable documents for review are
available on the Online Permit Manager at:
https://accela.maricopa.gov/CitizenAccessMCOSS/Default.aspx. You can search for the case by using
the CPA case number CPA2022010. A Technical Advisory Committee meeting is scheduled for
August 2, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. If you would like to attend please let me know and I will send you an
invite.
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Adam Cannon, AICP
Planner
Maricopa County Planning & Development Department
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Desk: 602-372-0292
adam.cannon@maricopa.gov
P&D is now 100% digital for construction permit applications.
Find information on our new permit process here.
From:
Bernadette Martinez
To:
Adam Cannon (PND)
Subject:
Re: CPA2022010 - Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III
Date:
Monday, August 1, 2022 2:19:19 PM
Thank you for your notice of the above referenced item.
After review, the above referenced location is more than 1/2 mile from any ADOT proposed or
existing highway facility and is not anticipated to cause impacts to ADOT facilities. Exceptions to this
would be traffic control necessary at ADOT facilities. If you are in need of performing traffic control
on ADOT facilities said traffic control would require a permit. Otherwise, ADOT has no comment
regarding the request associated with this case.
See Permit Encroachment Links:
Permit Encroachment Process Link - https://azdot.gov/business/permits/encroachment-permits.
Permit Encroachment General Mailbox is: CentralPermit@azdot.gov.
ADOT reserves the right to review any future plans, additions and/or changes to this development as
to any impact they may have on the State Highway System.
Please feel free to contact me should you have any further questions. We appreciate the
opportunity to review and comment. Thank you.
Bernadette Martinez
Right of Way Coordinator Assistant
Central District
2140 W. Hilton Ave, MD 700
Phoenix, AZ 85009
602.712.2086
On Fri, Jun 24, 2022 at 8:51 AM Adam Cannon (PND) <Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov>
wrote:
Good morning all,
This e-mail serves as notification of an application we have received from Kimley-Horn for
a Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III. Applicable documents
for review are available on the Online Permit Manager at:
https://accela.maricopa.gov/CitizenAccessMCOSS/Default.aspx. You can search for the
case by using the CPA case number CPA2022010. A Technical Advisory Committee
meeting is scheduled for August 2, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. If you would like to attend please let
me know and I will send you an invite.
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Adam Cannon, AICP
Planner
Maricopa County Planning & Development Department
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Desk: 602-372-0292
adam.cannon@maricopa.gov
P&D is now 100% digital for construction permit applications.
Find information on our new permit process here.
From:
Bruce Fenske
To:
Adam Cannon (PND)
Subject:
Re: CPA2022010 - Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III
Date:
Thursday, July 21, 2022 1:29:21 PM
Thanks. Southwest District of ADOT has no comments on this project.
Bruce A. Fenske, P.E.
District Administrator
Southwest District
Tel. 928.317.2138
Mobile 928.210.8882
On Thu, 21 Jul 2022 at 13:21, Adam Cannon (PND) <Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov> wrote:
Bruce,
Yes it’s a solar farm with battery storage and a substation.
Adam Cannon, AICP
Senior Planner
Maricopa County Planning & Development Department
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Desk: 602-372-0292
adam.cannon@maricopa.gov
P&D is now 100% digital for construction permit applications.
Find information on our new permit process here.
From: Bruce Fenske <bfenske@azdot.gov>
Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2022 1:19 PM
To: Adam Cannon (PND) <Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov>
Subject: Re: CPA2022010 - Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun
III
Adam:
I cannot tell from searching the Online Permit Manager using CPA2022010 as the search,
but is this a solar plant?
Thanks for your help.
Bruce A. Fenske, P.E.
District Administrator
Southwest District
Tel. 928.317.2138
Mobile 928.210.8882
On Fri, 24 Jun 2022 at 08:51, Adam Cannon (PND) <Adam.Cannon@maricopa.gov> wrote:
Good morning all,
This e-mail serves as notification of an application we have received from Kimley-Horn
for a Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Harquahala Sun III. Applicable
documents for review are available on the Online Permit Manager at:
https://accela.maricopa.gov/CitizenAccessMCOSS/Default.aspx. You can search for the
case by using the CPA case number CPA2022010. A Technical Advisory Committee
meeting is scheduled for August 2, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. If you would like to attend please
let me know and I will send you an invite.
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Adam Cannon, AICP
Planner
Maricopa County Planning & Development Department
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Desk: 602-372-0292
adam.cannon@maricopa.gov
P&D is now 100% digital for construction permit applications.
Find information on our new permit process here.
July 5, 2022
SENT VIA EMAIL
Adam Cannon, AICP, Planner
Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
301 W. Jefferson Street, Suite 170
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Subject:
CPA2022009: Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment - Hyder Solar & Storage Project
CPA2022010: Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment - Harquahala Sun III
Dear Adam:
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on Maricopa County Major Comprehensive
Plan Amendments CPA2022009 and CPA2022010 for a solar energy projects in the county, to
change land use designations from Rural Residential to Utilities on ± 2,000 acres and ± 9,300
acres, respectively, for large-scale solar farm and battery storage systems.
The Hyder Solar and Storage Project is located about 12 miles north of Interstate 8 near the
farming community of Hyder, AZ. The Harquahala Sun III project is located about 8 miles south
of Interstate 10 and 18 miles west of the Palo Verde Generating Station. Both projects are located
in extremely remote areas of the state, with surrounding land uses including scattered agricultural
lands, solar farms, undeveloped lands, and extremely low density rural residential development.
The proposed solar energy generation and storage projects are located in regions of high solar
exposure, proximity to other existing solar energy farms and adequate energy transmission
infrastructure. Projects should have minimal impact on surrounding properties and generation of
renewable energy would be a benefit to the region. Pima County Development Services
Department, Planning Division has no opposition to the proposed major comprehensive plan
amendments.
Sincerely,
Mark Holden, AICP
Principal Planner
Pima County Development Services Department, Planning Division
From:
Stacey Bridge-Denzak
To:
Adam Cannon (PND)
Subject:
CPA2022009 Hyder Solar & Storage and CPA2022010 Harquahala Sun III
Date:
Wednesday, June 29, 2022 5:35:54 PM
Dear Adam,
Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback on the two Major Comprehensive Plan
Amendments as referenced above. The Town of Carefree has no comments.
Regards,
Stacey
Stacey Bridge-Denzak
Planning Director and Zoning Administrator
Town of Carefree
Email: stacey@carefree.org
Phone: 480-488-3686 Fax: 480-488-3845
PO Box 740, 8 Sundial Circle, Carefree, AZ 85377
www.carefree.org