Extracted text (via pymupdf)
48930 characters
DATE:
March 5, 2026
TO:
Planning & Zoning Commission
From:
Andrew Lorentzen, Planner
SUBJECT:
Z250047 – Hassayampa Ranch
Agenda Item: #8
After printing of the staff report, the applicant continued to work with neighbors on additional
issues concerning the future development of the parcel. The below amended and additional
conditions have been proposed by the applicant and accepted by staff:
a. Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the Narrative Report
entitled “Hassayampa Ranch”, consisting of 13 pages, dated February 9, 2026, except as
modified by the following conditions. The narrative shall be updated within 30 days of BOS
approval to reflect the Solar Exclusion Zone.
c. The following IND-2 IUPD standards shall apply:
1. Maximum Building Height – 85’, 32’ within 300’ from the southern property line,
as described in the narrative as the Buffer Zone.
2. Minimum Side Setback - 0’, except when abutting a rural or residential zoning
district, then 50’.
3. Minimum Rear Setback – 0’, except when abutting a rural or residential zoning
district, then 50’.
4. Additional Setback Required – 150’ when abutting the southern property line, as
described in the narrative as the Buffer Zone.
5. Minimum Parking - Warehouse/Data Center Uses: 1 space per 2,500 square feet
of floor area.
6. Minimum Screening - 6’ solid wall except 8’ solid wall when adjacent to a rural or
residential zoning district.
7. Permitted Uses – all uses permitted in the IND-2 zoning district, except there
shall be limited uses within the identified Buffer Zone and Solar Exclusion Zone,
and further that solar power generation shall be prohibited within 500’ of the
southern boundary where adjacent to existing residential, as identified in Figure
A, Solar Exclusion Zone, and wind power generation uses shall be prohibited in
the IND-2 IUPD zoning district.
j.
All outdoor lighting within the IND-2 IUPD zoning district shall comply with Maricopa
County’s outdoor light control provisions at time of permitting.
k.
The development shall dedicate the ultimate 65’ half-width right-of-way for
Bethany Home Road along the northern boundary of the IND-2 IUPD zoning district
with future entitlement application/s.
The applicant has provided updated buffer zone and solar exclusion zone exhibits which further
add additional detail and context to the proposed areas.
Staff also received 14 additional letters - 8 in opposition, and 6 in support. This raises total public
comment to:
14 in opposition
6 in support
The opposition has not triggered a super-majority vote of the Board. Approval will require a
majority vote of a quorum.
Attachments:
Updated Buffer Exhibit (1 page)
Solar Exclusion Zone Exhibit (1 page)
Opposition Comments (18 pages)
Support Comments (7 pages)
504-09-027X
MATA
JUAN
GUTIERREZ
504-09-027W
RIVALS
JAMES
504-09-027V
TREGUBOFF
KYLE
504-09-027U
FLETCHER
RONALD
W/KATHLEEN
G
504-09-027G
CAMPBELL
CHERISSE C
504-09-028A
CAMPBELL
CHERISSE C
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 1 (100'-150')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
BUFFER ZONE 2 (150'-300')
504-09-028U
REPU ROHIT K
504-09-053
REYES
JOSE/EDITH
504-09-054
REYES
JOSE/EDITH
504-09-028V
REPU ROHIT K
504-09-055
REYES
JOSE/EDITH
504-09-028W
REPU ROHIT K
504-09-027Q
HAWAIIAN
HOLDINGS
LLC
CAMELBACK RD ALIGNMENT (100' HALF ROW - REFERENCE ONLY, NOT DEDICATED)
CAMELBACK RD ALIGNMENT (PROPOSED 100' HALF ROW)
U:\_2025\25003666\25003666A - Arizona Land Consulting\PLANNING\ENTITLEMENT\REZONE\2nd SUBMITTAL\EXHIBITS\25003666_REZ - FIG01 NEIGHBORHOOD BUFFER LOCATION-300 ZONES 1-2.dwg
2/27/2026 2:31:35 PM
N
NOT TO
SCALE
Engineering
& Design
4742 N. 24th Street., STE. 270
PHOENIX, AZ 85016
P: 602.490.0535
F: 602.368.2436
Formerly
© 2026. COLLIERS ENGINEERING & DESIGN, INC. All Rights Reserved. This drawing and all the information contained herein is authorized for use only by the party for whom the services were contracted or to whom it is certified. This drawing may not be copied, reused, disclosed, distributed or relied upon for any other purpose without the express written consent of Colliers Engineering & Design.
PROJECT MANAGER:
R.GUBSER, AICP
PROJECT NUMBER: 25003666
FEBRUARY 27, 2026
MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA
HASSAYAMPA RANCH
REZONE
FIGURE 1
BUFFER LOCATION - ZONES 1 & 2
355TH AVE
339TH AVE
SITE
SITE
CAMELBACK RD
TONOPAH SALOME HWY
(ALIGNMENT)
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
(ALIGNMENT)
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
347TH AVE (ALIGNMENT)
331ST AVE (ALIGNMENT)
BETHANY HOME RD (ALIGNMENT)
POTENTIAL
HIDDEN
WATER
PKWY
THIS PLAN IS CONCEPTUAL IN NATURE AND
MAY BE SUBJECT TO MODIFICATION THROUGH
THE DESIGN AND ENTITLEMENT PROCESS
1,040'
300' X 3200'
BUFFER ZONE
504-09-027X
MATA
JUAN
GUTIERREZ
504-09-027W
RIVALS
JAMES
504-09-027V
TREGUBOFF
KYLE
504-09-027U
FLETCHER
RONALD
W/KATHLEEN
G
504-09-027G
CAMPBELL
CHERISSE C
504-09-028A
CAMPBELL
CHERISSE C
504-09-027Q
HAWAIIAN
HOLDINGS
LLC
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
SOLAR
EXCLUSION
ZONE
CAMELBACK RD ALIGNMENT (100' HALF ROW - REFERENCE ONLY, NOT DEDICATED)
CAMELBACK RD ALIGNMENT (PROPOSED 100' HALF ROW)
U:\_2025\25003666\25003666A - Arizona Land Consulting\PLANNING\ENTITLEMENT\REZONE\2nd SUBMITTAL\EXHIBITS\25003666_REZ - FIG A - SOLAR EXCLUSION ZONE.dwg
3/4/2026 9:33:18 AM
N
NOT TO
SCALE
Engineering
& Design
4742 N. 24th Street., STE. 270
PHOENIX, AZ 85016
P: 602.490.0535
F: 602.368.2436
Formerly
© 2026. COLLIERS ENGINEERING & DESIGN, INC. All Rights Reserved. This drawing and all the information contained herein is authorized for use only by the party for whom the services were contracted or to whom it is certified. This drawing may not be copied, reused, disclosed, distributed or relied upon for any other purpose without the express written consent of Colliers Engineering & Design.
PROJECT MANAGER:
R.GUBSER, AICP
PROJECT NUMBER: 25003666
MARCH 4, 2026
MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA
HASSAYAMPA RANCH
REZONE
FIGURE A
SOLAR EXCLUSION ZONE
355TH AVE
339TH AVE
SITE
SITE
CAMELBACK RD
TONOPAH SALOME HWY
(ALIGNMENT)
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
(ALIGNMENT)
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
HASSAYAMPA RIVER
347TH AVE (ALIGNMENT)
331ST AVE (ALIGNMENT)
BETHANY HOME RD (ALIGNMENT)
POTENTIAL
HIDDEN
WATER
PKWY
THIS PLAN IS CONCEPTUAL IN NATURE AND
MAY BE SUBJECT TO MODIFICATION THROUGH
THE DESIGN AND ENTITLEMENT PROCESS.
DIMENSIONS SHOWN ARE APPROXIMATE AND
WILL NEED TO BE FIELD VERIFIED THROUGH
SURVEY.
1985'
SOLAR
EXCLUSION ZONE
VICINITY MAP (N.T.S.)
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
Cherisse Campbell <ladyhawk3seas@gmail.com>
Sent:
Friday, February 27, 2026 10:15 PM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Case # Z250074 HASSAYAMAPA RANCH
This Message Is From an Untrusted Sender
You have not previously corresponded with this sender. Please use caution when you receive messages from new senders.
Always validate the sender first.
Greetings,
This email is an objection to the request to rezone rural parcel #504-03-010B to Industrial (IND-2 UPD).
I own four parcels of land in the Hassayampa Ranch community: 504-09-028A, 504-09-028P, 504-09-027G, and 504-09-
027J. I am not merely a resident, but am also a small business owner, whose livelihood is threatened by this rezoning
request.
I previously created an online petition for electronic signatures of anyone with an interest in my small hatchery business
or the conservation of the environment, particularly the Hassayampa. It acquired more than 200 verified electronic
signatures. Based on the reasons expounded upon in the written petition and the supplemental reasons and information
I will disburse to you now, it would be irresponsible on a number of levels to approve this rezoning request and allow
this project to move forward in this area.
My personal land and my business property lie directly adjacent to the site targeted for rezoning. The success of my
hatchery business depends upon the stress-free existence of my free-range birds. They exercise natural mating, nesting,
and young-rearing behaviors not unlike wild turkeys and jungle fowl; natural life cycles which big industry and large-
scale construction WILL disrupt. The stress the birds would endure as a result of the planned development would be
hazardous to their overall health and well-being. Their flight response continuously triggered, compromising their
immune systems and making them more vulnerable to illness and death. Even if they could continue producing and
living under the strain... in good conscience, I could not continue putting my birds through such trauma, so I would likely
be compelled to close my hatchery doors. And with my personal hypersensitivity to anthropogenic lights and noises, my
own mental health would be threatened by the proposed development of this land.
My personal and professional concerns aside, I wanted to address some of the points made in the developer’s
project summary:
Pointed to in the report, as supporting evidence that industrializing this site would be compatible with the
type of land-use of surrounding properties, were two mining operations. Together, they come to maybe 300
acres. That is not nearly as extensive as the 2,077 acres under discussion. In truth, the only nearby operating
industry is the 100 to 200-acre sand and gravel mine east of the site. It cannot even be seen from my
properties, whereas this data center development will be bordering right up against it. However, one thing
worth noting, is that even though the closer mine cannot be seen, it can sometimes be heard from my
property if the wind is right, as can the I-10 freeway which is five miles away and says a lot about how sound
carries out here. Sounds miles away sometimes seem like they are right outside in my backyard, so I dread the
kind of noise this proposed project is going to be bringing to my front door. No matter what they say they are
going to do to reduce the noise pollution this development is going to emit, on top of the construction of it, it
simply will not be enough.
2
They claim in the report that they do not foresee the proposal adversely impacting the area through increased
traffic, and yet they also tout that the future planned use will create all these employment opportunities. If
that is to be believed, how can that not impact the area through increased traffic? Not to mention the traffic
and destruction of natural land that the mere construction process will cause, and all the noise, light, and dust
pollution associated with that. By the way, “planned uses” shouldn’t supersede the value of current uses
merely because they are the plans of a billionaire developer.
The claim that “the intent is to develop the Site synergistically with the existing rural uses and planned
industrial uses in the surrounding area” in response to affecting the livability in the area or health and
safety, is both laughably vague and contradictory. It is obvious this will negatively affect the mental and
physical health of nearby residents (most who choose to live out here away from industry,
specifically for mental and physical health reasons). There is no way around this negatively affecting the
livability (health and safety) of the area for current residents and the native wildlife.
The entire basis for choosing this site for data center development seems to be tied to Bill Gates’ Smart City
concept, which was first touted back in 2017. There has been no Belmont development since its purchase and
conception nearly a decade ago. And it’s being pointed to as if it justifies other plans for FURTHER
development, MORE natural resource depletion, because it will be “compatible to surrounding industrial”
sites. When in reality, this should just be another reason WHY this piece of land should NOT be rezoned to
Industrial, and instead preserved or protected from large-scale development. Accessing adequate water
supply for the proposed Belmont city in this drought area is going to be challenging enough without this
industrial development, a massive 1.5 gigawatt data center which could demand 10 million gallons of water
per day. And if air-cooling technology is used versus water-cooling, the impact to the electrical grid remains a
legitimate concern. At the very least, it would likely hike up our electric bills. At worst, we could expect
electrical shortages and even black-outs.
As a reminder, there are efforts underway for a national moratorium on the approval and construction of
new data centers, which more than 230 organizations are currently urging Congress to implement. Why?
Because of their unsustainable consumption of energy and water resources, and the associated rise of utility
costs for residences and small businesses. Several state governments have introduced bills to halt
construction of data centers to allow adequate time for appropriate environmental study and assessment. If
enacted, the moratoriums will allow state agencies and lawmakers the time needed to properly investigate
the impacts of these facilities and develop necessary and common-sense regulations before permitting data
center construction to resume. This would be the responsible path for Arizona to take. And it can start right
here with Maricopa County decision makers.
Simply put, data centers are not appropriate for this wild desert rural site due to lack of water resources and
the impact on the electrical grid, plus noise, light, and electromagnetic pollution which will negatively impact
wildlife and the physical and mental health of nearby residents (most who choose to live out here away from
industry, specifically for mental and physical health reasons), no matter how they frame their mitigation
efforts, there is no circumventing these impacts.
The developers admit that the topography of the Site is subject to hillside, ridges, washes, and floodplains.
(Why they don’t find a more accessible place, more primed for building, is something to ponder—abandoned
vacant lots and structures farther east would be the more suitable and sustainable choice). Then they go on to
say that “the intent is to preserve historic flow patterns of the existing washes and ensure minimal, if any,
adverse impacts to adjacent properties” in response to if it will adversely impact the natural environment or
scenic quality of the area. A laughably dismissive response. This isn’t just about drainage and nearby
properties. How could this development not adversely impact the surrounding environment or “adjacent
properties”, considering this site is indeed riddled with hillsides, ridges, washes, and floodplains? Not exactly
3
prime conditions for construction. They would need to alter it significantly to make it feasible for development
and industrial operations.
Building large data centers, or anything industrial, here will adversely impact the natural environment and
scenic quality of the area. Don’t take my word for it. We can refer to experts in the field. Laurel Arndt is one
such expert from the White Tank Mountain Conservancy, and she previously sent a letter in opposition, laying
out in great detail the inconsistencies and generalizations in the proposal. She makes some very compelling
and educated points about how this will adversely impact the natural environment. She discusses the
topography of the area, its water insecurity, the area’s role as a wildlife corridor and the importance of
preserving it. She stresses that this is “the right project in the wrong place.”
Additionally, according to AZ Game and Fish, this site cuts through the Hassayampa Conservation Opportunity
Area (COA) identified in their Wildlife Conservation Strategy as an area providing vital habitat, migratory
pathways and stopover sites for various species, including those of greatest conservation need. Species that
are legally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Endangered Species Act. To name just a few
species I have personally seen in the area include the Western Burrowing Owl, listed as a National Bird of
Conservation Concern and currently protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act along with the Great
Horned Owl (seen nesting on the site under discussion), and also the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, which is
protected under the Endangered Species Act. Other protected species recorded in the Hassayampa COA
include the iconic Gila Monster and Sonoran Desert Tortoise, amongst many others.
Proposing this industrial development in the name of economic growth may even be a façade, considering the
limited water supply, long-term feasibility, and the rural characteristics of this area: Again, large undeveloped
swaths of land consisting of hillsides, ridges, washes, and floodplains (as the developers themselves pointed
out), water wells for scattered residents, dirt roads, and limited to zero infrastructure connectivity. The I-11
freeway is apparently decades away from becoming a reality, environmental lawsuits unsurprisingly blocking
that progress. We already talked about the stagnant nature of the future Belmont City. And the vast
employment opportunities they are claiming this data center will provide? That’s a reach considering the lack
of arterial roadways and the fact that data centers by design are largely automated.
This is a rural desert community, surviving on finite resources, limited water availability and a stressed
electrical grid during summer, a fragile and harsh environment that would be pushed to the brink with
industrial development and would likely break. This push to industrialize this area, would accelerate an
environmental tipping point, and would cause suffering to its current residents, both human and non-human.
What is termed “economic growth” in this case is another way of saying environmental degradation.
New and improved scientific and environmental data compiled between the time the original Hassayampa
Ranch DMP was approved in 2007 and today, which has helped identify this area and species in this area as
being of greatest conservation need, and would therefore be negatively impacted by human development of
any kind, should alone be justification for denying approval for this rezone request as well as any other large-
scale development project proposed for this area. The natural environment and sensitive habitat of species
already profoundly impacted and populations reduced by anthropogenic causes, should be protected. The
importance of which should supersede any declaration of "economic growth”. These natural lands and
threatened wildlife need to survive more than we need data centers or any industrial complex. If federal or
state government agencies are not going to execute their responsibility to the environment, someone else
with power and influence needs to.
Maricopa County’s Planning and Zoning decision-makers and Board of Supervisors should use their authority
to do the right thing for the lives in greatest need, the voiceless and the disenfranchised who will be
impacted the most by this. For some, it could be permanent. By saying “yes” to industry (or any major
development in this area), you may be wiping an entire species off the face of this earth or pushing them to
4
the brink... or you may just be killing one of us, a Hassayampa Ranch community resident clinging to the
peace and refuge that only this rural lifestyle can provide. If that doesn’t give you pause, you’ve been
tragically desensitized by the power and greed of Corporate America, money and politics.
The proposed project would impede on AZ Game and Fish Department’s 10-year action plan to conserve and
protect our state’s most vulnerable wildlife and their habitats, threatening the Hassayampa COA in particular.
It would drive biological and life-cycle alterations, habitat loss and fragmentation for various wild species. It
would precipitate natural resource depletion and create noise, light, electromagnetic, and air pollution that
will threaten the peace, health, and overall well-being of nearby residents (not just the “nine” of us within 300
feet of the site—the developer’s emphasis on the so few of us to be impacted by their project is a sad joke)
and our domestic animals. Lastly, it would provide an uncertain future for my local business, likely forcing my
hatchery to close its doors and lock its gates.
Approving this rezoning request would be irresponsible and frankly immoral.
Respectfully (and passionately),
Cherisse C. Campbell
4816 N. 335th ave.
Tonopah, AZ 85354
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
Rachael Julian <rawiethorn@gmail.com>
Sent:
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 4:24 PM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Case # Z250074 HASSAYAMAPA RANCH
This Message Is From an Untrusted Sender
You have not previously corresponded with this sender. Please use caution when you receive messages from new senders.
Always validate the sender first.
Case # Z250074 HASSAYAMAPA RANCH
Hello,
I am emailing you today to state my objection of the Hassayamapa Ranch Data center. As a
Buckeye resident with a toddler and one on the way, I am extremely concerned about the
environmental impact this will have on our local area and its water resources. We are currently
in a global water bankruptcy and here in the desert we are at an increased risk of water
instability. I urge you to please reconsider placing this data center somewhere else. Please for
our children’s future, our home values, our way of life, please, I ask you to please not build this
data center!
I appreciate your time and attention to this issue.
Thank you,
Rachael Julian
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
Debbie Larson <debbielarson65@hotmail.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 4:22 PM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Objection to Proposed Hassayampa Ranch Data Center Case #Z250074
Importance:
High
This Message Is From an Untrusted Sender
You have not previously corresponded with this sender. Please use caution when you receive messages from new senders.
Always validate the sender first.
Dear Mr. Lorentzen:
I am a resident of Tonopah, AZ residing at 3505 N 327th Dr. I am writing to formally voice my strong
opposition to the proposed data center project Hassayampa Ranches which would be located 2 miles
from my home.
My objection is based on the following concerns regarding the detrimental impact this facility will have
on our community:
1. Water and Resource Strain: The proposed data center requires immense amounts of water for
cooling, which threatens our local, limited water supply.
2. Increased Utility Costs: Data centers are intensive energy users. The increased load on the grid
is likely to result in higher electricity bills for residents and small businesses in Tonopah and
surrounding areas.
3. Noise and Environmental Pollution: The constant drone from industrial cooling units and the
installation of diesel generators for backup power will create noise pollution and diminish air
quality in our residential area.
4. Upon researching other data center builds throughout the US, it has been proven that wells within
a five mile radius of the data centers have increased cancer causing nitrates and the majority of
people with private wells experience water shortages and discoloration of water over time, even
when the data center uses a closed-loop system. I am greatly concerned that if this does happen
to our private wells in this area, we will have no recourse.
I urge the Maricopa Planning and Development Department to consider the long-term well-being of the
community over the interests of this development and vote NO on this project.
Sincerely,
Deb Larson
2
3505 N 327th Drive
Tonopah, AZ 85354
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
Lizzy <lapartyof4@gmail.com>
Sent:
Monday, March 2, 2026 12:07 PM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Objection to case #Z250074 Hassayampa Ranch
This Message Is From an Untrusted Sender
You have not previously corresponded with this sender. Please use caution when you receive messages from new senders.
Always validate the sender first.
Dear Mr. Lorentzen,
I am writing to formally object to Case #Z-250074, the proposed Hassayampa Ranch 1.5 GW Data
Center.
As a resident of this community, I have serious concerns about the long-term impact this project would
have on our area. The scale of this facility is unprecedented for a rural residential region like ours, and
the potential consequences deserve careful scrutiny before any approval is granted.
First, water usage is a critical issue. Large data centers consume substantial amounts of water daily, and
in an area already facing water scarcity and reliance on wells, this level of demand could strain local
resources. Much of the water used for cooling is not returned to its original source, which raises
legitimate concerns about sustainability and the long-term security of our water supply.
Second, the projected electrical demand of a 1.5 GW facility is enormous. Increased energy
consumption at this magnitude may place additional pressure on local infrastructure and could
contribute to higher utility costs for residents. Our community should not bear indirect financial burdens
resulting from industrial-scale development.
Noise pollution is another significant concern. Data centers operate continuously, and the constant
mechanical sound from cooling systems and equipment can disrupt the quiet character of residential
and rural neighborhoods. This has implications for quality of life and potential health effects over time.
2
Additionally, the construction and operation of a project of this size would permanently alter the land
and surrounding environment. The environmental impact, traffic during construction, and long-term
industrial presence are incompatible with the existing character of our community.
While economic development can be beneficial when thoughtfully planned, this proposal appears
disproportionate to the setting and risks undermining the residential stability and environmental health
of the area. I respectfully request that the Planning & Development Department carefully consider these
concerns and deny approval of this zoning request.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Arellano
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
Aaron Orosco <aarnjorosco7987@gmail.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 5:05 PM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Case# Z250074 HASSAYAMPA RANCH
This Message Is From an Untrusted Sender
You have not previously corresponded with this sender. Please use caution when you receive messages from new senders.
Always validate the sender first.
This email is an objection to the request to rezone rural parcel #504-03-010B to Industrial (IND-2 UPD).
There are efforts underway for a national moratorium on the approval and construction of new data
centers, which more than 230 organizations are currently urging Congress to implement. Why? Because
of their unsustainable consumption of energy and water resources, and the associated rise of utility
costs for residences and small businesses. Several state governments have introduced bills to halt
construction of data centers to allow adequate time for appropriate environmental study and
assessment. If enacted, the moratoriums will allow state agencies and lawmakers the time needed to
properly investigate the impacts of these facilities and develop necessary and common-sense
regulations before permitting data center construction to resume. This would be the responsible path for
Arizona to take. And it can start right here with Maricopa County decision makers.
Data centers are not appropriate for this wild desert rural site due to lack of water resources and the
impact on the electrical grid, plus noise, light, and electromagnetic pollution which will negatively
impact wildlife and the physical and mental health of nearby residents (most who choose to live out here
away from industry, specifically for mental and physical health reasons), no matter how they frame their
mitigation efforts, there is no circumventing these impacts.
How could this development not adversely impact the surrounding environment or “adjacent
properties”, considering this site is indeed riddled with hillsides, ridges, washes, and floodplains? Not
exactly prime conditions for construction. They would need to alter it significantly to make it feasible for
development and industrial operations.
Laurel Arndt is one such expert from the White Tank Mountain Conservancy, and she previously sent a
letter in opposition, laying out in great detail the inconsistencies and generalizations in the proposal. She
makes some very compelling and educated points about how this will adversely impact the natural
environment. She discusses the topography of the area, its water insecurity, the area’s role as a wildlife
corridor and the importance of preserving it. She stresses that this is “the right project in the wrong
place.”
Also according to AZ Game and Fish, this site cuts through the Hassayampa Conservation Opportunity
Area (COA) identified in their Wildlife Conservation Strategy as an area providing vital habitat, migratory
pathways and stopover sites for various species, including those of greatest conservation need. Species
that are legally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Endangered Species Act. To name just a
few species I have personally seen in the area include the Western Burrowing Owl, listed as a National
2
Bird of Conservation Concern and currently protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act along with the
Great Horned Owl (seen nesting on the site under discussion), and also the Southwestern Willow
Flycatcher, which is protected under the Endangered Species Act. Other protected species recorded in
the Hassayampa COA include the iconic Gila Monster and Sonoran Desert Tortoise, amongst many
others.
This is a rural desert community, surviving on finite resources, limited water availability and a stressed
electrical grid during summer, a fragile and harsh environment that would be pushed to the brink with
industrial development and would likely break. This push to industrialize this area, would accelerate an
environmental tipping point, and would cause suffering to its current residents, both human and non-
human. What is termed “economic growth” in this case is another way of saying environmental
degradation.
Maricopa County’s Planning and Zoning decision-makers and Board of Supervisors should use their
authority to do the right thing for the lives in greatest need, the voiceless and the disenfranchised who
will be impacted the most by this. For some, it could be permanent. By saying “yes” to industry (or any
major development in this area), you may be wiping an entire species off the face of this earth or pushing
them to the brink... or you may just be killing one of us, a Hassayampa Ranch community resident
clinging to the peace and refuge that only this rural lifestyle can provide. If that doesn’t give you pause,
you’ve been tragically desensitized by the power and greed of Corporate America, money and politics.
The proposed project would impede on AZ Game and Fish Department’s 10-year action plan to conserve
and protect our state’s most vulnerable wildlife and their habitats, threatening the Hassayampa COA in
particular.
I have lived in this area for 46 yrs and I've watched the land slowly being lost to development. I have seen
hundreds of acres of good farm land be sold to developers. It just seems a waste to me especially for the
environment itself. We only have so much available resources here in the desert. Water is already a big
topic and issue for local farmers and ranchers. The small businesses out here that depend on the peace
and quiet to thrive are being tormented and pushed to the side by billionaires. Who have no real stake in
this land other than till fill their pockets with money. And at what cost? The cost of destroying a small
hatchery that I've come to know personally and helped grow in my time as an employee there. At C3's
Gallinaceous Hatchery whose livelihood would assuredly be disrupted by a huge data center. The owner
Cherisse Campbell has poured her heart and soul into that land for the last 10 years bringing happiness
to people with the love and care she puts into her hatchery. Its a shame that a billionaire can just come in
and destroy that hard work, she's put into the land she loves and is fighting for. Also good friends and
neighbors near by the Fletchers who have put in their efforts and life savings into a peaceful retirement
and forever home. Along with other neighbors as well that make up the small community around the C3's
Gallinaceous Hatchery. But most importantly is the desert wildlife that would be decimated by heavy
equipment and heavily increased traffic to the area. Hear the pleas of the ones who have poured their
hearts and souls into the land they love. Please do not let this data center that is so unnecessary for this
place be built to destroy years of hard work. Find another place for it.
Sincerely,
Aaron Orosco
308 5th Ave W.
3
Buckeye, AZ. 85326.
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
Matthew Quintero <matthew.quintero97@gmail.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 9:36 AM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Formal Opposition to Case Z250074 – Hassayampa Ranch Data Center
This Message Is From an Untrusted Sender
You have not previously corresponded with this sender. Please use caution when you receive messages from new senders.
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Andrew,
I am a resident of the Tonopah area and am writing to formally oppose Case Z250074 related to the
proposed data center development at Hassayampa Ranch.
This project poses serious and unresolved risks to existing rural residents, particularly regarding
groundwater, infrastructure capacity, and compatibility with surrounding land uses. Homes in this area
rely on private wells drawing from shared aquifers. The scale and continuous water demand associated
with hyperscale data centers presents a real risk of aquifer drawdown and well impairment, especially in
an area not protected by enforceable groundwater management limits.
Additionally, the existing electrical and transmission infrastructure serving this area was not designed to
support an industrial load equivalent to a small city. Without binding guarantees and infrastructure
improvements completed prior to approval, this project risks power instability, visual blight from new
substations and lines, and long-term impacts on residents who receive no direct benefit from the
development.
Finally, the 24/7 operational nature of data centers introduces unavoidable light pollution, noise from
cooling systems and generators, and air quality impacts that are fundamentally incompatible with the
rural character of Tonopah.
This project should not move forward. It does not align with the local residents and our wants and needs!
Please include this email as part of the official public record for Case Z250074.
Sincerely,
Matthew Quintero
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
Dawn Reisenbigler <dawnreis@mac.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 5:18 PM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Objection to Proposed Hassayampa Ranch Data Center Case #Z250074
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Dear Mr. Lorentzen:
I currently reside at 3505 N 327th Dr Tonopah, AZ. I am writing to voice my opposition to the proposed
data center project Hassayampa Ranches which would be located 2 miles from my home.
My objection is based on the following concerns regarding the detrimental impact this facility will have
on our community:
1. Water and Resource Strain: The proposed data center requires immense amounts of water for
cooling, which threatens our local, limited water supply.
2. Increased Utility Costs: Data centers are intensive energy users. The increased load on the grid is
likely to result in higher electricity bills for residents and small businesses in Tonopah and
surrounding areas.
3. Noise and Environmental Pollution: The constant drone from industrial cooling units and the
installation of diesel generators for backup power will create noise pollution and diminish air
quality in our residential area.
4. Upon researching other data center builds throughout the US, it has been proven that wells within
a five mile radius of the data centers have increased cancer causing nitrates and the majority of
people with private wells experience water shortages and discoloration of water over time, even
when the data center uses a closed-loop system. I am greatly concerned that if this does happen
to our private wells in this area, we will have no recourse.
I urge the Maricopa Planning and Development Department to consider the long-term well-being of the
community over the interests of this development and vote NO on this project.
Sincerely,
Dawn Reisenbigler
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
SAMANTHA Rodriguez Quintero <s.quintero.r24@gmail.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 10:25 AM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Incompatibility of Proposed Data Center with Rural Tonopah Area
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Dear Decision Makers,
I am writing to express my opposition to the data center proposed at Hassayampa Ranch under Case
Z250074.
This development is fundamentally incompatible with the rural nature of the Tonopah area. Data centers
operate continuously, generating constant light pollution, mechanical noise, and emissions from backup
generators. These impacts do not dissipate over time — they permanently alter the surrounding
environment.
Residents chose this area specifically for its low density, dark skies, quiet conditions, and minimal
industrial presence. Introducing a large-scale, nonstop industrial operation undermines those
expectations and sets a precedent for further incompatible development.
Land use decisions should protect existing communities, not sacrifice them for projects that can be
located in areas already zoned and serviced for heavy industrial demand.
For these reasons, I strongly oppose this project and ask that it be denied.
Sincerely,
Samantha Rodriguez Quintero
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
SAMANTHA Rodriguez Quintero <s.quintero.r24@gmail.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 10:24 AM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Opposition to Hassayampa Ranch Data Center Due to Groundwater Impacts
This Message Is From an Untrusted Sender
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To Whom It May Concern,
I am submitting this email in opposition to the proposed data center development associated with Case
Z250074 at Hassayampa Ranch.
My primary concern is groundwater. Residents in this area depend exclusively on private wells, and there
is no enforceable mechanism ensuring that industrial-scale water use from a data center will not impair
existing wells over time. Promises of “efficient cooling” or future mitigation do not replace binding limits
or long-term hydrogeologic guarantees.
Once groundwater levels decline, the damage is irreversible for residents. Wells fail, drilling costs
increase, and homeowners bear the financial burden while industrial users continue operating. This risk
alone makes the proposed use inappropriate for this location.
Until the applicant can provide an independent hydrogeologic study demonstrating non-impairment of
existing wells under full buildout conditions, approval of this project would be premature and
irresponsible.
Please record my opposition in the official file for this case.
Respectfully,
Samantha Rodriguez Quintero
Tonopah Arizona
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
lee smith <antiquely4@hotmail.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 9:51 AM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Hassayampa Ranch 1.5 GW Data Center
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Dear Andrew Lorentzen(planning dept):
I am writing to formerly object to the proposed data center development case#Z250074
HASSAYAMPA RANCH.
I am a resident living at Hassayampa Ranch neighborhood on N. 336th Ave,and believe this project
will have significant negative impacts on our community.
My objections are based on the following concerns:
NOISE POLLUTION/ the 24/7 operation of cooling fans and backup generators will severely impact
the quality of life we have here in our quiet family oriented neighborhood.
WATER USAGE/these facilities consume substantial (huge) amounts of water which will strain local
resources , especially OUR neighborhood which we all rely on our wells, (which cost us several
thousand dollars to put in) and water is a huge problem here in AZ. Data centers are water vampires
using enormous amounts of water ,even if you plan on recycling 60% of water used.
ELECTRICAL USAGE AND ENERGY/the high usage of electricity data centers consume could result
in higher utility costs for our local residents, and that could be devastating in these hard enough
times.
AIR POLLUTION/Data centers contribute to air pollution, which could worsen existing health
conditions among our residents.
The cumulative effects of the noise(and there is definitely a constant noise) interfere with outside
activities,sleep, our babies peace, water and air pollution, as well as increased electricity use will
significantly affect both our physical and overall health here in this community. The construction and
operation of this proposed data center will lead to changes in our environment and land here.
This is not even including the constant trucks on our roads ,kicking up dust into the air, noise during
construction, (not including once it’s up and running ! The impact on our home and land values will be
lowered considerably.
We bought our land and homes here because we have peace and quiet and to improve our quality of
life.
There is so much available land off the I-10 that could be used that will NOT IMPACT peoples lives
this way. I am asking you to reconsider NOT allowing this data center to be placed here. It will ruin
several people’s lives and we deserve to be considered.
Thank you, Lee Smith-Stlouis
(480)577-7100.
1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
stfred.43 <stfred.43@gmail.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 10:20 AM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Subject:
Tonopah data center case# z250074. HASSAYAMPA RANCH
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Andrew is am writing to object to the data center in tonopah..not buckeye...the average data center use
300.000 gallons of water a day...everyone out here is on wells..that is equivalent to daily use of 100,000
homes ..
Noise....the generators and water coolers constant hum will be unbearable for outdoor activities and
sleep
We moved out here for peace and quiet...
Sent from my Galaxy
This is not buckeye I know buckeye wants this to be built...this is tonopah,....you purposely scheduled
these hearings during the week in phoenix/ Jefferson st. So nobody will show.
Thanks fred stlouis 4424 n 336th ave tonopah not buckeye arizona
March 2, 2026
Maricopa County Planning and Zoning Commission
301 W. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Re: Letter of Support for Hassayampa Ranch Zone Change with Overlay (Z250047)
Dear Maricopa County Planning and Zoning Commissioners:
On behalf of the Arizona Technology Council, the state’s premier trade association representing more than 750
science and technology companies, I write to express our strong support for the proposed Hassayampa Ranch
Zone Change with Overlay (Z250047).
This request seeks approval of a zone change with an overlay for approximately 2,077 acres historically known as
Hassayampa Ranch. In 2008, the property was entitled for a master-planned community featuring more than
5,700 homes but was not developed. The current proposal instead would allow Arizona Land Consulting to pursue
light industrial uses, including a data center and power generation, while accommodating other compatible
advanced industrial users.
The project represents a strategic and appropriate evolution of the site. Located within an established industrial
corridor and supported by existing transportation infrastructure and utility networks, the proposed rezoning aligns
with surrounding land uses and long-term regional planning objectives. Importantly, it will generate both short-
and long-term employment opportunities while strengthening economic vitality in the West Valley, an area widely
recognized for its workforce talent, strong educational institutions, and collaborative ecosystem that supports
technology and advanced manufacturing growth.
Arizona’s economy increasingly depends on digital infrastructure. The rapid expansion of cloud computing,
artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and secure digital systems has significantly increased demand for
resilient data center capacity and reliable power generation. Arizona has emerged as one of the nation’s leading
data center markets, driven by its favorable business climate, limited exposure to natural disasters, robust energy
portfolio and proximity to major technology corridors in Texas and California.
Data centers are foundational infrastructure for the modern economy. They enable innovation across sectors,
support defense and national security operations, and attract high-value investment. Each direct data center job
supports approximately six additional jobs across the broader economy. Construction of these facilities generates
hundreds of skilled trade positions over multiyear build cycles, contributing meaningfully to local employment and
tax revenues. Over the next decade, Arizona’s data center growth is projected to generate more than 251,000
temporary construction jobs, over 37,000 permanent jobs and approximately $2.63 billion in new tax revenue
statewide.
The proposed Hassayampa Ranch development will help ensure Arizona remains competitive in attracting next-
generation industries while advancing responsible economic development in Maricopa County.
For these reasons, we respectfully urge your approval of this important project and stand ready to support its
continued success.
Respectfully,
ARIZONA TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL & SCITECH INSTITUTE
Steven G. Zylstra
President & CEO