01. Z2023028 PZ Report

Maricopa County — Planning & Zoning (2023-12-07)

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Z2023028 
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Report to the Planning and Zoning Commission 
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department 
 
 
Case: 
Z2023028 - Justice Battery Energy Storage System  
 
 
 
 
Hearing Date: 
December 7, 2023 
 
Supervisor District: 
4 
 
 
 
  
 
Applicant: 
Chris Webb, Rose Law Group PC  
 
Owners: 
Adventure Arena LLC & Three Strands Property LLC 
   
Request: 
Zone change from Rural-43 to IND-2 IUPD  
 
  
 
Site Location: 
Generally located at the NWC of Tuthill & Broadway Roads in the Buckeye 
area 
 
  
Site Size: 
Approximately 13.9 acres 
 
Density: 
N/A 
 
County Island:  
No 
 
 
County Plan: 
Rural Development Area (0-1 d.u./ac)  
 
Municipal Plan: 
Buckeye – Neighborhoods (1+ d.u./ac) 
 
Municipal Comments: 
City of Buckeye – Objection  
 
Support/Opposition: 
None known 
 
Recommendation: 
Approve with conditions

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Project Summary: 
 
1. 
The applicant, Chris Webb with Rose Law Group, representing Strata Energy, is requesting a zone 
change from Rual-43 to IND-2 IUPD with a plan of development to allow for development of a 
utility-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) on a 13.9-acre site located at the northwest 
corner of Broadway Rd, & Tuthill Rd. in the Buckeye area. The project’s intention is to store and 
release generated power within battery systems to be used in times of excess service demand.   
 
2. 
The BESS would include 1,290 battery units housed within specifically designed storage cabinets. 
The project would contain its own site power substation as well as project offices and associated 
work and maintenance buildings. The project would include up to three employees overseeing 
the operations at any one time.  
 
3. 
The site is located across from an APS substation that will serve as an interconnection. A small 
cluster of residential housing exists directly east of the proposed project. The neighbor directly 
east has provided land for the proposal and will buffer the use from the other nearby homes.  
 
4. 
The proposal involves an Industrial Unit Planed Development (IUPD) Overlay which allows 
deviation of standards to help meet project intentions. The site would provide an outdoor 
workspace for staff to maintain the battery systems, and the applicant is requesting a deviation 
in standards to allow work to occur in this outdoor space without screening measures or within 
an enclosed building as would otherwise be required.  
 
The applicant is also requesting a deviation from standard parking requirements from 1:250 sf 
office & 1:600 sf industrial to 1:750 & 1:1,200 respectively. 
 
Finally, the applicant is requesting a deviation for wall and screening standards. Current MCZO 
regulations require a 6’ masonry wall for seperation, but the applicant is requesting to amend 
this standard to allow a wrought iron fence along with adjacent interior landscaping.  
 
Proposed IUPD Table:

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2023 Zoning Map: 
 
 
Proposed Site Plan:

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Existing On-Site and Adjacent Zoning / Land Use: 
 
5. 
On-site: 
 
Rural-43 / Residential / Agriculture 
 
North: 
PR / Agriculture (City of Buckeye)  
 
South: 
PC / Agriculture (City of Buckeye) 
 
East: 
Rural-43 / Residential / Agriculture 
 
West: 
Rural-43 / Electrical transfer substation 
 
Utilities and Services: 
 
6. 
Water: 
Roosevelt Irrigation District  
 
Wastewater: 
Septic 
 
Fire: 
Arizona Fire & Medical Authority 
 
Police:  
Maricopa County Sherriff 
 
Right-of-Way: 
 
7. 
The following table includes existing and proposed half-width right-of-way and the future 
classification based upon the Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Major 
Streets and Routes Plan.   
 
Street Name 
Half-width Existing R/W 
Half-width Proposed R/W 
Future Classification 
Tuthill Rd. 
33’ 
40’ 
Major Collector 
Broadway Rd. 
66’ 
66’ 
Minor Arterial 
 
 
Adopted Plan: 
 
8. 
City of Buckeye General Plan: The City of Buckeye’s General Plan, updated in 2022, designates 
this site as ‘Neighborhoods’ which allows land densities over 1 du/ac. 
 
Public Participation Summary: 
 
9. 
The applicant sent neighborhood notifications to all parcel owners within 300’ and has had the 
site posted since April 5, 2023 with no public outreach received.  
 
Outstanding Concerns from Reviewing Agencies: 
 
10. 
The City of Buckeye sent a letter of objection to the zoning proposal stating they want to see the 
property annexed into the city and developed within their design regulations. The City notes that 
under their ordinances the project is a by-right use in their current Rural Residential zoning and 
would not require rezoning.   
 
 
Staff Analysis: 
 
11. 
Staff supports the proposed zone change as the project helps provide a unique solution to energy 
need issues within the local power grid. The specific location was chosen due to its proximity to 
a power substation and the current rural nature of the surrounding built environment. Staff notes

Z2023028 
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a minor impact to the local residences and notes that the property owner providing land for the 
project will provide a buffer from the proposed use.  
 
12. 
Staff recognizes the City of Buckeye’s request for design review.  Due to the 100’ fire seperation 
setback required, the proposed use would have extensive distance separation which would 
accomplish the same result as additional setbacks as well as incorporate a robust planned 
landscaping plan. The request for the wrought iron fence goes against conventional requirements 
for a block wall for seperation purposes, but the applicant is requesting to match the adjacent 
substation which was developed under previous standards that’s allowed wrought iron screening. 
Staff recognizes the proposed use as not being a traditional ‘industrial’ use in that the design 
incorporates thoughtfully designed battery storage units that do not create the same level of 
intensity seen in traditional industrial zones. Staff views the wrought iron, landscaping, extended 
setbacks and designed utility cabinets as a viable and thoughtful alternative to the traditional 
CMU block wall screening standard and meeting the City of Buckeyes intent of screening and 
design character concerns.  
 
Recommendation: 
 
13. 
Staff recommends the Commission adopt a motion recommending that the Board of Supervisors 
approve Z2023028 subject to the following conditions ‘a’ – ‘j’: 
 
a. 
A Plan of Development is approved subject to site plan entitled “Justice Battery Storage 
Preliminary Site Plan” consisting of 1 full-size sheet, dated 9/15/23, and stamped received 
10/2/23. The Plan of Development may be amended administratively under separate 
application as long as the amendment complies with the established IUPD development 
standards as approved by the Board of Supervisors. Staff may determine slight 
refinements to remain in substantial conformance with the approved site plan.  Minor and 
major amendments to the site plan will be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 of 
the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. 
 
b. 
Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the narrative report 
entitled “Zone Change with Overlay – Justice Battery Storage”, consisting of 15 pages, 
dated  8/21/2023, and stamped received 8/31/2023, except as modified by the following 
conditions. 
 
c. 
Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the landscape plan 
entitled “Justice Battery Storage Preliminary Landscape Plan“, consisting of 3 full-size 
sheets, dated 9/19/2023, and stamped received 10/2/23, except as modified by the 
following conditions. 
 
d. 
The following IND-2 IUPD standards shall apply:  
Additional Regulations (MCZO Section 902.9.1)- The activities and operations associated 
with the BESS staging area use and activities are not required to be conducted within a 
completely enclosed building. 
Parking ( MCZO Section 1102) - Office: 1 space per 750 SF, Industrial: 1 space per 1,200 
SF. 
Perimeter Screening (Side & Rear abutting a rural or residential zoning district) - North: 6’ 
wrought iron fence South (adjacent to Broadway Road) & West: 6’ wrought iron fence with 
landscape setback South (not adjacent to Broadway Road) & East: 6’ wrought iron fence 
with adjacent interior landscaping.

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Perimeter Screening (not abutting a rural or residential zoning district) - North: 6’ wrought 
iron fence South (adjacent to Broadway Road) & West: 6’ wrought iron fence with 
landscape setback South (not adjacent to Broadway Road) & East: 6’ wrought iron fence 
with adjacent interior landscaping. 
 
e. 
Prior to issuance of initial building permits, written confirmation will be required from the 
emergency fire protection jurisdiction having authority that the facility has been designed 
in accordance with their regulations and requirements, and that emergency fire protection 
service will be provided to the facility. Prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy, 
local fire protection jurisdiction review and approval will be required. 
 
f. 
Prior to issuance of initial building permits, all parcels shall be combined to create a single 
parcel matching the zone change area.  
 
g. 
The following Planning Engineering conditions shall apply: 
 
1. 
Driveway access to County roads must be paved and will require a permit from  
MCDOT issued concurrent with building permit(s) required for site development.  
 
2. 
Prior to issuance of any building permits for the project, dedication of R/W  
along 203rd Avenue (Tuthill Road) to provide a half-width of 40’ must be 
completed. Documentation shall be provided with the building permit. See 
https://www.mcdot.maricopa.gov/744/Right-of-Way-Dedications for more 
information on the dedication process. 
 
3. 
Prior to issuance of any building permits for the project, dedication of R/W  
along West Broadway Road to provide a half-width of 65’ must be completed.  
Documentation shall be provided with the building permit. See 
https://www.mcdot.maricopa.gov/744/Right-of-Way-Dedications for more 
information on the dedication process. 
 
4. 
Prior to issuance of any building permits applicant needs to coordinate with  
irrigation district to address crossing over irrigation prior to issuance of building  
permits. Provide documentation to Maricopa County of irrigation company  
approval concurrent with building permit(s) required for site development. 
 
5. 
Applicant to provide spillway design conforming to Maricopa County Drainage  
Policies and Standards – Hydraulics, Section 9.3.3 at time of building permit. 
 
6.  
Applicant to provide flow capacity calculations of outlet pipe at time of building  
permit.  
 
7.  
Engineering review of planning and/or zoning cases is for conceptual design  
only. All development and engineering design shall be in conformance with  
Section 1205 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance; Drainage Policies and  
Standards; Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County; MCDOT Roadway  
Design Manual; and current engineering policies, standards and best practices  
at the time of application for construction. 
 
8. 
Based on the conceptual design nature of the information submitted, changes  
to the site layout may be necessitated by the final engineering design of the

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site drainage infrastructure. 
 
9.  
Detailed Grading and Drainage Plans and Drainage Report must be submitted  
with the application for Building Permits. 
 
10.  
Retention basins must drain within 36 hours. 
 
11.  
Historic drainage patterns must be maintained. 
 
h. 
Noncompliance with any Maricopa County regulation shall be grounds for initiating a 
revocation of this zone change as set forth in the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. 
 
i. 
The property owner/s and their successors waive claim for diminution in value if Maricopa 
County takes action to rescind approval due to noncompliance with conditions.  
 
j. 
The granting of this change in use of the property has been at the request of the applicant, 
with the consent of the landowner.  The granting of this approval allows the property to 
enjoy uses in excess of those permitted by the zoning existing on the date of application, 
subject to conditions. Failure to comply with any condition may be grounds for 
consideration of reverting the zoning back to the previous Rural-43, in accordance with 
Maricopa County requirements and procedures. It is, therefore, stipulated and agreed that 
either revocation due to the failure to comply with any conditions, does not reduce any 
rights that existed on the date of application to use, divide, sell or possess the property 
and that there would be no diminution in value of the property from the value it held on the 
date of application due to such revocation of the zone change.  The zone change 
enhances the value of the property above its value as of the date the zone change is 
granted and reverting to the prior zoning results in the same value of the property as if the 
zone change had never been granted. 
 
 
Presented by: 
Andrew Lorentzen, Planner 
Reviewed by: 
Matthew Holm, AICP, Planning Supervisor 
 
Attachments: 
Case Map (1 page) 
 
Site Plan (1 page) 
 
Narrative Report (15 pages) 
 
Landscape Plan (3 Pages) 
 
Maricopa County Engineering (4 pages) 
 
MCDOT comments (3 pages) 
 
MCESD comments (1 page) 
 
City of Buckeye objection (4 Pages) 
 
AFMA Letter (1 Page)

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BUCKEYE, AZ
JUSTICE BATTERY STORAGE
NORTH
LEGEND
F
NOTES
FLOOD INFORMATION
BASIS OF BEARINGS
BENCHMARK
CIVIL ENGINEER
OWNER/DEVELOPER
SITE CALCULATIONS
PARKING REQUIREMENTS
PRELIMINARY SITE PLAN
LEGAL DESCRIPTION

ZONE CHANGE with OVERLAY 
 NARRATIVE 
 
 
Justice Battery Energy Storage System 
at 
NEC of Broadway Road & Tuthill Road 
 
Maricopa County, Arizona 
 
February 16, 2023 
Revised May 5, 2023 
Revised August 21, 2023 
 
 
 
Prepared for: 
 
 
 
800 Taylor St, Suite 200  
Durham, North Carolina 27701 
 
 
 
 
Prepared by: 
 
 
 
 
7144 E. Stetson Drive, Suite 300 
Scottsdale, AZ 85251 
Phone: (480) 240-5648 
 
Case No. Z2023028

Background 
 
Strata Clean Energy, LLC (“Strata”) is a family-owned renewable energy developer, 
owner, and operator with over 190 solar and storage projects completed to date, representing 
over $4 billion in clean energy investment across the United States. Strata is proposing the 
development of a new approximately 150 MW Battery Energy Storage System (“BESS” or 
“Project”) on approximately 13.91 gross acres (13.49 net acres) located at the northeast corner of 
Broadway Road and Tuthill Road in unincorporated Maricopa County, comprising APN 502-47-
007A and a portion of APN 502-47-038 (the “Site”) (see Exhibit A – Aerial Vicinity Map 
attached hereto). The Site is bordered on the north by an existing SRP overhead electrical 
transmission line corridor and located across Tuthill Road from an existing WAPA electrical 
substation and an existing APS electrical substation (which the Project will interconnect into), 
thereby making the Site well-suited for the proposed Project. 
  
Battery Energy Storage Systems (“BESS”) such as the proposed Project are a necessary 
part of a modern and robust power network. BESSs safely store abundant electricity generated 
by renewable energy during daylight hours and then feed that energy back into the power grid in 
the evening when it is most needed. The proposed facility is capable of storing enough electricity 
to power approximately120,000 homes and businesses in the valley for four hours. The Project 
can serve the electrical grid in multiple ways including immediate power for ‘peak’ demand on 
hot days, back-up energy to reduce/avoid blackouts, increased grid resiliency, near-instantaneous 
response to changes in renewable energy generation that help integrate and balance intermittent 
renewable sources, and storage of excess solar power to be used after the sun goes down. In 
addition to being a necessary component of a dependable power grid, the Project will generate 
approximately $13.9 million in new property taxes over 20 years as a nearly $250 million 
investment in Arizona. 
 
Purpose of Request 
 
The Site is currently zoned RU-43 and is located within Maricopa County’s White 
Tank/Grand Avenue Area Plan which designates the Site for rural residential and/or agricultural 
uses. The Site is also located with the General Plan planning area of the City of Buckeye, which 
designates the Site as “Rural”. 
 
The purpose of this request is to pursue approval of a Zone Change with Overlay from 
RU-43 to “IND-2 (Light Industrial)” with a corresponding Industrial Unit Plan of Development 
(“IUPD”) to allow for the development of the proposed BESS on the Site. It should be noted that 
because of the relatively small size of the Site (approximately 13.91 gross acres), a 
corresponding amendment of the White Tank/Grand Avenue Area Plan is not required. 
 
Description of Proposal  
 
BESS Use & Equipment 
 
 
The requested Zone Change would specifically provide for the development of a new 
BESS on the Site.  The proposed IUPD will therefore restrict the permitted uses on the Site to 
only those that provide for the proposed BESS use as indicated in Table 1: Permitted Uses 
below. The use types described in Section 902.2.17 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance

(“MCZO”) have been determined by the County to include a BESS. Restricting the Site to these 
uses will prevent other uses that may be considered incompatible with the surrounding area from 
being constructed on the Site. Any uses not specifically allowed pursuant to MCZO Section 
902.2.17 shall not be permitted. 
 
Table 1: Permitted Uses 
Base Zoning District 
Use Description 
IND-2 
MCZO Section 902.2.17: 
 
Public utility treatment and generating plants including sewage, 
wastewater, water, power, electrical, nuclear and solar, and including 
ancillary offices. Attendant facilities and appurtenances to the above 
uses as well as uses associated with service to the public of water, gas, 
telephone and cable television. Where an electrical generating plant is 
in operation, evaporation ponds and other appurtenances may be 
permitted provided such evaporation ponds or appurtenances are 
associated within the facility being served. 
 
The Site is immediately adjacent to Broadway Road and Tuthill Road, both two-lane paved 
roadways.  Access to the Site will occur from Broadway Road and Tuthill Road via a new gated 
entrance off of each roadway to be constructed with the Project.  The Broadway Road entrance 
will utilize an existing driveway on APN 502-47-007A. The Project will consist of battery 
storage units located within enclosed cabinets mounted on outdoor concrete pads situated in rows 
(see Exhibit B – Example Battery Cabinets attached hereto). Internal drives and fire lanes will 
provide maintenance and emergency response access to the entire Site, including the operations 
areas (explained below), the battery storage units, and the private project substation in the 
southwest corner (see Exhibit C– Site Plan attached hereto).  The northern portion of the Site, 
which is subject to the existing SRP electrical transmission line corridor and associated 
easement, will be left as-is, subject to the restrictions of the easement.  
 
The on-site private project substation will be interconnected directly to the APS 
substation on the west side of Tuthill Road across from the Site. The proximity of the Site to the 
existing APS substation will minimize the gen-tie length and amount of transmission 
infrastructure needed in the area. This interconnection is a critical one for both the proposed 
Project and the APS electrical grid in multiple ways, potentially including immediate power for 
‘peak’ demand on hot days, back-up energy to reduce/avoid blackouts, increased grid resiliency, 
near-instantaneous response to changes in renewable energy generation that help integrate and 
balance intermittent renewable sources, and storage of excess solar power to be used after the 
sun goes down.  It should be noted that Strata has already gone through the entire 
interconnection study process with APS and anticipates signing a Generator Interconnection 
Agreement with APS in the next few months. 
 
On-Site Operations Areas 
 
 
There will be a maximum of three (3) employees on-site but no public access to the Site. 
These employees will continuously monitor the safety and operations of the Project and perform 
routine Project maintenance, as necessary. An approximately 60’ x 12’ (720 SF) manufactured 
office building (which includes restroom facilities) will be provided for use by Strata’s on-site

employees. The manufactured office building will be connected to either the existing septic 
system on the Site (constructed for the existing residence) or a new septic system to be 
constructed with the Project (if necessary). The manufactured office building will also be 
connected to a new water line from the existing potable well on the Site. It should be noted that 
the existing residence on the Site will be removed. Additionally, three (3) approximately 8’ x 40’ 
(320 SF) storage containers arranged around a 40’ x 40’ (1,600 SF) shaded operations staging 
area will be provided near the manufactured office building for use by the on-site employees. 
The shade structure will be approximately 11’-14’ in height and constructed of a polyethylene or 
vinyl polyester covering attached to steel frame posts (see Exhibit D – Office Trailer & 
Operations Staging Area Renderings attached hereto). This “outdoor” staging area will require 
a deviation to the IND-2 development standards as noted in Table 2: IND-2 Development 
Standards Comparison below. It should be noted that Strata may elect to replace the 
manufactured office building at a future date with a more permanent office building structure. 
Four (4) parking stalls for Strata’s on-site employees (including one ADA accessible stall) will 
be provided near the manufactured office building. The proposed parking for the Project will 
require a deviation to the IND-2 development standards as noted in Table 2: IND-2 
Development Standards Comparison below. 
 
Perimeter Screening 
 
 
The Site will be enclosed with a 6-foot perimeter wrought iron fence, with landscape 
buffers provided for additional screening along the southern (Broadway Road frontage only) and 
western (Tuthill Road frontage) boundaries. The eastern boundary and remaining portion of the 
southern boundary (the portion not adjacent to Broadway Road) will feature additional 
landscaping treatment inside of, and along the length of the 6-foot perimeter wrought iron fence. 
The proposed perimeter screening will require a deviation to the IND-2 development standards 
as noted in Table 2: IND-2 Development Standards Comparison below. 
 
On-Site Lighting 
 
Lighting will be limited to bollard lights at each of the project entrances/exits and pole 
mounted lights around the on-site private substation, manufactured office building, and the 
storage staging area in order to satisfy security needs. All lighting will meet MCZO 
requirements. 
 
Roosevelt Irrigation District Lateral 
 
It should be noted that the existing Roosevelt Irrigation District (“RID”) lateral on the 
east side of Tuthill Road adjacent to the Site will need to be relocated with the Project. This 
lateral will be moved further to the east, outside of the ultimate Tuthill Road right-of-way, and 
put in an underground pipe as noted on the Site Plan. Strata will be coordinating this effort with 
RID. 
 
Fire & Hazard Mitigation 
 
Strata is working closely with Arizona Fire & Medical Authority (“AZFMA”) to ensure 
that all fire suppression and other public safety measures and concerns are addressed for the 
Project. The Project design currently includes a 100’ setback from the perimeter property lines to

all battery storage units and a first responder station/staging area on the southernmost portion of 
the Site, including onsite water storage tanks for fire suppression (as may be required by 
AZFMA). The first responder station/staging area, which must be located outside of the Project’s 
gated entrance per AZFMA requirements, will be accessed off of Broadway Road via the 
Project’s Broadway Road entrance. The first responder station/staging area will still be screened 
from Broadway Road and Tuthill Road by the Project’s 6-foot perimeter wrought iron fence and 
landscape buffers. The Project design may be updated as necessary prior to permitting per 
direction from AZFMA. Additionally, at the request of AZFMA, a formal Hazard Mitigation 
Analysis for the Project will also be prepared and submitted for their review. 
 
Proposed Development Standards 
 
 
 
The Site will comply with all the general IND-2 base zoning district regulations. The 
proposed development standards for the Project, including three minor deviations to the IND-2 
development standards, are outlined in Table 2: IND-2 Development Standards Comparison 
and described below.  
 
 
The first development standard deviation proposed for the Site is to provide for the 
above-referenced BESS staging area activities to be conducted “outdoors”, outside of a 
completely enclosed building. MCZO Section 902.9.1 requires that all IND-2 uses except for 
parking, loading, unloading or storage be conducted within a completely enclosed building. 
While we believe the proposed BESS staging area use and activities are already very similar in 
nature to these exceptions, a specific deviation to allow the BESS staging area use and activities 
to be conducted outdoors is requested. 
 
 
 
The second development standard deviation proposed for the Site is a reduction in the 
amount of required parking. As noted above, the Site will include 720 SF of “office” use and 
approximately 2,880 SF “industrial” use between the 3 storage containers and the covered 
staging area. At a parking ratio of 1 space per 250 SF for “office” and 1 space per 600 SF for 
“industrial” (per MCZO Section 1102), the Site would require a total of 8 parking spaces. 
However, the Site is not open or accessible to the public and Strata will have a maximum of 
three (3) on-site employees. Strata is therefore proposing to provide a total of 4 parking spaces 
(including one ADA accessible space), based on a ratio of 1 space per 750 SF for “office” and 1 
space per 1,200 SF for “industrial”, which is more than sufficient for their on-site employees and 
operational needs. 
 
 
 
The third development standard deviation proposed for the Site is to allow for a 
modification of the perimeter screening requirements. As noted above, the Site is proposed to be 
enclosed with a 6-foot perimeter wrought iron fence rather than a 6’ masonry wall.  The Site is 
immediately adjacent to the SRP electrical transmission line corridor to the north, and two 
existing electrical substations to west across Tuthill Road, both enclosed with only chain link 
fencing. The level of screening provided by a 6’ masonry wall should not be required from these 
uses. Further, Strata is self-imposing a larger setback (100’) around the entire perimeter of the 
Site as noted on the Site Plan. Nevertheless, Strata is proposing to provide a landscape setback in 
front of the perimeter wrought iron fence along both Broadway Road (southern boundary) and 
Tuthill Road (western boundary), and additional landscaping within and adjacent to the wrought 
iron fencing along the eastern boundary and the remaining portion of the southern boundary (the 
portion not adjacent to Broadway Road) in order to provide additional screening.

Table 2: IND-2 Development Standards Comparison 
Regulation 
Base Zoning District 
Regulations (IND-2) 
Proposed Zoning District 
Regulations (IND-2 IUPD) 
Maximum Height 
40' 
40’ 
Min. Front Yard (South, adjacent 
to Broadway Road) 
20’ (abutting a section line 
road) 
20’ (abutting a section line 
road) 
Min. Side Yard (East & South, 
not adjacent to Broadway Road) 
5’ (adjacent to rural or 
residential zoning district) 
5’ (adjacent to rural or 
residential zoning district) 
Min. Side Yard (West) 
10’ (street side of corner lot 
abutting rural or residential 
zoning district) 
10’ (street side of corner lot 
abutting rural or residential 
zoning district) 
Min. Rear Yard (North) 
25' (abutting a rural or 
residential zoning district) 
25' (abutting a rural or 
residential zoning district) 
Minimum Lot Area 
6,000 sq ft 
6,000 sq ft 
Min. Lot Width 
60' 
60’ 
Maximum Lot Coverage 
60% 
60% 
Additional Regulations (MCZO 
Section 902.9.1) 
All uses except for parking, 
loading, unloading or storage 
shall be conducted within a 
completely enclosed building 
The activities and 
operations associated with 
the BESS staging area use 
and activities are not 
required to be conducted 
within a completely enclosed 
building 
Parking ( MCZO Section 1102) 
Office: 1 space per 250 SF 
Industrial: 1 space per 600 SF 
Office: 1 space per 750 SF 
Industrial: 1 space per 1,200 
SF 
Perimeter Screening 
(Side & Rear abutting a rural or 
residential zoning district)  
6’ masonry wall 
North: 6’ wrought iron 
fence 
 
South (adjacent to 
Broadway Road) & West: 6’ 
wrought iron fence with 
landscape setback 
 
South (not adjacent to 
Broadway Road) & East: 6’ 
wrought iron fence with 
adjacent interior 
landscaping 
Perimeter Screening 
(not abutting a rural or residential 
zoning district)  
6’ masonry wall or fence with 
view obscuring material 
North: 6’ wrought iron 
fence 
 
South (adjacent to 
Broadway Road) & West: 6’ 
wrought iron fence with 
landscape setback 
 
South (not adjacent to 
Broadway Road) & East: 6’

wrought iron fence with 
adjacent interior 
landscaping 
 
Relationship to Surrounding Property  
 
 
The requested Zone Change is compatible with the surrounding land uses. The Site is 
bordered on the west by Tuthill Road, and two large electrical substation facilities situated on 
“RU-43” zoned property owned by APS and the federal government. The Site is bordered on the 
north by agricultural fields zoned “Planned Residential” in the City of Buckeye, which also 
contain SRP’s large overhead electrical transmission line corridor. The Site is bordered on the 
east by additional agricultural fields and rural residential uses zoned “RU-43”. And the Site is 
bordered on the south by rural residential uses zoned “RU-43”, Broadway Road, and agricultural 
fields zoned “Planned Community” in the City of Buckeye.  Approval of this request should not 
alter the current feel of the area for the surrounding properties given the complete lack of traffic 
and minimal on-site employees associated with the Project, as well as the significant existing 
electrical infrastructure in the immediate area. Table 3: Surrounding Uses, Comprehensive Plan 
and Zoning Designations below provides a summary of existing and surrounding land uses. 
 
Table 3: Surrounding Uses, Comprehensive Plan, & Zoning Designations 
 
Existing Land Uses 
Comprehensive Plan 
Zoning 
Jurisdiction 
Site 
Agriculture, Rural 
Residential 
White Tank/Grand Avenue Area Plan 
(Rural Residential and/or Agricultural) 
RU-43 
Maricopa 
County 
North Agriculture, SRP 
Electrical Lines 
Rural 
PR 
Buckeye 
East 
Agriculture, Rural 
Residential 
White Tank/Grand Avenue Area Plan 
(Rural Residential and/or Agricultural) 
RU-43 
Maricopa 
County 
South 
Rural Residential, 
Broadway Road, 
Agriculture  
White Tank/Grand Avenue Area Plan 
(Rural Residential and/or Agricultural) 
& Master Planned Community 
RU-43 & 
PC 
Maricopa 
County & 
Buckeye 
West 
Tuthill Road, 
Electrical Substation 
White Tank/Grand Avenue Area Plan 
(Rural Residential and/or Agricultural) 
RU-43 
Maricopa 
County 
 
Location & Accessibility 
 
 
As noted above, the Site is located at the northeast corner of Broadway Road and Tuthill 
Road, with frontage on both roadways. The Site can easily be accessed by taking the Verrado 
Way exit off of the I-10 freeway (1/2-mile west of Tuthill Road), and then connecting to Tuthill 
Road via either Lower Buckeye Road or Broadway Road. 
 
 
Tuthill Road and Broadway Road are both existing two-lane paved roadways adjacent to 
the Site.  Access to the Site will occur from Broadway Road and Tuthill Road via a new gated 
entrance off of each roadway to be constructed with the Project. The Broadway Road entrance 
will utilize an existing driveway on APN 502-47-007A. The Broadway Road entrance will also 
provide emergency access to the Site’s first responder station/staging area, which includes ample 
turn-around space for emergency vehicles. The BESS use will generate virtually zero traffic and 
relatively low traffic volumes exist today on both Broadway Road and Tuthill Road in this area 
(per the Traffic Statement included with this request). Consequently, the location of these new

access points and their relationship to the existing accesses on Broadway Road and Tuthill Road 
have been analyzed in the Traffic Statement and found to be acceptable. 
  
 
Tuthill Road is a planned Collector Street and requires a total half-street right-of-way 
width of 40’ adjacent to the Site. The Project will dedicate an additional 7’ of right-of-way in 
order to create the full 40’ that is required. Broadway Road is a planned Principal Arterial and 
requires a total half-street right-of-way width of 65’ adjacent to the Site. The Project will 
dedicate an additional 32’ of right-of-way in order to create the full 65’ that is required.  Half-
street improvements to Tuthill Road and Broadway Road are not necessary nor required by the 
County with this Project. 
 
 
Circulation System 
 
 
As noted above, access to the Site will occur from Broadway Road and Tuthill Road via a 
new gated entrance off of each roadway to be constructed with the Project. Emergency access 
will occur from the Broadway Road entrance, where ample turn-around area is provided in the 
first responder station/staging area. Internal drives will then allow employees, and maintenance 
and emergency vehicles to access all areas of the Site, including the battery storage cabinets and 
the on-site electrical substation. The internal drives will allow for these vehicles to be moved 
around the site in a circular pattern, meeting all fire access width and turning radii requirements, 
such that both access points can be utilized equally. 
 
Development Schedule 
 
 
The proposed improvements for the BESS are expected to be constructed in a single 
phase, commencing after the County’s approval of the Zone Change and issuance of required 
building permits. Construction will most likely begin in late 2024 and last for a period of 
approximately 12 months. 
 
Community Facilities & Services 
 
 
As noted above, the proposed BESS use will have a maximum of three (3) on-site 
employees. Consequently, the proposed BESS use will have no impact whatsoever on 
community facilities and services in the area such as schools, parks, libraries, etc. 
 
Public Utilities & Services  
 
 
Sewer:  
 
Septic System 
 
Water:  
 
Existing Well 
 
Refuse: 
 
TBD (will contract with private provider) 
 
Electric: 
 
APS 
 
Fire Protection: 
Arizona Fire & Medical Authority 
 
Police Service: 
Maricopa County Sheriff 
 
Compliance with City of Buckeye General Plan 
 
 
The Site is located within the City of Buckeye’s planning area and is designated “Rural” 
under the City’s General Plan. Strata has discussed the Project with the City of Buckeye through

a formal Pre-Application process. Under the City of Buckeye’s General Plan and Development 
Code, the BESS use is considered a “Utility Facility, Minor” and is therefore a permitted use 
given its “Rural” land use designation and the City’s equivalent “SF-43” zoning that would be 
granted to the Site in the event of an annexation. Therefore, the Project has been confirmed by 
the City of Buckeye to be in compliance with its General Plan. 
 
 
Nevertheless, it is Strata’s understanding that the City of Buckeye has some concerns 
with the Site being rezoned for industrial uses given the broad palette of uses typically allowed in 
industrial zoning districts. In order to address this concern and ensure compatibility with the 
surrounding land uses (both existing and planned), the IUPD associated with this Zone Change 
request proposes to limit the permitted uses on the Site to those related to the BESS (see Table 1 
above). 
 
Conclusion 
 
 
The proposed Project and this Zone Change request is in compliance with both the 
Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan (White Tank/Grand Avenue Area Plan) and the City of 
Buckeye General Plan. The Project is situated immediately adjacent to an existing SRP electrical 
transmission line corridor and two existing electrical substations. As noted above, Strata has also 
taken extra measures to maximize the compatibility of the Zone Change and the BESS use with 
the surrounding area. The proposed BESS will enhance the electrical grid by safely storing 
abundant electricity generated by renewable energy during daylight hours and then feeding that 
energy back into the grid in the evening when it is most needed. It is a necessary part of a 
modern and robust power network and will provide significant benefits to the area’s electrical 
grid.

Exhibit “A” 
 
Aerial Vicinity Map

SITE
Strata Clean Energy
BESS Project
Parcel Map
1
2
1
APN 502-47-007A
A portion of 
APN 502-47-038
2

Exhibit “B” 
 
Example Battery Cabinets 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rendering of the proposed Powin Centipede BESS enclosure. Photo courtesy of Powin.  
 
 
 
 
Rendering of the proposed Powin Centipede BESS system block. Photo courtesy of Powin.

Exhibit “C” 
 
Site Plan

BROADWAY ROAD
S. TUTHILL ROAD
F
F
VICINITY MAP
N.T.S.
/2:(5 %8C.(Y( 52A'
%52A':AY 52A'
-AC.5A%%IT T5AI/
6 T8T+I// 52A'
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CONSTRUCTION
BRYAN M.
WRIGHT
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BUCKEYE, AZ
JUSTICE BATTERY STORAGE
NORTH
LEGEND
F
NOTES
FLOOD INFORMATION
BASIS OF BEARINGS
BENCHMARK
CIVIL ENGINEER
OWNER/DEVELOPER
SITE CALCULATIONS
PARKING REQUIREMENTS
PRELIMINARY SITE PLAN
LEGAL DESCRIPTION

Exhibit “D” 
 
Office Trailer & Operations Staging Area Renderings 
 
 
 
Rendering of the proposed 720 SF office trailer to house operations and maintenance staff. Photo courtesy of Tesla. 
 
 
 
 
Rendering of the proposed storage contains and staging area. Photo courtesy of Tesla.

S. TUTHILL ROAD
VICINITY MAP
N.T.S.
/2:(5 %8C.(Y( 52A'
%52A':AY 52A'
-AC.5A%%IT T5AI/
6 T8T+I// 52A'
6IT(
'8N/AP 52A'
BUCKEYE, AZ
JUSTICE BATTERY STORAGE
0
8
/
1
8
/
2
0
2
3
NORTH
1
3
PRELIMINARY LANDSCAPE PLAN
MATCHLINE: SEE SHEET LS2
GROUNDCOVERS
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
TREES
SHRUBS
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
MATERIALS
DESCRIPTION
ACCENTS
Olneya tesota
   Ironwood
Eremophila glabra 'Mingenew Gold'
   Outback Sunrise Emu
Decomposed Granite
12" Screened, Mahogany, 2" Depth Min.
PLANT LEGEND
Larrea tridentata
   Creosote
Dasylirion wheeleri
   Desert Spoon
Parkinsonia x 'Desert Museum'
   Desert Museum
Simmondsia chinensis
   Jojoba
Decomposed Granite
12" Screened, Mahogany,
1" Depth Min. for Dust Control
QTY
QTY
QTY
QTY
QTY
SIZE
112" Cal. Min., 6' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
5 Gal.
SIZE
SIZE
SIZE
5 Gal.
5 Gal.
5 Gal.
112" Cal. Min., 8' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
219
91
97
65
19
24
74,530 SF
254,520 SF
Hydroseed Mix
Low Sonoran Blend
2.24 AC
Acacia aneura
   Mulga
112" Cal. Min., 8' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
28
Dodonaea viscosa
   Green Hopseed Bush
5 Gal.
130
Existing Tree to Remain
Size Varies
10
Tecoma stans 'Orange Jubilee'
   Orange Jubilee
5 Gal.
87
LS1
CIVIL ENGINEER
KIMLEY-HORN AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
1001 WEST SOUTHERN AVENUE SUITE 131
MESA, AZ 85210
TEL. NO. (480) 207-2681
CONTACT: BRYAN WRIGHT
EMAIL: BRYAN.WRIGHT@KIMLEY-HORN.COM
OWNER/DEVELOPER
STRATA CLEAN ENERGY
1401 LAWRENCE STREET, SUITE 1600
DENVER, CO 80203
TEL. NO. (919) 520-2984
CONTACT: ZACHARY WALKER
EMAIL: ZWALKER@STRATACLEANENERGY.COM
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
KIMLEY-HORN AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
1001 WEST SOUTHERN AVENUE SUITE 131
MESA, AZ 85210
TEL. NO. (602) 906-1103
CONTACT: ANDREW VALESTIN
EMAIL: ANDREW.VALESTIN@KIMLEY-HORN.COM

S. TUTHILL ROAD
VICINITY MAP
N.T.S.
/2:(5 %8C.(Y( 52A'
%52A':AY 52A'
-AC.5A%%IT T5AI/
6 T8T+I// 52A'
6IT(
'8N/AP 52A'
BUCKEYE, AZ
JUSTICE BATTERY STORAGE
0
8
/
1
8
/
2
0
2
3
NORTH
MATCHLINE: SEE SHEET LS1
2
3
PRELIMINARY LANDSCAPE PLAN
GROUNDCOVERS
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
TREES
SHRUBS
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
MATERIALS
DESCRIPTION
ACCENTS
Olneya tesota
   Ironwood
Eremophila glabra 'Mingenew Gold'
   Outback Sunrise Emu
Decomposed Granite
12" Screened, Mahogany, 2" Depth Min.
PLANT LEGEND
Larrea tridentata
   Creosote
Dasylirion wheeleri
   Desert Spoon
Parkinsonia x 'Desert Museum'
   Desert Museum
Simmondsia chinensis
   Jojoba
Decomposed Granite
12" Screened, Mahogany,
1" Depth Min. for Dust Control
QTY
QTY
QTY
QTY
QTY
SIZE
112" Cal. Min., 6' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
5 Gal.
SIZE
SIZE
SIZE
5 Gal.
5 Gal.
5 Gal.
112" Cal. Min., 8' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
219
91
97
65
19
24
74,530 SF
254,520 SF
Hydroseed Mix
Low Sonoran Blend
2.24 AC
Acacia aneura
   Mulga
112" Cal. Min., 8' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
28
Dodonaea viscosa
   Green Hopseed Bush
5 Gal.
130
Existing Tree to Remain
Size Varies
10
Tecoma stans 'Orange Jubilee'
   Orange Jubilee
5 Gal.
87
LS2
MATCHLINE: SEE SHEET LS3

S. TUTHILL ROAD
BROADWAY ROAD
VICINITY MAP
N.T.S.
/2:(5 %8C.(Y( 52A'
%52A':AY 52A'
-AC.5A%%IT T5AI/
6 T8T+I// 52A'
6IT(
'8N/AP 52A'
BUCKEYE, AZ
JUSTICE BATTERY STORAGE
0
8
/
1
8
/
2
0
2
3
NORTH
MATCHLINE: SEE SHEET LS2
3
3
PRELIMINARY LANDSCAPE PLAN
GROUNDCOVERS
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
TREES
SHRUBS
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
BOTANICAL NAME / COMMON NAME
MATERIALS
DESCRIPTION
ACCENTS
Olneya tesota
   Ironwood
Eremophila glabra 'Mingenew Gold'
   Outback Sunrise Emu
Decomposed Granite
12" Screened, Mahogany, 2" Depth Min.
PLANT LEGEND
Larrea tridentata
   Creosote
Dasylirion wheeleri
   Desert Spoon
Parkinsonia x 'Desert Museum'
   Desert Museum
Simmondsia chinensis
   Jojoba
Decomposed Granite
12" Screened, Mahogany,
1" Depth Min. for Dust Control
QTY
QTY
QTY
QTY
QTY
SIZE
112" Cal. Min., 6' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
5 Gal.
SIZE
SIZE
SIZE
5 Gal.
5 Gal.
5 Gal.
112" Cal. Min., 8' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
219
91
97
65
19
24
74,530 SF
254,520 SF
Hydroseed Mix
Low Sonoran Blend
2.24 AC
Acacia aneura
   Mulga
112" Cal. Min., 8' Ht. Min.,
4' Sp. Min., 24" Box Min.
28
Dodonaea viscosa
   Green Hopseed Bush
5 Gal.
130
Existing Tree to Remain
Size Varies
10
Tecoma stans 'Orange Jubilee'
   Orange Jubilee
5 Gal.
87
LS3

Krystina Aragon, PE 
Planning & Development 
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170 
Phoenix, Arizona 85003 
Phone: (602) 506-8790 
www.maricopa.gov/planning 
Email address: 
Krystina.aragon@maricopa.gov   
Planning & Development 
 
Engineering Plan Review 
 Date:    
October 17, 2023 
 
 
Memo To: Darren Gerard, Planning Manager, Planning & Development 
 
Attn: 
Andrew Lorentzen, Planner, Planning and Development 
 
 
 
From: 
Krystina Aragon, P.E.,, Plans Examiner Engineer, Planning and 
Development 
 
cc: 
Michael Norris, P.E., Engineering Manager, Planning and 
Development 
 
Subject:   Z2023028 – Justice Battery Energy Storage System 
  
(E4 Memo) 
APN:   
502-47-007A & 502-47-038 
  
 
Engineering has reviewed the fourth plan and report routed for review on 10/2/2023, 
for the subject application and have the following stipulations:  
 
1. Driveway access to County roads must be paved and will require a permit from 
MCDOT issued concurrent with building permit(s) required for site 
development.  
 
2. Prior to issuance of any building permits for the project, dedication of R/W 
along 203rd Avenue (Tuthill Road) to provide a half-width of 40’ must be 
completed. Documentation shall be provided with the building permit.  
See https://www.mcdot.maricopa.gov/744/Right-of-Way-Dedications for more 
information on the dedication process. 
 
3. Prior to issuance of any building permits for the project, dedication of R/W 
along West Broadway Road to provide a half-width of 65’ must be completed. 
Documentation shall be provided with the building permit.  
See https://www.mcdot.maricopa.gov/744/Right-of-Way-Dedications for more 
information on the dedication process. 
 
 
4. Prior to issuance of any building permits applicant needs to coordinate with 
irrigation district to address crossing over irrigation prior to issuance of building 
permits. Provide documentation to Maricopa County of irrigation company 
approval concurrent with building permit(s) required for site development. 
 
5. Applicant to provide spillway design conforming to Maricopa County Drainage 
Policies and Standards – Hydraulics, Section 9.3.3 at time of building permit.

Page 2 of 4 
  
 
6. Applicant to provide flow capacity calculations of outlet pipe at time of building 
permit.  
 
7. Engineering review of planning and/or zoning cases is for conceptual design 
only. All development and engineering design shall be in conformance with 
Section 1205 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance; Drainage Policies and 
Standards; Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County; MCDOT Roadway 
Design Manual; and current engineering policies, standards and best practices 
at the time of application for construction. 
 
8. Based on the conceptual design nature of the information submitted, changes 
to the site layout may be necessitated by the final engineering design of the 
site drainage infrastructure. 
 
9. Detailed Grading and Drainage Plans and Drainage Report must be submitted 
with the application for Building Permits. 
 
10. Retention basins must drain within 36 hours. 
 
11. Historic drainage patterns must be maintained. 
 
Please contact me with any questions.

Page 3 of 4 
  
DRAINAGE PLAN REVIEW REFERENCES:   
 
The Drainage Regulations are listed in Section 1205 of the MCZO: 
https://www.maricopa.gov/documentcenter/view/272  
Maricopa County Drainage Policies and Standards Manual: 
https://www.maricopa.gov/DocumentCenter/Home/View/2369  
For Additional Information See: 
https://www.maricopa.gov/1635/Drainage-Review 
 
FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT OF MARICOPA COUNTY REFERENCES:   
 
Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County: 
https://www.maricopa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/630  
For Additional Information See: 
https://www.maricopa.gov/3847/Flood-Control-District  
 
PND TRANSPORTATION REFERENCES: 
 
Residential Driveway Guidelines 
https://www.maricopa.gov/documentcenter/view/362  
Roadway Design Manual 
http://www.mcdot.maricopa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/24883 
Maricopa County Resolution for ROW Permits 
https://www.maricopa.gov/documentcenter/view/364  
For Additional Information See: 
https://www.maricopa.gov/156/MCDOT  
 
PND STORMWATER QUALITY (SWPPP) REFERENCES: 
 
Storm Water Quality Management and Discharge Control Regulation 
https://www.maricopa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6577 
Air Pollution Control Regulations Rule 310 
https://www.maricopa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/5354  
For Additional Information See: 
https://www.maricopa.gov/3980/Water-Sewage-Stormwater-Waste

Page 4 of 4 
  
Abbreviations Key: 
 
Drainage: 
 
DD =   
Department Directive (See: http://www.maricopa.gov/1911/Department-
Directives) 
MCZO = 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance 
DPSM =  Maricopa County Drainage Policies and Standards 
SSA =   
State Standard Attachment 
DDMV1=  Maricopa County Drainage Design Manual – Hydrology 
DDMV2 =  Maricopa County Drainage Design Manual – Hydraulics 
 
Flood Control: 
 
FRMC = 
Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County 
 
PND Transportation: 
 
RDM =  
MCDOT Roadway Design Manual 
RDG =  
MCDOT Residential Design Guidelines 
MSRP =  MCDOT Major Streets and Routes Plan 
 
PND Storm Water: 
SWMDCR= 
Maricopa County Storm Water Quality Management and Discharge 
Control Regulation 
DDMV3=  Maricopa County Drainage Design Manual – Erosion Control 
APCR= 
Maricopa County Air Pollution Control Regulations – Rule 310

MCDOT -- TRAFFIC ENGINEERING 
REVIEW COMMENT SHEET 
1 of 1 
Project Name: Battery Energy Storage System 
Location: Northeast Broadway Road and 203rd Avenue 
MCDOT File No.: Z2023028 
Date: October 12, 2023 
Reviewer: Laxmikanth Narwa, P.E. 
Phone No.: 602-506-8677 
Consultant: Summit Land Management, LLC 
Project No.:   
Plans Sealed By: Paul E. Basha, P.E., PTOE 
Consultant Code: 
A = Will Comply        B = Deleted 
C = Consultant to Evaluate 
Item 
Number 
Page 
Number 
 
Comments 
Consultant 
Reply 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
=  =  = 
 
 
1. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
=  =  = 
 
 
General 
 
 
 
2nd REVIEW (TS) 
 
Consultant:  Please use the code and respond to each comment in the 
Consultant Reply Column.  This sheet is for our record, please answer every 
question and sign and date your acknowledgement or the plans will be 
sent back to complete the process.  Send back the marked-up plans and a 
new set of plans along with this comment sheet.  Thank you for your 
cooperation. 
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  = 
Review Comments: 
 
All the 1st review comments are acknowledged and accepted (see attached) 
by the developer. Therefore, County has no further comments on the subject 
TS. 
 
Please note that there are a total of three submittals under Z2023028, even 
though this document says 2nd Review. Developer had 1st traffic study 
submittal in March, 2023 which was approved on March 23, 2023 (see 
attached).  However, developer has revised the study due to major changes 
to driveway and MCDOT received this under submittal # 2 in September, 
2023 and hence comments were issued as 1st review comments (Dated 
September 20, 2023). A third submittal was received by MCDOT in October, 
2023 with comment responses to September 20, 2023 1st review comments 
(see attached). 
 
In summary, the current 2nd review comments reflect comments for the third 
submittal received by MCDOT in October, 2023. 
 
 
The Traffic Impact Study is Approved. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Signature: _____________________________________ Date: ___________ 
 
Use CODE 
"A", "B","C" 
in this column 
next to every 
comment. 
 
 
 
=  =  =  =

C:\Users\Laxmikanth.Narwa\Documents\TIA - To Review\TIA After March 29 2023\South_West_Valley(South of I10_West of 
I17)\Battery Storage_Z2023028\Z2023028_Battery Storage_Review 1.docx 
MCDOT -- TRAFFIC ENGINEERING 
REVIEW COMMENT SHEET 
1 of 1 
Project Name: Battery Energy Storage System 
Location: Northeast Broadway Road and 203rd Avenue 
MCDOT File No.: Z2023028 
Date: September 20, 2023 
Reviewer: Laxmikanth Narwa, P.E. 
Phone No.: 602-506-8677 
Consultant: Summit Land Management, LLC 
Project No.:   
Plans Sealed By: Paul E. Basha, P.E., PTOE 
Consultant Code: 
A = Will Comply        B = Deleted 
C = Consultant to Evaluate 
Item 
Number 
Page 
Number 
Comments 
Consultant 
Reply 
=  =  = 
1. 
2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 
=  =  = 
General 
General 
Figure 4 
Page 5 
Page 5 
1st REVIEW (TS) 
Consultant:  Please use the code and respond to each comment in the 
Consultant Reply Column.  This sheet is for our record, please answer every 
question and sign and date your acknowledgement or the plans will be 
sent back to complete the process.  Send back the marked-up plans and a 
new set of plans along with this comment sheet.  Thank you for your 
cooperation. 
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  = 
General Project Summary: 
The proposed Battery Energy Storage System development is located at the 
northeast corner of the intersection of Broadway Road and 203rd Avenue / 
Tuthill Road.  One new access is proposed for the site on 203rd Ave 
development will retain the existing access on Broadway Road on the site 
frontage.  Per the TIS, the estimated peak hour trips will be less than 165 total 
trips, 13 AM peak hour trips, and 16 PM peak hour daily (estimated for 14 
single-family houses, if constructed on the property). 
Review Comments: 
Provide opening/build-out year in the TS. 
Surrounding parcels to the project site appears to be in the jurisdiction of the 
City of Buckeye (COB). Submit a copy of this TS for review by the COB.  
Submit a copy of authorization by COB (letter / email / TS approval) to 
MCDOT prior to permits approval. 
Proposed access on 203rd Avenue / Tuthill Road as shown in Figure 4 is 
acceptable to MCDOT. Developer shall be responsible to maintain the 
existing access (which development proposes to retain) on Broadway Road at 
site frontage. All Access driveways shall meet latest MCDOT RDM Standards. 
The future classification of Broadway Road on site frontage is minor arterial. 
Therefore, as part of half street improvements maintain/dedicate a minimum 
65 feet ROW along the site frontage. All dedicated right of way must fall fully 
within unincorporated Maricopa County 
The future classification of 203rd Avenue / Tuthill Road on site frontage is 
major collector. Therefore, as part of half street improvements 
maintain/dedicate a minimum 40 feet ROW along the site frontage. All 
dedicated right of way must fall fully within unincorporated Maricopa County 
The Traffic Impact Study is NOT Approved. 
Signature: _____________________________________ Date: ___________ 
Use CODE 
"A", "B","C" 
in this column 
next to every 
comment. 
=  =  =  = 
A
A
A
A
A

F:\Traffic Impact Studies\Z2023028 Justice Battery\Justice Battery TS Review.docx 
 
 
MCDOT -- TRAFFIC ENGINEERING 
REVIEW COMMENT SHEET 
1 of 1
Project Name: Justice Battery Energy Storage System 
Location: Northeast of Broadway Road and Verrado Way 
MCDOT File No.: Z2023028
Date: 03/23/2023 
Reviewer: Amber Cauble 
Phone No.: 602.319.9083
Consultant: Summit Land Management 
Project No.:   
Plans Sealed By: Paul E. Basha, PE
Consultant Code: 
A = Will Comply        B = Deleted 
C = Consultant to Evaluate
Item 
Number
Page 
Number
 
Comments
Consultant 
Reply
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
=  =  = 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
=  =  = 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General 
 
 
 
 
1st REVIEW (TS) 
 
Consultant:  Please use the code and respond to each comment in the 
Consultant Reply Column.  This sheet is for our record, please answer every 
question and sign and date your acknowledgement or the plans will be 
sent back to complete the process.  Send back the marked-up plans and a 
new set of plans along with this comment sheet.  Thank you for your 
cooperation. 
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  = 
General Project Summary: 
 
The proposed Battery Energy Storage yard is located at the east of Verrado 
way and north of Broadway Road, in unincorporated Maricopa County.  The 
parcels included in the proposed development are 502-47-007A and 502-47-
038.   
 
The site proposes a total of two (2) driveways. One (1) new full access 
driveway on Tuthill Road/203rd Avenue, 690’ north of Broadway Road. 
Another (1) new full access driveway is proposed on Tuthill Road/203rd 
Avenue, 1140’ north of Broadway Road.  Per the TS, no trip generation was 
used to estimate total daily and peak hour trips.  The site anticipates a 
maximum of three (3) employees accessing the site daily. 
 
Review Comments: 
 
As part of half-street improvements, maintain a minimum 40’ right-of-way 
dedication to MCDOT along the site frontage of 203rd Avenue (Tuthill Road).  
 
The site is estimated to have a negligible impact on the surrounding roadways 
therefore, MCDOT has no further comments on the study. 
 
 
The Traffic Statement is Approved. 
 
 
Signature: _____________________________________ Date: ___________ 
Use CODE 
"A", "B","C" 
in this column 
next to every 
comment. 
 
 
 
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Page | 1  
 
 
Subdivision 
Infrastructure  
& Planning Program 
301 W. Jefferson St. 
Phoenix, AZ 85003 
 
Subdi vi sio n@mari co pa.go v 
esd.mar i co pa.go v 
 
 
 
 
 
The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) has completed review 
for the ZONE CHANGE with OVERLAY planning case(s). Please note the following MCESD 
requirements for site development: 
Onsite Wastewater –  
A Notice of Intent to Discharge application for an onsite wastewater treatment (septic) 
system is required for any construction. Application must be submitted to the MCESD 
Onsite Wastewater Program. 
• 
Wastewater is not permitted to discharge to an adjacent parcel’s septic system. 
 
For Onsite Wastewater related questions, please contact the Onsite Program at (602) 506-
6666 or by email at septicquestions@maricopa.gov. 
Additional Notes –  
Environmental Services does not require these items for condition of approval of Z2023028, however 
these items must be addressed with the development of the site. Environmental Services does not 
require additional review of this case. 
 
*It should be noted that this document does not approve the referenced project. Comments are provided 
for the benefit of the applicant for MCESD permit requirements and as an advisory to Maricopa County 
Planning and Development Department. 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 current regulations at the time of application. 
 
 
 
 
Project Name: ZONE CHANGE with 
OVERLAY 
Primary Contact Name: Gary Mayfield 
 
Planning Application Type: Zone Change 
with Overlay 
APN(s): 502-47-007A 
 
Reviewer: Souren Naradikian, P.E. 
Email: Souren.Naradikian@maricopa.gov 
Phone: 602-372-2907 
Planner Name: Andrew Lorentzen 
Planning Case #: Z2023028 
Date: March 6, 2023 
 
Water and Waste Management Division

1
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
From:
Ken Galica <kgalica@buckeyeaz.gov>
Sent:
Monday, June 5, 2023 9:25 AM
To:
Andrew Lorentzen (PND)
Cc:
Brian Craig; Adam Copeland; Jaime Baca; Scott Zipprich; John Willett; Ron Moll; Nate Ryan; Hobart 
Wingard
Subject:
RE: Z2023028 - Outside Routing 
Hi Andrew: 
 
We support the IUPD approach limiting industrial uses of the site to the battery energy storage facility. However, 
Buckeye Planning does still have two design related concerns that we feel should be addressed by the developer of this 
site: 
 
1. The proposed opaque (wrought iron) fencing, which is not permitted in base IND‐2 zoning and requires approval 
through the IUPD, will allow for views into the facility. The project narrative indicates that this will be in 
character with the existing electrical substations west of Tuthill Road. While this is currently true, as this portion 
of Buckeye develops as it is anticipated to, it is reasonable to expect that the City and APS will collaborate to 
improve the aesthetics of the existing substations, including through provision of solid/opaque walls and 
landscaping around the perimeter of the site. When those improvements are completed, the proposed BESS 
facility would no longer be “in character” with its surroundings. We would request that the County not approve 
the proposed standard modification and require a decorative masonry wall be provided along the site’s Tuthill 
Road frontage, at a minimum.   
2. Trees are not provided where the site abuts residentially zoned property lines. We would strongly encourage 
trees be provided in the setback areas in those locations, spaced at 30 feet on center, to assist in screening 
the facility from the perspective of the adjacent residences.   
 
If Engineering, Traffic or Fire have any concerns, they can share those with you separately.  
 
Thank you,  
 
 
Ken Galica 
Principal Planner 
Development Services Department  
(623) 349‐6214 
    
 
 
From: Andrew Lorentzen (PND) <Andrew.Lorentzen@maricopa.gov>  
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 2:46 PM 
To: Ken Galica <kgalica@buckeyeaz.gov> 
Cc: Brian Craig <bcraig@buckeyeaz.gov>; Adam Copeland <acopeland@buckeyeaz.gov>; Jaime Baca 
<jbaca@buckeyeaz.gov>; Scott Zipprich <szipprich@buckeyeaz.gov>; John Willett <jwillett@buckeyeaz.gov>; Ron Moll 
<rmoll@buckeyeaz.gov>; Nate Ryan <nryan@buckeyeaz.gov>; Hobart Wingard <hwingard@buckeyeaz.gov> 
Subject: RE: Z2023028 ‐ Outside Routing  
 
[NOTICE:  This message originated outside of the City of Buckeye ‐‐ DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless 
you are sure the content is safe.] 
 
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2
Hello Ken,  
 
Please find an updated submission for Z2023028 - Justice Battery Energy Storage System attached.  
 
Please provide any comments by 6/20/2023. 
 
Thank you.   
 
Andrew Lorentzen 
Planner 
Maricopa County Planning & Development Department 
301 W. Jefferson Street, Suite 170 
602‐506‐2364 
Andrew.Lorentzen@Maricopa.gov 
 
From: Ken Galica <kgalica@buckeyeaz.gov>  
Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2023 4:12 PM 
To: Andrew Lorentzen (PND) <Andrew.Lorentzen@maricopa.gov> 
Cc: Brian Craig <bcraig@buckeyeaz.gov>; Adam Copeland <acopeland@buckeyeaz.gov>; Jaime Baca 
<jbaca@buckeyeaz.gov>; Scott Zipprich <szipprich@buckeyeaz.gov>; John Willett <jwillett@buckeyeaz.gov>; Ron Moll 
<rmoll@buckeyeaz.gov>; Nate Ryan <nryan@buckeyeaz.gov>; Hobart Wingard <hwingard@buckeyeaz.gov> 
Subject: FW: Z2023028 ‐ Outside Routing  
 
Good afternoon, Andrew:  
 
The requested rezoning to County I‐2 is not consistent with the City’s Rural General Plan designation. As such, please let 
this email serve as notice for the record of the City of Buckeyes objection to rezoning and development of the site with a 
battery energy storage facility in the County. Instead, Buckeye would strongly encourage the applicant to pursue 
annexation and development within the City of Buckeye (Note: a pre‐application meeting was held in September 2022), 
where the battery energy storage will be permitted but subject to additional design requirements, including, but not 
limited to: 
 
 
A 25 foot landscape setback will be required adjacent to Tuthill Road, within which a minimum of 1 tree and 5 
shrubs will be required for every 30 feet of linear frontage.  
 
A 30 foot landscape buffer will be required where the site abuts existing or planned/zoned residential uses (sites 
north, south, and east property lines). Within the buffer, a minimum of 1 tree and 5 shrubs are required for 
every 30 feet of the perimeter property line.  
 
A decorative masonry wall enclosing the facility will be required. Chain link may not be used. The wall must be a 
minimum of 6’ and up to 8’ in height.  
 
The City’s PAC summary listing a more complete list of design requirements is attached for your information.  
 
In the event that the site does proceed toward development within the County against the City’s objection, Buckeye 
would appreciate any assistance from the County to encourage compliance with these same requirements to ensure 
visual impacts from the use on existing and future residents are mitigated to the extent possible. Additionally, I have 
copied Scott Zipprich, Ron Moll and John Willett with Buckeye Engineering/Traffic, and Nate Ryan and Jaime Baca with 
Buckeye Fire who may also have requirements that they will ask be carreid forward should the project develop in the 
County.  
 
Though I will be at a conference on April 4th when the TAC meeting is scheduled, please forward me an invite to the TAC 
meeting and I will ensure that someone from the City is in attendance to speak on these concerns.

3
Thanks,   
 
 
 
Ken Galica 
Principal Planner 
Development Services Department  
(623) 349‐6214 
    
 
 
From: Andrew Lorentzen (PND) <Andrew.Lorentzen@maricopa.gov>  
Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2023 12:38 PM 
To: rlane@gblaw.com; mvaz@gblaw.com; dhenning@westvalleyview.com; Jon.Lacy@bvfd.az.gov; 
Mark.burdick@bvfd.az.gov; redletter@azdot.gov; bfenske@azdot.gov; jgarcia@azdot.gov; 
Teresa.Grombacher@jacobs.com; Ken Galica <kgalica@buckeyeaz.gov>; dmheisler1@aol.com; 
Alissa.magley@goodyearaz.gov; christopher.baker@goodyearaz.gov; Katie.wilken@goodyearaz.gov; 
swilken@azmag.gov; Kurt Cotner <kcotner@azmag.gov>; agarza@azmag.gov; pe@azland.gov; 
Dkrantz@citytocitycre.com; cwebb@roselawgroup.com 
Subject: Z2023028 ‐ Outside Routing  
 
[NOTICE:  This message originated outside of the City of Buckeye ‐‐ DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless 
you are sure the content is safe.] 
Hello Registered Area of Interest Member,  
Please find attached a planning & development application  routing for Z2023028. 
See attached document for instructions to download application materials.  
Thank you,  
 
 
 
Andrew Lorentzen 
Planner 
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT 
301 W. Jefferson St. Suite 170  
Phoenix, AZ 85003 
O:   602-506-2364     
MARICOPA.GOV 
Andrew.lorentzen@maricopa.gov 
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