UPDATED: Johnson Ranch Residents Oppose Planned High-Density Apartments: Public Hearing Set for October 19th

A significant rezoning proposal in the Johnson Ranch area has sparked concern among residents. The Public Hearing scheduled for the contentious rezone and Planned Area Development (PAD) Overlay District is set for Thursday, October 19th, 2023, at 9 am. The meeting will take place at the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room located at 135 N. Pinal St., Florence, Arizona 85132.

The proposal, under the identifier PZ-032-23, seeks approval for a rezone from Local Business (CB-1) to Multiple Residence (MR) on approximately 17.64 acres. The developer, LDR-SWC Hunt Hwy & G.C., LLC, represented by agent Paul Gilbert of Beus Gilbert McGroder PLLC, aims to establish a mixed-use development plan for the area situated on the west side of Hunt Highway and south of W Golf Club Drive in the San Tan Valley area.

The land, currently earmarked for local businesses, may undergo transformation into a high-density residential zone with multiple-level apartments. This has caused unrest among many Johnson Ranch residents, who had been hopeful for an increase in local businesses instead. Residents are opposed to this plan as they anticipate it will bring a slew of issues to their community.

Many community members are expressing their discontent, highlighting their preference for having closer access to businesses rather than dealing with the problems associated with high-density apartments. Among their concerns are increased traffic congestion, potential decline in property values, and the strain on existing infrastructure and services.

"Having more businesses nearby would not only be convenient but also beneficial for the community's economy. High-density housing, on the other hand, brings in congestion and various other issues we are not ready to handle," shared a concerned Johnson Ranch resident.

The upcoming Public Hearing is an opportunity for all interested individuals to voice their opinions and concerns regarding this significant rezoning proposal. Community members are encouraged to attend the meeting and actively participate in the discussions that will shape the future of the Johnson Ranch area.

Residents of Johnson Ranch who oppose the plan are organizing to ensure their concerns are heard loud and clear during the public hearing. Their hope is to sway the Pinal County Planning and Zoning Commission's decision in favor of the community's desire for more accessible and close-by businesses, steering away from the prospect of high-density, multiple-level apartments.

For further details on the public hearing and to access the official notice, please visit Pinal County's Notice of Hearings.

All persons interested in this matter are invited to attend the Public Hearing Thursday, October 19th, 2023, at 9 am. The meeting will take place at the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room located at 135 N. Pinal St., Florence, Arizona 85132.