COCONINO COUNTY — At the Tuesday, Dec. 10, special session of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board), the Board voted unanimously to rezone twelve undeveloped parcels, preserving over 2,400 acres of land as open space.
The rezoning decision is the culmination of over a year of research by the County’s Community Development staff, the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Parks and Recreation Department, and the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Of the twelve parcels, most of the rezoned acreage is part of Rogers Lake and is currently managed by Parks and Recreation as open space for outdoor recreation as well as ecological, environmental, and wildlife benefits. The smaller parcels located in Kachina Village are adjacent to existing open space such as the Matt Ryan County Natural Area, are part of existing trail systems, or are in flood plains and unsuitable for development.
“I think that most residents and visitors already considered these areas open space,” said Adam Hess, Supervisor for District 3, “It’s good to make it official and a smart move to preserve more open space in District 3.”
The rezone complies with the County’s Comprehensive Plan, which “ensures the conservation of open space for the environmental, social, and economic well-being of the County,” and “supports access to open spaces for all residents and visitors where suitable.” The full Comprehensive Plan is available here.
“I fully support this rezone and I want to thank our staff for the guided tours of this land,” added Judy Begay, Chair of the Board and Supervisor for District 4, “We saw numerous herds of deer and elk during our visit and I am delighted the Board has the opportunity to preserve these wildlife habitats.”
The zoning change is effective immediately. To watch the Public Hearing portion of the Board’s Dec. 10 meeting, click here.