In a recent government meeting, plans for a new church development in Mesa were discussed, highlighting community engagement and zoning compliance. The proposed project involves the construction of a 19,268 square foot church building, which will replace an existing structure on the site. The development is situated in an office commercial zoning district, where places of worship are permitted by right.
Access to the site will be provided from East Pecos Woods, with parking arrangements including 94 spaces—seven fewer than the 101 required by zoning regulations. A special use permit for this parking reduction is under consideration, with staff indicating that the proposed parking will adequately serve the church's needs without negatively impacting on-street parking in the area.
The project has undergone a design review, with staff working to address feedback from the Design Review Board. Concerns raised by local residents primarily focused on traffic, noise, and light spillage from the site, particularly affecting adjacent residential neighborhoods. In response, the applicant has proposed several mitigation measures, including the installation of shielded lighting, soundproof panels, and enhanced landscaping to retain existing trees and improve aesthetics.
The applicant conducted a neighborhood meeting to address community concerns, which resulted in a summary of feedback included in the citizen participation report. Staff concluded that the project aligns with the 2040 Mesa General Plan and meets the necessary zoning ordinance criteria. They recommended approval of the project with conditions, emphasizing its potential to enhance the neighborhood character and community cohesion.