In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the MR Tanner Mining general plan amendment and rezone application, which seeks to transform a city-owned property in Glendale from public open space and low-density residential to heavy industrial use. The applicant, Gilbert Bliley, intends to establish an aggregate mining operation on the site, located approximately eight miles from City Hall at the intersection of Glendale Avenue and El Mirage Road.

The proposed mining operation will extract sand and gravel, with processing handled by 3 Rocks Mining Company. The site is situated within the Agua Fria floodplain and is surrounded by existing mining operations, with the nearest residential area located three-quarters of a mile away.

City staff reported that the applicant has complied with all public notification requirements, including a neighborhood meeting that saw minimal attendance. One resident raised concerns about the change in land use, but city officials clarified that the property is not designated as a park and is currently zoned for single-family residential use, which would not be permitted under the new heavy industrial designation.

Staff findings indicate that the proposal aligns with the city’s general plan for sound growth management, addressing the increasing demand for aggregate materials necessary for infrastructure projects. The rezone is deemed compatible with surrounding properties and operations at the nearby Luke Air Force Base.

Key stipulations for the approval include the construction of a 10-foot berm along specific property boundaries to mitigate noise and light disturbances, adherence to a Maricopa County air permit for dust control, and coordination with local transportation authorities for any road improvements.

City staff recommended approval of both the general plan amendment and the rezone application, emphasizing the project's compliance with growth management strategies and the absence of significant traffic impacts.