Oasis Church expansion sparks community concerns and questions

During a recent government meeting, the Gilbert Planning Commission approved two significant motions related to the town's development plans. The first motion was to recommend the Gilbert 2024 General Plan, which passed unanimously with a vote of 7-0. This plan outlines future growth and development strategies for the area, including the management of approximately 55 undeveloped lots among a total of nearly 9,000 lots.

The second motion, also approved with a 7-0 vote, pertained to the Oasis Church expansion project. Senior Planner Kristin Devine presented the proposal, which involves a two-phase expansion of the church located on Greenfield Road. The current phase includes the addition of two classrooms totaling 1,600 square feet and a new building of approximately 16,547 square feet. This new structure will feature an auditorium, lobby, office space, and restrooms, designed to match the existing church architecture.

The expansion plan emphasizes landscaping, proposing a 40% green space with a buffer of trees along the property lines, exceeding the required setbacks. The design incorporates a mix of palo verde and thornless mesquite trees, moving away from the previously planned sisu trees.

Despite the approval, concerns were raised by local resident Sherry Smith, who lives directly north of the proposed expansion. Smith expressed her apprehension regarding the proximity of the new building to her property line, highlighting her unexpected discovery of the project and the potential impact on her living conditions. She noted that the construction of the church's first phase had already altered the landscape and privacy of her home.

The commission acknowledged Smith's concerns and indicated that the applicant was present to address any questions from the community. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between local government, developers, and residents as Gilbert continues to evolve and expand its community infrastructure.