City Council approves drive-through car wash permit on Maricopa Avenue

The Planning and Zoning Commission of Lake Havasu City convened on April 18, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on a conditional use permit for a proposed drive-through car wash and the removal of certain properties from a parking in common plan.

The meeting began with a presentation by Mr. Schmeling regarding the request for conditional use permit Nineteen-three-one, which aims to allow a drive-through car wash at Tract 2257 Block 10, Lots 11 through 14 on Maricopa Avenue, located in the commercial South Gate District. Mr. Schmeling provided details about the properties, noting their dimensions and the context of previous similar requests in the area.

He explained that the properties in question are traditional narrow commercial lots, measuring 50 by 250 feet. The discussion highlighted the existing parking in common plan, which has seen several properties, including a Dairy Queen, removed or amended over time. Mr. Schmeling indicated that the proposed car wash would conflict with the current parking in common configuration, prompting the request for removal.

Commissioners raised questions about the impact of the new car wash on adjacent properties, particularly a nearby veterinary clinic. Mr. Stilt emphasized the importance of evaluating each request on its own merits, especially concerning elevation changes that could affect parking lot functionality. He noted that the same owner controls multiple adjacent lots, which alleviates some concerns about development challenges.

The commission also discussed the procedural aspects of the parking in common plan, which requires at least 75% approval from property owners in the block for any changes. Mr. Schmeling confirmed that the application met this requirement, with 10 out of 12 property owners supporting the removal, representing 83% approval.

As the meeting progressed, the commissioners reviewed the proposed site plan for the car wash, which includes access from Maricopa Avenue and a stacking queue for vehicles. While the plan has not yet undergone formal design review, initial assessments indicated it likely meets zoning setbacks.

In conclusion, the commission's discussions centered on the implications of the proposed car wash and the removal of properties from the parking in common plan. The meeting underscored the importance of community input and the need for careful consideration of how new developments interact with existing properties. Further steps will include a more detailed review of the site plan and compliance with zoning regulations.