Mesa council to vote on property annexation and zoning for 61-home development

The Mesa City Council meeting on April 18, 2025, focused on the proposed annexation and development of a 30-acre property, which has sparked significant community concern. The property owner seeks to rezone the land to build 61 homes, a plan that many residents argue conflicts with the rural character of the surrounding neighborhood.

During the meeting, residents expressed their opposition to the high-density development, citing potential impacts on traffic, property values, and community safety. One resident highlighted that the proposed development would result in a density of 2.2 houses per acre, which is significantly higher than the existing homes in the area, which typically sit on half-acre to one-acre lots. Concerns were raised about increased traffic congestion, particularly on McDowell Road, where residents fear that the influx of new homes will exacerbate existing traffic issues.

City officials clarified that the meeting was not a vote on the development itself but rather a step in the annexation process. The council will consider the annexation and zoning case together at a future meeting on January 13, 2025. This meeting will allow for further public input and detailed discussions about the proposed development's specifics.

The council emphasized that the current zoning designation for the property is agricultural, and any new zoning would need to be less dense than the existing county designation. This means that while the developer is seeking to build more homes, the city has the authority to impose stricter zoning regulations once the property is annexed.

Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming meetings to voice their concerns and influence the decision-making process regarding the future of their community. The council reiterated its commitment to ensuring that any development aligns with the community's character and needs.