Prescott City Council approves multifamily zoning for controversial apartment complex

The Prescott City Council convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss significant zoning changes and water service applications that could reshape the local landscape. The primary focus of the meeting was a proposed rezoning from single-family to multi-family high-density residential for a new apartment complex, which has sparked considerable debate among residents and council members alike.

Residents voiced strong concerns regarding the proposed development, particularly about parking arrangements and the overall aesthetic impact on the neighborhood. Marty Verrier, a local resident, emphasized that the parking design, which places spaces in front of the buildings rather than behind, would create an unsightly view and potentially hinder emergency vehicle access. He warned that the limited parking could lead to dangerous bottlenecks during emergencies, raising liability issues for both the developer and the city.

Alvin Burke, another resident, echoed these sentiments, arguing that while the community is not opposed to the idea of an apartment complex, the current proposal, which includes three-story buildings and 106 units, deviates from the original plan approved by the planning and zoning commission. He urged the council to uphold the previous decision that limited the project to 90 units with two-story buildings, advocating for a design that better blends with the existing neighborhood.

Council members engaged in a robust discussion about the rezoning request, with some expressing frustration over the focus on parking issues rather than the core agenda item. Councilman Moore pointed out that the meeting's purpose was to decide on the zoning change itself, not to revisit parking or traffic studies, which had been previously addressed.

In addition to the zoning discussion, the council also reviewed a water service application for the proposed apartment complex. The application requested 13.24 acre-feet of water per year, exceeding the city's current allocation limits. The applicant sought an appeal to this limitation, arguing that the project would bring economic benefits to the city. The council ultimately approved the water service application, recognizing the potential for job creation and economic impact.

Another significant topic addressed was the update to the city's water management policy concerning hazardous materials and pollutant discharge. This update aims to enhance existing programs that prevent harmful substances from entering the wastewater system, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The council discussed the importance of these updates in light of stricter regulations from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.

In conclusion, the Prescott City Council's meeting highlighted the ongoing tension between development and community concerns. As the council moves forward with the proposed apartment complex and updates to water management policies, the implications for local residents and the environment will continue to be a focal point of discussion. The council's decisions will shape the future of Prescott, balancing growth with the preservation of community character and safety.