Graham County Council Approves Multiple Zoning Requests and Public Hearings

In the heart of Graham County, Arizona, the Planning and Zoning Commission convened on July 16, 2025, to address a series of proposals that could reshape the local landscape. Under the bright lights of the meeting room, members engaged in discussions that ranged from private airstrips to residential zoning, each decision carrying implications for the community's future.

The meeting kicked off with a motion to set up public hearings for several key items. Among the most notable was a request from Larry Wilson for a special use permit to establish a private airstrip on 161 acres near Kielberg Canyon. This area, nestled in the shadow of the Gallero Mountain Range, is primarily surrounded by state land and forest. The commission noted that Wilson had already secured federal approval for his airstrip, which is intended for small aircraft and possibly medical helicopters. The motion to advance this proposal was met with unanimous support, signaling a community interest in enhancing local aviation capabilities.

Next on the agenda was a request from Lane Jensen to rezone 2.5 acres of land to allow for single-family residential development. Jensen aims to split the property into smaller parcels for new homes, a move that reflects the growing demand for housing in the area. The commission quickly moved to set this item for public hearing, demonstrating a commitment to accommodating residential growth.

The meeting also featured requests from Clyde and Paula England and Shauna Taylor, both seeking to rezone their properties for commercial manufacturing purposes. The Englands aim to align their property’s zoning with their existing trailer sales business, while Taylor plans to develop storage units on her land. Both proposals were met with approval, highlighting a trend towards commercial development in Graham County.

In addition to these significant proposals, the commission approved several other items, including a special use permit for a family cemetery and a rezone for a travel trailer park, each reflecting the diverse needs of the community. The meeting concluded with a sense of progress, as all nine items on the agenda were approved, paving the way for future developments.

As the commission adjourned, the decisions made during this meeting underscored a pivotal moment for Graham County, balancing growth with the preservation of its rural character. With public hearings on the horizon, residents will have the opportunity to voice their opinions on these developments, shaping the future of their community.