In a recent meeting held by Coconino County officials, the Planning and Zoning Commission discussed a significant proposal that could reshape the landscape of Dony Park. The focus was on a conditional use permit (CUP) request for residential development within a commercial zoning area, a topic that stirred both curiosity and concern among the commission members.

The property in question, located at 10775 Townsend Madonna Road, is owned by John DeFano and proposed for development by Ronald Carter of Veil Design and Engineering. Spanning 1.59 acres, the site is currently zoned for commercial use but is surrounded by agricultural residential areas. The proposal aims to construct a single-family residence and convert an existing building into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), aligning the property’s use with the surrounding neighborhood.

During the session, it was revealed that previous attempts to develop the site for commercial purposes had not materialized, leaving behind some existing infrastructure but no active commercial operations. The rationale behind the current request is to harmonize the property’s use with the residential character of the area while retaining its commercial zoning for potential future development.

The commission reviewed a detailed site plan, which illustrated the proposed renovations and the intended layout of the new residential structures. Despite the absence of public attendance at a virtual meeting held by the applicant, the commission noted that local residents had previously expressed a preference for residential use over commercial development during a neighborhood meeting in 2024.

Questions arose regarding the implications of maintaining commercial zoning alongside residential use. Vice Chair Wilson raised concerns about the potential for mixed-use development and whether future commercial activities could disrupt the residential environment. Staff clarified that while the property could retain its commercial designation, the conditional use permit would allow for exclusive residential use, ensuring that any future commercial endeavors would not necessitate the removal of residential structures.

The commission ultimately recommended approval of the CUP, emphasizing the importance of integrating community input into development plans. This decision reflects a broader commitment to preserving the character of Dony Park while allowing for the possibility of future commercial opportunities that align with community needs.

As the meeting concluded, the implications of this decision lingered in the air, leaving residents and officials alike to ponder the evolving identity of Dony Park and the balance between residential tranquility and commercial potential.