Planning commission approves conditional C-2 rezoning at Picacho Hills entrance for proposed winery, bars certain uses

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 6-0 on Aug. 28 to conditionally change zoning on two parcels at the Picacho Hills entrance from D1L (low-density residential limited) to C-2 to allow development of a winery and associated uses, including a tasting room, bistro and event space, while explicitly prohibiting a set of commercial uses cited by commissioners.

Planner Albert Casillas, presenting staff analysis, said the request applies to two parcels of roughly 9 acres and 9.35 acres (about 18 acres total) out of a larger 73-acre ownership and that staff found the request met the decision criteria in the Unified Development Code (Section 203.D.0.1) and was not inconsistent with the county's Plan 2040 goals, including Goal G2.2 (safeguard desirable neighborhood character) and Goal G6.7 (support small-scale agricultural businesses). "Based on the findings of facts, staff analysis, [and] agency comments ... staff is recommending approval to the planning and zoning commission," Casillas told the commission.

Property owner Scott Bannister, the applicant, told the commission he has been planting grapes nearby and said he envisions a retail tasting room and events venue on the east side of Picacho Hills Drive and production/storage facilities on the west side. "We will have an abundance of parking, that would…