Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zone Change Thorpe 109 topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves zone change from light industrial to low-density residential on Thorpe Road
Summary
The commission voted to rezone a 0.25-acre parcel at 109 East Thorpe Road from I-1 (light industrial) to D-1 (low-density residential), saying the parcel and surrounding properties have remained residential in use despite historic industrial zoning; staff recommended approval and the motion passed unanimously.
Doña Ana County’s Planning and Zoning Commission on April 10 approved zone change case Z25-007, rezoning a 0.25-acre parcel at 109 East Thorpe Road from I-1 (light industrial) to D-1 (low-density residential). The action permits the applicant to place a single-family residence on the parcel; the motion carried on a roll call vote after staff analysis that the property and adjacent lots have remained residential in use despite an industrial zoning designation that dates to 1989.
Staff told the commission the parcel is irregularly shaped, previously had a residence that was demolished about four months earlier, and sits among contiguous properties that are effectively used for residential purposes though zoned industrial and therefore legal nonconforming. Staff said water would be provided by Doña Ana Mutual Domestic Water and wastewater would require NMED permitting; because the property’s soils do not support a conventional septic system, the county noted that an aerobic septic system—more expensive and requiring periodic maintenance—would be needed for on-site wastewater.
The staff analysis referenced the county’s comprehensive plan and Miller criteria, concluding that a significant change in conditions and the lack of industrial development in the area supported rezoning to a residential district. Applicant testimony described family reasons for moving to the county and the intent to site a manufactured home for family use. After questions about lot configuration, access from Thorpe Road (an 85-foot right-of-way state-maintained collector) and septic requirements, the commission moved and approved the zone change based on staff findings, analysis and agency comments.
Staff recommended approval, and the commission approved Z25-007 with the understanding that the property owner must meet building, fire and NMED wastewater permitting requirements before occupancy or development.
