Catholic Community Services seeks amendment to 2006 conditional use permit to add four modular units for women and children

Sierra Vista — Catholic Community Services (CCS) requested a council amendment to a conditional use permit first approved in February 2006 to allow a revised layout featuring up to four modular dwelling units on the east side of its property at 100 West Katyn Drive.

Beverly Cobb, the planning presenter, told council that the original 2006 resolution contemplated an attached addition to the existing structure for a women’s and children’s residential facility but that, due to costs, CCS now plans to use four state‑approved modular housing units (often called tiny homes) placed on the east side of the parcel. Cobb said the applicant’s plans identify three two‑bedroom units and one one‑bedroom unit totaling 2,786 square feet.

Because the proposed layout differs from the exhibit in the 2006 resolution, staff recommended an amendment containing conditions: no more than four independent dwelling units, each unit occupied by a single family, minimum lease terms greater than 30 days (subject to tenant rights under the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act), no custodial or medical care provided within the dwelling units, and a modified site plan approved by the development review committee prior to any building permit.

Cobb said staff had performed required notifications (legal advertisement, on‑site signage and mailed notices to property owners within 500 feet); she reported two members of the public spoke at Planning & Zoning — including the president of an adjacent Colombian association and a neighboring resident — expressing concerns about neighborhood impacts. The Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously approved the amendment (4–0) on April 1.

Council members asked clarifying questions about the amount of public feedback; Commissioner Wright confirmed the public feedback referenced at P&Z came from two people. Cobb emphasized that site plan review and building‑permit compliance would still be required if council approves the amendment.

Why it matters: The amendment would allow CCS to implement a more cost‑conscious approach to a residential program for women and children while preserving council oversight through conditions, site plan review and building permits. The conditions restrict the units to non‑medical, single‑family occupancy and set minimum lease terms.

What’s next: The amendment will return to council for action; if approved staff will process required site plan review and permit applications.