Commission approves fuel-island CUP at Forest Lakes store after neighbors raise light, parking and snow concerns

The commission approved Conditional Use Permit CUP25-017 to add a fuel island and canopy at the existing general store at 2998 State Route 260 in Forest Lakes.

Planner Bob Short presented the proposal for Gilligan's Field Island: the store dates to 1973 and the applicant requested a canopy-mounted sign waiver and a landscaping waiver to rely on existing trees on-site. Short said most trees near the canopy were removed to create the pad and that the canopy would sit below the grade of Highway 260, reducing visual impact. Staff recommended approval with conditions, and noted encroachment permits from ADOT and county engineering would be required for any impacts to State Route 260 and the adjacent county road.

A nearby property owner who operates an adjacent RV park raised concerns about light pollution, canopy lighting direction, parking and congestion in the cul-de-sac, and snow removal pushing plowed snow into the only shared entrance. She asked for assurances that the project would minimize light spill and that snow and parking would be managed to preserve ingress/egress for the RV park and cabins.

Commissioner Best suggested adding signage and circulation conditions to reduce blocking of adjacent properties; staff said Spring Loop and the cul-de-sac are county right-of-way and that county engineering and ADOT encroachment permitting would address traffic and circulation issues. Applicant John Gilligan confirmed the tanks will be below-ground storage and said he will coordinate required permits.

The commission voted (roll-call) to approve the CUP with conditions; the record shows unanimous approval from commissioners present.