Board of Supervisors overturns Planning & Zoning denial for Wild Horse guest lodging and event center

The Cochise County Board of Supervisors voted 2–1 on Oct. 21 to approve an appeal by Mario and Angela Robles that reverses a Planning & Zoning Commission denial of a special use permit for a guest lodging and event center near Benson.

The action affects a southern portion of a roughly 108‑acre property; staff said the special use would apply to 40 acres in the southern parcels and would allow up to 15 guest lodging units, an event facility, specialty farming and outdoor recreation. The board decision followed more than two hours of public testimony from neighbors and the applicant, and a detailed staff presentation on the project’s scope and the appeals process.

The Robleses told the board their proposal is designed to “keep revenue local” and to preserve the property’s rural character while creating lodging, farm‑to‑table dinners and equestrian services. Angela Robles said the plan’s financial projections estimate roughly $865,000 in revenue in year one under a moderate scenario and over $1 million in a best‑case scenario.

Opponents — many of whom live on Ocotillo Road and adjacent properties — urged the board to uphold the Planning & Zoning Commission’s 5–2 denial. Neighbors raised concerns about noise from outdoor events, night‑time activity, water consumption, emergency response times and the condition of county roads…