Council adopts Highway Commercial zoning for Litchfield parcel despite planning commission’s negative recommendation

The Toquerville City Council voted 3–2 to adopt an ordinance designating the subject Litchfield property as Highway Commercial, citing the property’s designation in the newly adopted 2024 general plan.

Council considered the matter amid a history of contested proceedings: a 2023 zone change and subsequent litigation had challenged the city's earlier action; the trial court later granted summary judgment in the city’s favor and the case remains on appeal. Planning commission had issued a unanimous negative recommendation on the proposed ordinance, and several council members raised concerns about the factors the commission applies when evaluating zone changes.

Supporters of the ordinance said the 2024 general plan now designates the area commercial citywide and that council has the authority to adopt zoning actions in light of a new plan. Opponents said planning commission criteria indicated inconsistencies or community impacts that warranted denying the specific zone change and argued the council should not re-open prior contested decisions without further public review.

Council concluded by adopting the ordinance to align the zoning map with the 2024 general plan; the vote was 3 in favor and 2 opposed. Staff said any remaining property transfers related to bypass right-of-way and engineering matters will continue to be negotiated with property owners and brought back to council as needed.