Grand County property owner Michael (Mike) McCurdy asked the Planning Commission on Nov. 24 to change zoning on a 1.26‑acre parcel at 1379 South Arnel Lane from rural residential to highway commercial so his ADO project could qualify for commercial financing.

McCurdy told the commission his earlier private lender withdrew and local lenders would not finance the ADO while the property remained in residential zoning. “No one was willing to finance my ADO project as it sat on rural residential lot,” McCurdy said, explaining why he sought a commercial designation to access commercial loans.

Commissioners and staff focused debate on two recurring issues: whether it is appropriate to up‑zone a single parcel to enable project financing, and whether highway commercial zoning is suitable for a site that uses a private road and sits amid residential parcels. Several commissioners said highway commercial allows a wide range of uses — including gas stations and drive‑throughs — and warned that zoning changes could create undesirable future outcomes for neighbors.

Members explored alternatives, including general business or neighborhood commercial designations and use of planned‑unit development tools, but noted the current land‑use code limits residential financing options for projects larger than a fourplex without commercial property as collateral. Staff explained that some loan products require commercial zoning for properties carrying more than a certain number of units.

A motion to recommend denial of the requested highway‑commercial rezoning was moved and seconded and debated at length; according to the transcript the motion did not carry. Commissioners discussed waiting for the land‑use code update before approving ad hoc up‑zones and emphasized the importance of a city annexation letter where applicable.

No final favorable recommendation to the county commission was recorded during the hearing; staff and commissioners directed that the policy and financing issues be weighed carefully in any future zoning request.

Next steps: the applicant may revise the proposal or provide additional documentation about access, annexation and financing options; staff will note commissioner concerns for the county commission if the item is re‑introduced.