Gila Bend council directs staff to begin zoning, subdivision code changes under new state law

The Gila Bend Town Council voted unanimously to direct staff to initiate text amendments to the Town's Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Code to implement requirements of House Bill 2447 (ARS § 9‑500.49). "Vice‑Mayor Riggs moved to direct staff to initiate text amendments to the zoning ordinance and subdivison regulations to meet ARS state stature 9‑500‑49," a motion that was seconded and approved with six ayes.

Community Planner Sandra Hoffman presented a PowerPoint to the Council explaining that HB2447 was signed by the governor and became effective on January 1. The Council’s action authorizes staff to prepare draft language for changes to Article II, Article III and Chapter 12 (Subdivision Code) to allow administrative review and approval of certain site plans and land divisions consistent with the state statute. The motion passed with recorded ayes from Mayor Tommy Sikes, Vice‑Mayor Chris Riggs and Councilmembers Fernando Fernandez, Will Sipes, Scott Swanson and Mary Vinzant; Councilmember Donny Young was absent.

The Council’s direction initiates the local ordinance‑amendment process; staff will return with draft code language for Council review and, if required by procedure, public hearings or additional notices. The presentation and vote do not themselves change the code—they begin the formal amendment process required to align Town regulations with the state law.