Commission recommends R-1-9 zoning for east-side parcels, rejects RMF-15 as presented

The Payson Planning Commission on June 24 recommended that City Council adopt R-1-9 zoning for four east-side parcels currently zoned R-1-A, following staff presentations and public input. The recommendation passed by unanimous roll-call vote.

Staff described several zoning options consistent with the East Side Comprehensive Plan's "Active Living" designation, including R-1-9, R-1-7.5, and R-2-7.5 with possible RMO two-family overlays; staff noted that RMF-15 could be considered if paired with a development agreement to limit density. The map shown by staff identified the parcels that SITN, LLC seeks to rezone to R-1-10 and RMF-15 as part of a concept that transitions from single-family to townhomes.

Several residents expressed opposition to RMF-15 and higher densities citing traffic, parking, school impacts and irrigation concerns. Debra Bell, who said she resides in the county and represents small farmers, asked whether provisions would remain for people wanting livestock and for preserving a rural quality of life.

Commissioner Heimuli moved to recommend R-1-9 zoning for the entire parcel to City Council; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Adams and carried unanimously (Adams, Beecher, Frisby, Gedeborg, Heimuli). Commissioners discussed that R-1-9 could permit overlays or twin homes while offering a clearer transition than RMF-15 alone.

Quote: "Some kind of development agreement might be needed with the RMF if they want to have a variety of home types to be able to set any density restrictions," staff said during the presentation.