Approve Resolution 26-06 to Adopt the Cochise County Comprehensive Plan (CP2045), pursuant to A.R.S. § 11-804, following recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

The Cochise County Comprehensive Plan (CP2045) is the County’s long-range policy document required under ARS § 11-804. The Plan provides the framework for coordinated land use, infrastructure planning, water resource management, transportation, housing, energy, and economic development decisions through 2045. It does not rezone property, approve specific projects, or change existing regulations; rather, it establishes policy guidance that will inform future public hearings and Board decisions.

CP2045 is a data-driven plan that reflects updated conditions and this Board’s priorities for strengthening economic development, expanding port of entry and cross-border trade activity, supporting hospital and healthcare investment, modernizing public safety facilities, and promoting responsible mining and resource development. The Plan supports job creation and higher-wage employment opportunities that can attract and retain younger residents and working families, while aligning growth with demonstrated water and infrastructure capacity. It provides a practical framework to encourage private investment, long-term fiscal stability, and local control while preserving Cochise County’s rural character.

The Plan was developed through an extensive public process that exceeded state requirements. It was distributed to 59 agencies and partner entities, and included multiple work sessions, community meetings, a project-specific interactive website with multiple surveys, and countywide social media outreach. More than 3,200 website visits, 1,100 plan downloads, and 331 direct public inputs were received. All substantive comments have been addressed. Adoption of CP2045 will ensure compliance with state law and provide a current, defensible framework to guide Cochise County’s growth and resource management over the next 10 to 20 years. 

If approved, the Comprehensive Plan becomes the County’s official guide, and fulfills state law requirements, replacing the Plan last adopted in 2015. 

If not approved, the County would remain under an outdated plan that does not reflect current conditions or this Board’s priorities, and the County would not be in compliance with mandatory state planning requirements.

Email a copy of the signed resolution to Christine McLachlan