Public Hearing followed by discussion and possible action on any and all matters regarding Text Amendment Case No. 2024-0835. A request by the City of San Luis to amend Section 18.15.030 of the City of San Luis City Code to address changes to the Arizona Revised Statutes to add required rezoning application review timeframes.

A. Staff presentation
B. Open Public Hearing
C. Call to the public on this item
D. Close Public Hearing
E. Action on Text Amendment Case No. 2024-0835

This text amendment is a response to Senate Bill 1162, enacted by the Arizona Legislature in 2024, which amends the Arizona Revised Statutes to require municipalities to establish specific review and decision timeframes for zoning applications. Key provisions of SB 1162 mandate that municipalities determine whether a zoning application is administratively complete within 30 days of receipt and that the City Council approve or deny the rezoning application within 180 days after the application is deemed complete. These requirements aim to streamline the zoning process, reduce delays, and support timely housing and development projects.

To comply with SB 1162, the City of San Luis must adopt these review standards on or before January 1, 2025. This text amendment will bring city zoning regulations in line with state requirements, creating a more structured process that benefits both applicants and staff by supporting accountability and predictability in the zoning process.

PROPOSED AMENDMENT:
The proposed text amendment introduces two key timelines within the city’s zoning code:

• 30-Day Administrative Completeness Review: Development Services will review all zoning applications within 30 days of receipt to determine if they are administratively complete. If an application is incomplete, applicants will be notified in writing, provided with a list of any deficiencies, and given guidance on the resubmission process.
• 180-Day Council Decision Requirement: Once an application is deemed complete, the City Council is required to approve or deny the rezoning application within 180 days.

This amendment not only aligns city regulations with state law but also facilitates a predictable and efficient zoning process, crucial for managing development effectively.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Implementing this timeline will bring predictability and structure to the zoning process, benefiting both applicants and staff. Staff has reviewed internal procedures to accommodate this new requirement without significant disruption to the overall workflow. This amendment upholds high standards for customer service by providing applicants with clear expectations and prompt responses, which is essential for building accountability and transparency in the development process.

Therefore, staff recommends approval of Text Amendment Case No. 2024-0835.