Explaining the confusion

Mr. Crane, thank you for clarifying Carefree’s intent to create a preserve in northern Carefree and plans for a park on part of the 48 acres of State Land near Sky Ranch Airport.

I would like to explain why there has been confusion. You indicate the 48 acres of State Land is zoned for single family residential and that there is no desire to change that zoning. That is also supported by the General Plan ratified by residents in 2012. However, the confusion was created by the Town Council who voted unanimously to approve the Economic Development Plan The EDP calls for a combination of commercial and hospitality lodging on those 48 acres. In addition, the only developer(s) currently interested in that land, Ben Brichta with X-Co, does not appear to be involved in single family residential home developments and has been looking to secure water for a much larger development than what the current zoning allows.

It is good to understand that the town has no desire to change the zoning on this land and that the town envisions part of it becoming a park. However, since this position conflicts with the council approved Economic Development Plan, and is creating confusion with residents as well as potential developers, I would urge the Council to revise the Economic Development Plan to reflect this combination single family home residential (R-70 zoning) and park land.
Thank you,

Stephanie Barbour
Carefree