NW Valley Times

The Peoria City Council has identified four priority areas to continue advancing Peoria forward: Economic Development, Water Security, Innovative Government; and Public Safety.

In a statement released by the council, they mentioned, "The city is aggressively pursuing opportunities and strategies to promote a thriving, balanced and dynamic economy, which can capitalize on the City’s strengths, and supports local job growth and economic expansion."

As part of this initiative, City staff is proposing a series of refinements to the text and maps within the General Plan to bolster support and best position Peoria for its continued success. The amendments address various elements, including specific changes to chapters within the plan.

GPA24-01 focuses on Smart Growth Text and Map Changes, with the amendment creating a category specific to State Trust Land parcels allowing for future entitlement. This change also involves repositioning a parcel along Lake Pleasant Parkway to promote future rezoning efforts.

Regarding GPA24-02, which deals with Integrated Transportation Text and Map Changes, the amendment aims to recognize built conditions and stay current with local and regional transportation planning efforts.

GPA24-03 addresses Arts, Culture, and Recreational Enrichment Text Changes, specifically refining the park and recreation designation guidelines to better define existing parks, open space, and recreation centers as assets in the recreational network.

Lastly, GPA24-05 focuses on Implementation Refinements, including an amendment to the implementation criteria to address General Plan Amendment procedures and processing.

The proposed amendments can be viewed on the city's official website and more information is available at www.peoriaaz.gov/generalplan.

Upcoming Open House Meetings have been scheduled for community members to learn more about these proposed changes. The first meeting will take place on April 23, 2024, at Rio Vista Recreation Center, located at 8866 W Thunderbird Rd, Peoria, AZ 85381. The second meeting will be held virtually on April 25, 2024, via a TEAMS Meeting.

Residents are encouraged to participate in these meetings to engage with city officials and provide feedback on the proposed amendments.