A local developer is looking to build a 12-unit subdivision, and like with most construction projects in the area, this is being met with some push back.
During the Jan. 5 Sedona Planning and Zoning Commission, a request for conceptual plat review for the proposed subdivision — at 165 Golden Eagle Drive — was reviewed. The item was for discussion only so no action was taken.
“The purpose of this is to provide an opportunity for the applicant to hear concerns, comments and requests for additional information from the director, commission and review agencies and members of the public,” Senior Planner Cari Meyer said.
Chris Tortorello, the property owner and developer, is seeking approval of an application to allow for a 12-unit, single-family cluster subdivision on approximately 6.47 acres. For subdivisions of more than 10 units, prior to beginning the preliminary plat process, a conceptual plat is required. The houses themselves will be reviewed during a separate process.
“My intention is to build them all out, sell them and create a quaint, beautiful community,” he said.
Tortorello addressed several questions from the commission including two that are ongoing concerns of the city — affordability and short-term vacation rentals.
As for the price point of the homes, he said they will be “affordable,” but not for the entry-level homebuyer. He anticipates the base price to be around $700,000.
In regard to short-term vacation rentals, Tortorello said, “My take is to not develop CC&Rs [covenants, conditions and restrictions] that allow for vacation rentals. As much as I believe people have certain rights to do that, I don’t think it’s good for this particular community. It’s not something that would be in the best interest of my clients I will be selling homes to. So, I would be restricting it in my CC&Rs.”
Some of the site characteristics of the proposed development include the following:
■ The project site is two parcels of approximately 6.47 acres total.
■ The property is currently vacant.
■ The property is not part of any subdivision.
■ There is one point of access to the site from Golden Eagle Drive. The access point is unimproved.
■ There is a city-designated floodplain through the southwestern corner of the site.
■ There is a social trail through the site from the access point at Golden Eagle Drive at the north to the National Forest land to the south — Homee Trail.
■ The existing vegetation onsite consists of a mixture of mature trees and shrubs.
During public comments, five individuals, all of whom live near or adjacent to the proposed subdivision, expressed their concerns. Those included the density of the project compared to nearby lots, an increase in traffic, noise, the city’s notification process of a 300-foot radius of the project, and proposed setbacks.
The city will be meeting with the developer to go over the comments and concerns by the commission and public. According to a city report, the project will require a public hearing with the commission and the Sedona City Council for the Preliminary Plat and approval by the council for the final plat. Those meeting dates have not been determined.
