Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Paradise Valley public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues with high priority
2026 General Election Canvass
The council's vote on Resolution 2026-17 makes the November 3, 2026 general election results official for Paradise Valley. It's the final administrative step in the town's election process.
Zoning Code Update: Pickleball Courts and Construction Signs
The town is working on a significant update to its zoning code — the rules governing what can be built and where. This study session gives the council an early look at the draft and a chance to steer staff before any final action.
Franciscan Renewal Center solar proposal
The Franciscan Renewal Center wants four solar shade structures over its parking lot — a major SUP amendment because it adds over 40% to the site's floor area. Council wants the Planning Commission to focus on height, setbacks, and neighbor impacts; the SOD vote is May 14.
Five Star Development Bankruptcy Plan Vote
Resident and former council member Paul Dembow criticized leadership over the bankrupt project, calling for a clear plan to protect the town's interests.
Managerial Special Use Permit Text Amendment
Another zoning ordinance would change how managerial special use permits work under Article XI.
Elimination of temporary use permits in residential areas
A zoning code overhaul of temporary use permit rules goes to public hearing — this affects how short-term events and uses are permitted around Town.
Miralina Resort Special Use Permit
The resort market inside the Kimpton Miralina wants a state license to sell beer and wine in sealed packages for off-site consumption. The Council endorsed it with no opposition.
Fire Service Fund
The fire service fee hasn't been raised since 2013, but costs are up 54% and the town now subsidizes about $1.2 million a year from the general fund. A one-time 67% rate hike would fix it, but most council members oppose raising fees and want more history and options first — including an automatic inflation escalator idea.
Pickleball court noise and lighting
A resident urged the council to adopt zoning-based pickleball noise rules, citing an American Planning Association article with model ordinances requiring setbacks of 60 to 600 feet and public hearings before permits.
Sanitary sewer rehabilitation program
The town is wrapping up a five-year, assessment-driven sewer repair program under an IGA with Scottsdale — including the decade-long effort to locate every 'missing' manhole. This year's work comes in far under budget.
Banning construction yards from residential properties
Multiple members reported contractors parking on both sides of narrow streets despite promises to park on-site, calling it a safety hazard. Staff said it's a constant battle handled with police ticketing and towing, and town attorney said capping permits per street would likely violate Arizona law.
Hillside development review and enforcement
A solar application exposed a gap: the town can't force a roof recoat unless the work touches 50% of the roof, leaving non-compliant reflective roofs in place indefinitely. The chair wants the Planning Commission to fix the code, and a work session is set for May 21.
Phoenix Country Day School sports field and court expansion
The school wants to renovate its baseball field, build a new Wellness Center, and add two digital information signs at its Stanford Drive campus. The council approved the Statement of Direction unanimously — the Planning Commission weighs in by April, and the council makes the final call in May.