Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tempe public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
17 issues in zoning
Transportation Overlay District Parking Requirements Update
The city is adding a Transportation Overlay District to the Envision Center on Apache Boulevard to fix a parking shortage caused by adding a new sustainable food forest and rainwater harvesting system.
Residential Remodels and Additions Review
Neighbors are pushing back against a proposed two-story addition on South Tower Street, arguing it ruins the single-story ranch feel of the neighborhood and hurts privacy. Supporters and city staff point out that the design includes clear-story windows and opaque railings to protect privacy while adding family space.
Front Yard Trailer Parking and Neighborhood Consistency
A homeowner requested a use permit to park a utility trailer in his front yard setback, sparking a debate over code enforcement fairness and neighborhood aesthetics. While city staff recommended denial due to complaints, the commission ultimately approved the permit with conditions.
Chechenelli Backyard Accessory Structure Privacy Concerns
Homeowners requested use permits to build a 15-foot-plus detached office and storage structure with a second-story loft at 1110 E. Loyola Drive. Nearby residents raised strong concerns about privacy, window sightlines overlooking neighboring yards, and potential unannounced rental use.
Front Yard Setback Variances for Attached ADU
Homeowners at 1706 E. Citation Lane requested variances to reduce front yard building and open structure setbacks to build an attached ADU. The board ultimately denied the request, siding with city staff who argued the need was self-imposed.
High-Density Infill and Neighborhood Compatibility on Bernardin Lane
Twinpeaks Group secured approval to build an 8-unit townhome project at 1432 and 1435 S. Bonarden Lane with slightly reduced front yard setbacks. The project revives an identical plan that was previously approved in 2022 but expired.
Carport Conversion and Front Yard Parking Permit at 1612 East Gaylon Drive
Residents are requesting use permits to allow parking spaces within front yard setbacks to accommodate vehicles and home updates.
The Marshall on Spence Student Housing Proposal
A developer is seeking to build a seven-story, 105-unit student apartment building on Spence Avenue. Residents raised strong concerns about traffic congestion, parking, and building height, leading the council to delay a decision for six months.
Amendments to City Code Chapter 14A-11 (Historic Preservation Violations)
Commissioners questioned staff regarding the delayed rehabilitation of the Gonzales-Martinez House under a development agreement with First and Farmer LLC. Members stressed that the building must not be allowed to deteriorate further and requested copies of relevant development agreements.
Front Yard Wall Height Variances on Broadway Lane
A property owner requested permission to keep existing 7-foot walls built within front yard setbacks on two residential lots along Broadway Lane. Neighbors and board members weighed safety, traffic noise from Broadway Road, and pedestrian visibility concerns before approving both requests.
Downtown Tempe Historic Core Planning
Commissioners and residents raised concerns about the quality of public outreach for the Downtown Tempe Historic Core Plan, asking for more interactive workshops and better representation of historic resources.
Novus Parcel 5F Zoning Amendment
ASU and Catelus are seeking zoning overlay changes on 5.5 acres near Rio Salado Parkway to facilitate future office and residential towers.
Lux Holdings Event Center Rezoning
An office property on Rural Road sought a split zone from RO to CSS to permit an event center in its northern building and courtyard. Commissioners and staff ensured the commercial zoning is strictly contained to prevent broader high-intensity commercial creep into the residential buffer.
Shalimar Golf Course Rezoning Opposition
Residents spoke out passionately during public comment urging the council to protect the Shalimar golf course open space and reject high-density residential rezoning proposals that could increase urban heat and traffic.
Autonomous Vehicle Charging Hub Appeal
Residents fought against a zoning decision that classified a massive commercial EV charging station for Waymo vehicles as a neighborhood taxi dispatch. Neighbors worried about intense power usage, fire risks, and 24/7 noise on residential streets.
Priest and Alameda General Plan and Zoning Amendments
A 25-acre commercial office site at 2750 South Priest Drive is proposed for rezoning to industrial use to attract advanced manufacturing jobs.
Variance Request for Side Yard Setback at 1309 E. Orange St.
Homeowners requested a variance to allow an existing detached garage to remain two feet from the property line instead of the required five feet. Because the structure was built decades ago before the owners bought the house and similar setups exist nearby, the board approved it.