In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposed amendment to the Wind Farms Planned Unit Development (PUD) that could pave the way for a mixed-use residential and commercial development at the southeast corner of Dan Jones and Northfield Drive. The amendment seeks to clarify the definition of \"mixed use\" within the existing PUD, which has been largely undeveloped since its original approval in 2004.

The Wind Farms PUD, initially encompassing 520 acres, was partially annexed into Avon in 2005. A significant portion of the land was rezoned in 2017 for residential use, specifically for the Parks at Wind Farms subdivision, which consists of 91 single-family lots. However, a nearly six-acre parcel remained designated for commercial development, as originally intended.

The current proposal aims to amend the PUD to allow for multifamily residential units alongside commercial spaces in a single development. This change is being considered because the existing PUD does not explicitly permit multifamily uses, leading to uncertainty about the potential for mixed-use developments in the area.

During the meeting, staff expressed their belief that the proposed mixed-use development would be appropriate given the lack of commercial development since 2004 and the surrounding residential context. The amendment would allow the inclusion of multifamily housing as a permitted use, rather than requiring a special exception, which would necessitate additional approvals.

Concerns were raised about the implications of this change, particularly regarding how it might affect future developments within the PUD. Officials clarified that while the amendment would specifically apply to this parcel, it could influence other undeveloped commercial areas within the PUD.

The discussion highlighted the need for a clear understanding of what constitutes mixed use in this context, as the term was not well-defined in the original PUD. The proposed amendment aims to provide that clarity, potentially transforming the area into a more integrated community space that combines residential and commercial elements.

As the proposal moves forward, it will be subject to further review and public input, ensuring that community concerns are addressed before any final decisions are made.