In a recent government meeting, Queen Creek officials reported a significant increase in housing permits, with 121 permits issued in July alone, marking a 47% rise compared to the previous year. Year-to-date figures show a total of 1,001 permits, up from 683 during the same period last year, indicating a robust housing market in the area.

The meeting also highlighted the upcoming Arizona Planning Association Conference scheduled for September 18-20 in Tucson, with an invitation extended to all commissioners, with costs covered by the town.

Heather Wilke, the town's intergovernmental relations director, provided an overview of her role and discussed recent housing legislation that will necessitate updates to local zoning ordinances. She noted that the Arizona legislature currently has a Republican majority, which has influenced recent housing bills.

Key legislative updates include House Bill 2720, which mandates municipalities with populations over 75,000 to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on single-family lots, and House Bill 2721, which requires the authorization of duplexes, triplexes, and townhomes in designated areas. Both bills come with specific deadlines for compliance, with regulations needing to be adopted by January 1, 2025, for ADUs and January 1, 2026, for middle housing.

Wilke also discussed other housing-related legislation, including Senate Bill 1162, which requires municipalities to determine zoning application completeness within 30 days and make decisions within 180 days. Additionally, municipalities must conduct housing needs assessments every five years.

Several proposed bills did not pass, including the Arizona Starter Homes Act, which would have imposed significant restrictions on local zoning authority. Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed this legislation, which aimed to limit lot sizes and design standards for new developments.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that the Planning and Zoning Commission will soon review amendments from the Development Services team in response to the new housing legislation.