Commission backs outdoor display for electric golf-cart sales at Fountain Hills Boulevard location

The Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 13 recommended approval of a special use permit that would allow a Fountain Hills golf-cart retailer to display non-gas, small vehicles outdoors at 15225 N. Fountain Hills Blvd.

Staff explained the site is zoned C1, which allows indoor vehicle sales but not outdoor displays; a pending town text amendment would permit outdoor display of non-gas vehicles up to 1 ton with an SUP and allow limited short-term gas-powered display if the commission so chooses. The applicant requested use of spaces along the Fountain Hills Boulevard frontage for a display area; staff identified approximately four full parking spaces and a partial fifth area suitable for display.

During public comment, Crystal Kavanaugh urged simplifying the approval to cover only golf carts and treating the display like a temporary A-frame sign that is removed at close of business. Commissioners discussed whether to allow other small recreational vehicles or to limit the SUP to golf carts only; staff noted the broader language was intended to allow the business to handle trade-ins such as scooters but also that a gas-powered display could be limited to 30 days by motion.

Commissioner Corrigan moved to recommend approval inclusive of staff comments and space allocation, and to simplify the language to permit electric golf carts only; Commissioner Corey seconded. The motion passed on a unanimous roll call.

If the council adopts the pending text amendment staff cited, the SUP would implement the new allowance for outdoor display limited to non-gas small vehicles (up to one ton) and optionally authorize brief gas-powered displays by special condition.