Goodyear hosted its first public meeting on the city's full zoning ordinance update, giving residents a crash course in how land use regulations shape their communities and introducing opportunities for public input that will help guide the year-long process.
The event, held in collaboration with consulting firms Michael Baker International and Matrix Design Group, drew residents, city officials, and planners to begin shaping a more modern, flexible and community-focused zoning code.
“The state does not feel that we are doing enough and they are considering, every year, taking different abilities for the cities to regulate its own future away,” said Christian Williams, city planning manager for Goodyear. “We want to be a part of the solution, we want to be in control of our own destiny, we want our citizens to be in control of their destiny.”
At the start of the meeting was a primer on the relationship between the General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance. The General Plan serves as a broad, long-term blueprint for Goodyear’s growth, outlining goals for land use, housing, transportation, open space, and more, while the Zoning Ordinance implements those goals through specific regulations. The ordinance dictates what types of development can occur in different zones, from building heights to setbacks and parking requirements.
While the current update won’t change existing zoning designations on private properties, it will revise development standards and aim to address inconsistencies between old rules and today’s development patterns.
Presenters emphasized that this update will not change the zoning map or raise property taxes. Property taxes are based on actual use, not zoning. Unless a property owner requests a change, zoning designations will remain intact.
However, aspects of the zoning code may be reorganized or modernized. Among the areas being reviewed are:
Parking and landscaping standards
Permit and approval processes
Housing diversity and affordability strategies
Public notification requirements
Development near airports and military zones, particularly around Luke Air Force Base
Matthew Klyzeiko, associate vice president at Michael Baker International, said the goal is to build a zoning code that’s not only functional but forward-thinking.
“The grand slam is if we can achieve all of this, have a code that is functional, that is current, and then also continues to guide the city in a positive direction,” said Klyzeiko. “It’s all about balance. We are focusing on both neighborhood and community protection and also bringing that development.”
One of the tools being explored is a model housing ordinance, which Goodyear could integrate into its broader zoning overhaul. The ordinance would provide a framework for increasing housing options and affordability by:
Allowing for more diverse housing types, such as duplexes, townhouses, and accessory dwelling units
Reducing parking requirements and minimum lot sizes
Increasing maximum building heights
Offering incentives like density bonuses and fee waivers to developers who build affordable housing
“We’re looking for ways to write into code opportunities for diverse housing, affordable housing, in ways that are compatible with the community,” said Laney Corey from Matrix Design Group. “We need to know what you think will be successful and enjoyable.”
Throughout the process, city staff and consultants will continue to gather public feedback through meetings and online surveys. Presenters emphasized that resident input is key to crafting zoning standards that reflect Goodyear’s needs and identity.
The update is expected to take approximately 12 months to complete. In the meantime, residents can follow the process at goodyearaz.gov/zoning.
As the city navigates growth and state pressures, officials say now is the time to take proactive steps to ensure that Goodyear’s zoning supports its vision.
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