Paradise Valley Planning Commission names Pamela Georgelos chair
By Samantha Fowler | Community Updates
The Paradise Valley Planning Commission held its Jan. 7 meeting to tackle two pivotal agenda items: amendments to zoning procedures and the election of a new Planning Commission chair.
In response to Arizona’s recently enacted SB 1162, the Planning Commission reviewed proposed amendments to Article 2-5 of the Town Code and Article III of the Zoning Ordinance. The amendments address zoning application timeframes and procedures for protests against zoning amendments to ensure compliance with the state’s updated requirements.
Key changes highlighted during the meeting were:
- Mandatory timeframes: SB 1162 establishes strict deadlines for reviewing residential rezoning applications. While Paradise Valley’s processes already fall within these limits, the formal amendments codify compliance.
- Protest Calculations: Adjustments to how protests against zoning amendments are calculated ensure clarity and alignment with both existing and new legal standards.
Presenting to the Planning Commission last night was Chad Weaver, Paradise Valley community development director.
“Although the Town’s typical review process was already within the timeframes required by the new law, the zoning ordinance and town code must be amended to include the provisions included in the new law,” he said in his report.
These changes were also driven by earlier legislative adjustments that had not yet been incorporated into local regulations. The updated provisions, detailed in the “Amendments to the Residential Zoning Amendment Procedures—Effective January 1, 2025,” are already being implemented by town staff. The Planning Commission will submit its recommendations to the Town Council at a public hearing scheduled for February 2025.
Leadership transition: Electing a new Paradise Valley planning chair
In addition to zoning amendments, the Planning Commission also addressed a leadership transition.
With Chair Karen Liepmann’s recent election to the Town Council, the Planning Commission must elect a new chair to complete the remainder of the 2024-25 term. According to Section 2-5-2.A of the Town Code, “If, for any reason, the position of Chairman becomes vacant, then the Commission, at its next meeting after such position becomes vacant, shall elect a Chairman-designate for the remainder of the term.”
Pamela Georgelos was elected interim chair at last night’s meeting.
This interim election ensures continuity of leadership ahead of the next annual chair election in April 2025. No member is permitted to serve as chair for more than two consecutive terms, ensuring rotation and fresh perspectives within the Commission.
By keeping its procedures effective and compliant with the law, the town has demonstrated its proactive approach to legislative compliance through the zoning amendments. Meanwhile, the election of a new chair highlights the importance of stable leadership to guide the Commission through upcoming challenges, including the public hearing on zoning changes next month.
Editor’s Note: Ms. Fowler is a freelance journalist under contract with the Digital Free Press.
