In the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, a battle is brewing between neighbors and the Westin Kierland Resort over a proposed rezoning plan that could transform a beloved golf course into residential housing. This conflict raises important questions about community development, the value of open spaces, and the role of master plans in shaping our neighborhoods.
The Golf Course Rezoning Proposal
The Westin Kierland Resort, a prominent landmark in Scottsdale, has submitted an application to rezone one of its three golf courses for residential development. The project, named Copper Residences Planned Unit Development, aims to convert the 9-hole Mesquite Golf Course into homes, townhouses, condos, or apartments. The Acacia and Ironwood courses would remain dedicated to golf.
Neighbors' Resistance
Residents living in the master-planned communities surrounding the resort are strongly opposed to this change. Mark LaPalm, a long-time resident of Kierland, emphasizes the integral role of the golf courses in the area's identity and lifestyle. He and his neighbors argue that they chose to live there with the understanding that the golf courses would be a permanent fixture.
The Master Plan Debate
At the heart of this dispute is the concept of a master plan. LaPalm questions the integrity of such plans if they can be easily discarded after a few decades. This raises a deeper question about the stability and long-term vision of community development.
Host Hotel's Response
Host Hotel & Resorts, the property owner, has declined to provide an interview but issued a statement highlighting their commitment to sustainability and community engagement. They emphasize water conservation, trails, and open space in their revised proposal, but the neighbors remain unconvinced.
The Rezoning Process
The proposal is still in the early stages, awaiting hearings before the Paradise Valley Village Planning Committee and the Phoenix Planning Commission. The final decision rests with the Phoenix City Council, a process that could take several months.
Community Engagement
Neighbors are mobilizing their opposition, utilizing T-shirts, a website, petitions, and banners to make their voices heard. LaPalm and others are determined to be present at every step of the rezoning process to ensure their concerns are addressed.
A Broader Perspective
This conflict highlights the delicate balance between urban development and the preservation of open spaces. As cities grow and evolve, the value of green spaces and their impact on community well-being cannot be overstated. It also underscores the importance of community engagement and the role of residents in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.
In my opinion, this battle is a microcosm of a larger trend where communities are fighting to maintain their identity and character in the face of rapid development. It's a reminder that master plans should be more than just documents; they should be living, breathing guides that reflect the values and aspirations of the people they serve.
