The Oro Valley Town Council voted unanimously to continue the hearing on the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene’s (OVCN) height variance request for six weeks, moving it to April 2. The hearing is an appeal of an OVCN request to have a 40 height limit on a planned new sanctuary. (Read this article to learn more about what is at stake)
The continuance decision followed a request from John Gillespie, an attorney with the Rose Law Group, who was recently retained by the church. Mayor Joe Winfield explained that he received the request via email on the day prior and acknowledged it promptly. The council’s decision allows OVCN’s new legal representation time to familiarize themselves with the case and prepare their arguments.
OVCN legal representative emphasizes collaboration and understanding
During the meeting, Gillespie emphasized that the Rose Law Group specializes in land-use cases and is committed to working with both the town and local residents to find a well-informed resolution. He is also stated that "We were just engaged this past week. We focused on land-use issues. We're not a litigation firm."
OVCN legal representative emphasizes collaboration and understanding
During the meeting, Gillespie emphasized that the Rose Law Group specializes in land-use cases and is committed to working with both the town and local residents to find a well-informed resolution. He is also stated that "We were just engaged this past week. We focused on land-use issues. We're not a litigation firm."
Gillespie initially requested a 30-day continuance, but Mayor Winfield proposed extending the delay to six weeks to ensure full council participation. The revised timeline avoids a conflict with the March 19 meeting, which falls during the town’s spring break and could result in some council members being absent. The motion for the six-week continuance was seconded by Councilmember Greene and passed without opposition.
Council urges church to engage with neighbors in preparing for April 2 hearing
Councilmember Robb took the opportunity to stress the importance of community engagement during the extended review period. She specifically asked that the church and its representatives consult with nearby residents and other interested parties, rather than limiting discussions to town officials. Gillespie agreed, stating, "The church understands that they need to be a development partner and that any use of their land requires collaboration with the town and neighbors.” He added that his firm’s goal is to "help facilitate a good, informed outcome that benefits all parties involved.”
Winfield reinforces commitment to due process
Mayor Winfield reiterated that granting the continuance does not indicate a predetermined outcome. He explained that while the Planning and Zoning Commission previously denied the height variance request for a 40-foot structure, it is essential that the town follows a fair and transparent process. "By granting this continuance, we remove any potential concerns about the applicant’s right to due process, which strengthens the legitimacy of whatever decision we ultimately make,” Winfield said. He also assured residents that the council will weigh the request carefully, balancing property rights with neighborhood concerns.
Residents encouraged to return for April 2 hearing
The decision to continue the hearing disappointed a room full of those who had attended the meeting expecting a final decision. Many were prepared to address council during the hearing. However, Mayor Winfield stated that moving forward with discussions without knowing the church’s revised position would not be productive. He asked for patience from both supporters and opponents, encouraging them to return on April 2 when the town will conduct a full review of the request.
Council urges church to engage with neighbors in preparing for April 2 hearing
Councilmember Robb took the opportunity to stress the importance of community engagement during the extended review period. She specifically asked that the church and its representatives consult with nearby residents and other interested parties, rather than limiting discussions to town officials. Gillespie agreed, stating, "The church understands that they need to be a development partner and that any use of their land requires collaboration with the town and neighbors.” He added that his firm’s goal is to "help facilitate a good, informed outcome that benefits all parties involved.”
Winfield reinforces commitment to due process
Mayor Winfield reiterated that granting the continuance does not indicate a predetermined outcome. He explained that while the Planning and Zoning Commission previously denied the height variance request for a 40-foot structure, it is essential that the town follows a fair and transparent process. "By granting this continuance, we remove any potential concerns about the applicant’s right to due process, which strengthens the legitimacy of whatever decision we ultimately make,” Winfield said. He also assured residents that the council will weigh the request carefully, balancing property rights with neighborhood concerns.
Residents encouraged to return for April 2 hearing
The decision to continue the hearing disappointed a room full of those who had attended the meeting expecting a final decision. Many were prepared to address council during the hearing. However, Mayor Winfield stated that moving forward with discussions without knowing the church’s revised position would not be productive. He asked for patience from both supporters and opponents, encouraging them to return on April 2 when the town will conduct a full review of the request.
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