Planning and Zoning Commission Split Leaves Sun City Fountain Proposal Unresolved

No recommendation made after tie vote on water fountain
Last week, the Planning and Zoning Commission did not approve nor deny a text amendment to the Rancho Vistoso PAD that would have allowed an ornamental fountain to return to the Sun City Recreation Center. They did this through a split vote of 3-3 on a motion to deny the amendment, meaning no majority decision was reached.

Request made because fountain lost legal status to be restored without approval
The request is to allow restoration of the long-standing Lion Head Fountain. It was made by the Sun City Vistoso Community Association. The fountain was in operation until 2020. Unfortunately, it remained out of service for more than six months, causing it to lose its legal non-conforming status under Town code, which no longer permits ornamental fountains.

Proposal seeks smaller, lower-use fountain

The redesigned fountain will be smaller and more water-efficient than the previous one. It will use a  a closed-loop system of potable water, with the option to supplement with rainwater harvesting. The redesigned fountain would use about 1,300 gallons of water per month due to evaporation, or roughly 15,600 gallons annually. With rainwater harvesting, potable water use could drop to about 200 gallons per month. For comparison, a typical Oro Valley household uses about 7,500 gallons per month, meaning the fountain would use a fraction of a single home's annual water consumption.

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Staff says proposal conflicts with town water policies
Town staff recommended denial of the request, stating it conflicts with the Town's General Plan policies on water conservation. Staff referenced both the current Your Voice, Our Future General Plan and the draft Path Forward General Plan, which emphasize responsible water use, conservation, and drought-tolerant development. The zoning code has prohibited ornamental fountains since 2011 as part of that policy direction. Staff said allowing a new or reactivated fountain, even a smaller one, would be inconsistent with those policies and with the Town's long-standing approach to limiting non-essential water use.

Public comment was mostly supportive
Public comment reflected strong interest, with most speakers supporting the proposal. Supporters described the fountain as a valued community feature that provided a gathering place and contributed to the character of Sun City. They also pointed to the redesign and reduced water use. Those opposed focused on water conservation concerns, noting ongoing drought conditions and questioning whether any non-essential water use is appropriate.

Commission divided on whether exception is justified
Commission discussion reflected the same divide. Some members supported the amendment, noting the relatively small amount of water involved and the effort to reduce usage. Others emphasized the need to follow the General Plan and avoid setting a precedent for exceptions to the code. Several commissioners acknowledged the strength of public opinion on both sides.

Town Council will make final decision
With the 3-3 vote, the Commission did not make a formal recommendation. Instead, the matter will move forward to Town Council with notice of the split vote. Council will make the final decision on whether to approve the text amendment.
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