The Planning and Zoning Commission considers requests this week that could pave the way for new development downtown.

The commission will consider several requests related to a proposed assisted living facility at Paul Nordin Parkway and Verde River Drive.

There will be a public hearing and the commission will consider a recommendation to the council on a minor amendment to the General Plan – Town Center Area Specific Plan.

The change is needed to allow for the proposed assisted living in the “South End District” of the Area Specific Plan for the downtown.

A second proposed minor General Plan amendment would increase the maximum residential density in the downtown from 12 dwelling units per acre to 27.25 units per acre.

A proposed change to the Zoning Ordinance would reduce the minimum parcel size for a PAD from five acres to three acres.

If the zoning change is ultimately approved there is a request for the Morningstar PAD on 3.3 acres of the downtown to allow for the proposed assisted living center.

The commission will also be considering a concept plan for the 111-bed assisted living facility.

With the exception of the concept plan the other items being considered by the commission will be recommendations forwarded for further Town Council action.

The Morningstar assisted living is one element of the proposed Park Place development for the downtown. Additionally the request for the increased residential density would allow for 400 residential apartment units along the Avenue of the Fountains.

Staff has received some letters expressing opposition to the proposed downtown development plan.

The commission meets on Thursday, June 11, at 6:30 p.m. in council chambers at Town Hall. The meeting is open to the public and there are public hearings associated with some of the items on the agenda.