20260812 Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting

The Cochise County Planning and Zoning Commission held a meeting on August 12, 2026, addressing several special use permit requests and zoning matters. A significant portion of the meeting focused on docket SU26-11, a special use modification request by Babakamari Solar North LLC to add a 160-megawatt battery energy storage system to an existing solar power plant. The proposal faced extensive public opposition due to concerns about environmental impact, water usage, safety hazards related to lithium-ion batteries, and lack of local community benefits. The commission ultimately voted against approving the battery storage addition. Another key agenda item was docket SU26-12, a special use request for an impound vehicle storage yard along Highway 92. Despite staff recommending approval with conditions, the commission voted to deny the request, citing concerns about compatibility with the rural residential character and potential negative impacts on neighbors. The commission also considered docket SU26-13, a request for a 95-foot wireless communications tower in a rural residential area, which was denied due to significant neighborhood opposition, concerns about aesthetics, property values, and aviation safety. Conversely, docket SU26-14, a request to establish a motion picture production site, was approved with conditions, highlighting its potential economic benefits and alignment with county development goals. Additionally, the commission discussed tabling text amendments related to special use and variance criteria to future meetings. Throughout the meeting, commissioners emphasized the importance of community input, environmental stewardship, and maintaining the rural character of Cochise County in their decisions.