On behalf of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, I write to share the business community’s position regarding the proposed Middle Housing Text Amendment (Z25-11).
As referenced in our July 2024 correspondence regarding the Central Business District designation, the Chamber supported the Town’s decision to designate the Heritage District as Gilbert’s Central Business District (CBD) to comply with the requirements of HB 2721 (codified as A.R.S. § 9-462.13). In that letter, we commended Town staff for evaluating scenarios that balanced compliance with the new mandate while protecting local control and the Town’s economic base.
Consistent with that position, the Chamber remains opposed to the state legislation itself and to the precedent it sets in removing local zoning authority. We are particularly concerned about the potential for any implementation of this law to allow residential construction on land designated for commercial, employment, or other tax-generating uses—a change that would erode Gilbert’s ability to sustain critical revenues and long-term fiscal health.
That said, we recognize and appreciate that the Town’s proposed ordinance represents a measured, compliant, and limited response to the state mandate. The Chamber supports the draft to the extent that it:
- Implements the minimum provisions required under A.R.S. § 9-462.13 without expanding eligibility beyond what is mandated;
- Restricts middle-housing allowances to parcels zoned for single-family residential use that lie within one mile of the designated Central Business District or within new single-family developments larger than ten acres (as required by statute); and
- Excludes parcels zoned for commercial, employment, or mixed-use development, thereby preserving Gilbert’s tax-based and job-producing land inventory.
These parameters demonstrate a responsible approach that both meets the Town’s legal obligation and minimizes negative economic impacts. We strongly encourage the Council to maintain this narrow implementation and to resist any future expansion of eligibility areas or overlays that could undermine Gilbert’s land-use balance or reduce commercial capacity.
The Gilbert Chamber remains committed to advancing policies that encourage attainable workforce housing when appropriately located and market-driven, while preserving the community’s strong business climate and fiscal sustainability. We appreciate the Town’s diligence in crafting a cautious and compliant ordinance that prioritizes these goals.
Thank you for your continued partnership and leadership in safeguarding Gilbert’s economic future.
Approved October 23, 2025