Joni Ramos, President
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Community Council
Joni Ramos, President
Leonard Rivers, Vice President
Anthony Collins, Sr.,
Diane Enos
Selena Espinoza
Grinelda Gates
Ricardo Leonard
Lynn Myore
Dixie Padilla
Land Management Board
Emily Chiago
Jacqueline Greyeyes
Samia Hernandez
Janet Johnson
Lena Kontz,
Yolanda Stacey
Ronald White
General Plan Steering Committee
Gene Andreas
Kent Andrews
Vickie Andrews
Christella Armijo
Bruce Arnoldussen
Karl Auerbach
David Bunce
Roberta Carlos
Ron Chiago
Daniel Daggett
Robin Enos
Larry Francis
Robert Goodwin Sr.
Robert Goodwin Jr.
Lance Grey
Stacey Gubser
Toni Harvier
Gardell Johnson
M. John Landis
Cathy Martinez
Phil Matthews
Claire Miller
Cecelia Nash
Crystal Orozco
Dixie Padilla
Bob Ramirez
Russell Ray
Leonard Rivers
Joyce Sammaripa
Donald Santeo
Larry Schurz
Allyson Thomas
Huey Thomas
Barrie Thomas
Michael Washington
Kelly Washington
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE ...............................................................................................................1
GENERAL PLAN OVERVIEW .....................................................................................2
Sustainable SRPMIC … Planning for Generations ..........................................2
Relationship of the Plan to other Community Initiatives ...................................3
Process and Public Involvement ......................................................................4
COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES ............................................................................5
THE COMMUNITY SETTING ......................................................................................6
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS.....................................................................................7
1. LAND USE ELEMENT........................................................................................9
Land Use Purpose Statement ..........................................................................9
Land Use Element Overview............................................................................9
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................11
Community Planning System................................................................11
Residential Development......................................................................11
People’s Village ....................................................................................12
Environmentally Sensitive Areas ..........................................................12
Culturally Sensitive Areas.....................................................................13
Land Use Compatibility.........................................................................13
General Community Design..................................................................13
Industrial Development Design.............................................................15
Environmentally Sensitive Design ........................................................15
Land Use Map................................................................................................17
Land Use Designations .............................................................................17
People’s Village.........................................................................................18
Pima Corridor ............................................................................................18
2. TRANSPORTATION / CIRCULATION ELEMENT ..................................................23
Transportation / Circulation Purpose Statement ............................................23
Transportation / Circulation Element Overview..............................................23
Roadways..................................................................................................23
Transit .......................................................................................................23
Bicycling and Pedestrians .........................................................................24
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................24
Roadway System..................................................................................24
Transit Services....................................................................................25
Non-Motorized Transportation ..............................................................26
Circulation Plan and Standards......................................................................26
3. HOUSING ELEMENT .......................................................................................29
Housing Purpose Statement ..........................................................................29
Housing Element Overview............................................................................29
Housing Projections..............................................................................30
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................31
New Housing ........................................................................................31
Housing Rehabilitation and Preservation..............................................31
List of Figures / List of Tables
i
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
4. NATURAL RESOURCES ELEMENT ...................................................................33
Natural Resources Purpose Statement..........................................................33
Natural Resources Element Overview ...........................................................33
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................33
Balanced Uses......................................................................................33
Resource Extraction .............................................................................34
Water Resources ..................................................................................34
Range Management .............................................................................35
Wildlife Preservation and Protection .....................................................35
Solid Waste...........................................................................................35
Air Quality .............................................................................................35
5. PRESERVATION ELEMENT ..............................................................................37
Preservation element Purpose Statement......................................................37
Preservation Element Overview .....................................................................37
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................37
Historic and Archaeological Resources ................................................37
Cultural Use ..........................................................................................38
6. COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT .........................................................41
Commercial Development Purpose Statement ..............................................41
Commercial Development Element Overview................................................41
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................41
Commercial Development ....................................................................41
Commercial/Mixed-Use Design ............................................................42
Commercial Corridor Land Use ............................................................42
Commercial Corridor Natural Resources ..............................................43
Commercial Corridor Environmental Education....................................44
Commercial Corridor Resource Conservation ......................................44
Commercial Corridor Circulation...........................................................44
Commercial Corridor Recreation ..........................................................44
Commercial Corridor Community Design .............................................45
7. AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT ......................................................47
Agricultural Development Purpose Statement ...............................................47
Agricultural Element Overview .......................................................................47
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................47
Agricultural Land Uses..........................................................................47
Sustainable Agricultural Practices ........................................................48
Agricultural Diversification ....................................................................48
8. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT ...................................................49
Infrastructure Purpose Statement ..................................................................49
Infrastructure Element Overview ....................................................................49
Water Supply and Distribution ...................................................................49
Wastewater Collection and Treatment.......................................................50
Stormwater / Drainage...............................................................................50
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................51
Water and Wastewater .........................................................................51
Drainage and Stormwater Management ...............................................51
Facility Cost and Operations.................................................................52
List of Figures / List of Tables
ii
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
9. COMMUNITY FACILITIES ELEMENT ..................................................................53
Community Facilities Purpose Statement ......................................................53
Community Facilities Element Overview........................................................53
Recreation .................................................................................................53
Police.........................................................................................................53
Fire ............................................................................................................53
Education ..................................................................................................53
Telecommunications..................................................................................54
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................54
Recreation ............................................................................................54
Health Care ..........................................................................................54
Community Public Facilities..................................................................55
Telecommunications.............................................................................55
Energy ..................................................................................................55
Education..............................................................................................56
10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT .............................................................57
Economic Development Purpose Statement .................................................57
Economic Development Element Overview ...................................................57
Goals and Policies .........................................................................................57
Economic Development Planning.........................................................57
Development ........................................................................................58
Community Economic Development.....................................................58
11. GENERAL PLAN ADMINISTRATION ..................................................................59
General Plan Consistency Defined ................................................................59
General Plan Amendments ............................................................................59
Annual General Plan Report ..........................................................................59
Comprehensive General Plan Review ...........................................................60
APPENDIX A: IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES ..........................................................61
APPENDIX B: COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR VISION ......................................................65
The Vision for the Community........................................................................65
How the Vision was Developed .................................................................65
Components of the Vision .........................................................................66
1. The Community as a Society................................................................66
2. The Community as a Physical Place ....................................................67
3. The Community as an Economic System.............................................68
4. The Community as an Environmental System......................................69
5. The Community as a Governmental Operation ....................................70
6. The Community as a Symbol ................................................................71
Epilogue ....................................................................................................72
List of Figures / List of Tables
iii
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: SRPMIC Regional Location .................................................................. 6
Figure 1-1: Land Use Map ..................................................................................21
Figure 2-1: Circulation Plan.................................................................................27
Figure 3-1: Home Site Distribution ......................................................................30
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1-1: Existing Land Use ..............................................................................10
Table 2-1: Circulation Map Classifications and Standards..................................26
List of Figures / List of Tables
iv
PREFACE/OVERVIEW/
VISION AND VALUES/SETTING
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
PREFACE
Executive Order of President Rutherford B. Hayes established the Salt River
Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) for the Pima and Maricopa people
on June 4, 1879. Originally the land area was extensive. The Community size
was dramatically reduced when non-Indian settlers objected to the Indians
having so much land.
The Community’s traditional way of life was changed through the years by
politics and lack of water. Despite agreements and court decisions, water was
diverted from tribal farms making farming nearly impossible. The Dawes Act of
1910 attempted to replace the centuries old system of family farms and individual
allotments of land. These allotments were divided into 10
acres below the Arizona Canal and 20 acres of
secondary land above the canal, with the 20-acre parcels
having no rights to irrigation water.
To regain some control over its land on June 15, 1940,
the SRPMIC adopted the Indian Reorganization Act.
Over the next approximately 60 years, it established a
sophisticated system of government, launched
successful enterprises, and began rebuilding the
Community.
The SRPMIC has a long history of conducting and
implementing planning efforts. It was discovered that
during the early period of the SRPMIC’s history various forms of “Community
Planning” existed. These ranged from water committees to social functions
undertaken by private organizations and religious groups. A more formal
approach was evidenced in the meetings held at the old Community Hall on
matters dealing with agriculture, law and order, and future use of Community
lands.
In the 1950s, the Community initiated a more formal approach to “Community
Planning” by utilizing private and public agencies in preparing a direction for
growth, economically and physically. With the assistance of a private consultant,
the Community Council adopted a General Development Plan in the late 1960s.
The 1970 SRPMIC General Development Plan documented the past efforts and
provided guidance for future growth around a central theme “Looking Ahead.”
The 1978 General Development Plan Update included a growth factor by
requiring periodic review and allowing for amendments to reflect the changing
times and priority of needs. The 1983 General Development Plan Update
indicated major changes occurring and focused on the general direction for
development of Community lands.
Major Community development changes occurring on SRPMIC between 1983
and 1988 prompted a plan update that was completed in December 1988. Some
of these changes included increased number of home sites, water rights
settlement, major roadway improvements, major enterprises established, and
regional shopping center developed. The 1988 Plan served as a “policy guide
and planning tool” to enhance decisions for future development.
Preface
1
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
GENERAL PLAN OVERVIEW
The Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
(SRPMIC) General Plan presents the desired future
Community
development,
enhancement,
and
revitalization direction.
The General Plan is the Community’s “blue print” for
land use and development, as well as conservation and
preservation; it serves as the basis for rational decisions
regarding the Community’s long-term physical
development and the protection of the Community’s
natural and cultural resources. The General Plan
expresses the Community’s development goals and
embodies public policy relative to the distribution of
future land uses, both public and private. The goals,
policies, and programs of the General Plan are intended
to underlie most land use decisions. Preparing,
adopting, implementing, and maintaining a General Plan
serves to:
Identify the Community’s land use, transportation, environmental,
economic, and social goals and policies as they relate to land use and
development.
Provide a basis for decision-making, including decisions on development
approvals.
Provide Community members with opportunities to participate in the
planning and decision making processes of the Community.
Inform Community members, developers, decision makers, and adjacent
communities of the ground rules that govern development within the
Community.
General plans typically have three defining qualities. First, they are general in
nature, providing general guidance for the future, particularly regarding growth
and development. More precise direction is provided in implementation
documents and plans, such as annexations, zoning codes and other ordinances,
design regulations, annual budgets, and capital improvements program (see
discussion below). Second, general plans are comprehensive in scope,
addressing a broad range of environmental, social, and economic factors that
affect how communities change over time. These factors include land use and
circulation, environment and natural resources, economic and fiscal conditions,
as well as a host of others. These factors should be addressed in an interrelated
and, wherever possible, consistent manner. Third, general plans address the
long-range future of communities. While they may take immediate concerns into
consideration, they focus primarily on the future.
SUSTAINABLE SRPMIC … PLANNING FOR GENERATIONS
Through the course of preparing the General Plan, the Community focused on
the theme of sustainability. There is widespread recognition in the Community
that the General Plan must establish a framework of sustainability to ensure that
current and future generations can sustain the social, economic, and
General Plan Overview
2
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
environmental health of the Community. This will entail continuous review and
evaluation to ensure that the actions taken in implementing this Plan are
consistent with this intent, and that the pre-eminent focus of the Plan should
always be on the needs of Community members, both now and in the future.
RELATIONSHIP OF THE PLAN TO OTHER COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
The General Plan both informs and is informed by a variety of other Community
policies, standards, and programs that address growth and resource
preservation. These include initiatives focused directly on planning (e.g., Zoning
Ordinance, Design Guidelines, and Neighborhood Plans) and those focused on
the functional systems necessary to support development in the Community,
particularly infrastructure plans. Generally, these other initiatives address their
subject matter in considerably more detail than would be appropriate for the
General Plan. As these other policies, standards, and programs are developed
and refined, they will take their broad direction from the General Plan, with the
intent of establishing consistency among the documents that guide development
and resource preservation in the Community. Conversely, as the General Plan is
reviewed and updated over time, it will take direction from these more focused
processes.
SRPMIC General Plan
Overall Policy Direction
Zoning Ordinance
Specific Standards for Development
Neighborhood Plans
People’s Village
Design Guidelines
Development Form
(Streetscape, Architectural Character)
Functional System Plans
Transportation Plan
Water and Wastewater Plan
Stormwater Plan
Perhaps the most often confused or questioned among these relationships is the
connection between the General Plan and zoning. As stated above, the General
Plan is a general policy document that guides community growth and
development decisions. The Zoning Ordinance and associated zoning maps, are
precise legal instruments that define the permitted land uses and associated
performance standards for all property under the Community’s jurisdiction. In
essence, the General Plan establishes the policy framework upon which the
zoning prescriptions are based … and with which they must be consistent.
General Plan Overview
3
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
PROCESS AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
The development of General Plan included extensive
Community involvement over a three-year period.
Involvement by Community Members was of the utmost
priority. Many different opportunities were provided
throughout the process for Community Members to voice
their opinions and desires about the future Community
direction. The process began with a Community-wide event
with a chicken scratch dance and band. Several other
events held included Community-wide meetings, individual
meetings with key stakeholders and the Land Management
Board, District Workshops, Community Council
presentations, meetings with the Elder and Disabled
Committee, the Youth Council, and junior and senior high
school students. In total, the Community sponsored over
40 public meetings during the course of preparing the
General Plan.
In addition to these meetings, a community survey was developed in the fall of
2002 and sent to 4,893 community members over 14 years of age. 560 surveys
were returned for a response rate of 12.2 percent. Community members were
asked to respond to 23 statements. The results of the survey were used to assist
in developing General Plan content. Among the highlights of the survey results
were the following:
Pedestrians and bicyclists do not feel safe in the Community
Mixed opinions about additional commercial development along the
Beeline Highway
Commercial development should be limited to the Pima Freeway
Corridor
“Cut-through” traffic a major concern that must be dealt with
There are not enough parks and recreation facilities in the Community
There should be an additional connection between Lehi and the rest of
the Community
Agricultural land should be protected if possible
More golf courses or resorts are not desired
A mix of housing needs to be developed to accommodate all Members
A need for a non-motorized trail system
Transportation for seniors and the disabled need to be available
A centrally located “Town Center” should be developed to serve
members of the Community
Open desert areas should be protected from development
Additionally, extensive work was conducted by a Steering Committee composed
of Community Members and Community Staff that worked with the consultants
hired to develop the General Plan. The Steering Committee met regularly over a
three-year timeframe.
General Plan Overview
4
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
COMMUNITY VISION AND VALUES
Through the course of the outreach efforts conducted for the General Plan
update, the Community identified a series of recurring themes or core values that
exemplify SRPMIC. These themes or values collectively constitute the Vision for
the future. The SRPMIC Community Council adopted the following Community
Vision (2003) that provides the General Plan’s framework:
The vision of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community is to
improve and preserve the quality of life for its peoples. The ongoing
commitment will include the promotion and preservation of selfdetermination and sovereignty, well-planned economic growth leading
to financial security, a spiritually, and physically healthy environment
and a dedication to education.
This vision includes the preservation of our values and traditions and
the passing of our ancestors’ wisdom to future generations. While
clearly involved in many aspects of the Community, our Elders fulfill an
especially important role regarding the preservation of values and
traditions.
Finally, this vision includes endless generations of Onk Akimel
O’Odham and Xalychidom Pipaash embracing the Salt River PimaMaricopa Indian Community with dignity and pride.
These statements serve as the philosophical foundation of this General Plan
(“the Plan”) and are reflected in the goals, policies, and implementation
measures included in the Plan.
Community Vision and Values
5
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
THE COMMUNITY SETTING
The SRPMIC consists of approximately 54,000 acres of land, 81 square miles,
lying to the east of the cities of Scottsdale and Phoenix and north of the cities of
Mesa and Tempe, as shown in Figure 1. The general configuration of the land
includes an area that extends from approximately six to nine miles in a northsouth direction and approximately 14 miles in an east-west direction.
The Salt River and Lehi Districts are separated by the Salt River with the Lehi
District south of the River, north of McDowell Road to the west of Gilbert Road.
The two electoral districts are further divided into seven Council districts. One
Council member represents each of these districts except for the Lehi District,
which has two Council representatives.
There are very few physical barriers to development in the planning area’s
western two-thirds. The elevation begins to increase east of Gilbert Road,
making development less practical. Furthermore, much of the eastern part of the
Community, including the Red Mountain and Saddleback Mountain areas, hold
substantial cultural significance, and thus are not considered suitable for
development. The eastern extent of the Community is also rich with Sonoran
Desert vegetation, including native Saguaro and other cacti and Ironwood trees.
Figure 1: SRPMIC Regional Location
Community Setting
6
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS
The balance of this document consists of the General Plan “elements,” which are
the Community’s official statements of land use and development policy. These
elements are as follows:
1. Land Use Element: Establishes the framework for orderly physical
development and environmental protection.
2. Transportation/Circulation Element: Provides for a multimodal
transportation system for the safe and efficient movement of Community
Members and visitors.
3. Housing Element: Promotes a mix of housing choices for Community
Members while enhancing housing opportunities.
4. Natural Resources Element: Outlines the Community’s policy
commitment to use the Community’s natural resources for the long-term
well-being of current and future Community Members.
5. Preservation Element: Provides direction to preserve and maintain the
Community’s cherished cultural resources.
6. Commercial Development Element: Provides guidance for developing
and maintaining the Community’s commercial areas, particularly the
Pima Corridor.
7. Agricultural Development Element: Reinforces the Community’s
commitment to continued diversification and enhancement of agriculture
and agri-business opportunities.
8. Infrastructure Development Element: Provides direction to ensure
that adequate infrastructure is available to support current and future
Community Members and enterprises.
9. Community Facilities Element: Provides direction for providing
services and developing Community amenities and facilities that
enhance the quality of life for Community Members.
10. Economic Development Element: Presents strategies to expand the
Community’s economy to ensure sustainable development that raises
the standard of living for Community Members.
11. General Plan Administration: Describes how the plan will be
administered over time, including such issues as exceptions,
amendments, and periodic reporting on the progress of the Plan’s
implementation.
Each of these elements includes a series of goals that are related to key topics.
Under each goal is a set of policies intended to guide achievement of that goal.
At the end of each element are several action/implementation measures that
identify the actions necessary to effectively implement the General Plan. The
following definitions describe the nature of the statements of goals, policies, and
implementation measure as they are used in this document:
General Plan Elements
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Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Goal: The ultimate purpose of an effort stated in a way that is general in
nature and immeasurable. Goals are numbered with two-digit labels.
The first digit corresponds with the element (e.g., Land Use is the first
element, so all goals begin with 1.) and the second digit indicates the
sequence within each element. Thus, the first goal in the Land Use
Element is labeled 1.1.
Policy: A specific statement in text or diagram guiding action and
implying clear commitment. Policies are nested under each goal and
assigned corresponding three digit labels that correspond with their goal
and the sequence of policies under that goal. Thus, the first policy under
goal 4.1 would be 4.1.1.
Implementation Measure: An action, procedure, program, or technique
that carries out General Plan policy. Implementation Measures are
presented under the goals with which they are most closely associated,
but they are numbered sequentially throughout the entire document,
with a label that begins with IM. Thus, the 25th implementation measure
in the Plan is labeled IM 25.
General Plan Elements
8
1. LAND USE ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
1. LAND USE ELEMENT
LAND USE PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Land Use Element is the overall set of guiding principles for the SRPMIC
General Plan. It is intended to lay the foundation for the orderly physical
development and environmental protection of the Community where desired and
protect areas where the Community would like to see no development occur. It
provides a complementary mix of uses to accommodate residents, public
institutions, commerce, and traditional cultural activities.
The Land Use Element functions as a guide for Community officials (both elected
and appointed), the general public, the development community, and other
interested parties as to the ultimate pattern of development. The Land Use
Element has the broadest scope of the elements and plays a central role in
correlating all land use issues into a set of coherent development policies that
relate directly to the other plan elements.
LAND USE ELEMENT OVERVIEW
The surrounding region has experienced tremendous growth reaching over 3
million people. This growth has impacted every community and individual in the
Phoenix metropolitan area. The completion of the Loop 101 Freeway on the
SRPMIC’s western border has created tremendous economic opportunities for
the Community and landowners but also brings environmental and social issues.
The same can be said for the completion of the Loop 202 on the southern border
of the Community adjacent to the Lehi area.
The initiation of casino gaming and the construction of two casinos in the
Community, as well as the completion of the Loop 101 Freeway, have brought
employment and revenues, but also traffic and social issues, that could not have
been anticipated a decade ago. The Talking Stick golf facility provides a worldclass destination for visitors, but it has also contributed to
traffic in the area. In addition, continued development in
Scottsdale and Fountain Hills has added pressure to
develop Community lands, particularly along the Pima
Corridor.
Currently, over 90 percent of the over 54,632 acres of
land in SRPMIC is classified as either open space (which
includes agriculture) or vacant. Commercial and
industrial development has been limited to the periphery
of the Community, along major transportation corridors.
This emphasizes the very rural character of the
Community. Table 1-1 shows the breakdown of existing
land uses throughout the Community.
Land Use Element
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Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Table 1-1: Existing Land Use
Land Code-General
Residential
Commercial
Industrial
Office
Public Use
Transportation, Canal, Utility
Open Space
Mining & Landfill
Vacant
Acres
Total
Land Use Element
10
1,641
458
6
22
430
819
45,477
1,819
3,960
54,632
Percentage
3.0%
0.8%
>0.1%
>0.1%
0.8%
1.5%
83.2%
3.3%
7.3%
100.0%
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
GOALS AND POLICIES
COMMUNITY PLANNING SYSTEM
Goal 1.1
To improve community planning capabilities and capacity
within Community government.
1.1.1
Maintain high quality, state-of-the-art information systems within
Community government to support planning analysis and decisionmaking.
1.1.2
Coordinate the Community’s planning activities among departments that
are responsible for planning, improving, and maintaining the
Community’s infrastructure and facilities.
1.1.3
Maintain consistency between the General Plan and the Community’s
Zoning Ordinance.
1.1.4
Maintain a current land use inventory.
1.1.5
Promote involvement of Community members in the land use and
development decision-making process by ensuring effective use of
mechanisms that maximize opportunities for direct participation.
1.1.6
Monitor development along the community boundary to ensure that
encroachment from adjacent communities does not occur.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 1.
Update the Community’s Zoning Ordinance to ensure consistency with
the General Plan.
IM 2.
Enhance the Community Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) to identify
needed infrastructure and facilities improvements and potential funding
sources and programs and establish an implementation time-line.
IM 3.
Prepare and maintain an up-to-date land use inventory using the
Community’s GIS.
IM 4.
Continue to survey new land purchases to maintain an up-to-date
understanding of the Community boundaries and respond to specific
encroachment concerns along the Community boundaries.
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
Goal 1.2
To identify land suitable for residential development to
accommodate the housing needs of Community members.
1.2.1
Designate sufficient land in appropriate locations to accommodate the
development of housing to accommodate the needs of Community
members, including “life-cycle” opportunities ranging from starter
homes, to multi-family housing, to large-lot rural housing, to congregate
care facilities for the elderly.
Land Use Element
11
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
1.2.2
Seek opportunities to assemble Community-owned and allotted parcels
to accommodate viable subdivision developments to accommodate the
housing needs of Community members.
1.2.3
Support strategies to provide for land ownership or long-term leases to
enable homeowners to obtain financing.
1.2.4
Plan for and develop infrastructure in appropriate areas of the
Community to promote quality residential development.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 5.
Develop a strategy for prioritization of purchases of allotted land from
willing landowners.
PEOPLE’S VILLAGE
Goal 1.3
To promote the development of People’s Village as a
Community-oriented focal point of activity for Community
members.
1.3.1
Plan for Community involvement and input for the People’s Village
areas throughout the planning and design process.
1.3.2
Encourage assembly of land within the People’s Village.
1.3.3
Support the development of local services in the People’s Village, with
an emphasis on opportunities for exchange of goods and services
among Community members.
1.3.4
Encourage the development of multi-modal connections within the
People’s Village, including sidewalks and pathways to provide access to
and from trails for non-motorized transportation.
1.3.5
Support the efficient provision of utilities and other services within the
People’s Village.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 6.
Develop an area plan for People’s Village.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS
Goal 1.4
To protect environmentally sensitive areas in the Community.
1.4.1
Ensure that new development does not damage or compromise the
value of environmentally sensitive areas of the Community.
1.4.2
Protect open space areas from development.
1.4.3
Require sand and gravel operations to leave excavation areas with
slopes that can be revegetated.
Land Use Element
12
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 7.
Develop a Master Plan for the Salt River corridor area.
IM 8.
Adopt and maintain preservation regulations to govern land uses in areas
designated as preserves and other culturally and environmentally
sensitive areas. This should include consideration of appropriate levels of
access to the Community’s preserve areas.
CULTURALLY SENSITIVE AREAS
Goal 1.5
To protect culturally sensitive areas in the Community.
1.5.1
Ensure that new development does not damage or compromise the
value of areas of cultural significance in the Community.
1.5.2
Engage Community members, as appropriate, when there is potential
development near sacred or historic areas in the Community.
LAND USE COMPATIBILITY
Goal 1.6
To avoid or mitigate incompatibility between land uses in the
Community.
1.6.1
Ensure the use of effective buffering techniques adjacent to the landfill
and sand and gravel mining operations to protect adjacent development
and open space areas.
1.6.2
Ensure that existing residential areas are adequately protected from
encroachment by incompatible uses.
1.6.3
Ensure that the viability of existing commercial and industrial operations
is not compromised by introduction of incompatible uses.
1.6.4
Encourage the orderly and efficient placement of homesites at the edge,
rather than in the middle, of agricultural fields and in locations with
convenient access to utilities and roadways,.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 9.
Develop buffering standards for commercial, industrial, and retail
developments to ensure compatibility with adjacent development and
open space areas.
GENERAL COMMUNITY DESIGN
Goal 1.7
To ensure that the built environment is aesthetically pleasing
and compatible with the natural surroundings and PimaMaricopa cultural values.
1.7.1
Maintain development and design guidelines that ensure high quality
design in all new and renovated development in the Community.
Land Use Element
13
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
1.7.2
Promote architectural themes and project site design that
reflect Pima-Maricopa cultural values and blend the built
environment with natural surroundings.
1.7.3
Require new development projects to explore solutions
that employ natural materials and prohibit designs that
channelize watercourses except where extreme threats
to public safety would exist if the watercourse were not
channelized.
1.7.4
Require all new development to employ design strategies
to reduce heat and glare impacts.
1.7.5
Require that all development proposals depict an
arrangement of and massing of buildings and/or
arrangement of lots to minimize impacts on views from adjacent
properties and streets and from properties and streets internal to the
proposed project while providing privacy for residents.
1.7.6
Require that all development proposals employ design strategies that
minimize changes to existing topography and the disturbance of existing
vegetation.
1.7.7
Require that buildings be designed with recognition that all sides of the
buildings, including the roofs, may affect their surroundings.
1.7.8
In order to maximize integration of the built environment with the natural
environment and to minimize distractions of the built environment,
require all new development proposals to incorporate means of
reducing the apparent size and bulk of buildings.
1.7.9
Require that all landscape improvements adhere to the following
general guidelines:
Maintain a predominantly natural Sonoran Desert image
and conserving water resources;
Preserve, restore, and enhance the ecological and scenic
qualities of the natural landscape;
Mitigate negative visual impacts of buildings and parking
lots;
Add aesthetic charm, interest and character; and
Improve the functional use of a site.
1.7.10 Require that all new development proposals consider existing
landscaping within 400 feet of the project site to provide and
maintain landscape continuity within the Community.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 10.
Update the Community’s Development and Design Guidelines and design
review procedures.
IM 11.
Prepare informational material that describes the Community’s culturallybased design expectations to prospective developers.
Land Use Element
14
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT DESIGN
Goal 1.8
To encourage human-scale design elements in industrial and
large-scale commercial developments.
1.8.1
Promote development projects that minimize the perceived size and
scale of large projects through building massing and organization; color
and material variation; and landscaping.
1.8.2
Encourage the integration of small-scale,
commercial services into industrial areas.
pedestrian-oriented
1.8.3
Encourage industrial and large-scale commercial developments
to employ site design techniques that minimize the perceived
dominance of surface parking areas.
1.8.4
Encourage site design, internal street layout, and connections
to adjacent areas that accommodate the needs of motorists,
pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users, and commercial freight
services.
1.8.5
Require new industrial and large-scale commercial projects to
incorporate design features that respect the scale of existing
adjacent buildings.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE DESIGN
Goal 1.9
To achieve environmental stewardship in the design and
construction of all public and private projects.
1.9.1
Incorporate the principles of Green Building to create environmentally
responsible, profitable, and healthy places to live and work. This should
include the following:
Sustainable sites (brownfields, site disturbance, stormwater
management)
Water efficiency (efficient landscaping, use reduction)
Energy and atmosphere (energy performance, renewable energy,
green power)
Materials and resources (building reuse, recyclable materials, local
materials)
Indoor environmental quality (low-emitting materials, daylight and
views)
Innovation and design process (creative approach, key challenges
resolved)
Minimization of the “heat island” effect
1.9.2
Actively support the achievement of the LEED (Leadership in Energy
and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System or an
equivalent system to develop high performance, sustainable buildings
and homes.
Land Use Element
15
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
1.9.3
Promote site planning and architectural design that reduces heating and
cooling demands, provides more comfortable indoor and outdoor living
spaces, and avoids blocking or reflecting sun on adjacent public spaces
or buildings.
1.9.4
Ensure that new development provides adequate lighting levels to meet
the safety and security needs of the Community.
1.9.5
Encourage lighting design that minimizes light pollution and maintains
visibility of stars at night.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 12.
Establish a Green Building Program within the Community government to
provide guidance to the development community concerning sustainable
design.
IM 13.
Prepare and adopt lighting standards that address safety, security, and
light pollution, including “dark sky” provisions for appropriate areas of the
Community.
IM 14.
Organize and manage a Community-based group to initiate and monitor
sustainability programs and regulations and to assist in educating
Community members concerning such programs and regulations.
Land Use Element
16
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
LAND USE MAP
The Land Use Map for the General Plan depicts the proposed general uses of
land within the SRPMIC. It functions as official Community policy on the
allocation and distribution of different land uses. The pattern of land uses is
shown on the Land Use Map by means of various land use designations, each of
which denotes specific types of land use. The boundary lines between land use
designations are shown as precisely as possible, and generally follow property
lines and/or roads. The Community’s Zoning Map implements the General Plan
land use designations by ordinance at a much more detailed, parcel-specific
level and reflects existing development entitlements.
LAND USE DESIGNATIONS
The Land Use Map of this General Plan uses twelve land use designations to
depict the types of land uses that are allowed. Following are brief descriptions of
the intent of each of the land use designations appearing on the Land Use Map.
The Land Use Map (Figure 1-1) designates land within the Community according
to the use designations summarized in Table 1-2.
Table 1-2: Land Use Designations: Permitted Uses
Land Use
Designation
Agricultural / Low
Density Residential
Medium Density
Residential
High Density
Residential
Mixed Use Commercial
Neighborhood
Commercial
Industrial
Public
Natural Resource
Open Space
Preserve
Recreation
Total
Development
Standards
Permitted Uses
This designation is intended to accommodate agricultural uses and Up to 3.0 du/ac
the lowest density residential development.
Intended for a range of residential uses, including single-family
Up to 8.0 du/ac
homes, town homes, condominiums, or apartments.
Intended for multi-family units such as town homes,
Up to 12.0
condominiums, or apartments.
du/ac
An area that will have a mix of uses to include office, commercial, FAR 0.25 to
medical, hotel/resort, casinos, restaurants, entertainment,
0.45
warehousing, and light industrial,
Consists of small commercial operations including convenience
FAR 0.25
stores, gas stations, fast food restaurants, and small shops.
Neighborhood Commercial centers typically range from 10 to 20
acres.
Intensive business uses such as mining, construction yards, heavy FAR 0.05
manufacturing, and landfill operations that involve noise, light,
heavy truck traffic, and potential three-shift activities.
Areas containing public, governmental, or quasi-governmental
uses including schools and other educational facilities.
Important Community land resources that may be in current use
for other purposes but eventually desired to be returned to their
natural state.
Areas in the Community where no building or development should
occur.
Sacred and/or environmentally sensitive areas that are to be
protected from human incursion.
Areas that contain recreation sites such as golf courses and parks.
Acres
12,857
% of
Total
23.6%
1,519
2.8%
35
0.1%
4,562
8.4%
136
0.2%
0
0.0%
732
1.3%
3,031
5.6%
20,119
36.9%
10,891
20.0%
670
54,553
1.2%
100.0%
Land Use Element
17
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
PEOPLE’S VILLAGE
Perhaps the most central theme of this General Plan is the desire
of the Community to enhance its wellbeing while preserving and
maintaining the cultural values that unify the Community’s
members. To this end, the Land Use Map identifies an area called
“People’s Village.” As stated in Goal 1.3 on page 12 of this Plan,
the People’s Village is intended to be a Community-oriented focal
point of activity for Community members. The Village already
includes a mixture of residential and Community uses, including the
educational complex. In the future, commercial businesses
operated by Community members and geared toward the needs of
Community members will be added, along with additional housing
opportunities and public facilities and services, including new
recreational facilities. The commercial development opportunities in
People’s Village will complement other opportunities for Community
member-owned businesses elsewhere in the community.
PIMA CORRIDOR
In April 2006, the Community Council approved the parameters of the Pima
Corridor. This approval followed-up on the December 2005 election that changed
maximum permitted floor-area ratio (FAR) to 0.45 and increased the maximum
height of buildings in the Pima Corridor to 80 feet (6 stories), without a variance.
The election did not define the “Pima Corridor” area, so the Community Council
clarified the issue through its April 2006 action. The Community hosted four
Community meetings in Lehi and Salt River so that Council could hear
Community member opinions about the proposed areas of the Pima Corridor.
The Council also considered comments that were made at the General Planning
Meetings over a two-year period and District meeting presentations.
The Pima Corridor is basically the land west of the 101 Freeway, starting at the
Southern Gateway of the Community at McKellips and extending northward to
the Northern Gateway to the Community boundary. Included in the Northern
Gateway are 60 acres of land surrounding the Casino. This 60-acre area is the
only area east of the 101 Freeway that was included in the Pima Corridor.
Within the Pima Corridor are three areas defined as “gateways” to the Corridor.
These gateways were defined as part of Generation 7, a strategic planning and
visioning process sponsored by Devco, the Community’s commercial
development and management enterprise. Following are Devco’s visions for
future development in the gateways.
Northern Gateway
Capitalizing on its location adjacent to the affluent North Scottsdale corridor, the
Northern Gateway enterprise Zone provides an attractive, cost-effective
alternative for high-end office/retail and other businesses looking for a premiere
address.
Health Services and Medical Zone: Projected to emerge as a haven for healing
and a place for the science of tomorrow, this zone is planned to attract
Land Use Element
18
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
biomedical research companies and institutions that are doing outstanding
research in 23rd century technology to inspire our imagination and expand our
knowledge for the advancement of humankind.
Targeted industries in the advanced life sciences
include those firms utilizing bio-technical advances in a
responsible way to develop healthier and more wellbalanced lives including innovative pharmaceutical
companies, laboratories conducting genomics and
other medical advancements, and makers of leading
edge medical equipment.
Entertainment Zone: This zone is planned as an
entertainment and recreation destination for visitors
worldwide. Here, imagination is projected into new
dimensions and reality suspended. In this memorymaking environment, visitors are offered many
experiences, including a look into Native American
culture which honors the past, explores the present,
and dreams far into the future.
Central Gateway
Commerce & International Trade Zone: Building on
the existing professional campus for business and
industry, Chaparral Business Center, this zone is
attracting leaders in telecommunications systems. By
leveraging its presence and the relationships inherent
in the Canadian-U.S.- Mexico alliance, this zone is
well-positioned to nurture international business
relationships in these enterprises, international
broadcasting, and global trade.
Technology Zone: Designed to attract and support
heightened technologies of tomorrow, this zone is
targeting industry leaders in research and
development in fields that are essential to the growth
and development of the new knowledge-based, postindustrial world. An additional advantage for these
industries is the area's proximity to the respected
research capabilities of Arizona State University,
which assures employers of opportunities for research partnerships and a
reservoir of well-trained employees.
Southern Gateway
A Destination Meeting Place and retail attraction, the Southern Gateway
enterprise zone provides timely opportunities for business and professionals to
capitalize on its superior urban location. Adjacent to the cities of Scottsdale,
Tempe and Mesa, the Southern Gateway connects with one of the fastestgrowing areas of metropolitan Phoenix, the burgeoning cities of the East Valley.
Land Use Element
19
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Land Use Element
20
Land Use Designations
Stapley Drive
Mesa Drive
N. Center Road
Country Club Drive
N. Extension Road
Alma School Road
Longmore Road
Dobson Road
92nd Street
Pima Road/
90th Sreet
LAND USE MAP
Agriculture / Low Density Res.
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
Saddleback Mtn.
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Special Area Designations
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Osborn Road
Thomas Road
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FIGURE 1-1
Oak Street
Oak Street
McKellips Road
Gilbert Road
Harris Street
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Salt River Pima-Maricopa
Indian Community
McDowell Road
Stapley Drive
Horne Road
McDowell Road
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Salt River
0
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2006 General Plan
Adopted 12.13.06
1
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Source: SRPMIC GIS
P:\SRPMIC\23444408_IFGP\GIS\Plots\SRPMIC_AdoptedLU_12_13_06_Final.
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Land Use Element
22
2. TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
2. TRANSPORTATION / CIRCULATION
ELEMENT
TRANSPORTATION / CIRCULATION PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Circulation Element is intended to provide a multimodal transportation
system for the safe and efficient movement of Community Members and visitors
and provide a safe and efficient multi-modal system.
TRANSPORTATION / CIRCULATION ELEMENT OVERVIEW
As with the Land Use Element, the policy content of the Circulation Element is
conveyed through a combination of mechanisms. The primary mechanism is the
Circulation Map (Figure 2-1), which specifies the functional roles of all streets
within the Community.
ROADWAYS
The SRPMIC area is served by several regional roadway facilities including SR
Loop 101 (Pima Freeway), SR Loop 202 (Red Mountain Freeway), and SR 87
(Beeline Highway). Due to the Community’s location within
the Phoenix metropolitan area, regional demand is being
placed on roadways throughout the Community.
Community and local roadways include paved two-lane
facilities and unimproved roads, many of which serve the
Community’s residents. Roads within the Community are
maintained by several agencies including the Community,
the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), the Arizona Department
of Transportation (ADOT), and Maricopa County (MCDOT).
Roadways are identified by functional classification. The
functional classification depends upon two primary
purposes: 1) to provide mobility and 2) to provide access to adjacent properties.
The greatest mobility is achieved with large volumes of vehicles traveling at high
speeds, uninterrupted by traffic control or side friction generated by intersecting
streets and driveways, primarily on regional facilities. Community and local
roadways provide maximum access on low-speed, low-volume roads with a high
number of intersections and driveways.
TRANSIT
The Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Transit System (SRTS) was
established in 1979 to provide transit services to the residents of the SRPMIC.
The SRTS has been operating continuously since 1983 and is one of the earliest
transit systems in Arizona to receive funding support. The system operates
Monday through Friday, from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and provides service 52
weeks a year, except for federal, state, or tribal holidays. Community residents
use the SRTS to commute to work at the Tribal Government Complex and to
travel to and from nearby communities.
Transportation/Circulation Element
23
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Valley Metro provides service to Scottsdale Community College via Routes 50,
76, and 84. Valley Metro also provides service along Pima Road and 90th Street
in the northwestern corner of the Community via Route 81.
White Mountain Passenger Lines provides daily inter-city bus service between
Mesa and Payson, traveling through the Community on SR 87. However, no
stops exist within the Community. Intercity bus passengers originating from or
destined to the Community may connect at the Greyhound Bus Station in Mesa
that is within the service boundaries of the Community’s local transit system.
BICYCLING AND PEDESTRIANS
A limited number of bicycle and pedestrian facilities exist within the Community.
A policy was established as part of the General Development Plan dated
December 1988 that identifies pedestrian walkways as part of future street
improvements, especially within housing subdivisions and public facility areas.
GOALS AND POLICIES
ROADWAY SYSTEM
Goal 2.1
To maximize roadway safety and mobility for Community
residents while enhancing the Community’s identity and
providing access to the commercial areas.
2.1.1
Plan for and maintain a roadway network that links residents to their
destinations within and beyond the boundaries of the Community in a
safe and efficient manner.
2.1.2
Plan for a new roadway connection between Lehi and Salt River to
serve the needs of Community residents.
2.1.3
Direct regional through-traffic to principal arterials and freeways to
promote safety and mobility.
2.1.4
Continue to identify appropriate truck routes within the Community and
enforce restrictions on commercial truck traffic on other roadways.
2.1.5
Discourage regional “cut-through” traffic on all local roadways within the
Community via traffic controls and enforcement. This could include
appropriate traffic calming devices in residential areas to slow traffic
down and discourage cut-through traffic.
2.1.6
Enforce speed limits on roadways within the Community.
2.1.7
Support acquisition of rights-of-way sufficient to ensure development of
a roadway network that provides for the safety and mobility of
Community residents.
2.1.8
Cooperate with adjacent communities and the Maricopa Association of
Governments to ensure safe and secure access to commercial areas in
the Community.
Transportation/Circulation Element
24
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 15.
Study roadway design and traffic control strategies for mitigating cutthrough traffic in the Community.
IM 16.
Continue to coordinate with adjacent communities and the Maricopa
Association of Governments to ensure safe and efficient roadway
linkages and to ensure that SRPMIC benefits from its fair share of
regional roadway funding.
IM 17.
Adopt uniform guidelines for the placement of traffic control devices in
conjunction with the implementation of the roadway classification and
roadway design standards in the Circulation Map and Policies.
IM 18.
Identify methods for traffic calming on a neighborhood basis. This should
include an assessment of various techniques, development guidelines,
cost sharing, and administrative processes for considering installation of
individual devices.
IM 19.
Maintain an inventory of traffic counts for Major Arterial, Minor Arterial,
and Collector roadways. This inventory will assist the Community in
monitoring the performance of the roadway network, including tracking
levels of service (LOS).
IM 20.
Review the current process for acquiring and managing rights-of-way
(ROW) to provide direction on securing, utilization, and provision of ROW
as needed. Based on this review, develop policies and regulations for
effective ROW management.
TRANSIT SERVICES
Goal 2.2
To increase transit options and improve service for
Community members and visitors.
2.2.1
Continue to operate, and expand as necessary, SRTS, with a focus on
providing services to the transit dependent (e.g., elderly, disabled).
2.2.2
Work with regional transit providers to coordinate routes and improve
connectivity, convenience, and options.
2.2.3
Support privately-provided transit services to support the travel needs of
employees and visitors, including shuttles connecting activity centers
within and adjacent to the Community (e.g., hotels and casinos).
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 21.
Develop a transit master plan for the Community.
IM 22.
Work with the Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) and
adjacent jurisdictions to determine the demand for and feasibility of
establishing additional transit service.
IM 23.
Work with the casinos to provide transit services to casino employees and
patrons.
Transportation/Circulation Element
25
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
NON-MOTORIZED TRANSPORTATION
Goal 2.3
To ensure the development of safe facilities to accommodate
non-motorized transportation.
2.3.1
Encourage non-motorized travel opportunities within the Community,
with an emphasis on accommodation of the needs of Community
residents and employees.
2.3.2
Require the installation of bike lanes where appropriate as part of new
road construction projects.
2.3.3
Where pavement width allows, designate bike lanes through striping.
2.3.4
Improve roadway shoulders to accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists
where roadway width does not allow designated lanes.
2.3.5
Encourage establishment and maintenance of equestrian trails within
the Community.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 24.
Create a trails master plan to connect activity areas for pedestrians,
bicyclists, and equestrians within the Community.
CIRCULATION PLAN AND STANDARDS
Figure 2-1 (Circulation Plan) depicts six typical roadway classifications: Freeway,
Principal Arterial, Minor Arterial, Major Collector, Minor Collector and Local. Each
of these classifications is associated with a variety of functional and physical
characteristics. Table 2-1 outlines the basic character of each classification.
Classification
Freeway
Principal Arterial
Minor Arterial
Major Collector
Minor Collectors
Local
Table 2-1: Circulation Map Classifications and Standards
BIA Classification
Function
Design Character
Statewide travel
High speed, complete access control
Class 2
Statewide, regional traffic
4 to 6 lanes
Class 2
Links cities
110 ft ROW, 2 to 4 lanes
Class 2 or Class 4
Connections to arterials
110 ft ROW, 2 lanes
Class 4
Collects local traffic
80 ft ROW, 2 lanes
Class 3
Access to local land uses
50 ft ROW, 2 lanes
Transportation/Circulation Element
26
Street Classification
Stapley Drive
Mesa Drive
N. Center Road
Country Club Drive
N. Extension Road
Alma School Road
Longmore Road
Dobson Road
92nd Street
Pima Road/
90th Sreet
CIRCULATION PLAN
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2006 General Plan
Adopted 12.13.06
1
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Miles
Source: SRPMIC GIS
P:\SRPMIC\23444408_IFGP\GIS\plots\GPStreet_Class_Final.pdf (ai)
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Transportation/Circulation Element
28
3. HOUSING ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
3. HOUSING ELEMENT
HOUSING PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Housing Element is targeted at ensuring that Community members have
access to a full range of housing opportunities.
HOUSING ELEMENT OVERVIEW
SRPMIC has a very high housing vacancy rate, nearly 23 percent, as compared
to the county, state, and the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC). This high
vacancy rate is more often seen in communities with a high percentage of
second or vacation homes. However, of those occupied there is a high level of
home ownership.
Housing demographics in the SRPMIC also diverge from those of the state and
county in the fact that rental unit household size is on average much greater than
owner-occupied units. Rental units in the county and state tend to have smaller
household sizes than owner-occupied units, as shown in Table 3-1.
Table 3-1: Housing Analysis
Occupied Housing Units
Owner-occupied Housing Units
Renter-occupied Housing Units
Average Household Size of Owner-occupied Units
Average Household Size of Renter-occupied Units
Source: 2000 US Census
SRPMIC
77.6%
80.4%
19.6%
3.04
4.09
GRIC
92.6%
64.3%
35.7%
3.93
4.16
Maricopa County
90.6%
67.5%
32.5%
2.74
2.54
Arizona
86.9%
68.0%
32.0%
2.69
2.53
A housing needs assessment was completed in 2002 that evaluated the
condition of housing in the Community and also compiled information through a
survey. A total of 1,428 units were evaluated with 26 percent of the units being
trailers and only 25 apartments identified in the Community.
The assessment revealed that 22 percent of the units are in
need of major repairs or are not feasible to repair with 47
percent of the trailers in this condition.
Property
maintenance was also a concern as 50 percent of all the
residences in the Community were categorized as having
major neglect.
Home values are much lower than the surrounding areas.
The median value of housing units in the Community is
$58,000 while this figure is over $129,000 in Maricopa
County.
Members of the SRPMIC change residences much less frequently than overall
populations within the state or county signaling less residential mobility, as
shown in Table 3-2. Nearly two-thirds of residents lived in the same home over
the past decade while less than half of county and state residents stayed in the
same home. Only about one in 20 residents of SRPMIC moved from a different
state, less than one-third of the interstate mobility rate of the state and county.
Housing Element
29
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Table 3-2: Residential Mobility
Same House in 1995
Different House in the US in 1995
Different House in US Same County
Different House in US Different County
Different House Same State
Different State
SRPMIC
63.2%
34.8%
27.6%
7.3%
2.2%
5.1%
GRIC
60.8%
38.0%
28.4%
9.6%
8.7%
.9%
Maricopa County
41.6%
53.8%
34.1%
19.7%
2.4%
17.4%
Source: 2000 US Census
HOUSING PROJECTIONS
The Community is likely to see development of low- to medium-density
homes/townhomes/apartments, both within the People’s Village and at
a multifamily site at Dobson and Chaparral. On average, 20 families per
year purchase mobile homes and put them in the Community, while 2530 stick/block homes built are built annually. Some of the built houses
are replacement homes for older mobilehomes. Every three to four
years, the Housing Division builds a subdivision of about 40 to 60
homes. It is anticipated that 100 to 150 apartments to be built within five
years with another phase of 100 apartments within ten years. In
addition, there are scattered home sites in both the Salt River and Lehi
areas, where typically 20-30 homes are being built per year. Figure 3-1 shows
the current distribution of home sites throughout the Community.
Figure 3-1: Home Site Distribution
Housing Element
30
Arizona
44.3%
51.9%
30.6%
21.2%
4.5%
16.8%
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
GOALS AND POLICIES
NEW HOUSING
Goal 3.1
To promote new housing opportunities for Community
members.
3.1.1
Support the development of strategies for financing new housing.
3.1.2
Work with Community members to consolidate parcels and address
land ownership issues that make new residential development difficult.
3.1.3
Review and improve the homesite withdrawal process to encourage
increased home building.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 25.
Develop strategies to address residential development obstacles
associated with fractionalized land ownership in the Community.
IM 26.
Encourage the development of neighborhood plans for allotments that will
allow for an efficient and safe development pattern
IM 27.
Develop an education program and public service announcement to help
homebuyers purchase safe and well-conditioned homes, particularly
mobilehomes.
HOUSING REHABILITATION AND PRESERVATION
Goal 3.2
To rehabilitate and/or preserve the Community’s existing
housing stock.
3.2.1
Encourage Community members to invest in rehabilitation of
substandard properties.
3.2.2
Enhance code enforcement activities to ensure mobilehomes and other
residential properties are up to standards.
3.2.3
Promote sound housing investments on the part of Community
members.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 28.
Develop a housing rehabilitation and preservation strategy that includes a
menu of financing vehicles for housing rehabilitation and home
improvements and an incentive program for housing rehabilitation for
Community members.
IM 29.
Develop a code enforcement program that identifies properties in need of
repair before they are no longer viable for rehabilitation.
Housing Element
31
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Housing Element
32
4. NATURAL RESOURCES ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
4. NATURAL RESOURCES ELEMENT
NATURAL RESOURCES PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Natural Resources Element focuses on a variety of descriptive, analytical,
and prescriptive issues that are intended to ensure that the Community
establishes a framework for protection and preservation of the natural
ecosystems.
NATURAL RESOURCES ELEMENT OVERVIEW
The valley basin north of the Salt River comprises the majority
of the Community’s natural environment. This area is crossed
by many ephemeral washes that drain the rolling land and
steep hills (Red Mountain, Sawick Mountain) to the northeast.
The Verde River crosses the Community at the lower end of
the McDowell Basin near its confluence with the Salt River.
Generally, vegetation consists of native saguaro and cacti as
well as ironwood trees.
The majority of the land in the Community is currently open
space, and provides habitat, drainage, scenic views, and
ecosystem processes that support recreational, commercial,
and traditional cultural uses. The Community maintains active
programs to facilitate the regulatory reviews that are required
to protect cultural and natural resources.
GOALS AND POLICIES
BALANCED USES
Goal 4.1
To balance land uses and recreation activities with the
continued integrity of ecological processes.
4.1.1
Protect scenic and recreation areas within the Community.
4.1.2
Enforce appropriate levels of access to
environmentally and culturally sensitive areas.
4.1.3
Maintain an open space network to preserve native vegetation and
provide contiguous wildlife corridors.
4.1.4
Revegetate disturbed areas with indigenous plant species.
4.1.5
Integrate developed area landscaping with open space areas.
the
Community’s
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 30.
Develop an Integrated Resource Management Plan.
IM 31.
Identify the resources and coordination necessary for the Rangers’
program to include enforcement in environmentally and culturally
sensitive lands.
Natural Resources Element
33
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
RESOURCE EXTRACTION
Goal 4.2
To support the continued viability of sand and gravel
operations in appropriate locations within the Community.
4.2.1
Maintain the long-term viability of resource extraction activities while
mitigating the effects of those activities on habitats and other
components of the ecosystem.
4.2.2
Support efforts to restore mineral extraction sites to their natural state
following cessation of mining activities.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 32.
Coordinate with sand and gravel mining interests to restore degraded
ecosystems within the Salt River.
IM 33.
Require reclamation plans for all natural resource extraction sites.
IM 34.
Investigate opportunities to secure a master lease on all sand and gravel
excavation and production sites in the Community.
WATER RESOURCES
Goal 4.3
To protect the Community’s water resources.
4.3.1
Protect surface water, groundwater, and wellheads.
4.3.2
Require strict compliance with pesticide use
applications procedures and ordinances.
4.3.3
Improve stormwater management.
4.3.4
Maintain natural drainageways for potential water
recharge areas, whenever feasible.
4.3.5
Preserve the biological integrity and prevent any
further degradation of the Verde River ecosystem.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 35.
Identify recharge areas and limit the type of
development in those areas.
IM 36.
Identify priority areas along the Verde River for restoration.
IM 37.
Manage recreation and traditional uses that might affect the Verde River
ecosystem through an adaptive management approach.
IM 38.
Develop a wellhead protection program.
IM 39.
Provide for annual sampling of river water to measure contaminants and
report results to the Community.
Natural Resources Element
34
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
RANGE MANAGEMENT
Goal 4.4
4.4.1
To provide sustainable range management.
Sustain the viability of the Community’s range areas for wild horses,
cattle, and sheep.
4.4.2
Protect forage and native plants in range areas
through noxious weed management.
WILDLIFE PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION
4.5.3
Goal 4.5
To protect and preserve the Community’s
wildlife habitat areas.
4.5.1
Where feasible, restore wildlife communities to their
historical levels.
4.5.2
Encourage the use of native plants in landscaping.
Ensure continued protection of the Community’s wildlife.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 40.
Incorporate indigenous plant lists into the Community’s Development and
Design Guidelines.
SOLID WASTE
Goal 4.6
To reduce solid waste to maximize use of existing solid waste
facilities in the Community.
4.6.1
Promote recycling in Tribal government operations and enterprises and
encourage Community residents to recycle.
4.6.2
Work towards eliminating illegal dumping on the Community.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 41.
Establish a recycling program for Tribal government and all enterprises.
IM 42.
Continue enforcement of the Community’s illegal dumping ordinance.
AIR QUALITY
Goal 4.7
To protect air quality through control of industrial emissions,
improved land use management, energy conservation, and
transportation planning.
4.7.1
Promote walking, bicycling, car-pooling, and public transit as
alternatives to the use of the single-occupant automobile.
4.7.2
Increase the use of vehicles using alternative fuels and energy for the
provision of Community services.
4.7.3
Participate in regional transportation planning forums.
Natural Resources Element
35
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
4.7.4
Regulate the burning of refuse within the Community to limit the
emission of harmful pollutants.
4.7.5
Ensure that industrial operations and other potential stationary sources
of air pollutants in the Community adhere to best practices for control of
emissions.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 43.
Develop an ambient air quality regulatory program.
IM 44.
Develop and impose restrictions on burning refuse.
Natural Resources Element
36
5. PRESERVATION ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
5. PRESERVATION ELEMENT
PRESERVATION ELEMENT PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Preservation Element provides direction for conserving, maintaining, and
enhancing the cultural and historic values of the Community.
PRESERVATION ELEMENT OVERVIEW
The Community is rich in cultural and archaeological resources. The actual
number and sensitivity of cultural and archaeological sites throughout the
Community is unknown, and specific discoveries often would accompany
construction or other surface-disturbing activities.
The Community maintains a program to evaluate archaeological and
historic resources in accordance with applicable statutes, and a
programmatic agreement is in place with the State Historic Preservation
Office to protect resources within the Pima Freeway (State Route 101)
corridor pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act.
The Community places primary importance on the protection of its cultural
resources, as expressed in Chapter 17 of the Community’s Development,
Real Property and Housing Code.
The Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Council,
recognizing the profound impact of population growth, highdensity urbanization, industrial expansion, resource
exploitation, and the critical importance of maintaining the Salt
River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community as a community of
Indian people dedicated to the preservation of Indian cultural
and the economic, educational and cultural advancement of
this community of Indian people declares that it is the
continuing policy of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian
Community to use all practicable means and measures, in a
manner calculated to foster and promote the general welfare to
create and maintain conditions under which the Indian people
of this Community can exist in productive harmony, and fulfill
the social, cultural, economic and other requirements of their
present and future generation.
The following goals, policies, and implementation measures are intended to
follow-through on this commitment.
GOALS AND POLICIES
HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Goal 5.1
To balance land development with protection of historic
properties and archaeological sites.
5.1.1
Identify, evaluate, preserve, and protect significant historic properties
and archaeological sites within the Community.
Preservation Element
37
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
5.1.2
Ensure all construction projects are in compliance with federal and tribal
preservation law and policy.
5.1.3
Require environmental, archaeological, and cultural
review and clearance for all development projects.
5.1.4
Avoid or mitigate impacts to historic properties or
archaeological sites when development occurs.
5.1.5
Preserve and promote the historic character and
archaeological significance of the Community.
5.1.6
Require anyone involved in ground-disturbing activities
within the Community to be trained in the cultural values of
the Community.
5.1.7
Seek additional funding sources for historic preservation.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 45.
Update the Community’s Antiquities Ordinance.
IM 46.
Identify and maintain a limited-access inventory of all historic properties
and archaeological sites within the Community.
IM 47.
Establish Community-based criteria for identification of historic buildings,
structures, districts, and sites.
IM 48.
Assess and evaluate historic buildings, structures, districts, and
archaeological sites to determine their eligibility for inclusion on the
National Register for Historic Places.
IM 49.
Review all construction proposals to assess the potential impact on
historic properties and archaeological sites
IM 50.
Include cultural awareness training in all pre-construction meetings.
IM 51.
Advise the Community Council on all matters relating to historic properties
and/or archaeological sites.
IM 52.
Develop a restoration program for historic structures and include projects
in the Community Capital Improvements Plan.
CULTURAL USE
Goal 5.2
To preserve unique cultural areas for continued and future use
by cultural and traditional practitioners.
5.2.1
Promote the identification of areas that are suitable venues for
traditional and cultural events and activities.
5.2.2
Establish a multi-disciplinary approach to protecting sites by
coordinating preservation efforts within Community and Economic
Development Department, or other departments as appropriate.
Preservation Element
38
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
5.2.3
Protect viewsheds to and from significant sites, to the extent
practicable.
5.2.4
Establish a visitor-oriented cultural complex.
Preservation Element
39
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Preservation Element
40
6. COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
6. COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
ELEMENT
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Commercial Development Element will provide guidance for developing and
maintaining commercial areas in the Community.
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT OVERVIEW
Existing commercial development includes two retail centers, and office
development, located along the Loop 101 corridor and a few small retail uses
within the western and southern portions of the Community. One of the two
commercial centers is known as The Pavilions. This
center is approximately 140 acres in size and is located
at the intersection of Pima Road and Indian Bend Road,
and was the nation's largest commercial development
ever built on Indian land at the time (subsequently
surpassed by Alter Group and Pima Center leases).
Major tenants at The Pavilions include Target, Home
Depot, Best Buy, Ross, United Artists, Cost Plus
Imports, Miller's Outpost, Circuit City, Old Navy and
Toys R Us. The other retail area features a Wal-Mart,
located at the intersection of Pima Road and Chaparral
Road. Offices have also been developed at this
intersection, with additional office development occurring
at Pima Road and Via De Ventura. The other small
scattered retail are typically less than ten acres in size.
Scattered along McDowell Road there are various commercial uses including
retail, service and wholesale or warehousing.
Existing land uses will influence development capability within, and adjacent to,
the study area. Patterns of existing land use will influence suitability for proposed
development. Infrastructure improvements such as cost for extending water,
sewer, and streets, for small allotments could be a development constraint if
infrastructure is not properly phased.
GOALS AND POLICIES
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Goal 6.1
To promote sustainable commercial development that
provides tax revenues to the Community Government, lease
income to landowners, and employment opportunities and
goods and services to Community Members.
6.1.1
Ensure that commercial development within the Community balances
and enhances the cultural, environmental, and economic well-being of
the Community.
Commercial Development Element
41
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
6.1.2
Support the development of “Community Member Commercial” areas
such as in People’s Village or other appropriate locations.
6.1.3
Focus regional commercial developments on the perimeter of the
Community to minimize disruption (e.g., traffic, noise) in the interior of
the Community.
6.1.4
Encourage commercial development within the Community to adhere to
principles of sustainability, including consistency with the United States
Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System or a similar rating
system.
COMMERCIAL/MIXED-USE DESIGN
Goal 6.2
To promote human-scale features in commercial and mixeduse development to promote pedestrian activity and comfort.
6.2.1
Promote establishment of connecting streets with short blocks in
pedestrian-oriented commercial areas that create a pedestrian-scale
street environment.
6.2.2
Encourage a vibrant ground floor atmosphere through building façade
and hardscape treatments that attract and prolong pedestrian interest
and comfort on the site. Appropriate features may include: large
windows, canopies, signage, arcades, plazas, participatory activities,
and outdoor seating.
The following policy content is derived from the 1991 “Commercial
Corridor Planning Policies.” It has been edited and reformatted to conform
to the structure and content of the rest of the elements of this plan.
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR LAND USE
Goal 6.3
To maintain open space and visual qualities in the Corridor.
6.3.1
Establish an easement from right of-way lines along major arterials,
promoting these roadways as scenic transportation corridors.
6.3.2
Establish visual corridors to Red Mountain from the Pima Freeway and
the planning area.
6.3.3
Maintain height limitations within visual corridors.
6.3.4
Establish line of sight easements along arterial roadways.
6.3.5
Cluster development uses, creating large parcels of open space.
6.3.6
Require new development projects to provide internal open space
features.
6.3.7
Washes should be maintained in their natural state whenever possible.
Commercial Development Element
42
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
6.3.8
An enhanced landscape easement for recreational use shall be
encouraged along the south side of the Arizona Canal and integrated
with the drainage way master plan on the north side of the canal.
6.3.9
Disturbed areas such as grading and construction equipment storage
areas, shall be revegetated with indigenous plant materials.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 53.
Goal 6.4
Develop plant salvage requirements.
To ensure that new developments are compatible with
surrounding uses and the natural, physical, and environmental
character of the area.
6.4.1
New development applications shall include an environmental features
analysis to assess suitability of the proposed development
6.4.2
Developments shall include appropriate buffer elements to provide
transition between uses and protect environmental and natural
resources.
6.4.3
Encourage the reduction of development intensity as growth moves
away from the commercial corridors, providing a smooth transition of
development from urban forms to agricultural lands and the natural
desert.
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR NATURAL RESOURCES
Goal 6.5
To preserve identified unique natural resources in the area.
6.5.1
Identify and preserve areas that have significant natural and cultural
resources.
6.5.2
Drainage channels shall be designed so they appear as natural as
possible.
6.5.3
Protect air quality through the control of industrial emissions, improved
land use management, energy conservation, and transportation
planning.
6.5.4
Promote more effective recycling and reuse of resources, especially
those that are nonrenewable.
6.5.5
Require reclamation plans for all natural resource extraction sites.
6.5.6
Maintain a balanced basin and conserve groundwater resources
through requirements of recharging the underground aquifer with
establishments of retention/detention basins to capture runoff water.
Commercial Development Element
43
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
Goal 6.6
Promote disbursement of educational information throughout
the Community to expand the knowledge of the surrounding
environment and the Community's cultural values.
6.6.1
Encourage environmental interpretive areas, with signage, information
kiosks, or other permanent information stands, within open space areas.
6.6.2
Encourage public art that is sensitive and reflective of the culture.
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR RESOURCE CONSERVATION
Goal 6.7
6.7.1
To employ development technology utilizing renewable natural
resources.
Develop and encourage alternate sources of energy to employ
contemporary technology, such as, geothermal, thermal waste and
solar.
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR CIRCULATION
Goal 6.8
To develop a hierarchy of transportation routes to ensure a
community promoting a safe, energy efficient and cost
effective system through the provision of alternative methods
of transportation.
6.8.1
Encourage alternate modes of transportation to help maintain
acceptable air quality standards.
6.8.2
Where feasible, integrate pedestrian and bike facilities into development
within commercial corridors.
6.8.3
Roadways across drainage ways shall be built to appropriate
Community regulations.
6.8.4
Ensure that all development is accessible to emergency vehicles and
services.
6.8.5
It is preferred that roadway improvements be constructed to be their
ultimate design capacity.
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR RECREATION
Goal 6.9
To provide a recreational system integrating natural open
space, washes, and unique topographic features compatible
with protection of these natural resources.
6.9.1
Encourage functional open spaces within commercial corridors,
including areas designed for active and passive recreation.
6.9.2
Open space areas within commercial corridors should provide
environmental amenities, visual relief, shade, screening, and buffering.
Commercial Development Element
44
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
6.9.3
Develop a system of pedestrian, bicycle, riding, and hiking trails linking
recreational facilities where possible.
6.9.4
Where appropriate, trails and paths shall be connected with existing or
proposed Community trails and the open space system.
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR COMMUNITY DESIGN
Goal 6.10
To protect viewshed corridors of Red Mountain from the Pima
Freeway and throughout the community.
6.10.1 Development visible from and to the Pima Freeway shall be designed to
blend visually with the surrounding natural areas.
6.10.2 Development structures shall be sited, built and landscaped to minimize
negative visual impacts from and to the Pima Freeway.
6.10.3 Development, including infrastructure, shall apply appropriate mitigation
techniques, such as desert varnish, grading methods, boulder and rock
replacement, in addition to implementing required revegetation
mitigation policies.
6.10.4 Require screening of mechanical equipment from views at ground level
and from the Pima Freeway.
Commercial Development Element
45
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
Commercial Development Element
46
7. AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
7. AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT
ELEMENT
AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Agricultural Development Element will provide strategies to
enhance agri-business opportunities and maintain the
Community’s rural character.
AGRICULTURAL ELEMENT OVERVIEW
About 20 percent of existing land uses are agricultural, which is
the most common use besides open space. Abundant flat,
irrigated land is available throughout the western half of the
Community, and past plans and zoning have supported a strongly
agricultural, low-density land use pattern. In addition, agriculture is a strong
cultural tradition, and is viewed as a contributor to economic development efforts
to provide sustainable revenue and employment within the Community.
GOALS AND POLICIES
AGRICULTURAL LAND USES
Goal 7.1
To maintain and expand the Community’s agricultural base.
7.1.1
Ensure that rural community character is maintained through balanced
land uses and quality development.
7.1.2
Consider the effect of land use planning and development on the
viability of existing agricultural operations.
7.1.3
Encourage reintroduction of agricultural activities on land that is not
currently farmed.
7.1.4
Determine agribusiness enterprise opportunities as part of an overall
economic development strategy (also, see Section 10, Economic
Development Element).
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 54.
Inventory all active agricultural lands and current ownership.
IM 55.
Continue to expand the Community Garden initiative.
IM 56.
Contact landowners who have agricultural land not in use to determine
the viability of reintroducing agricultural activities.
IM 57.
Determine the availability of additional water resources to support
expanded agricultural activities.
Agricultural Development Element
47
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES
Goal 7.2
To transition to sustainable agricultural practices throughout
the Community agricultural areas.
7.2.1
Encourage sustainable agricultural practices for all commercial farming
activities.
7.2.2
Provide a supportive environment for existing farming operations to
transition to sustainable agricultural practices.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 58.
Create alliances with organization such as USDA, the University of
Arizona Extension Service, and other organizations to create plans for the
transition to sustainable agricultural practices.
IM 59.
Explore crops that better utilize water.
AGRICULTURAL DIVERSIFICATION
Goal 7.3
7.3.1
Create revenues through agricultural diversification.
Explore sustainable agricultural programs for the commercially grown
crops.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 60.
Develop an analysis to determine viability of alternative crops and
traditional crops.
IM 61.
Develop a Community co-op/farmer’s market where Community members
and local farmers can sell goods.
IM 62.
Develop a strategic plan to develop agribusiness opportunities and
alternative profit centers.
Agricultural Development Element
48
8. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
8. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
ELEMENT
INFRASTRUCTURE PURPOSE STATEMENT
The purpose of the Infrastructure Development Element is to provide direction for
making improvements to the Community’s basic infrastructure to improve public
health and safety and enhance economic development opportunities.
INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENT OVERVIEW
The timely expansion of potable water, wastewater, and stormwater protection
facilities and services will enable growth to occur in a well-planned manner. The
Community is intent on promoting a quality environment for its residents,
workers, and visitors and, in doing so, recognizes the need to work with regional
partners. The Community also understands the precious commodity of water,
practicing sound water management practices.
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
The water resources mix for the SRPMIC includes surface water, groundwater,
and reclaimed water. The mix is evolving as a result of growth, development, and
arsenic treatment needs, and the availability of various facilities located within or
in close to the Community.
The Community is uniquely situated among the Salt River Valley’s major water
delivery systems. The Salt and Verde rivers merge within the reservation at the
far eastern border of the Community. These rivers form the Salt River, which also
forms the southern boundary of the reservation. The Arizona Canal is the major
conveyance of Salt River Project water to its northern service area of the Valley.
The Arizona Canal crosses the Community for about eight miles
before exiting and making its way toward Tucson. The
Community’s surface water rights are established in the
SRPMIC Water Rights Settlement Agreement. The Community
may receive up to 85,820 acre-feet per year of surface water in
a normal year.
In 1967, the Community entered into an agreement with the City
of Phoenix for the lease of 70 acres of land for the construction
of the Verde Water Treatment Plant. In addition to the plant, the
City located a well field on the Fort McDowell Reservation and a
pipeline connecting the well field with the plant and continuing
across the Community to its terminus at 64th Street and Thomas
Road. The City provides a lease payment to the Community
and landowners along the length of the pipeline and provides access to 300,000
gallons per day of water to Community facilities. The Community currently does
not use this allocation. The Phoenix lease is scheduled to expire in Year 2015.
Groundwater is relied upon almost exclusively for the potable water supply. Ten
large wells are in use currently for this purpose. Most of these wells are
Infrastructure Development Element
49
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
1,000 feet deep with water levels located between 300 and 400 feet below
ground surface.
WASTEWATER COLLECTION AND TREATMENT
In 1997, the Community entered into an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with
the City of Mesa involving the treatment and recharge of sewer effluent and
treated wastewater within the Community. The City of Mesa exchanged about
6.0 million gallons per day (MGD) of treatment capacity at its new Northwest
Water Reclamation Plant (NWWRP) for the ability to locate 75 acres of recharge
ponds within the Community just north of the hardbank, a flood diversion
structure located along the north side of the Salt River, east of the 101 freeway.
The Community reserved the right to divert from the discharge point of the
NWWRP facility an amount equal to one-fourth of the treated effluent originating
from wastewater generated within the Community. This percentage results in a
right to 1.5 MGD of treated wastewater or 1,700 acre-feet per year.
In 2004, the Community recorded the delivery of “Imported
Water” into the Community. Imported Water is defined as
waters that do not originate from within SRPMIC and which
are not contracted for by SRPMIC, but are “processed” by
third parties within the SRPMIC boundaries. However, the
above definition does not mean that these imported waters
do no benefit the Community.
The effluent from the NWWRP, which is owned and
operated by the City of Mesa, is being discharged into a
series of recharge ponds (as described above) where the
effluent is allowed to infiltrate into the Salt River sediments.
An average of 3,300 acre-feet of water has been recharged
annually into these ponds. The groundwater mound that
results from this recharge raises the local water table in this
area to within 50 to 60 feet below the riverbed.
STORMWATER / DRAINAGE
The Community is located within the Middle Gila Watershed. Due to surface
water diversions, ground water pumping, and the limited rainfall received in this
area, the majority of the streambeds within this watershed are dry. The one
primary receiving water that collects the Community’s storm water, it is the Salt
River. In order to discharge into the river, SRPMIC’s stormwater is collected in a
local municipal storm drain system. A Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP)
was developed in March 2003 in order to fulfill the requirements for compliance
with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II
stormwater permit application. A more comprehensive SWMP is currently being
prepared.
Infrastructure Development Element
50
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
GOALS AND POLICIES
WATER AND WASTEWATER
Goal 8.1
To properly manage water, wastewater, and reclaimed water
within the Community.
8.1.1
Manage the Community’s water resources to ensure that it can meet
long-term needs, including through water conservation practices.
8.1.2
Continue to provide uninterrupted, safe water service with acceptable
flow, pressure, and quality, through efficient operations and
maintenance.
8.1.3
Continue to provide constant wastewater service without stoppages or
other losses of service with acceptable treatment and disposal through
environmentally safe operations.
8.1.4
Support the expansion of constructed wetlands for wastewater
treatment, with the additional benefits of providing habitat for wildlife
and facilitating environmental education.
8.1.5
Continue to connect residential subdivisions to sewer system as
feasible.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 63.
Periodically review and update the Community’s Water Master Plan.
IM 64.
Periodically review and update the Community’s Sewer Master Plan.
DRAINAGE AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Goal 8.2
To capture and convey stormwater drainage in a safe and
aesthetic manner.
8.2.1
Coordinate with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County to plan
and implement stormwater improvements to protect life and property in
the Community.
8.2.2
Strive to locate and jointly use stormwater detention facilities with
programmable park and educational facilities. This should include
partnering with the Flood Control District to determine the appropriate
location and implementation timing to coordinate with parks and school
planning activities.
8.2.3
Protect the Community from major flood events in the Salt River
corridor.
8.2.4
Coordinate flood control activities with mining activities in the Salt River.
8.2.5
Support master planning of the Salt River corridor area (to investigate
uses of floodplain areas).Require developers to provide runoff detention
facilities with the ability to handle the 100-year storm event.
Infrastructure Development Element
51
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
8.2.6
If feasible, developers shall provide retention and pretreatment facilities
in order to enhance groundwater recharge.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 65.
Develop Comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan
FACILITY COST AND OPERATIONS
Goal 8.3
To ensure that non-residential development in the Pima
Corridor area contributes its fair share to the development of
infrastructure necessary to serve the development.
8.3.1
New non-residential developments shall pay its fair share of public
facility costs
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 66.
Update the Community’s development fee structure to ensure
infrastructure costs are equitably allocated.
Infrastructure Development Element
52
9. COMMUNITY FACILITIES ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
9. COMMUNITY FACILITIES ELEMENT
COMMUNITY FACILITIES PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Community Facilities Element provides direction for developing basic
infrastructure and amenities that will add to the quality of life of Community
members.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES ELEMENT OVERVIEW
The Community provides community services and facilities, which include Health
& Human Services, Public Safety, Education & Employment, Public Works
(Utilities), and Recreation. The Community offers many services including
community health, social support, youth services, and senior citizen services.
RECREATION
The Community Recreation Department provides recreational
services including regional tournaments of volleyball, basketball,
baseball, and softball. In addition, the Community allows fishing,
picnicking, camping, and tubing along the Verde and Salt Rivers.
POLICE
The Community’s police department has three building locations.
These are the main station, the small district station at Indian
Bend, and the district station in Lehi. There are over 100 sworn
officers in the Community. The demand for services is allocated
on a beat system for its sworn personnel. In addition to these
three facilities, there is also a substation for traffic control and a
communications building.
FIRE
The Community’s fire department provides both fire suppression and emergency
medical services. Although there are service charges for ambulance service,
these do not cover the capital costs. The fire department also conducts
inspections (for which there is no charge by the Community). There are three fire
stations in the Community, with a fourth station coming soon. There is a variety
of equipment located at the stations, including three engines, three
ambulances, a ladder truck, and several other pieces of equipment.
As is typical in most communities, calls for emergency medical
services constitute approximately three-quarters of all calls to the fire
department.
EDUCATION
Education on the Salt River Indian Community ranges from early
childhood programs through higher education opportunities from
nearby state universities and local community colleges, including the
Scottsdale Community College located within the SRPMIC.
Community Facilities Element
53
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
For many years, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) had
been frustrated with the poor telecommunications infrastructure and service
inhibiting the quality of life and commercial growth of its community. In 1996,
SRPMIC began to investigate the potential to provide better services than were
available from the local Regional Bell Operating Company (RBOC). As a result of
the Telecommunications Deregulation Act of 1996, on June 4, 1997, the
SRPMIC Council created Saddleback Communications to improve and enhance
business and residential telecommunications services on the Community.
Saddleback Communications has partnered with Mountain Telecommunications,
Inc. (MTI) to meet the telecommunications needs of the Community. The end
result is two telecommunications organizations with tremendously powerful
capabilities to provide carrier services to their respective customer base.
SRPMIC/Saddleback Communications has an exclusive right to provide a wide
range of telecommunications services on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian
Community, as well as an extremely competitive commercial telephone system
sales and service operation serving businesses in the State of Arizona. MTI is
licensed as a CLEC in the State of Arizona with one of the few licenses that
cover the entire state.
GOALS AND POLICIES
RECREATION
Goal 9.1
To provide adequate parks and recreation facilities for
Community residents.
9.1.1
Preserve areas designated on the Land Use Map for parks and
recreation facilities.
9.1.2
Develop or designate a systematic funding source for parks and
recreation facility development.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 67.
Develop a comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan for the
Community.
HEALTH CARE
Goal 9.2
To ensure that Community members have access to high
quality health care facilities and services.
9.2.1
Promote the development of a full service hospital for the Community.
9.2.2
Support the provision of health care services to serve Community
residents, including clinics and mobile services.
9.2.3
Ensure systematic funding sources for health care services facilities.
Community Facilities Element
54
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
COMMUNITY PUBLIC FACILITIES
Goal 9.3
To ensure that Community government facilities and services
keep pace with demand.
9.3.1
Promote the development of a full service community center in Salt
River.
9.3.2
Support the ongoing expansion, renovation, and replacement of the
Community’s governmental buildings, as necessary.
9.3.3
All occupied new public facilities over 10,000 square feet should be
LEED certified or certified by a similar energy efficiency program.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 68.
Develop a full service community center in Salt River.
IM 69.
Develop a facilities plan to expand/renovate/replace governmental
buildings.
IM 70.
Develop a public safety master plan that outlines needs for future police
facilities, court buildings, fire stations, and correctional and educational
facilities.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Goal 9.4
Improve telecommunications and Internet communications
systems.
9.4.1
Continue to support efforts to provide telecommunications services to
Community residents, including both phone and Internet service.
ENERGY
Goal 9.5
To improve the energy resources of the Community.
9.5.1
Research and look for ways to develop alternative sources of energy to
serve development within the Community for the future.
9.5.2
Continue to work with Southwest Gas for provision of natural gas
utilities in the Community.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 71.
Work with partner agencies to improve energy resources, including
development of alternative energy sources.
IM 72.
Prepare a comprehensive energy audit of the Community.
IM 73.
Coordinate with SRP to develop additional electric substations and
distribution systems.
IM 74.
Develop alternative energy options for the future
Community Facilities Element
55
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
EDUCATION
Goal 9.6
To support the continued expansion and improvement of
educational opportunities within the Community.
9.6.1
Support the provision of education facilities to provide high-quality
programs.
9.6.2
Plan for education facilities to meet the future needs of a growing
Community population.
9.6.3
Provide long-term evaluation of educational facilities for upgrades to
meet the needs of changing community population.
9.6.4
As the Community’s student population continues to grow, review and
investigate placement of new school facilities where the need exists,
such as Lehi.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 75.
Update the Community’s Master Education Plan.
Community Facilities Element
56
10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PURPOSE STATEMENT
The Economic Development Element provides general direction for initiatives to
expand the Community’s economy by encouraging sustainable development and
to raise the standard of living for members.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT OVERVIEW
The largest employment sector in the SRPMIC includes arts, entertainment,
recreation, accommodation, and food service; these industries employ 18.6
percent of the workforce and their size reflects the central role of the casinos in
providing employment. In other industries, the workforce of SRPMIC is employed
most heavily in education, health, and social services (16.9 percent); public
administration (14.4 percent); retail trade (9.5 percent); and construction (9.2
percent).
Commercial and industrial uses typically have been identified along the Pima
Freeway (State Route 101) and other major transportation corridors. These
areas are viewed as potential economic assets to the Community, as their
development potential could translate into substantial revenue generation and
employment. However, the Community outside of these corridors is more
focused on local services and businesses and the agricultural sector.
GOALS AND POLICIES
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLANNING
Goal 10.1
To balance economic development in the Community with the
cultural, economic, and environmental well-being of the
Community.
10.1.1 Foster economic diversification that increases revenues and promotes
industries that are vital to the Community.
10.1.2 Balance the desire to generate the highest possible return for
landowners with cultural, economic, and environmental sustainability.
10.1.3 Emphasize opportunities to generate revenue that would be used to
improve services and provide job opportunities within the Community.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 76.
Develop a strategic economic development plan.
IM 77.
Conduct analysis to support economic decision-making.
IM 78.
Explore the creation of other enterprises that build on Community assets,
such as agriculture (see Agricultural Development Element), green
(environmentally friendly) development, tourism, or recreation.
IM 79.
Explore tax implications of different commercial land uses.
Economic Development Element
57
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
IM 80.
Encourage businesses that are committed to the principles of
sustainability to locate in the Pima Corridor.
DEVELOPMENT
Goal 10.2
To encourage sustainable economic development.
10.2.1 Encourage the development of diverse economic opportunities within
the Community.
10.2.2 Increase the economic self-sufficiency and self-governance of the
Community.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 81.
Pursue impact fee initiative and establish capital improvements program
or revenue distribution plan for economic development infrastructure.
IM 82.
Recruit desired businesses.
COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Goal 10.3
To encourage the development of diverse economic
opportunities within the Community.
10.3.1 Support Community member business development, expansion and
sustainability.
10.3.2 Provide savings, lending, coaching and other options to support
Community Member owned business development.
10.3.3 Work with members, allottees, and developers to develop economically
viable commercial projects for lease income and benefits to the
Community such as tax revenues, jobs and business opportunities.
10.3.4 Promote college education as a means of expanding employment
opportunities for Community members and enhancing the attractiveness
of the Community as a location for businesses that rely on a college
educated workforce.
ACTIONS/IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
IM 83.
Expand services and opportunities for Community Member owned
businesses through the Salt River financial Services Institution to include
classes, individual coaching, lending and savings programs.
IM 84.
Work with member and non-member business to determine if assistance
is necessary for business expansion.
Goal 10.4
Create and expand businesses to create benefits for the
Community.
10.4.1 Support the development of local services in developed and growing
areas within the Community, including People’s Village.
Economic Development Element
58
11. GENERAL PLAN ADMINISTRATION
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
11. GENERAL PLAN ADMINISTRATION
The SRPMIC General Plan is a general expression of the Community’s vision
and is focused on “Planning for Generations.” The General Plan should be
used as a policy guide for the Community Council, SRPMIC Staff, Community
Members, landowners, and developers. As a policy document, the General Plan
will be used when reviewing and making decisions about development projects
within the Community. All proposals will be reviewed to ensure that they are
“compatible” with the Plan’s vision, goals, and policies as well as with the Land
Use Map (Figure 1-1 on page 21).
It is important to note that the nature of planning must recognize the everevolving nature of the environment and Community Members’ desires.
Therefore, the General Plan should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect
desired changes. But it is important that the Plan’s focus on the “Planning for
Future Generations” is not compromised by the demands of current development
trends.
GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY DEFINED
The following is a list of criteria for determining if a proposal is consistent with the
SRPMIC General Plan.
Directly mirrors the Land Use Plan;
Reflects the Community’s adopted vision;
Addresses the Plan’s goals;
Proposal considers the long-term sustainability that fits within the
“Planning for Generations” ideal; and
Would be supported by Community Members.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS
Frequent changes to the General Plan are ill-advised. There will, however, be
cases where the policy content of the Plan is determined to be outdated or
inconsistent with the evolving needs of the Community. In such cases, the
General Plan may need to be amended. Since considerable Community
involvement contributed to the creation of the General Plan, any and all major
updates to the Plan should be accompanied by opportunities for Community
involvement. The review process for amendments would also include a public
hearing before the Land Management Board, which would provide a
recommendation to the Community Council for Council consideration. The
Community Council would then conduct a public hearing prior to taking final
action.
ANNUAL GENERAL PLAN REPORT
The SRPMIC Community Development Department is responsible for developing
an annual report that documents any General Plan changes and the plan’s
status. Any problem areas, suggested updates, and an implementation report will
be forwarded to the Land Management Board and Community Council.
General Plan Administration
59
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN REVIEW
A formal General Plan Review will occur five years after the General Plan is
approved. The General Plan Review is an opportunity to make changes to the
plan by evaluating the success of the General Plan in meeting its goals and
objectives. Changes to the General Plan and maps should be expected, as the
Land Development, Community Council, and Community Development Staff will
be monitoring land use information and issues throughout the life of the Plan.
Land use planning is a continuing cycle where up-to-date information and issues
are considered in the process on an on-going basis.
General Plan Administration
60
APPENDIX A
IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
APPENDIX A: IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
IM 1.
IM 2.
IM 3.
IM 4.
IM 5.
IM 6.
IM 7.
IM 8.
IM 9.
IM 10.
IM 11.
IM 12.
IM 13.
IM 14.
IM 15.
IM 16.
IM 17.
IM 18.
Update the Community’s Zoning Ordinance to ensure consistency with
the General Plan.
Enhance the Community Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) to identify
needed infrastructure and facilities improvements and potential funding
sources and programs and establish an implementation time-line.
Prepare and maintain an up-to-date land use inventory using the
Community’s GIS.
Continue to survey new land purchases to maintain an up-to-date
understanding of the Community boundaries and respond to specific
encroachment concerns along the Community boundaries.
Develop a strategy for prioritization of purchases of allotted land from
willing landowners.
Develop an area plan for People’s Village.
Develop a Master Plan for the Salt River corridor area.
Adopt and maintain preservation regulations to govern land uses in
areas designated as preserves and other culturally and environmentally
sensitive areas. This should include consideration of appropriate levels
of access to the Community’s preserve areas.
Develop buffering standards for commercial, industrial, and retail
developments to ensure compatibility with adjacent development and
open space areas.
Update the Community’s Development and Design Guidelines and
design review procedures.
Prepare informational material that describes the Community’s
culturally-based design expectations to prospective developers.
Establish a Green Building Program within the Community government
to provide guidance to the development community concerning
sustainable design.
Prepare and adopt lighting standards that address safety, security, and
light pollution, including “dark sky” provisions for appropriate areas of
the Community.
Organize and manage a Community-based group to initiate and monitor
sustainability programs and regulations and to assist in educating
Community members concerning such programs and regulations.
Study roadway design and traffic control strategies for mitigating cutthrough traffic in the Community.
Continue to coordinate with adjacent communities and the Maricopa
Association of Governments to ensure safe and efficient roadway
linkages and to ensure that SRPMIC benefits from its fair share of
regional roadway funding.
Adopt uniform guidelines for the placement of traffic control devices in
conjunction with the implementation of the roadway classification and
roadway design standards in the Circulation Map and Policies.
Identify methods for traffic calming on a neighborhood basis. This
should include an assessment of various techniques, development
Appendix A: Implementation Measures
61
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
IM 19.
IM 20.
IM 21.
IM 22.
IM 23.
IM 24.
IM 25.
IM 26.
IM 27.
IM 28.
IM 29.
IM 30.
IM 31.
IM 32.
IM 33.
IM 34.
IM 35.
IM 36.
IM 37.
IM 38.
IM 39.
IM 40.
guidelines, cost sharing, and administrative processes for considering
installation of individual devices.
Maintain an inventory of traffic counts for Major Arterial, Minor Arterial,
and Collector roadways. This inventory will assist the Community in
monitoring the performance of the roadway network, including tracking
levels of service (LOS).
Review the current process for acquiring and managing rights-of-way
(ROW) to provide direction on securing, utilization, and provision of
ROW as needed. Based on this review, develop policies and
regulations for effective ROW management.
Develop a transit master plan for the Community.
Work with the Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) and
adjacent jurisdictions to determine the demand for and feasibility of
establishing additional transit service.
Work with the casinos to provide transit services to casino employees
and patrons.
Create a trails master plan to connect activity areas for pedestrians,
bicyclists, and equestrians within the Community.
Develop strategies to address residential development obstacles
associated with fractionalized land ownership in the Community.
Encourage the development of neighborhood plans for allotments that
will allow for an efficient and safe development pattern
Develop an education program and public service announcement to
help homebuyers purchase safe and well-conditioned homes,
particularly mobilehomes.
Develop a housing rehabilitation and preservation strategy that includes
a menu of financing vehicles for housing rehabilitation and home
improvements and an incentive program for housing rehabilitation for
Community members.
Develop a code enforcement program that identifies properties in need
of repair before they are no longer viable for rehabilitation.
Develop an Integrated Resource Management Plan.
Identify the resources and coordination necessary for the Rangers’
program to include enforcement in environmentally and culturally
sensitive lands.
Coordinate with sand and gravel mining interests to restore degraded
ecosystems within the Salt River.
Require reclamation plans for all natural resource extraction sites.
Investigate opportunities to secure a master lease on all sand and
gravel excavation and production sites in the Community.
Identify recharge areas and limit the type of development in those
areas.
Identify priority areas along the Verde River for restoration.
Manage recreation and traditional uses that might affect the Verde River
ecosystem through an adaptive management approach.
Develop a wellhead protection program.
Provide for annual sampling of river water to measure contaminants and
report results to the Community.
Incorporate indigenous plant lists into the Community’s Development
and Design Guidelines.
Appendix A: Implementation Measures
62
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
IM 41.
IM 42.
IM 43.
IM 44.
IM 45.
IM 46.
IM 47.
IM 48.
IM 49.
IM 50.
IM 51.
IM 52.
IM 53.
IM 54.
IM 55.
IM 56.
IM 57.
IM 58.
IM 59.
IM 60.
IM 61.
IM 62.
IM 63.
IM 64.
IM 65.
IM 66.
IM 67.
IM 68.
IM 69.
IM 70.
Establish a recycling program for Tribal government and all enterprises.
Continue enforcement of the Community’s illegal dumping ordinance.
Develop an ambient air quality regulatory program.
Develop and impose restrictions on burning refuse.
Update the Community’s Antiquities Ordinance.
Identify and maintain a limited-access inventory of all historic properties
and archaeological sites within the Community.
Establish Community-based criteria for identification of historic
buildings, structures, districts, and sites.
Assess and evaluate historic buildings, structures, districts, and
archaeological sites to determine their eligibility for inclusion on the
National Register for Historic Places.
Review all construction proposals to assess the potential impact on
historic properties and archaeological sites
Include cultural awareness training in all pre-construction meetings.
Advise the Community Council on all matters relating to historic
properties and/or archaeological sites.
Develop a restoration program for historic structures and include
projects in the Community Capital Improvements Plan.
Develop plant salvage requirements.
Inventory all active agricultural lands and current ownership.
Continue to expand the Community Garden initiative.
Contact landowners who have agricultural land not in use to determine
the viability of reintroducing agricultural activities.
Determine the availability of additional water resources to support
expanded agricultural activities.
Create alliances with organization such as USDA, the University of
Arizona Extension Service, and other organizations to create plans for
the transition to sustainable agricultural practices.
Explore crops that better utilize water.
Develop an analysis to determine viability of alternative crops and
traditional crops.
Develop a Community co-op/farmer’s market where Community
members and local farmers can sell goods.
Develop a strategic plan to develop agribusiness opportunities and
alternative profit centers.
Periodically review and update the Community’s Water Master Plan.
Periodically review and update the Community’s Sewer Master Plan.
Develop Comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan
Update the Community’s development fee structure to ensure
infrastructure costs are equitably allocated.
Develop a comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan for the
Community.
Develop a full service community center in Salt River.
Develop a facilities plan to expand/renovate/replace governmental
buildings.
Develop a public safety master plan that outlines needs for future police
facilities, court buildings, fire stations, and correctional and educational
facilities.
Appendix A: Implementation Measures
63
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
IM 71.
IM 72.
IM 73.
IM 74.
IM 75.
IM 76.
IM 77.
IM 78.
IM 79.
IM 80.
IM 81.
IM 82.
IM 83.
IM 84.
Work with partner agencies to improve energy resources, including
development of alternative energy sources.
Prepare a comprehensive energy audit of the Community.
Coordinate with SRP to develop additional electric substations and
distribution systems.
Develop alternative energy options for the future
Update the Community’s Master Education Plan.
Develop a strategic economic development plan.
Conduct analysis to support economic decision-making.
Explore the creation of other enterprises that build on Community
assets, such as agriculture (see Agricultural Development Element),
green (environmentally friendly) development, tourism, or recreation.
Explore tax implications of different commercial land uses.
Encourage businesses that are committed to the principles of
sustainability to locate in the Pima Corridor.
Pursue impact fee initiative and establish capital improvements program
or revenue distribution plan for economic development infrastructure.
Recruit desired businesses.
Expand services and opportunities for Community Member owned
businesses through the Salt River financial Services Institution to
include classes, individual coaching, lending and savings programs.
Work with member and non-member business to determine if
assistance is necessary for business expansion.
Appendix A: Implementation Measures
64
APPENDIX B
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR VISION
Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
APPENDIX B: COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR
VISION
(The following is an excerpt from “The Vision: A Statement of Community Goals
based on District Meetings for the Commercial Corridor Area Plan,” which was
prepared in 1991. It has not been revised from its original version.)
THE VISION FOR THE COMMUNITY
Vision for a community is a mental picture of the future created by anticipating or
conceiving important, desired community characteristics. This mental picture is
imaginative in that it envisions conditions that do not currently exist. It anticipates
the results of numerous future events and actions.
The Vision is practical in that it requires specific action to be carried out and must
have continuing support by Community leaders. This will occur only if the Vision
reinforces Community values and can be sustained over a long period of time.
The Vision Statement for the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
provides guidance for the scope and thrust of the Commercial Corridor Area. It
will continue to have a unifying effect on planning and development in the area. If
well-administered, it will be serve as a basis for attracting and maintaining the
desired quality of life for the Community.
HOW THE VISION WAS DEVELOPED
This document was developed with the belief that the formation of new visions
begins with asking questions about desired outcomes. A public participation
strategy to help define the Vision was established in Spring 1991 by President
Makil, the Land Board, and members of the Community Development
Department staff.
This Vision Statement was developed on the basis of public comment at a series
of District Meetings convened by Community Council members. The meetings
took place over the period from June 27 to July 30,1991. Notices of the meetings
and their purpose were sent to residents of the individual Districts by their
Council members.
Attendance at each of the District meetings ranged from eight to 15 persons. The
meetings were structured to give residents an opportunity to speak freely about
their Community and its future. Each meeting began with the group defining the
meaning of "community," an exercise that involved storytelling about important
events of the past. The groups then focused on important elements of the
present Community that should be preserved for future generations. Finally,
participants were asked to describe their vision of the Community of the future.
Comments from the District Meetings are included in the Appendix of this
document. The 'Group Memory" records of these meetings served to guide the
preparation of this Vision Statement. Common themes across the meetings are
presented as integral elements of the Vision of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa
Indian Community.
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COMPONENTS OF THE VISION
There are many ways to visualize a community. This Vision Statement focuses
on
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
the physical place;
the economic system;
the environmental system;
the society;
the government and
the symbols.
Some of these dimensions of Vision dominate our attention, but all of them are
important. The Vision for the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
contains all of these parts, even though the Commercial Corridor Area Plan is
primarily physical in its focus. Thus, a very broad vision is one major source of
direction for the Commercial Corridor. It is important to remember that this Vision
is for he entire planning area, but is reflected in different ways for specific areas
of the Community.
While the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community is viewed as one
community, its physical structure divides it into two specific areas of settlement:
the Salt River area and the Lehi area. The Commercial Corridor Area Plan will
reflect the unique needs and visions of these two areas.
The idea of a "Sustainable Community" is the single expression of the long term
goal upon which the Vision of the Community is based. This means that steps
must be taken to ensure that the Community will prosper in all dimensions of its
Vision. For example, it will retain and protect the natural environmental features
so that they will not be degraded, but rather, become a permanent and highly
valued part of the living environment. The significant economic, social, political,
and environmental pressures felt by the Community today will certainly be more
challenging in the future. One of the values of the Corridor Plan is its usefulness
in helping the Community to contend with those changes.
In the process of developing the Vision Statement with citizens and tribal leaders,
goals for each dimension of the Community express desired future conditions.
Individually, these goals represent a priority that must be achieved in the Plan.
Taken together, they define a "Sustainable Community."
This Vision Statement builds on these goals and translates them into statements
of intent, indicating for users of the Plan how the goals are to be interpreted and
how they have influenced the Plan.
1. THE COMMUNITY AS A SOCIETY
This aspect of the Community addresses people, culture, and values. It includes
the vocational, educational, cultural, and recreational activities in which they
engage. It also considers the institutions that they establish and the relationships
that they experience.
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Intent as a Society
At the time of plan formulation, the social fabric is primarily rural and agricultural.
It is a society which places emphasis on hard work, community responsibilities,
and the value of history. Those values are strongly reflected in the ideas
motivating the Plan. The challenge is to accomplish the transition that will take
place during Commercial Corridor development. The Plan envisions a
Community in which:
Institutions anticipate the needs of residents for cultural, civic,
educational, recreational, and religious involvement. The land use
regulations and requirements are expected to provide for spaces to
accommodate all of these needs.
The affordability, availability, and maintenance of housing units will be
provided. This means that tribal housing for singles and large families will
be included in the dwelling mix.
A variety of approaches will be initiated and conducted in order to
enhance Community identity. This involves important design elements in
the land use programs. It also includes an active program by all builders
to sponsor community programs which contribute to Community identity.
A support structure will be established and maintained to provide for
those with special needs, including mentally and physically handicapped,
working single parents, troubled families, youth, elderly, and the
unemployed. This does not mean costly welfare programs to subsidize
unproductive living patterns. Instead, it means providing the physical
facilities (day care centers and transitional housing facilities, for example)
in community development plans and the integration of programs into
institutions serving the Community.
2. THE COMMUNITY AS A PHYSICAL PLACE
This aspect of the Community is shaped by the physical setting in which it is
located and is defined by the way it functions and appears physically. Major
ingredients include topography, patterns of development variety, intensity and
mix of uses, pattern and quality of open space, coherence of development
patterns, the quality of human-made features, and the physical distinctiveness of
the area.
Physical Development Intent
The planning area is largely in agriculture and related uses or is undeveloped. In
contrast to adjacent suburban development in Scottsdale and Mesa, this plan
envisions a development in which:
Future growth is sensitive to the cultural values and heritage of the
people. Sensitivity will be reflected not only in the physical appearance of
the built environment, but also in the types of uses. Of particular
importance to residents are those support businesses that are pertinent to
Community life and self-sufficiency: grocery stores, pharmacies, and
clothing stores. Residents feel strongly that certain uses that might
encourage violent or abusive behavior must be prohibited.
The unique character of the people will be evident in the built
environment. Building styles, textures, colors, and Community symbols
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will play a role in setting the area apart from its neighbors. Residents of
the Community have a strong pride in their history and achievements.
Understandably, they want visitors to know when they enter Community
boundaries.
Business and commercial enterprises will be welcome, if they protect the
rural lifestyle of the area's residents. Provisions will be made to develop
commercial corridors in a manner that provides a buffer to the interior.
Residents will have the opportunity to circulate freely from the interior to
the corridors, but visitors will have limited access to the Community.
Architectural styles and building components will reflect a consistent
theme while maintaining opportunities for design creativity. Community
residents express a strong desire for individual developments to appear
as part of a whole, rather than competing elements.
Building materials, colors, textures, and heights will respect the history of
the people and the natural setting. Public comment strongly favors earthtone hues for buildings, stucco or block textures, and two story maximum
building heights.
Landscaping will be composed of native plants, especially those of
importance to tribal culture. Significant stands of cottonwood, mesquite,
palo verde, and Saguaro will be preserved. Landscaping will be droughttolerant, respecting the sanctity of water in the Community.
New development will respect the habitats of area wildlife. Populations of
existing wildlife will be protected and provided with the necessary
environment to prosper, particularly with the Red Mountain Preserve
Area.
3. THE COMMUNITY AS AN ECONOMIC SYSTEM
This dimension of the Community has to do with its flow of private capital and
financial investment in the form of cash, credit, land leases, land improvements,
and sustainable employment and business activities of all kinds. It includes the
amount of capital flowing through the Community (in and out) as well as within it.
An important dimension of the economic character of the Community is the ability
to provide a diversity of work opportunities for its residents.
Economic Development Intent
The commercial corridors are currently predominated by an agricultural
economy. The possibility of that remaining the case indefinitely is considered
remote by most observers, whether or not a comprehensive planning program is
adopted to guide the transition to community development. In contrast to nearby
suburban areas, this economic development strategy respects and sustains
agriculture as the transition occurs, leading eventually to a limited and defined
agricultural preserve. The intent is to achieve an economy in which:
Financial opportunities will be made available to generate individual and
tribal-owned businesses, as well as non-Community concerns. Residents
believe that tribal businesses will most likely provide the types of
employment and services that will be beneficial to Community members.
Economic activities and employment opportunities reflect the cultural
heritage and values of tribal members. These opportunities should
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provide a complete range of job types and wage/salary scales, including
full and part-time jobs, and on-the-job training programs.
Agriculture remains a long-term, though smaller, part of the economy,
with a focus on sustainable, high value crops, such as organically grown
foods for local consumption.
New enterprises are welcomed as Community assets, with ample
opportunity by virtue of non-conventional land use regulations, for
incubator businesses to thrive.
The Community educational system is maintained and expanded, with an
emphasis on practical educational programs for the job mix required to
serve the Community. A full range of adult education, tribal education,
special education, vocational/technical education, and college level
facilities and programs are to be provided, all aimed at responding to the
diverse and changing needs of the Community over time. Vocational and
college preparatory programs will be offered.
Business and industry are treated as an extension of the Community
educational system, with business and labor involvement in helping to
shape educational priorities and programs. Extensive use of business
resource persons supplement the normal educational programs. The
thrust of this approach is to establish and maintain a quality work force in
the Community which will prefer to work in the area.
A complete range of housing types and costs is provided near
employment places, including affordable housing units. The range shall
include all types of dwelling units, such as rental, ownership, single-room
occupancy, and other forms of housing required to make living in the
Community affordable and safe.
4. THE COMMUNITY AS AN ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEM
This perspective considers the combination of natural and human-made features
as an interactive system. This includes such ingredients as air quality, water
quality, flood protection, environmentally sensitive resources, plant and animal
life, and the degree to which system balance is maintained or lost. Diversity and
balance within the total system define its quality and provide the resilience to
respond to changes.
Environmental System Intent
The Community is currently part of an environment that has been substantially
modified by humans for purposes of agriculture, sand and gravel extraction, and
the landfill. The area does provide significant wildlife habitat values incidental to
the modifications made. The Plan seeks to 1) preserve and create sustainable
natural environmental resources; 2). Create and preserve quality development,
and 3) integrate the two so that they can reinforce each other and work together,
rather than at cross-purposes. The intent is to achieve a total environmental
system in which:
Natural and human systems are compatible and mutually reinforcing so
that their preservation is a logical outcome of Plan implementation. The
natural environmental features are viewed as irreplaceable Community
resources with economic value attributable to all development, and
appropriately paid for equitably by all interests. The key ideal is to design
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Sustainable SRPMIC . . . Planning for Generations
and manage the natural and human-made environment so that its
preservation and renewal is a matter of course.
The essential protection from flooding is accomplished by a system of
flood control improvements and financing mechanisms which protect life
and property. This is to be accomplished so that flood control facilities are
used for multiple purposes to the maximum extent possible-including
flood protection, natural habitat, recreation, visual resource and water
management.
Air and water quality are high priorities in the design and operation of
Community improvements. This requires building individual and
community-wide responsibilities into fabric of community development
and governmental institutions.
Substantial areas for natural habitat are permanently set aside and
preserved as a Community resource. This is a conscious part of the
planning and development process from the first increment of
development onward. Preserve areas will include Red Mountain area,
Monkey Mountain, and the Salt River bottom and riparian areas.
The total environment, including natural and human components, will
consist of diversity in type and scale of use that is not found in
neighboring suburban areas. Community residents and employees will
experience natural and managed habitats; passive and active open
spaces; moderate urban and semi-rural development; and vehicular,
pedestrian, and equestrian movement. The result is to achieve a
community environment that is both natural and human-made.
Natural resources and their preservation: are given high priority in the
Community. This includes management, restoration, enhancement
(where necessary), maintenance and operations. The Red Mountain
area, for example, will provide a full range of visitor amenities,
management activity, and preservation projects. Exemplary programs of
habitat preservation are expected.
5. THE COMMUNITY AS A GOVERNMENTAL OPERATION
The governmental facet of the Community is responsible for many functions and
is at the will of the people. The perception of the Community is shaped by the
tribal government because it is the "official" manifestation of the Community. This
dimension includes such functional concerns as: public revenues; budgeting,
asset management; service levels; policy making; provision of public facilities;
relationships with other governments; leadership; and responsiveness to the
citizenry.
Governmental Intent
Development pressure, primarily within the Community’s commercial corridors
suggests that the governance provided to oversee planning and development will
be extremely challenging. Considerable thought needs to be given to the
governmental structure of the Community prior to heightened development
pressure. This involves a process of taking the lessons of the present into the
future to invent a structure that is capable of responding to the demands. The
vision for governance is one in which:
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The management, proper use, and development of the allotted lands,
natural resources, and other public property of the Salt River PimaMaricopa Indian Community and the regulation of the use and disposition
of allotted lands is prudently accomplished at the appropriate
governmental level. This will require a careful fulfillment of responsibilities
by the Land Board and Community Council.
Financing methods will achieve improvement according to the needs of
each increment of new development.
Establishment of levels of service which are at the highest possible level.
Of particular importance is the level of educational services.
Mechanisms are provided to insure that citizen concerns are responsively
addressed.
An appointed Design Review Committee is established to help manage
the design intents of land use policies.
6. THE COMMUNITY AS A SYMBOL
In a sense, this is the sum of all of the other dimensions of the Community rolled
into a relatively simple representation of what people think about the place they
live. It is a measure of pride and commitment; a belief that this is a special place.
It also includes a strong measure of reputation; how the Community is perceived
by those who don't live or work there. To a degree, the Community as a symbol
reflects its function in the region. The symbol of the Community can be a
powerful force in stimulating leadership and support for Community achievement.
It can be aided, but not created, solely by physical improvements that are
consistent with a desired image
Intent as a Symbol
To the outsider, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community is probably
most symbolized by farmland. Within the Community, Red Mountain has great
symbolic meaning. As conceived by this Plan, the Community will be viewed as a
new standard for quality, sustainable development. A model in which the
mistakes of neighboring towns are avoided as development occurs, not
afterward. It will symbolize a more comprehensively conceived quality of life than
is typically accomplished. The Plan envisions a Community in which:
The citizens are proud of their Community because of 1) its unique
qualities, 2) the challenge of participating in a precedent-setting
community building endeavor; 3) the fact that difficult issues are being
addressed; and 4) its leadership, which responds to new realities in a way
that protects the unique qualities of the Community, while helping it to
meet today's challenges.
New ways of solving problems and marketing opportunities are readily
embraced. This attitude extends to such Community features as: quality
design guidelines, phasing of development, and ways of integrating
natural and human-made environments.
People wish to remain in the Community because they like what is going
on and they have a hope for a quality of life superior to that available
elsewhere. That does not mean an easy life; the scope of the undertaking
is too challenging for that. The desire to remain as a resident is enhanced
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by the continuing spirit of community that prevails through activities as
well as physical development.
The members of the Community are actively involved in shaping their
future. This means that the Plan is merely a foundation upon which others
will build. That is why the Community’s Vision is so important. The details
of the Plan may vary and change as a result of the efforts of future
generations. The essence of the Vision and its values, however, must be
preserved through future Plan interpretations. This is the heart of the
Plan’s integrity.
Community improvements will reinforce the positive images associated
with the people's stated values. The policies, design and architectural
guidelines, and subsequent land use regulations are all expected to
conform to the main themes of this Vision.
A sense of history and long-standing Community values will be
preserved. Tools to accomplish this goal include local monumentation
and signage programs. The most fundamental opportunities lie within the
educational system. Long time residents, for example, could be used as
resources for elementary teachers to teach native languages and crafts.
The intent is to reinforce a sense of the continuity of Community, even
though this form will change through time.
EPILOGUE
This Vision Statement comes at the end of a long and sometimes difficult
process. But it is not the end. It is a point of recognizing the past, understanding
the present, and building a foundation of hope for the future.
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This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.