Adequate water supply; statewide requirements
The impact of HB 2165 on state law is significant, as it integrates water supply considerations into the planning and approval process for subdivisions. This measure is seen as a proactive approach to managing Arizona's limited water resources and is aimed at enhancing the long-term viability of residential developments. The amendments will require developers to demonstrate that their projects incorporate reliable water supplies and adhere to established standards set forth by relevant authorities, thus instilling a level of accountability in the real estate market.
House Bill 2165, introduced by Representative Stahl Hamilton, aims to amend existing Arizona Revised Statutes regarding the regulation of adequate water supply in relation to subdivisions. The bill seeks to ensure that adequate water supply is a fundamental consideration during the approval process for subdivision plats. Under the proposed legislation, municipalities will be required to adhere to specific guidelines for evaluating water supply adequacy before final plat approval, including the assessment of groundwater, surface water, or effluent availability for a minimum of one hundred years. The bill is positioned to address the growing concerns around water shortages and the sustainability of new developments in Arizona.
Notably, the bill may generate contention among various stakeholders. Advocates for sustainable development and environmental protection may support its provisions intending to prevent over-subdivision in areas where water resources are scarce. Conversely, some real estate developers and local governments may perceive the increased regulatory requirements as burdensome, potentially delaying project approvals or escalating development costs. The balance between promoting growth and ensuring environmental stewardship is likely to be a central point of debate during discussions surrounding this legislation.