Water; residential lease communities
By mandating that permits cannot be granted without proof of adequate water supply, the bill seeks to ensure that new housing developments are sustainable in terms of resource availability. The bill amends existing laws relating to building permits to enforce these standards on municipalities. As a result, it may slow down the approval process for new housing projects while ensuring that developmental pressures do not outpace infrastructure development, particularly concerning water resources. This could be instrumental in preventing over-extraction of water and promoting responsible land use around residential lease communities.
House Bill 2697 focuses on the approval processes for building permits concerning detached residential dwelling units located within residential lease communities in Arizona. The critical provisions state that municipalities must ensure that any applications for building permits are accompanied by a certificate of assured water supply or a written commitment of water service. This requirement specifically applies to residential lease communities situated in initial active management areas. The bill's intent is to regulate the water supply arrangements before permitting new construction in designated areas, addressing potential water scarcity issues in growing communities.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2697 might arise from those who argue that such strict requirements could hinder housing development in rapidly growing areas. Critics may assert that the necessity of obtaining a water supply certificate could delay housing projects and increase costs for developers, ultimately impacting housing availability and affordability. Conversely, supporters might emphasize the importance of sustainable development and water resource management, asserting that ensuring adequate water supply should be prioritized over rapid expansions in residential lease communities.