The Cottonwood City Council discussed the Blazin’ M Ranch’s lodging plans and officially accepted Councilwoman Tosca Henry’s resignation from the council at the April 18 meeting.
Blazin’ M requested a general plan land use designation from very low density residential to planned development and a zone change from agricultural residential to planned area development on approximately 8.3 acres located at 1875 Mabery Ranch Road, approximately 1,600 feet north of the Dead Horse Ranch State Park entrance.
The city’s Planning and Zoning Commission previously approved the general plan amendment and zone change unanimously, with added stipulations, at their March 27 meeting.
Blazin’ M’s current use is as an entertainment and event venue, hosting dinner shows and private events in their Western-themed frontier town.
The proposed project will consist of two phases. The first phase will be the buildout of the glamping area, which will include 15 park model units, 10 Conestoga-style guest wagons and one bar wagon, a swimming pool [to be known as Ye Olde Dipping Pool], a Western boulevard, a building facade covering the park units with a boardwalk, an entry gate and new decorations throughout the property.
The second phase of the project will see the construction of two hotel buildings, which will house 40 guest units along with a lobby, a breakfast area and some retail space.
“This is a major influence for our quality of life here,” Vice Mayor Debbie Wilden said. “It’s a major project and it’s first-class. I am completely in support of this. I think we need it.”
One resident expressed concerns over traffic flow at the intersection. Mayor Tim Elinski stated that the city is currently looking at a design to make traffic flow better. Elinski added that a roundabout seems like the best solution for traffic, as it will last 20 years or more.
The council approved the minor amendment to the general plan unanimously; the requested zone change will be brought back for a second reading and final vote at a future meeting.
Council Seat
The council also accepted the resignation of Councilwoman Tosca Henry from the City Council, declared the seat open and began the process to fill the vacancy. After discussion, the council decided that there will be no special election. They will accept resumes and letters of interest for 14 days before holding a special meeting to conduct interviews.
The successful candidate will serve out the remainder of Henry’s term until the conclusion of the fall 2024 election cycle. To be eligible, a candidate must be 18 years old, a qualified elector per Arizona Revised Statute §16.121 residing within the city and must have resided within the city for at least one year immediately preceding the appointment.
Letters of interest and resumes may be submitted in person to the Human Resources Office located at 821 North Main St.
