The Cottonwood City Council will decide Tuesday, April 21, at 6 p.m. whether a proposed 96-unit apartment complex on the current 3.317 acre site of the Westcott Funeral Home lives or dies, on a zone change from to allow for the development.
“The proposed project consists of a 96-unit multifamily apartment complex, comprised of one- and two-bedroom units. The U-shaped building design includes elevators and amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center and leasing/management office,” the Cottonwood Planning and Zoning Commission packet reads. A site plan submitted as part of the same packet, however lists the project as 99 units.
During its March 16 meeting, P&Z heard the project and recommended approval from applicant Yuma Enterprises LLC — with Muthiah Nachiappan as manager — which is under contract to purchase the property at 1013 E. Mingus Ave. The applicant held a neighborhood meeting Feb. 10, notifying all property owners within 300 feet of the site. Three people attended, and had questions about screening and privacy.
“This is a very poor fit for a single-family neighborhood,” P&Z Vice Chairman Robert Rothrock wrote to P&Z as a resident. “I’m also concerned that residents on the third story of the building will be able to see into windows and yards along Ash Drive.”
Two written comments opposing the rezoning were submitted by three residents ahead of the meeting, and approximately 80 notification letters were mailed to surrounding property owners.
“The request is consistent with the city of Cottonwood General Plan, which designates the site as High Density Residential,” applicant representative Marty Hall wrote in the Jan. 5, project narrative.
“Westcott Funeral Home is staying right here in Cottonwood,” the company posted to its website. It opened in 1948. “We are exploring options for a new location that better serves our community.”
