A model ordinance is a ready-to-use policy that helps cities update their housing rules. It acts like a blueprint Goodyear can use to improve how housing is planned, approved and affordable housing retained. The ordinance will address key housing issues, including: 

This model ordinances will encourage affordable housing by:

• Speeding up the approval process so housing projects can start sooner.
• Updating zoning rules (like parking, lot sizes, and building heights) to allow more housing to be built.
• Offering developers benefits—such as fee discounts or faster permits—in exchange for building affordable housing.
• Allowing for a wider mix of housing types, including guest houses, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), townhomes, small apartment buildings, and mixed-use developments (like apartments above shops).

Goodyear is also updating its overall zoning rules, and this model ordinance will be part of that. Here’s how they’ll work together:

1. The model ordinance will be built into the larger zoning update.
2. Old or confusing rules will be updated or removed.
3. Any missing pieces will be filled in to better address current housing needs.
4. Housing and land use plans will be better aligned with transportation, environmental, and community goals.
5. The new rules will aim to be more flexible and easier to understand—helping reduce delays and confusion for residents and developers alike.

Your voice matters! Goodyear wants to hear from residents, business owners, developers, and anyone else who cares about housing in the city. You can get involved in several ways:

• Take the Survey: Share your thoughts in the Zoning & Housing Needs Questionnaire. Your input will help shape the future of housing in Goodyear.
• Join the Public Meeting: Come to our public meeting on April 23, 2025, at the Goodyear Recreation Campus (420 Estrella Pkwy). Let’s talk about housing challenges and ideas together.
• Stay Informed Online: Check our website for project updates, upcoming events, and helpful resources.

Your feedback helps identify specific housing challenges faced by Goodyear residents. Community input informs the creation and refinement of housing strategies tailored to Goodyear's unique needs. By participating in the process, you contribute to building community-wide support for the zoning update and model ordinance, which increases its chances of successful implementation.

Guadalupe Ortiz Cortez, AICP

City of Goodyear, Principal Planner, Development Services Department

guadalupe.ortizcortez@goodyearaz.gov