Public Notice: ERAU Airfield Proposal
On February 3, 2026, the Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5–2 to recommend that the proposed Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) airfield application move forward to Town Council for consideration.
For community members who were unable to attend the February 3, 2026 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, or who wish to review the discussion, the meeting recording is available online at the following link: https://chinovalleyaz.portal.civicclerk.com/event/6525/media
The application includes a Rezone Request (ZC-2025-03) for approximately 390 acres to transition from Single-Family Residential (SR-2, 2-acre minimum) to Agricultural Residential (AR-36, 36-acre minimum), and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP-2025-05) to allow construction of a privately owned and operated airfield with associated aviation uses.
To accommodate community participation and ensure all members of the public have the opportunity to be heard, the Town Council will hold a public hearing on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Grace Church, 2010 S. State Route 89, Chino Valley, AZ 86323. Members of the public are invited to speak either in favor of or in opposition to the proposal.
Town Council will then resume deliberations and consider possible action on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Chino Valley Town Hall. Once seating at Town Hall reaches capacity, overflow seating will be available at the Police Department. Lighted overflow parking will be provided in the lot just north of Town Hall at 246 N. State Route 89 (former Tax and Accounting building).
The community is encouraged to attend and participate in this important discussion. The Town recognizes that this proposal has generated significant community interest, with a range of both supportive and opposing viewpoints. As the process moves forward, the Town respectfully asks that all participants engage with one another thoughtfully, kindly, and with respect for differing opinions.