COLORADO CITY, AZ – In a unanimous vote that signals a shift toward modern development and economic growth, the Colorado City Town Council officially adopted Ordinance 2025-14 on Monday, October 20, 2025. The ordinance approved a Zoning Map Amendment, establishing the Watchman’s Pointe Planned Area Development (PAD) landmark 206-acre parcel in the southeastern part of the town.
The approval represents a major milestone for the community, which has long been defined by its unique history of land control and infrastructure challenges.
A New Model for Infrastructure and Ownership
The project, officially titled Watchman’s Pointe at South Zion, A Master Planned Community, will unfold over a phased 15-to-20-year period. Its approval is significant because the plan mandates the construction of completed roads and infrastructure built to contemporary standards, a direct contrast to the uneven development that characterized much of Colorado City’s past.
During the council meeting, Todd Whimpey, representing the developers, said, “Our goal is to partner with the community. We want to grow with the community and do it the right way.”
The 206-acre site is strategically located between State Route 389 and Mohave Avenue, adjacent to existing neighborhoods, the Mohave Community College campus, and the recently opened meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
This property was privately held by the Black family and was never under the control of the United Effort Plan (UEP) trust. Its sale and subsequent approval for this modern master plan highlights a growing diversification of investment and land ownership in the Short Creek area.
Council Support and Positive Impact
The proposal worked through the approval process. The Town Council’s vote followed a period of intense review by the Planning Commission, which had given its unanimous recommendation for approval weeks earlier. Notably, the project faced no public opposition during the required hearings.
Council Member Thomas Holm noted there has been a high level of communication with the developer, saying, “It seems like you’re going about this the right way.”
The project could generate a positive fiscal impact of $50,000,000 over 20 years for the town, alongside the creation of new job opportunities.
Key features committed to in the approved Watchman’s Pointe plan include:
A Resort core and commercial services to support local residents and attract tourism.
A multi-use community park designed to function simultaneously as a recreational space, a storm water management solution, and an area for potential aquifer recharge.
Strict adherence to dark sky design principles, ensuring the preservation of the region’s natural night environment.
Following the Council’s approval, the next step in the process involves town staff working with the developers to finalize a comprehensive development agreement, which will formally govern the construction and execution of the master plan.
