After 12 years, Jim Irving has retired from Maricopa’s Planning and Zoning Commission.
Councilmember Eric Goettl thanked Irving for his years of service during last night’s council meeting, stating “there’s not a project or a group here in the city that isn’t somehow touched by Jim and his talents and blessings.”
Planning Chair Bill Roberts echoed these sentiments, thanking Irving for his service in the commission and noted his role as “a mentor” to fellow commissioners.
Irving — who has frequently been referred to as a “super-volunteer” for his constant presence in organizations and events related to seniors, schools and youth — said he enjoyed his time on the commission but felt after three terms, it was time to bring in new blood.
He was first appointed by Councilmember Marvin Brown in September 2014.
“I really enjoyed it, especially seeing the growth,” Irving told InMaricopa. “I think some of the real tough issues for me have been [addressing] the growth, especially as it relates to traffic around schools.”
Irving added he hopes to see locals attend more Planning and Zoning meetings so they can see what’s happening in the city and vocalize their opinions.
“I just really, really want to request the citizens get involved in these things. The discussions are great and you can see the plans and philosophy,” he said.
Irving isn’t fully retiring from community service. He will serve on the city’s General Plan Advisory Committee this year.
Introducing Commissioner Robert Klob
Goettl nominated local architect Robert Klob to replace Irving. He is the newest member since Maurice Thomas joined the commission last May.
“[Klob] comes highly decorated and well-loved by those he’s worked with in the past,” Goettl said during the appointment.
And an impressive resume it is. Klob has more than 39 years of experience in architecture, a series of regional and national design awards and previous experience serving on planning and zoning boards for Chandler and Pinal County.
Klob will continue to serve on the county’s zoning board until his term expires in February 2027.
Council re-appoints 3 to board
Councilmembers re-appointed three members to retain their seats on the commission:
- Councilmember Amber Liermann re-appointed Robert Brems, an assistant director of special projects and strategic initiatives at Arizona State University’s police department, for a second term. He was previously nominated in November 2023, replacing Rachel Leffall who stepped down from the role in September that year.
- Councilmember Bob Marsh nominated Ted Yocum for his fourth term on the commission, after his initial appointment in September 2014 by Councilmember Bridger Kimball. Yocum previously served on the city’s Zoning Code Rewrite Task Force and the Maricopa Board of Adjustment.
- Mayor Nancy Smith nominated James Singleton for a second term. Smith previously nominated the software engineer to the commission in January 2023.
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