Cochise County Declares October as Opt-Out Month
On October 7, the Cochise County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution designating October as Cochise County Opt-Out Month, honoring a tradition of owner-builder opt-outs that began in 2006. Superintendent Lisonbee Gomez presented the proclamation during a public hearing, and it received full support from the board.
Many supporters, including owner-builders and newcomers to Cochise County looking to establish replacement housing, voiced their thoughts to the board. They believe this opt-out tradition fosters community engagement, tourism, and local economic activity. Raymond Korleski, identifying himself as an early advocate of the opt-out movement, remarked, “Please let us pursue it. Benjamin Franklin said it best: Those who would trade freedom for security deserve neither.”
Jonathan Longnecker, a local content creator, highlighted the national recognition of the county’s owner-builder environment. He explained, “The opt-out gives this community the freedom to design, build and experiment with cost-effective and sustainable building styles that would normally be squashed by zoning regulations.” Others shared how local workshops and alternative building projects contribute to community spending.
According to Supervisor Gomez, the amendment from 2006 allows residents to construct their homes with fewer plan reviews and inspections, as well as lower permit costs, while still adhering to Cochise County’s building safety codes and regulations. The proclamation also noted that owner-builder residents favor October as a month for celebration and recognition.
No changes were made to the county’s permit rules with this declaration; it merely served as a ceremonial acknowledgment and distribution of the proclamation, which received a motion from Supervisor Crosby, resulting in a 3-0 vote in favor.
Advocates encouraged the county to utilize this month for expanding educational events and tourism opportunities, along with providing resources to help new property buyers navigate zoning and permit issues more easily. Supervisors Crosby and Antonoli commended local leaders and advocated for ongoing educational initiatives to mitigate misconceptions surrounding real estate transactions and zoning regulations.
