A proposed RV resort in Concho, Arizona, is generating discussion among community members and stakeholders as plans for redevelopment move forward.
The Concho Creek RV Resort, planned for the site of the former Concho Golf Course, was the subject of a Feb. 5 meeting where property owner Mike Meixler outlined his vision and addressed local concerns.
Meixler presented a phased approach for the development, which would include 40 RV spaces with full utility hookups, gravel roads, and policies to prevent long-term residency.
If approved, the second phase would introduce additional amenities such as laundry, shower, and restroom facilities within an existing structure.
“This is not a mobile home park,” Meixler said. “There won’t be permanent residents, and we will have policies in place to maintain a quiet, well-kept environment.”
The proposed resort aims to attract seasonal visitors, particularly from April to October, aligning with broader trends in the outdoor hospitality sector where RV parks cater to short-term stays and transient travelers.
In addition to tourism benefits, Meixler noted that the project would create short-term construction jobs and two permanent positions—an on-site manager and a maintenance worker.
The existing clubhouse is also expected to serve as a business center, catering to remote workers and digital nomads, a growing demographic in the RV travel industry.
Beyond the direct economic impact, the development could provide a modest boost to local businesses.
According to a report by White Mountain Independent, attendees at the meeting acknowledged the potential for increased spending at Concho’s gas stations, grocery stores, and retail outlets.
“We need more infrastructure here,” one community member said. “Something like this could bring in new visitors who spend money locally, and that helps all of us.”
However, concerns were raised regarding the region’s water supply, particularly in relation to the Livco Water Company, which some residents claim has struggled to meet demand in certain areas.
Questions arose about whether the additional 40 RV spaces would further strain the system.
Meixler addressed these concerns by noting that the property already has existing sewer, water, and power connections from a previous development plan that had been approved for 45 townhomes.
“There’s plenty of sewer capacity,” he said. “I’ve spoken with Livco, and as far as I know, a public utility must serve properties within its designated area if connections exist.”
However, he acknowledged that final approval would be needed from Livco, adding, “If I can’t get water, that would probably stop the project.”
Another issue raised was the availability of local infrastructure, particularly grocery and supply access, which some residents claim is already stretched thin during peak seasons.
Meixler responded that most RV travelers typically bring their own supplies and supplement purchases with larger shopping trips in nearby towns, minimizing the impact on local stores.
Public access to the clubhouse was also a topic of discussion.
Some residents expressed disappointment over the loss of previous community events held at the location, but Meixler indicated that while the resort would be private, there could be future opportunities for membership-based access to select amenities.
“We might explore a membership system for the driving range or fitness center,” he said. “But we’re not looking to run a restaurant or bar.”
The project remains in the early stages, with Meixler working to address concerns before formally submitting a conditional use permit application to Apache County Planning and Zoning.
As the proposal moves forward, local business owners and community members will have opportunities to provide further input through county meetings.
The outcome of the development could set a precedent for future outdoor hospitality ventures in rural communities seeking to balance economic growth with resource sustainability.