Maricopa files annexation to double size, block Goodyear

Maricopa filed to annex nearly 44 square miles April 17 that will roughly double the city’s size and block the city of Goodyear’s ability to annex economically strategic land.

An approved annexation would extend Maricopa around the Ak-Chin Indian Reservation, keep the Estrella Sailport – a possible location for a regional airport – and give the city a spot on Maricopa Association of Governments, which plays a large role in deciding where freeways go, including Loop 303, which will run from Interstate 10 through Goodyear and south in or near Maricopa’s planning area.

Maricopa’s action came after Goodyear recently annexed 67 square miles including the town of Mobile to the west of Maricopa. Councilmember Will Dunn said he thinks Goodyear intends to annex land that is a part of Maricopa’s general plan.

“All they are trying to do is take our tax dollars,” said Dunn.

If Goodyear continues to grow toward Maricopa it would create complications for residents, Dunn said, citing building permits as an example.

Dunn said people wanting to build in those areas would have to travel more than 50 miles to Goodyear to get a building permit and then would have to file their deed at the county office in Florence.

“People in Thunderbird Farms need to know that we are doing this to protect them from Goodyear,” Dunn said.

Obtaining residents’ approval in Thunderbird Farms, to the south of Maricopa and Ak-Chin Indian Reservation, is an important part of getting the annexation. The city must gain more than 50 percent of property owners and owners of 50 percent or more of the assessed valuation in the area for the annexation to happen.

Dunn said Maricopa has set aside $3 million to create a fire station for Thunderbird Farms, which would include an interim police station. In addition, he said that the city has already authorized that area to be zoned the way Thunderbird Farms residents want per the general plan. He said the only exception is the land that was authorized as master planned communities by the county.

“These are our friends,” said Dunn. “Does Goodyear have any concern for our citizens?”