Maricopa’s right idea at the wrong time: an opinion opposing the $65 million bond issue

October 2008 marks Maricopa’s fifth anniversary, a milestone worthy of celebration. The City of Maricopa is also currently debt-free, another significant milestone, but one that could change on November 4.

At the July 15 Council Meeting, Resolution 08-42 passed unanimously; putting a crucial decision with respect to the city’s future growth and development in the hands of Maricopa voters. Your vote will decide whether or not the city would issue up to $65.5million in bonds to finance future parks, recreation facilities and a new library in the coming years.

Several important issues to consider:

Separate “want” and “need.” They are two different issues. While the past five years have seen unpredictable and incredible growth and change in Maricopa, current trends and challenges show that a shift in strategy, as well as a more fiscally conservative approach is in order. Two key buzzwords coming from Council and city management are “sustainability” and “development.” This issue tests both concepts.

Get the facts. This decision impacts every current and future resident of Maricopa on many different levels, not the least of which is economic. An informed decision is essential, and once the city distributes information on the issue, (hint, hint) read it. Ask the Mayor, City Manager and Council members for more information. Demand accountability from City Hall. Ask the hard questions and don’t stop until you get answers.

What’s the “bottom line?” The new library isn’t even built and already we need another new one? It would be nice to have the biggest and best library in Pinal County, but the simple fact is that we may have to wait and take a hard look at our priorities. It would be wonderful if every person could have their pick of parks and recreation facilities to enjoy. It would be great if coaches and teams didn’t have to scramble for practice fields and places to play. We’ll get there, but it’s going to take time, planning and money…lots of money.

VOTE! Your voice matters and this is a firsthand opportunity to make your voice heard. This is your chance to participate in local government and let your elected officials know your preferences. Voting is a right, a civic duty and one of the cornerstones of a representative democracy. If you haven’t already registered to vote, do it today.

Think about it:

Maricopa will not meet projected population numbers. Without the numbers, there are no dollars, without dollars…

· We need more education facilities, health care providers, “big box” retail outlets and other means to create jobs and generate revenue in Maricopa.

· There’s a hiring-freeze for city personnel. What’s next, another re-structuring? Lay-offs?

· The city remains “consultant-heavy”. Take a look at the monies being spent on consultants. Now is the time to work smarter and get the most value for our dollar. And how about return on investment? What are the results of all these consultant services? Do we have more than an expanded “wish list?” Let’s see an honest, comprehensive comparison of cost to value, expenditures to tangible results.

· Bringing businesses into Maricopa continues to be a “work-in-progress.” Groundbreakings and new construction aren’t happening like we hoped. There are too many entities going under, pulling out or re-thinking plans to come to Maricopa. That’s not to point a finger at any one entity or approach. There are a number of factors operating here.

· It’s feasible the worst hasn’t hit yet. Foreclosures continue to rise, the price of fuel goes up and down more than an Otis elevator, and everything costs more. How much more can we take? You can rob Peter to pay Paul, but what’s worse than a pissed-off Peter?

· Property values and taxes will continue to fluctuate until things stabilize. Can you blame anyone who’s unhappy about paying taxes on values assessed 18 months ago? Add to that frustration over below-market home sales. Some have the option to re-locate, but for many of us, it’s a “ride-it-out” or “wait-and-see” process regardless of income levels or financial status. For many of us, living in Maricopa represents a choice and a long-term commitment.

· Odds are we won’t maintain the goal of 100 new building permits per month, which in turn generate DIFs (Development Impact Fees); a core component of the current city budget. Reduced DIFs + limited sales tax revenue = financial distress.

· More rooftops will definitely help, but they’re not the only answer. Current businesses need continued support, and the city needs to help them thrive, not just survive. Redevelopment must be balanced with incentives and efforts to bring new development to the area. We need to implement strategies and efforts that deliver the best results for Maricopa. Perhaps it’s time to create “plan B?”

Maricopa is so much more than zip codes and parcels; it’s home. We cannot deny that Maricopa’s future depends on people working together in a concerted, unified, logical effort. A multi-faceted approach will keep our city a viable, desirable community. Perhaps in the future, when residents are feeling more confident about the economy, job security, the housing market and growth, the city can propose a bond measure that merits voter support. We’re moving forward, but now is not the time to enter the realm of debt. At this time, we feel it’s prudent to take a more conservative stance and vote NO on the bond measure.

It comes down to the right idea at the wrong time.

Peggy Chapados and Alan Marchione are both members of the city’s Public Safety Advisory Committee, HOA board members for the Villages and graduates of the city’s first Leadership Academy.

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