Observations on Rural Residents and HOAs
- Many new San Tan Valley subdivisions include HOAs, while older rural areas typically do not
- Residents in non-HOA, legacy rural areas often value independence and less government interference
- These residents may oppose incorporation because they do not want added rules, similar to why they avoid HOAs
- Tonner acknowledges that this viewpoint is valid in a free society
Personal Background and Perspective
- Described an incident shortly after moving to San Tan Valley with a California license plate, where a local told him and his wife they were not welcome
- Four of his five children were born in Arizona, and he considers himself an Arizonan despite spending 15 years out of state
- Suggests some residents who want to “keep things the way they were” do not accept newcomers, but growth has already happened
View on Rural Character and Growth
- Believes the desire to keep San Tan Valley rural is unrealistic given the population growth from 35,000 to 125,000
- Feels change is unavoidable and the community cannot stop growth by simply voting against incorporation
Risk and Vision for the Future
- Sees incorporation as a calculated risk worth taking, compared to the greater risk of unplanned growth
- Supports incorporation to create a city government where residents can vote in good representatives to build a plan and manage resources
- Envisions San Tan Valley growing successfully like Gilbert, Queen Creek, or Chandler with proper city services, parks, and amenities
- Without incorporation, worries there will be more houses but too few amenities, forcing residents to travel elsewhere for services