Background and Motivation
- Became more active on social media about incorporation after attending a county-hosted information meeting on May 27th
- Is a returning resident whose family is native to the area, moved back just over a year ago
- Expected San Tan Valley would naturally become a city given its growth and was surprised by the opposition
Primary Argument: Inadequate County Representation
- Believes Pinal County lacks focus on San Tan Valley’s specific interests and needs
- County appears more interested in residential development for property tax revenue than comprehensive planning
- Current development has been sporadic without proper economic and commercial planning
- Residents must drive 35-45 minutes to Queen Creek, Chandler, or Gilbert for amenities beyond local basics like car washes or fast food
Need for Local Government Focus
- San Tan Valley has an estimated 100,000 to 125,000 residents who lack dedicated local representation
- County government serves broader county interests, not specifically San Tan Valley’s needs
- A local government would have San Tan Valley’s interests as its sole priority
- Current representation gap leaves residents without adequate voice in local decisions
Response to “No Plan” Criticism
- Acknowledges that critics say there’s no detailed incorporation plan
- Points out that the county also lacks a comprehensive plan for San Tan Valley
- Believes in business principle that detailed plans develop after commitment to action is made
- Expects mission and common goals to emerge with proper local representation
Addressing Government Layers Concerns
- Recognizes that many Arizona residents prefer fewer government layers due to anti-government sentiment
- Acknowledges corruption concerns but argues corruption can occur in any revenue-generating organization
- Believes corruption can be controlled through elections and legal action
- Has met with San Tan Valley Inc. representatives, gained their trust, and explicitly disagrees with critics who claim corruption is already present, believing they have no other agenda than taking action and making something happen
Benefits of Additional Government Layer
- New city government would have different mission than existing county, state, and federal levels
- No current government layer specifically focuses on San Tan Valley’s parks, services, and stopping lights and whether they are synchronized
- City government would complement, not replace, existing government functions
- County and state would retain their respective roles in areas like education
Cost-Benefit Analysis
- Acknowledges $1.5 million salary costs for city officials
- Views this as reasonable expense within context of $50-100 million total city budget
- Considers investment necessary for proper representation and services
- Believes current situation is unsustainable if the area grows to 200,000-plus unincorporated residents
Core Philosophy
- Wants local mayor and council accessible for community concerns like an extra traffic light down the street
- Seeks enhanced government services specifically focused on San Tan Valley
- Views incorporation as a necessary step to achieve local representation and sustainable community growth