Pinal Unlocked
Bringing issues into focus
…one voice at a time.
Services
The Incorporation Debate
Residents and politicians share their personal views on the effects of incorporation on public safety, recreation and other services.
police
Supervisor Mike Goodman
- County Supervisor over San Tan Valley
- San Tan Valley has 15 sheriff’s officers for 130,000+ residents across a large area.
- A new city would handle police, roads, and other services with voter-approved funding, aided by county contracts and a city manager.
Jean Stockton
- Long-time San Tan Valley resident
- Actively involved with incorporation effort since 2014
- Argues San Tan Valley needs incorporation now due to inadequate (6 deputies per shift) police services
- Warns against waiting until 320,000 people rely on the same minimal police coverage
Fire
Jean Stockton
- Argues that fire services could drop from $600+ to around $250 annually per house
- States residents would gain voting power over fire services and expansion options
Utilities
Supervisor Mike Goodman
- County Supervisor over San Tan Valley
- Prefers government that is closer to the people
- Cites the Johnson Utilities crisis as proof that cities handle problems faster than counties
Jean Stockton
- Believes incorporation would provide direct accountability instead of relying on state agencies and individual advocates
- Emphasizes local government would ensure more frequent water quality monitoring
Recreation
Jean Stockton
- Believes incorporation would bond different communities together outside of their HOAs
- Argues that a community-wide perspective is more important than individual HOA interests
- Wants better recreational access for children across all neighborhoods
DISCLAIMER
- All respondents were interviewed
- The views expressed herein are solely the opinions of the respondents
- We do not favor a particular side of the debate
- Pinal Post is publishing this content with permission from Pinal Unlocked
- Pinal Post is not affiliated with Pinal Unlocked
- Pinal Post and Pinal Unlocked are not affiliated with any group involved in the incorporation effort
Eirini Pajak
Pinal Unlocked
Pinal