Role of Pinal County in Map Development
- County provided GIS population data to help determine demographics for any geographical area within proposed boundaries
- County’s contribution was limited to data provision – they did not participate in actually drawing the incorporation map
- GIS system can determine population by address, including how many people live in each home
Municipal Planning Areas and Annexation Process
- Each municipality has designated planning areas that they may potentially annex in the future
- Municipalities cannot unilaterally annex property without landowner approval
Incorporation Approval Process and Municipal Input
- San Tan Valley needed letters of support from existing municipalities to become incorporated
- Queen Creek agreed to provide a letter of support with the stipulation that their planning areas be excluded from the proposed incorporation boundaries
- Other municipalities were also involved in the approval process for letters of support
- This requirement influenced the current design and shape of the proposed incorporation map
Future Annexation Possibilities
- Even after incorporation, communities retain flexibility in municipal affiliation
- Areas currently excluded from San Tan Valley incorporation could potentially request annexation into the new municipality if residents desire it
- This would require 51% support from landowners in the affected area
- The process works both ways – existing communities like Encanterra could potentially de-annex from Queen Creek and join San Tan Valley if they chose to do so
- All communities maintain the right to change their municipal affiliation through proper legal processes