In a recent letter, Bob Shelstrom accused the Fountain Hills Sanitary District of playing Chicago-style politics with respect to a proposed construction project. The District currently has underground well vaults that have become corroded, dangerous and ineffective. We are replacing underground controls with two above-ground control buildings located in Fountain Park.
We live here, too, and understand that the character of the park needs to be maintained. Our solution is to hide the buildings in plain sight by incorporating public restrooms. These will be attractive, much-needed amenities for our residents and will provide a safe working environment for our staff.
Everyone wins, right? The Town Council loves the idea but not everyone is on board. Shelstrom stated that this is a “lose/lose” proposition and that we are applying Chicago-style politics to the project. I know Chicago politics, having spent 30 years in the belly of the beast. Chicago politics are not pretty. Unfortunately, Mr. Shelstrom is using those same unsavory tactics to trounce this project.
As FHSD Chairman, I met with Shelstrom. He had received a copy of the initial bid of $3.7 million for both buildings that was clearly marked “not accepted” by our District Manager, Dana Trompke. I pointed out the “not accepted” comment and explained this was typical of CMAR contracts. They start out with high estimates to cover all contingencies and are then whittled down as facts are established.
In his letter, Shelstrom deliberately ignored everything he was told. By using the rejected bid as fact, he essentially lied as to cost. And in a phone conversation with Ms. Trompke, Mr. Shelstrom was disrespectful to her and acted like a bully. Elected officials are fair game, but not staff. This isn’t Chicago. Such behavior is not acceptable here in Fountain Hills. Shame on you, Bob Shelstrom!
