The town faces a potentially serious budget shortfall in the coming years and, to make matters worse, the clock is ticking away.

According to recent reports, Fountain Hills could be looking at a deficit beginning as early as 2017/18, growing to an estimated $5.5 million by 2020/21. That’s a rather sizable chunk of change to address, all in a matter of five or so short years.

While we applaud the efforts taken to address this issue so far, it’s difficult to glance at a calendar and not feel at least a tinge of worry. Whatever the Town Council decides, it’s clear that action must be taken quickly in order to keep Fountain Hills in the black. That might call for some tough decisions to be made, which is where the community come into play.

We encourage residents to take part in the surveys, visit the regular meetings and become informed on the matters facing the town of Fountain Hills. From there, provide the input necessary to help local leaders make those tough calls with your interests in mind.

We’re reminded of a popular political cartoon: An elected official asks who wants change, and every hand in the audience raises. The official then asks, “Who is willing to change?” and every hand in the audience lowers.

The shortfall we’re facing can’t be addressed without change, both on the town and the individual level. Hopefully we can all work together, and quickly, to make up the difference.