The upcoming election is especially important for Fountain Hills. Our revenue sources project future operating deficits as much as $5.9 million dollars. Unless addressed, Council will find it necessary to reduce services that will directly impact citizens.

The Council majority believes that economic development is the answer, despite limited past results, and has taken a position that “if you build it, they will come.” These are members who allowed the developer increased density in Adero Canyon without negotiating timely preserve access; they approved the MorningStar care facility, a stone’s throw from Fountain View; also Park Place, with sidewalk commercial and 400 residential units in three stories above, without assurance of corresponding local jobs.

Our future white elephant? The proposed Copper Ridge, with age 55 restrictions, more care facilities and a commercial building, while existing storefronts remain vacant; starter homes for the State Trust annex; with the escalating cost of land, will this lead to cookie-cutter houses and high density? Another industrial park?

Don’t want more of the same? There is a choice. Ginny Dickey is running for mayor. A long-time resident of Fountain Hills, she served two terms on the Town Council and the School Board. She has great potential for leadership and an appreciation for our environment, the reason most people located here.

Mike Archambault was a two-term councilman with whom I served from 2004 to 2008. I cannot recall one occasion when he was other than civil with colleagues, staff, or citizens. Current chairman of Planning and Zoning, he has a treasure trove of knowledge about town government.

While I commend all who serve, or seek to serve, I wholeheartedly endorse Ginny and Mike as the best choices for mayor and council respectively.