The only “red herring” that is being cast is yours, Ms. Wharton.

Fact 1 – Please read the front page of The Fountain Hills Times. The headline clearly states the water rates are going up by 18 percent. However, that figure does not include the additional fees, surcharges and costs associated with the granting of a SIB district that will be passed on to each customer.

EPCOR’s own engineer, Ms. Candace Coleman, admitted in the Arizona Corporation Commission hearings that EPCOR could wait until its next rate case request to seek recovery improvements cost.

Fact 2 – Yes, the Town of Fountain Hills filed as an intervener, however, they recommended an increase in rates be awarded to EPCOR! So much for protecting the residents. You need to do your homework and find out which council members supported increasing your water rates.

Fact 3 – The EPA and Army Corps of Engineers are redefining the definition of “waters of the United States.” With a total of five U.S. Congressman and numerous Valley leaders, such as Central Arizona Project (CAP), the Homebuilders Association, the Association of Realtors, etc., this developing situation can hardly be labeled a crazy conspiracy.

Fact 4 – Candidate Bellenir has fought against higher taxes her entire life. She implemented the most dramatic change in assessing property taxes her former community had ever seen, and in so doing saved the residents thousands of dollars.

Face 5 – Candidate Bellenir is first and foremost a compassionate person. She is also an astute businesswoman and would never disrespect anyone, east of all the very individuals who provide a revenue stream to our community.

I support Lina Bellenir because she is principled, dedicated and solution driven.