I’ve watched the “Reclaim our Town” PAC, (ROT) for over two years now. Its leadership has campaigned against nearly everything I support.
The PAC campaigned against investment intended for capital projects that our school district needs to remain competitive. They also aggressively campaigned against a Maintenance/Operations override by not supporting important operating funds for teachers and classroom needs.
The PAC is against the redevelopment of the Target center, a 24-year-old shopping area that could become empty storefronts if this new, mixed-use, residential investment project is further impeded.
As initiator of a petition to stop that redevelopment, ROT failed to follow strict statutory directions. Instead of admitting their error, they sued the town and tried to discredit the town clerk in the process. During this, Councilperson (and mayoral candidate) Friedel joined in by supporting Councilman Skillicorn's resolution suggesting the town not defend itself (that resolution failed). Thankfully, losing in court, they have to pay administrative costs to the town and the developer, making their failure even more pronounced.
In 2022, ROT endorsed Arpaio's losing mayoral bid. This time, PAC leadership has switched to supporting (now the PAC says it isn’t “endorsing” individual candidates) conservative town government. Those have been rated lowest of the mayor and council candidates in the Fountain Hills Chamber’s recent “grade” comparison.
So, what does this mean? ROT’s efforts are not to “reclaim our town.” Instead, I believe those efforts ruin our town. It’s time for our community to abandon these PAC attacks, and instead make decisions that are best for all residents, our schools, our businesses, our future and ultimately our community.
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
