We’ve always been a big supporter of parks and recreation. We didn’t have much to speak of prior to incorporation, but the Town of Fountain Hills has done an outstanding job over the decades to increase our park acreage here and expand and diversify the program offerings to all ages.

We’ve also been a big supporter of the public and private groups that have worked together to create and build the Fountain Hills Preserve in the McDowells along with a trail system in the preserve and in a few other spots around town.

But in this instance we have to agree with neighbors who live around the Fountain Park area – building another trail near the existing Lake Overlook Trail is not such a good idea.

The idea of looking at additional trails and expanding recreational opportunities for citizens of all ages and capabilities is a noble one, but this proposal sought too much from too many people in too many established neighborhoods. We have respect for the folks who brought this idea forward, and at least they had the willingness to present the proposal to a hostile crowd, but the negatives far outweigh any potential positives.

So it was good news for the neighbors when it was announced late Monday that the proposal was being withdrawn. It sure created some momentary excitement, but for now the neighbors can relax.

Community conversations are good things. Sometimes mediocre ideas can lead to brilliant projects and programs. Other times, some things are better left on the shelf collecting dust. In this instance, we have to agree that this plan will look just fine on someone’s shelf.