Optimism springs eternal when a new year comes around. Resolutions, challenges and goals are established, people might start new routines, and our town continues to bustle the next few months as even more winter visitors descend on our burg to escape the freezing weather plaguing much of our country (although it “freezing” here last week for us).

With the bulk of the Great Recession behind us, we continue to look for little signs of optimism with regard to our local economy, our schools, our municipal services. We’re hoping that retailers and restaurant operators will remain busy as our pleasant winter weather gradually gives way to summer heat in a few months.

Some new home construction can be spied around town. Perhaps ground will be broken in 2015 on the new Adero Canyon development. The work at Shea and Saguaro will be done by early summer, and the reconstruction of Saguaro Blvd. will be an all-consuming project for 2015. The School District no doubt will authorize some additional capital improvements this summer with the $4 million remaining in bonding authorization.

Hopefully this all sets the stage for a renewed call for economic development in Fountain Hills, as business retention along with recruitment are key to ongoing success for this community.

So, as the new year has already dawned, we urge citizens to stay engaged and stay active in Fountain Hills throughout the year – our schools, our clubs, our politics, our businesses, our faith community.