Regarding the CA Ventures proposal for an assisted living facility, they are seeking a variance. There is no – repeat, no – requirement that the town issue a variance to its zoning for any reason. If, in its opinion, the town believes that the use is unsuited for that land and the land is zoned such that the use is prohibited without the variance, then that’s all there is to it.

I applaud the actions of the town council and P&Z board in denying this use at that location. I further applaud them for standing up to CA Ventures’ bullying tactics and threatened lawsuit. I recommend that the town stands pat on this decision, no matter their litigation threats – provided a judge finds any merit in what appears to be a meritless action.

As for individuals, I would put it to a special town vote to support financially any individuals named in a lawsuit for their legal costs if such meritless action is nonetheless brought forward. Businesses who wish to locate here need to understand that the town will not be bullied into compliance with them. As for the project itself, there is nothing in it but liability for the citizens of Fountain Hills. To go forward with it at that location would be Lagunacy!