“Trust, but verify.” –President Reagan

This wise advice surely applies when government claims it “needs” 20 percent tax increases. That’s why I researched all available documents and history on this issue. I found this increase was more about allowing council excess than demonstrated community necessity.

$4 million of the tax increase is earmarked for pavement maintenance. Our 2009 road assessment recommended spending about $1,200,000 per year, but it appears from reports we spent about $2,400,000 annually.

Current assessments rated roads as “B+” with priority arterial and collector roads scoring highest. Our “backlog” was a reasonable 10 percent of streets. The consultant’s recommendation? Increase spending to $6 million per year, $2 million from the HURF fund and $4 million from the proposed tax increase. What a coincidence!

The public requested backup documented basis for the huge increase during the meeting, but it was explained that it had not yet been provided to the council. How convenient!

The report ended with unlabeled pictures of catastrophic pavement failures. Public questions exposed that they were not from Fountain Hills. Very deceptive!

The Public Works reserve fund estimates showed that over the next nine years no needs matched the proposed $1 million annual tax increase. Average “need” was $526,000 per year. The nine-year, $4 million surplus creates a fund for future and discretionary projects.

The council’s desires for extravagances, like the lagoon, clearly jeopardize that reserve. For example, the town received $1,845,000 in fees for the Adero Canyon Trailhead project. The council diverted an additional $557,000 from potential pavement funds to meet their “vision.”

Research and history clearly show the tax increase can’t be justified or logically supported with available information. If you care about Fountain Hills and protecting our home values, vote no on the 20 percent tax increase!