In May 2016, after nearly a year of extensive community surveys that involved over 2,000 residents and many business owners, plus a detailed workshop, VisionFH, led by a group of volunteer citizens, presented its findings to the town council.

The findings included that town services should be cut no further and over 90 percent of those who participated in VisionFH, after considering all reasonable revenue options, came away supporting the need for a primary property tax as the best way to sustain the town’s quality of life amenities and infrastructure.

Ever since the 2016 findings were compiled, the town staff has independently studied revenue alternatives and concluded, like VisionFH participants, that a primary property tax is the most viable source for a sustainable revenue. The town council has unanimously concurred that a $7M property tax is needed and the funds will be dedicated to (1) fixing our streets, (2) paying for public safety services cost increases, (3) funding a needed facility replacement reserve account and (4) replacing the fees currently assessed per parcel for environmental services.

Currently VisionFH’s mission is to serve as the pulse of the community, to provide factual data/information/feedback to all parties and to insure that relevant strategic priorities are being addressed by the proper officials. Besides sustainable revenues, the committee continues to promote four other initiatives established in 2016 as being important to residents: (1) long-term economic growth, (2) attracting families and working professionals, (3) expanding school enrollments and (4) maintaining the town’s infrastructure.

VisionFH is a nonpartisan program sponsored by the Fountain Hills Civic and Cultural Association (FHCCA) and the results of the 2016 surveys and workshop can be found online at VisionFH.org.

Keep in mind that a ‘yes’ vote for a property tax is tax-deductible and the community will be the beneficiary.