The last election had two major areas of concern: First, the golf dilemma; and second, the disregard for the General Plan and the rampant approval of development. This new majority was elected, I believe, because the majority of voters felt that these new council members could bring a change to what was happening.
So, how is the new council majority doing?
Since taking their seats on council last November, only one development application has come forward. That was the development of the Town Centre at Oracle and Pusch View Lane. This application initially came forward during the past regime. The new majority sent the applicant back to amend their request and reduce the density and grading requirements of the property. Although they might have gotten a better deal, the applicant came back with an amended request. This would not have happened if the new majority had not been elected.
All Major General Plan Amendments must, by State law, be submitted prior to April 30 of the calendar year, and heard by the Council before the end of the year. This year there were NO General Plan Amendments submitted. It appears that the development community has gotten the message that this new majority will adhere to the wishes of the voter approved General Plan.
Developers have plenty of entitlements that were issued by the last majority. There is approximately an 8 – 10 year supply of homes that already have entitlements from the past majority.
Another big concern was the annexation of the State land on the west side of town. The Citizens did not want the State plan for small lots and 3,000 homes. The Town has received word that the State has closed its Tucson office and will pursue the annexation at another time. Do you think that the State would withdraw or delay its plans if the new majority had not been elected?
So how about golf?
The majority is being criticized for questioning the numbers that they are getting from staff. After all, the prior majority NEVER questioned staff. However, there is not one member of the staff that has any experience in municipal golf. They are receiving their numbers from Troon. Do you think Troon might have a dog in this fight?
This majority is not going to make a rash decision, a decision that has not been vetted and thoroughly researched. This is, without question, the most important decision that the Council will make. There are millions of your dollars at stake. Taking time to ensure that all the facets of the decision are completely studied is why you elected them. Let them do their job.
I can pretty much assure you that no matter what decision they make on golf there will be a group of residents who will disagree and probably initiate a recall. This is the atmosphere that these 4 newly elected public servants live under. They need your continued support.
