HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDApacket__06-14-22_0351_364
NOTICE OF MEETING
REGULAR MEETING - RESCHEDULED FROM JUNE 28, 2022
MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Chairman Scott Grzybowski
Vice Chairman Steven Nurney
Commissioner Bill Craig
Commissioner Janice Holden
Commissioner Sherry Irwin
Commissioner Brian Jennings
Commissioner D.J. Willard
TIME:5:00 P.M. – REGULAR MEETING
WHEN:TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2022
WHERE:FOUNTAIN HILLS COUNCIL CHAMBERS
16705 E. AVENUE OF THE FOUNTAINS, FOUNTAIN HILLS, AZ
Commissioners of the Town of Fountain Hills will attend either in person or by telephone conference call; a quorum of the
Town’s Council, various Commission, Committee or Board members may be in attendance at the Commission meeting.
Notice is hereby given that pursuant to A.R.S. §1-602.A.9, subject to certain specified statutory exceptions, parents have a
right to consent before the State or any of its political subdivisions make a video or audio recording of a minor child. Meetings
of the Commission are audio and/or video recorded and, as a result, proceedings in which children are present may be subject
to such recording. Parents, in order to exercise their rights may either file written consent with the Town Clerk to such
recording, or take personal action to ensure that their child or children are not present when a recording may be made. If a
child is present at the time a recording is made, the Town will assume that the rights afforded parents pursuant to A.R.S.
§1-602.A.9 have been waived.
REQUEST TO COMMENT
The public is welcome to participate in Commission meetings.
TO SPEAK TO AN AGENDA ITEM, please complete a Request to Comment card, located in the back of
the Council Chambers, and hand it to the Executive Assistant prior to discussion of that item, if
possible. Include the agenda item on which you wish to comment. Speakers will be allowed three
contiguous minutes to address the Commission. Verbal comments should be directed through the
Presiding Officer and not to individual Commissioners.
TO COMMENT ON AN AGENDA ITEM IN WRITING ONLY, please complete a Request to Comment card,
indicating it is a written comment, and check the box on whether you are FOR or AGAINST and agenda
item, and hand it to the Executive Assistant prior to discussion, if possible.
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.ROLL CALL
3.CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.01(H), public comment is permitted (not required) on matters NOT listed on the
agenda. Any such comment (i) must be within the jurisdiction of the Commission, and (ii) is subject to reasonable
time, place, and manner restrictions. The Commission will not discuss or take legal action on matters raised
during Call to the Public unless the matters are properly noticed for discussion and legal action. At the conclusion
of the Call to the Public, individual commissioners may (i) respond to criticism, (ii) ask staff to review a matter, or
(iii) ask that the matter be placed on a future Commission agenda.
4.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the April 26, 2022 MMPC Meeting
Minutes
5.CONSIDERATION & POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the May 24, 2022 MMPC Meeting Minutes
6.UPDATE: Outreach Workgroup - Progress update on new trailhead signs
7.UPDATE: Outreach Workgroup - Closing Trails
8.UPDATE: Parks and Recreation – Promenade Drainage and Rerouting
9.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION: Orientation Manual for Commissioners
10.DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Request for research to staff
11.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION: Review and comment on new trail map
12.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION: Review procedures for renaming trails or trail sections
13.UPDATE: Sonoran Conservancy Fountain Hills Liaison
14.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION: Trail Counter Activity
15.UPDATE: Next MMPC Meeting September 27, 2022
16.ADJOURNMENT
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of June 14, 2022 2 of 3
16.ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF NOTICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that a copy of the foregoing notice was duly posted in accordance with the statement filed
by the McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission with the Town Clerk.
Dated this 12th day of June, 2022.
___________________________________________
Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
The Town of Fountain Hills endeavors to make all public meetings accessible to persons with disabilities. Please call 480-816-5199 (voice) or
1-800-367-8939 (TDD) 48 hours prior to the meeting to request a reasonable accommodation to participate in the meeting or to obtain
agenda information in large print format. Supporting documentation and staff reports furnished the Commission with this agenda are
available for review in the Community Services' Office.
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of June 14, 2022 3 of 3
ITEM 4.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language):
CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the April 26, 2022 MMPC Meeting Minutes
Staff Summary (Background)
The intent of approving meeting minutes is to ensure an accurate account of the discussion and
action that took place at the meeting for archival purposes. Approved minutes are placed on the
Town's website and maintained as permanent records in compliance with state law.
Staff Recommendation(s)
Staff recommends approving the minutes of the meeting on April 26, 2022.
Attachments
MMPC April 26, 2022 Meeting Minutes
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 05:47 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION
APRIL 26, 2022
1.CALL TO ORDER at 5:01 pm. - Welcome Commissioner Sherry Irwin, newly appointed MMPC
Commissioner
2.ROLL CALL
Present: Chairman Scott Grzybowski; Commissioner Brian Jennings; Commissioner Bill Craig;
Commissioner DJ Willard; Commissioner Steven Nurney; Commissioner Sherry Irwin
Absent: Commissioner Janice Holden
Staff
Present:
Community Services Director Rachael Goodwin; Parks Superintendent Kevin Snipes;
Executive Assistant Patti Lopuszanski
3.CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.01(H), public comment is permitted (not required) on matters NOT listed on the agenda. Any such
comment (i) must be within the jurisdiction of the Commission, and (ii) is subject to reasonable time, place, and manner
restrictions. The Commission will not discuss or take legal action on matters raised during Call to the Public unless the matters
are properly noticed for discussion and legal action. At the conclusion of the Call to the Public, individual commissioners may
(i) respond to criticism, (ii) ask staff to review a matter, or (iii) ask that the matter be placed on a future Commission agenda.
NONE
4.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the minutes of the meeting of November
23, 2021
MOVED BY Commissioner DJ Willard, SECONDED BY Commissioner Steven Nurney
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
5.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the minutes of the Special Meeting of
January 5, 2022
MOVED BY Commissioner Steven Nurney, SECONDED BY Commissioner Brian Jennings
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
6.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the minutes of the meeting of January
25, 2022
MOVED BY Commissioner Brian Jennings, SECONDED BY Commissioner DJ Willard
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
7.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the minutes of the Special Meeting of
February 9, 2022
MOVED BY Commissioner Steven Nurney, SECONDED BY Commissioner DJ Willard
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
8.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the minutes of the meeting of February
22, 2022
MOVED BY Commissioner Brian Jennings, SECONDED BY Commissioner Sherry Irwin
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
9.REVIEW AND DISCUSS: Amendment to town code 9-5-3 Item P, remove language on Emergency
Access Route
MOVED BY Commissioner DJ Willard, SECONDED BY Chairman Scott Grzybowski
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
Chairman Grzybowski reminded the commissioners that Commissioner Jennings had located
verbiage in Town Code 9-5 Section 3 Item P that needed to be made clearer in its interpretation of
the use of motorized and electric modes of transportation.
Commissioner Willard asked how the emergency egress went away and Ms. Goodwin explained
that this topic had gone through many interpretations and that the Fire Chief had confirmed that this
easement was no longer used as an emergency route. This access route would remain available
for maintenance purposes and EPCOR.
Ms. Goodwin provided proposed language from the Town's legal counsel, who recommended the
following verbiage replacing the current Item P.
"P. Using any motorized or electric mode of transportation, except for authorized maintenance
vehicles and as necessary."
Commissioner Craig confirmed this area is in the preserve and it was necessary to indicate that
ebikes or motorized vehicles are prohibited. These are general preserve regulations and it is
necessary to keep this item to cover the scope in a broad sense. Mr. Snipes also clarified this is
specifically related to motorized and not pedal bicycles.
Upon further discussion, a motion was made to recommend the change to Town Code 9-5 Section
3, Item P to be presented to the Town Council at the June 7, 2022 meeting for their approval.
10.REVIEW AND DISCUSS: Needed signage for the Lower Ridgeline Trail
Commissioner Craig asked for a meeting to be set up with Chairman Grzybowski, Ken Valverde,
and himself to further discuss the signage needed for the Lower Ridgeline Trail to complete this
project over the summer. A question came up from Commissioner Craig about whether there was
a need to have additional signage on the Overlook Trail. Vice-Chair Nurney asked if the signs were
going to show the distances and Commissioner Craig responded that they would be at the
entrance of the Lower Ridgeline east and west, showing the length. He further shared that there
were discussions for trail hosts to have access to part of the kiosk to put in information related to
trail options with additional information provided.
Commissioner Jennings asked if consideration would be given to calling the whole trail from the
beginning of the trailhead to the end, the Ridgeline Trail and renaming the existing Overlook Trail,
the Overlook Spur, and the Lower Trail. It was agreed that renaming the Overlook Trail the
Ridgeline Trail and having a spur on the Overlook would make it easier to know where you are
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of April 26, 2022 2 of 5
Ridgeline Trail and having a spur on the Overlook would make it easier to know where you are
going. This was also a conversation that Mr. Snipes had with Ms. Goodwin that same day. It was
also agreed that the lower Ridgeline Trail be designated as a loop trail as it is now an in-and-out
trail.
Ms. Goodwin will get the sign package firmed up with Ken Valverde. Commissioner Craig asked if
a motion was needed to recommend the renaming of the trails and it was determined by Ms.
Goodwin to look at this further as a group. Ms. Pam Cissack, the representative of the Sonoran
Conservancy, said that she did not see this change being a problem.
11.UPDATE: Trailblazer Liason Report - Trailblazers accomplishments this season
Commissioner Craig provided an update on what had been accomplished this season by the
Trailblazers with a concentrated effort on the maintenance of existing trails. This consisted of
removing slough, removing loose rocks, removing overgrown foliage, removing berms, and
smoothing out the trails. Following the maintenance efforts, the new Lower Ridgeline Trail was
completed and opened. Signage for this trail has been requested and will be installed when we
receive the new signs.
At the Town Council meeting on April 19th our request for approval to build a new trail, to be called
North Leg Trail, was approved. As a result, trailblazers will be spending the final 2
Saturday mornings of this season starting to create this new trail.
During the 2021-2022 season, 44 different people worked on the trails. So far, the Trailblazers
have given the Town of Fountain Hills 933 hours of volunteer service.
12.UPDATE: Outreach Workgroup - Progress update on new trailhead signs
The workgroup that included Commissioner Holden, Vice-Chair Nurney, and Commissioner Willard
worked on ways to remove negativity from the current signage and to be consistent with the Town
Code. Vice-Chair Nurney stressed the need to have trail rules and pointed out that e-bikes are not
allowed. Mr. Snipes informed the commissioners that there is no sign prohibiting e-bikes at Adero.
Ms. Goodwin confirmed that buses are permitted at Adero for large groups and that there is a
designated area for groups to offload.
Mr. Snipes suggested considering doubling up on rules at the Adero Canyon trailhead. The hours
are sunrise to sunset when gates are closed. Vice-Chair Nurney asked if combining facilities and
trails was an option and Mr. Snipes stated he would be good with that. It was agreed that removing
the "No" language would be better suited to the new signage.
Golden Eagle has an agreement with the Town with special rules to go through those
neighborhoods. On the Golden Eagle top section of the Golden Eagle trailhead sign, there was an
item specific to GoldenEagle:- "overflow parking not permitted on the street up to the gatehouse."
Commissioner Willard's interpreted this rule differently and Chairman Grzybowski agreed it was not
clear and should be changed to "between the parking lot and gatehouse."
The topic of e-bikes was discussed and Mr. Snipes did report that they are not allowed at Adero.
Commissioner Willard feels strongly that the concept of the preserve is to allow people to enjoy
nature. There is no e-bike and motorized vehicles allowed in the preserve and it was discussed if
more prominent signage is needed.
13.DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Request for research to staff
Commissioner Grzybowski asked if anyone had questions to ask staff to research. Ms. Goodwin
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of April 26, 2022 3 of 5
Commissioner Grzybowski asked if anyone had questions to ask staff to research. Ms. Goodwin
gave examples to what that would look like and how it would be addressed at a future meeting.
This will provide commissioners with a way to ask staff questions on topics to be researched and to
have them report those findings at a later meeting date.
14.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION: Future Items
Commissioner Craig asked to add how to move the two toolboxes as well as the removal of the
water tower presently at the trailhead, and promenade issues with the decomposed granite. Ms.
Goodwin shared that an onsite meeting would be needed to look at the promenade issue.
Emergency landing pad for emergencies, and fixing the gate at Adero Canyon Trailhead. Ms.
Goodwin will be following up with Chief Ott regarding the landing pad. Snipes informed the
commissioners that the gate has been non-functional since the beginning and the motors are
stripping gears and causing it not to function with the weight of the gate. The gates can be
manually closed and locked, but for now they will be left open.
Commissioner Willard suggested the following: Bringing a formal request to Scottsdale about the
Quartz Trail connector; establishing a work group to use Trail Counter Data; Overflow parking study
comparing the times of day, how many cars on the weekend etc. Chairman Grzybowski shared that
this information needs to be fact based with quantitative data. The use of a car counter next season
to help gather data was suggested. Ms. Goodwin also suggested looking at other comparable
trailhead destinations.
15.UPDATE: Sonoran Conservancy Fountain Hills
Pam Cissak spoke on behalf of the Sonoran Conservancy, providing updates on hikes and working
with Linda Ayres on future trail events. Ms. Cissak informed the commissioners that the Board is a
lot more than building trails and she would encourage commissioners to come to a Conservancy
meeting or have a joint meeting with MMPC.
Chairman Grzybowski asked how many of the Sonoran Conservancy Board seats were open at this
time. Ms. Cissak responded that there is a need for 1 trailblazer and a maintenance person. There
are currently 105 registered volunteers with the Town and Conservancy, including 52 trailblazers;
49 hosts, 32 stewards; 23 at the Botanical Garden, and many serving multiple functions. The
trailhead hosts have increased to 5 hosts and meet at the trailhead on Friday, Saturday, and
Sunday mornings. It is the goal to have hosts at the trailhead every day of the week. Larry Miller
will be training 4 people on how to pull trail counting information and report that data.
Commissioner Willard thanked the Sonoran Conservancy for their valuable input with the McDowell
Mountain Preservation Trail Master Plan.
16.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION: Trail Counter Activity and Trail Counter Recorder
Update to be put on the agenda for the June meeting on the status of the purchase of trail counters
to be purchased out of this year's budget.
17.UPDATE: Parks and Recreation - Promenade Drainage and Rerouting
Ms. Goodwin informed the Commissioners that the promenade drainage has a lot of intersecting
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of April 26, 2022 4 of 5
Ms. Goodwin informed the Commissioners that the promenade drainage has a lot of intersecting
issues, which included the need to best route the water and not create a clogged flow thru system
with backups. The removal of the water tank will impact this project as well. It was agreed that
public works and the Town engineer's involvement will help to provide options to take preventative
measures and come up with permanent solutions. Mr. Snipes stated it is a big problem that will
need a different design for a long-term solution. He will look at having J2 come out to look at this
area as well. It was agreed that an onsite visit in the near future will be scheduled before the
monsoon season.
Commissioner Craig also wanted consideration for J2 to review the area of the promenade that is
washing out and to look at overflow parking on the promenade.
18.ADJOURNMENT at 6:15 pm
MOVED BY Chairman Scott Grzybowski, SECONDED BY Commissioner Bill Craig
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY COMMISSION
__________________________________________
Steven Nurney, Vice-Chairman
ATTEST AND PREPARED BY:
________________________________
Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Meeting held by
the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Advisory Commission in the Town Hall Council Chambers on the 26th day of
April, 2022. I further certify that the meeting was duly called and that a quorum was present.
Dated this 14th day, June 2022.
_________________________________
Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of April 26, 2022 5 of 5
ITEM 5.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language):
CONSIDERATION & POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the May 24, 2022 MMPC Meeting Minutes
Staff Summary (Background)
The intent of approving meeting minutes is to ensure an accurate account of the discussion and
action that took place at the meeting for archival purposes. Approved minutes are placed on the
Town's website and maintained as permanent records in compliance with state law.
Staff Recommendation(s)
Staff recommends approving the minutes of the meeting on May 24, 2022.
Attachments
MMPC May 24, 2022 Meeting Minutes
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 05:51 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 24, 2022
1.CALL TO ORDER at 5:10 PM
2.ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioner Brian Jennings; Commissioner Bill Craig; Commissioner Janice Holden;
Commissioner DJ Willard; Commissioner Steven Nurney; Commissioner Sherry Irwin
Absent: Chairman Scott Grzybowski
Staff
Present:
Community Services Director Rachael Goodwin; Executive Assistant Patti Lopuszanski
3.CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.01(H), public comment is permitted (not required) on matters NOT listed on the agenda. Any
such comment (i) must be within the jurisdiction of the Commission, and (ii) is subject to reasonable time, place, and manner
restrictions. The Commission will not discuss or take legal action on matters raised during Call to the Public unless the
matters are properly noticed for discussion and legal action. At the conclusion of the Call to the Public, individual
commissioners may (i) respond to criticism, (ii) ask staff to review a matter, or (iii) ask that the matter be placed on a future
Commission agenda.
NONE
4.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Approval of the April 26, 2022 MMPC Meeting
Minutes TABLED
5.UPDATE: Outreach Workgroup – Progress update on new trailhead signs
Vice-Chair Nurney provided a recap of the decision to break up the general guidelines for trail
signs to be more consistent. Consistency with the top ten rules, creating a less negative tone. Mr.
Snipes will be coming up with a template to make all signage look official. A new map is also
being developed and will be sent out to the commissioners for review. Ms. Goodwin will bring
samples to review promoting consistent branding and marketing and messaging.
Commissioner Craig asked if this item also dealt with the Ridgeline signage for trails. Ms.
Goodwin acknowledged that a sign package had been discussed for the Lower Ridgeline.
Commissioner Jennings suggested changing the name of the Overlook Trail to the Ridgeline
Trail. Commissioner Craig asked if we should consider changing the name of the Overlook Trail
to the Ridgeline Trail and the spur going up to the Overlook Trail. This idea was well received and
would be included in the sign package for consideration.
Commissioner Willard interjected that the naming of the trail was not on today's agenda and we
have working groups assigned for the next meeting on whether to modify the names of the trails.
An ad hoc group for this discussion will be made up of Commissioner Irwin and Commissioner
Jennings. Ms. Goodwin suggested looking to discuss further at a future meeting to set standards
and guidelines on how to consider naming trails.
Commissioner Irwin asked if there was enough time. Ms. Goodwin acknowledged this may not be
decided at the next meeting. Commissioner Holden will also take this topic to the Sonoran
Conservancy.
Commissioner Craig asked if this would affect the signage of the trails project. Commissioner
Willard stressed the need to get the research and move forward with getting the job done.
Commissioner Craig requested to finalize the Lower Ridgeline Trail and get it done as soon as
there is a pole ready to be stabilized for the posting of the signs. Ms. Goodwin agreed that the
more that can get done the better and will be getting together with Ken Valverde to finalize the
Lower Ridgeline signs that would not be affected by any name changes.
6.UPDATE: Parks and Recreation – Promenade Drainage and Rerouting
Commissioner Craig met at the Promenade a week ago with Justin Weldy, Public Works Director,
and he agreed to assist with the drainage issue above the toolbox area. Coming down from the
upper entrance to the Western Loop there is a large swail with 5 drainage pipes going off to
Shadow Canyon and set up for hiking and biking to be OK. The water tower has been removed
and drainage ditches have been smoothed to make it easier for bikes to get through. The further
drainage ditch was deepened with culverts underneath the Overlook Trail down to the other side
of the gazebo. Commissioner Craig had questions about extending the drainage ditch on the east
side of the Promenade up to a cactus in that area. Ms. Goodwin acknowledged that she would
check if there was Phase 2 of this project. It was also shared that there was budget money that
could be used for this project. The onsite visit had allowed suggestions to be given to the
contractor and it moved along faster than expected to begin to address this issue.
Commissioner Craig had three additional items left remaining to be looked at for the Promenade
Draining and Rerouting project:
1. At the upper level by the 5 culverts there is a lot of decomposed granite of concern.
2. Extention of the drainage ditch through the water tower.
3. Safety from the water tower down to the gate.
Ms. Goodwin confirmed that there is no surfacing that can be placed on top that will fully prevent
erosion. Some considerations have been putting some sort of pathway where the Trailblazers
built-in steps along the Promenade up to a certain point with a rise or steps using asphalt,
concrete, or eco-friendly surface previous to the setting. Ms. Goodwin confirmed she and Mr.
Snipes had been in touch with Scottsdale, who were using a surface called Stalock on their trails
for use by horses. More research will need to be done to determine the longevity of this surface.
Ms. Goodwin confirmed that Scottsdale was also using it on their trails for use by horses, but that
no surfacing will ever eliminate the erosion factor in this area.
Ms. Goodwin will look further into the timeline of a drainage line on the water tank side, looking at
the susceptibility to clogging in the new culvert and addressing the slip area.
7.UPDATE: Report from Trailblazer Liaison
The 2021-2022 Trailblazer season was completed on April 30, 2022. There is still a little bit of
maintenance to do on the Sonoran Trail, but all other trails in the Preserve have had extensive
maintenance done on them. The Lower Sonoran Trail was a new trail that was completed this
season and is awaiting signage. On April 19th, the Town Council approved the building of a new
trail called the North Leg Trail. During the last two Saturdays in April, the Trailblazers started the
building of this new trail and completed about ¼ mile of the approximately 1-mile-long trail. There
were 44 people that worked as Trailblazers this season and they worked at least 1100 hours as
volunteers for the town.
8.DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Request for research to staff
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of May 24, 2022 2 of 4
The following topics were discussed with staff for further research:
Criteria for closing our trailheads. Ms. Goodwin had met with Bill Myers and Scott
Hamilton from Scottsdale and had a discussion on closing trails related to heat closure of
trails. It was determined that a workgroup made up of Vice Chairman Nurney and
Commissioner Holden would research the criteria needed for the closing of trails and come
back and report on their findings at the June MMPC meeting.
1.
Status of the Large Map display for fairs and education. A large map has been created
by Ken Valverde and will be sent to the commissioners.
2.
Status for moving toolboxes. Commissioner Craig asked if there was an update on
moving the toolboxes. Commissioner Craig stated that the toolboxes are currently behind his
garage community center. He asked if a helicopter would be available to help move them.
3.
Any further discussion on the need for additional landing pads? Ms. Goodwin had a
conversation with Chief Ott and he did not feel landing pads were needed.
4.
9.UPDATE: Town Code 9-5, Section 3
Ms. Goodwin updated commissioners on the status of Town Code 9-5, Section 3 Item P. revision
that was on the agenda for adoption at the June 7, 2022 Town Council meeting as a consent item.
This update is related to the revision to the Town Code that clarifies that all motorized vehicles are
prohibited on trails other than authorized vehicles.
10.UPDATE: Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills Liaison
Commissioner Holden, as the Sonoran Conservancy Liaison, provided updates on the following
items:
Working on updating training and user manuals for trailhead hosts and scheduling first aid
training in conjunction with Scottsdale.
1.
Putting together a hike and lecture program for next season. Met with Linda Ayres to get
information into The Loop.
2.
Upgrading social media presence (Facebook) and3.
Putting together a recommendation for information in the kiosk. 4.
Commissioner Holden confirmed the decision made last year not to move forward with the
preserve closure. Ms. Goodwin informed the commissioners that due to a supply chain shortage
securing fireworks, it was necessary to change the 4th of July celebration to July 1st.
Commissioner Holden informed the commissioners that the Town recognized Carol Carrier,
Sonoran Conservancy Board member, Fountain Hills Desert Botanical Board member, and an
active leader in many conservancy activities, with an award for her Volunteer Services. It was also
noted that Bill Craig presented an award to Bill Myers for his dedication leading the MMPC for
many years.
11.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION: Trail Counter Activity
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of May 24, 2022 3 of 4
Ms. Goodwin updated the commissioners that Kevin Snipes was in contact with the suggested
provider for new trail counters that Chairman Grzybowski had provided. He is currently waiting for
the quote and Ms. Goodwin is looking to return next month with further information and the ability
to secure a purchase under this year's budget by the end of June.
12.UPDATE: MMPC June 2022 Meeting Date Change - Next Meeting: June 14, 2022 at 5:00 pm
Due to a scheduling conflict, the June 28, 2022 MMPC meeting was rescheduled to June 14,
2022, at 5:00 pm in Town Council Chambers.
13.ADJOURNMENT at 6:15 PM
MOVED BY Commissioner Janice Holden, SECONDED BY Commissioner Brian Jennings
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY COMMISSION
__________________________________________
Steven Nurney, Vice Chairman
ATTEST AND PREPARED BY:
________________________________
Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Meeting held by
the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Advisory Commission in the Town Hall Council Chambers on the 24th day of
May, 2022. I further certify that the meeting was duly called and that a quorum was present.
DATED this 14th day of June, 2022
_________________________________
Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of May 24, 2022 4 of 4
ITEM 6.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): UPDATE:
Outreach Workgroup - Progress update on new trailhead signs
Staff Summary (Background)
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 05:57 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
ITEM 7.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information:
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): UPDATE:
Outreach Workgroup - Closing Trails
Staff Summary (Background)
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 05:59 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
ITEM 8.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): UPDATE: Parks
and Recreation – Promenade Drainage and Rerouting
Staff Summary (Background)
Staff will be updating the commissioners on progress made and the timeline for the completion of the
Promenade Drainage and Rerouting project that has been collaborated with public works and the town
engineer.
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 06:00 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
ITEM 9.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): REVIEW AND
DISCUSSION: Orientation Manual for Commissioners
Staff Summary (Background)
Staff will be working on creating an Orientation Manual for Commissioners this summer. Input from the
commissioners is welcome as to resources they would like to see included.
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 06:01 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
ITEM 10.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): DISCUSSION
AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Request for research to staff
Staff Summary (Background)
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 06:03 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
ITEM 11.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): REVIEW AND
DISCUSSION: Review and comment on new trail map
Staff Summary (Background)
Attachments
Adero Canyon Trailhead Map
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 06:08 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
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TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
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TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
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Golden Eagle
Trailhead
(Elevation 2,130')
Address: 14425 E.
Golden Eagle Blvd
Adero Canyon
Trailhead
(Elevation 2,460')
Address: 14800 N.
Eagle Ridge Dr
P
SAVE A TREE
TAKE A PIC
All that is Ar i z o n a
F O U N TAIN HI
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TOWN OF INC. 1989
FOUNTAIN HILLS
McDowell Mountain
P R E S E R V E
FH.MMP
0 0.125 0.25
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Scale
Trails of the Town of Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve
Emergency markers are located on sign posts throughout the Preserve. If
you need help, reference the nearest marker to assist emergency personnel
in identifying your location.
Trail mileage is measured between emergency markers
( ) and rounded to the nearest tenth of a mile.
Notice: This map is for general information purposes only. The Town of
Fountain Hills does not warrant its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for
any particular purpose. Trails, boundaries and other locations are
approximate and subject to change. Copyright 2020 Town of Fountain Hills,
Arizona. All rights reserved. NOT FOR RESALE.
Trails
Emergency Markers
Scenic Points
Streets
ME
LEGEND:
TH-1
RE
K
R
A
E
M
R G E N YC
.F H MMP
Map Updated: May 2022
ParkingP *Trail Crossover
or Link
YOU
ARE
HERE
Adero Canyon
Trailhead Access
Easy Access,
Overlook,
Ridgeline &
Lower Ridgeline
Western
Bike Loop
Western
Loop
Pro
m
e
n
a
d
e
Promenade
Ramada
Restroom
YOU
ARE
HERE
ITEM 12.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): REVIEW AND
DISCUSSION: Review procedures for renaming trails or trail sections
Staff Summary (Background)
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 06:10 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
ITEM 13.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): UPDATE:
Sonoran Conservancy Fountain Hills Liaison
Staff Summary (Background)
Information update from Sonoran Conservancy Fountain Hills.
1. Anyone not receiving the SCFH monthly newsletter (last issue of the season emailed June 1), please
let Janice know and log on to scfh.org and click on subscribe.
2. All commissioners and staff are invited to take a two hour shift with a host at theTrailhead in the fall
when we resume our host program. We are certain it will provide a better perspective on what visitors
look for and the kinds of questions they have.
3. Any commissioner with a skill that would help educate our hosts, such as, mountain biking, map
review, recognizing e-bikes, Desert First Aid, flora/fauna identification, etc. We are looking for
experienced, knowledgeable people to give a brief, informal training.
4. SCFH is working with the Town to finalize Use Agreement
5. SCFH seeking new meeting space for monthly Board meetings
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 06:13 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
ITEM 14.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): REVIEW AND
DISCUSSION: Trail Counter Activity
Staff Summary (Background)
Attachments
May Trail Counter Activity
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 06:14 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022
2022 Trail Counter Activity
Botanical Garden Lake
Overlook
Andrews Kinsey/
Western Loop
Overlook/
Ridgeline
ACT
Promenade
ACT
Parking Total
January 1,924 7,664 3,545 3,842 13,118 13,498 43,591
February 1,691 7,251 3,963 4,569 14,349 11,956 43,779
March 2,076 8,505 4,191 5,690 16,175 12,328 48,965
April 1,245 5,160 2,715 3,568 9,388 7,518 29,594
May 758 3231 1698 2101 5871 5795 19454
June 0
July 0
August 0
September 0
October 0
December 0
Red numbers are estimates
This is an editing test
ITEM 15.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 06/14/2022 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services
Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant
Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): UPDATE: Next
MMPC Meeting September 27, 2022
Staff Summary (Background)
The MMPC Commission does not meet during the month of July or August and will return to the
officially approved scheduled meeting date on September 27, 2022.
Form Review
Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 06/09/2022 06:16 PM
Final Approval Date: 06/09/2022