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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDApacket__03-30-21_0745_208       NOTICE OF MEETING REGULAR MEETING MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION      Vice Chairman Scott Grzybowski  Commissioner Thomas Aiello Commissioner Tom Barberic Commissioner Bill Craig Commissioner Janice Holden Commissioner DJ Willard    TIME:5:00 P.M. – REGULAR MEETING WHEN:TUESDAY, MARCH 30, 2021 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.        McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of March 30, 2021 2 of 4            1.CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE     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 of Approving the November 2 and 30, 2020 Meeting Minutes     5.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Appointing a Chairperson     6.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Appointing a Vice Chairperson     7.UPDATE on Adero Canyon Trailhead     8.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Potential New Trailhead and Trail from Sunridge Drive     9.DISCUSSION of Lower Ridgeline Trail Construction Progress     10.DISCUSSION of The Guidelines for Management of the Preserve     11.UPDATE on Non-Native Plants Assessment Plan     12.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION of Trail Counter Activity and Trail Counter Recorder     13.UPDATE on Community Services Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan     14.ADJOURNMENT      McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of March 30, 2021 3 of 4   14.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 25th day of March, 2021. _____________________________________________  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 March 30, 2021 4 of 4   ITEM 4. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT    Meeting Date: 03/30/2021 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):   CONSIDERATION of Approving the November 2 and 30, 2020 Meeting Minutes Staff Summary (Background) Attachments November 2, 2020 Minutes  November 30, 2020 Minutes  Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 03/04/2021 04:50 PM Final Approval Date: 03/04/2021  D R A F T TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION NOVEMBER 2, 2020            1.CALL TO ORDER    Chairman Garvey called the meeting of Tuesday, November 2, 2020, to order at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Town Hall, located at 16705 East Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, Arizona.   2.ROLL CALL Present: Chairman Paul Garvey; Vice Chairman Scott Grzybowski; Commissioner Tom Barberic; Commissioiner Bill Craig; Commissioner Janice Holden; Commissioner DJ Willard Absent: Commissioner Thomas Aiello Staff Present: Community Services Director Rachael Goodwin; Executive Assistant Jamie Salentine 3.CALL TO THE PUBLIC    There was no comments from the citizens present.   4.RECOGNITION of Re-Appointed and New Commission Members    Chairman Garvey congratulated both Commissioner Holden on her re-appointment and Commissioner Willard on his appointment. He recognized Commissioner Dr. Darrienne Slater for her time on the Commission and noted that they both started on the Commission with the same terms and congratulated Commissioner Slater on her birth of her child.   5.UPDATE on Storage Request by the Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills at Adero Canyon Trailhead    Ms. Goodwin stated that storage is available for SCFH hosts inside the building through an external door and is designated for storage. She noted that until the trailhead is fully accessible the storage is not available. She noted that the exterior door would be set on a timer and that the internal storage door would be keyed. Discussion ensued relative to possible key options such as a key box with a combination. Ms. Goodwin commented that she will provide the Commission with the key accessibility once confirmed.   6.UPDATE on Adero Canyon Trailhead Access    Ms. Goodwin stated that vehicular access to the Adero Canyon Trailhead (ACT) will start on Friday, November 6, 2020. She noted that a press release will be provided to the paper and SCFH for the website and that access will be Sunrise to Sunset seven (7) days a week. She added that port-a-lets will be provided at the trailhead.   7.UPDATE on Community Services Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan    Ms. Goodwin updated the Commission on the Master Plan and that trails are a large portion of the master plan. She commented that completion of the inventory is in the final stages which include the park systems. She added that potentially a draft master plan to be provided to MMPC for review by end of year with Council review in January, 2021. She noted that having the master plan in place prior to Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) for next Fiscal Year (FY) budget discussions with Council is needed due to the fact that, CIP could be addressed in the upcoming FY budget. She pointed out that the access from a Community level to the Ridgeline Trail could be considered too. Chairman Garvey mentioned that there is no Master Plan for the Preserve. He suggested that the history of the Preserve and future guidelines/plans be developed into an Operations Guideline for the Preserve as a subsidiary to the Community Services Master Plan. He requested this be placed on the next MMPC agenda. Discussion ensued relating to items being included in the guidelines/plan for the Preserve. Chairman Garvey suggested a new workgroup to develop the Operations Guideline for the Preserve. He noted that the workgroup will consist of himself, Commissioner Holden, and Commissioner Willard.   8.ADJOURNMENT    MOVED BY Commissioner Tom Barberic, SECONDED BY Vice Chairman Scott Grzybowski to adjourn.  Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously    The McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission adjourned at 5:57 p.m.     MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY COMMISSION ____________________________ Paul Garvey, Chairman ATTEST AND PREPARED BY: ______________________________ Jamie Salentine, 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 2nd day of November, 2020. I further certify that the meeting was duly called and that a quorum was present. DATED this 30th day of November, 2020. _________________________________ Jamie Salentine, Executive Assistant D R A F T TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS MINUTES OF THE MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION NOVEMBER 30, 2020            1.CALL TO ORDER    Chairman Garvey called the meeting of Monday, November 30, 2020, to order at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Town Hall, located at 16705 East Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, Arizona.   2.ROLL CALL Present: Chairman Paul Garvey; Vice Chairman Scott Grzybowski; Commissioner Thomas Aiello; Commissioner Tom Barberic; Commissioiner Bill Craig; Commissioner Janice Holden; Commissioner DJ Willard Staff Present: Community Services Director Rachael Goodwin; Senior Services Supervisor Jennifer Lyons 3.CALL TO THE PUBLIC    There was no comments from the citizens present.   4.CONSIDERATION of Approving the November 2, 2020 Meeting Minutes       Chairman Garvey stated minutes not completed and deferred item to next meeting agenda.   5.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of 2021 Meeting Dates       Chairman Garvey stated that the 2021 meeting dates are listed and that dates can be revised as needed. (See Attachment 1)    MOVED BY Commissioner Tom Barberic, SECONDED BY Commissioner DJ Willard  Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously   6.DISCUSSION of Potential New Trailhead and Trail from Sunridge Drive       Ms. Goodwin explained that staff is looking at a new access point into the McDowell  Ms. Goodwin explained that staff is looking at a new access point into the McDowell Mountain Preserve. She emphasized that the access point will not be referred to as a trailhead due to the fact, that the entrance would be for community access and would be located at corner of Sunridge Drive and Desert Canyon Drive. She pointed out that the blue lines represent a potential future park and the white and orange lines represent the possible options for a new access(es) and new trail.(s) She added that the process will include the Trailblazers, staff, and Council approval. (See Attachment 2) Commissioner Craig pointed out that the orange line has trail easement access from the subdivision whereas the white line does not. He added that each line (trail) can be connected to the red line which represents the Ridgeline Trail. He noted that the black line is another trail option to be hiked through the canyon versus on the ridgeline in addition all the trails presented do connect so could make loop trails too. In response to a question posed by Commissioner Aiello, Commissioner Craig responded that the mileage up is estimated at .5 miles in terms of the loop. In response to questions from Commissioner Barberic, Ms. Goodwin reported that parking may allow up to 20 spaces and that the Homeowner's Association (HOA) has not been contacted at this time. Commissioner Barberic stated that he is concerned on adding more trails due to the fact that the Town has eight (8) miles of trail of the 835 acres within the Preserve. He pointed out that the City of Scottsdale has 30,500 acres and 225 miles of trails which is .007 miles per acre and our Town has 50% more. He noted that he is okay with this potential addition of two (2) more miles within the Preserve. Commissioner Dillard commented that he is for the new trails and that the comparison with the City of Scottsdale is not fair due to difference in density and terrain. Ms. Goodwin added that the reason for more trails is that the residents through the Public Survey feedback from the Community Services Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan are requesting more trails and connectivity. She pointed out that the Master Plan is not complete, however, this is one of the largest requests from the survey results. In response to a question from Commissioner Barberic, Ms. Goodwin reported that the potential park would be completed potentially in the next 2-3 years which would be in tandem of the trail build too. She pointed out that the trail(s) will be labeled as a difficult to hike. Chairman Garvey explained that conversations with SCFH have been discussed on density and that there are trails that can be done with the Town's section of the Preserve and that the trail(s) in discussion are a unique view into the preserve. Discussion ensued relative to COVID, Trailblazer workers, trail work, new trail building, and maintenance. Ms. Goodwin stated that for the new park that fees would come out of the Development Fund which is dedicated to the Community Services and can only be used for specific items, such as a new park. She added that the funds have a time limit from when acquired to around 10 years to be spent and some funding is set to expire. She pointed out that the funds cannot be spent on rehabbing existing parks, etc.   7.DISCUSSION of Lower Ridgeline Trail Construction Plans    Chairman Garvey emphasized the need to determine a plan on the priorities of the Trailblazers and SCFH prior to breaking ground on the Lower Ridgeline Trail. In response to question posed by Commissioner Craig, Chairman Garvey confirmed that even if Council approves the realignment of the Lower Ridgeline Trail that the Trailblazers should put a hold on starting the trail and first determine the other external influences that may impact the volunteers that would work on the trail. Discussion ensued relative to SCFH directions versus Town's direction on priorities, HOA regulations and Town regulations on use of washes as part of trails. Ms. Goodwin suggested that a future meeting or create a workgroup to discuss priorities. Chairman Garvey stated that with tonight's discussion the start of Lower Ridgeline Trail should start if approved at the December 15, 2020 Council meeting due to the fact that the new trail off of Sunridge Drive potentially would not start unti Fall of 2021.   8.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Additional Trail Counter Needs       Chairman Garvey stated that a suggestion was made to place a trail counter on Ridgeline Trail entrance, however, the trail counters are set up by sections and explained each section. He suggested that placing a trail counter at the entrance of the parking lot would be beneficial to count the cars entering. Commissioner Craig pointed out that the City of Scottsdale has started placing counters at trailhead entrances. He added that the trail counter's replacement parts are no longer supplied by the company and mentioned that the lenses fog up over time. Chairman Garvey suggested trying to replace the lenses with plexiglass.    MOVED BY Vice Chairman Scott Grzybowski, SECONDED BY Commissioner Tom Barberic to approve an additional trail counter to be placed at the entrance of the Adero Canyon Trailhead (ACT) parking lot.  Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously   9.UPDATE on Non-Native Plants Assessment Plan    Commissioner Holden commented that there are eight (8) volunteers for the non-native plant's assessment plan, which include volunteers from MMPC, SCFH, and the Public. She noted that the volunteers will meet on December 9, 2020 with a representative of Desert Defenders at ACT to learn how to use the ArcGIS Collector App that assists on identifying the non-native plants. Discussion ensued on the amount of non-native plants within the Preserve, the effects of not having rain, and if there is enough to be seen due to lack of rain.   10.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of a Conservation Guide for the Preserve       Chairman Garvey explained that the purpose of the Conservation Guide is to provide an  Chairman Garvey explained that the purpose of the Conservation Guide is to provide an overall direction on where the MMPC and/or SCFH would like the Preserve to go. He stated that this would include defining the vision of the Preserve and in addition capturing all the decisions the MMPC and/or SCFH make on items such as trail design, density, signage, and emergency markers which will be placed into the operations guide section. (See Attachment 3) Discussion ensued relative to what should be specifically included in the Conservation Guide, guidelines on trails within the guide, and objective material to be in the guide. Chairman Garvey suggested having meeting(s) just to speak upon the history of the trails, preservation, etc. in order to gather the information needed from Commissioner's that have the knowledge of the history to include in the guide. Commissioner Craig stated that his concern is time and how far back does the Commission want to go in order to find all the changes and suggested focusing on now and in the future. Chairman Garvey commented that the Commission can look at the Ridgeline trail design aspects such as the low impact, low signage, and high preservation as an approach; and could be the baseline moving forward and what was done 10 years ago could be irrelevant. Chairman Garvey emphasized that the Conservation Guide should be useful and kept to minimal pages.    MOVED BY Commissioner Tom Barberic, SECONDED BY Commissioner Janice Holden to approve the creation of the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve Guide (name to be determined) with focus on the two (2) parts: Part 1 - Intent and Guiding Principles and Part 2 - Use, Management, and Implementation.  Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously   11.UPDATE on Adero Canyon Trailhead    Ms. Goodwin commented that the ACT had been busy over the holiday weekend. She confirmed that there is no electricity or sewer up at the trailhead, however, there is water but need the other two items implemented prior to the water being turned on. She pointed out that an expedited process is in place with Salt River Project (SRP) and the Sanitary District with potential progress over the next four (4) weeks. In response to question posed by Commissioner Barberic, Ms. Goodwin responded that as part of the Phase 2 for ACT was to add an upper parking lot closer to the weather station. She noted that amount of funding needed is unknown. Discussion ensued relating to the upper parking lot, cost, stripping, and need for an overflow lot. Chairman Garvey suggested that if overflow parking is needed that additional parking could be addressed down by the cul-de-sac where the bike lane starts and use that area for overflow parking. Further discussion ensued relative to the reasons on the delay of the sewer and electric. Chairman Garvey stated that due to Covid that hosts at the trailhead will not be starting up, however, the SCFH will be introducing a Virtual Host where the hikers can log onto the website provided at the kiosk which will provide tutorials on items like tips on the trails. He added that if maps are out he encourages them to take a picture of the trail map in the kiosk. In response to a question from Chairman Garvey, Ms. Goodwin responded that he can design what they would like in the kiosk to promote the Virtual Host and email herself and Ms. Salentine so the Town can place the Town logo on so it is noted as an official document in the kiosk and staff will place in the kiosk.   12.UPDATE on Community Services Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan    Ms. Goodwin stated that the survey results are back with over 800 participants. She explained to the Commission on the amount of raw data received and has asked the consultant to synthesize the information and combine with the focus groups and the inventory assessment to provide findings and recommendations. She noted that she is meeting with the consultant on Wednesday, December 2, 2020 to discuss further. She added that she is anticipating that in the beginning of the new year there should be a findings meeting via zoom where commission members will be invited to participate in and will be notified via email. She commented that from that meeting the final recommendations will be put together that will layout what the Community Services Department should be doing over the next 10 years. In response to a question posed by Commissioner Craig, Ms. Goodwin reported that of the original 7-8 FIT trails, 4 trails have been completed/identified. She explained that the FIT trails are walking paths using existing sidewalks such as the walk around the Fountain is identified as a FIT trail as well as the one set behind Golden Eagle Park. Ms. Goodwin pointed out that Development Services is working on the Active Transportation Plan (ATP) throughout the town which is to assist with connectivity with the bike lanes, bike routes, and sidewalks which FIT trails are being included in this study. She added that there will be a 5, 10, and 15 year priority on the connectivity areas. She suggested that the Commission look at the information provided on the Town's website: https://www.fh.az.gov/720/Active-Transportation-Plan.   13.REVIEW of Trail Counter Activity       Chairman Garvey stated that the information is in the packet for their review and added that next month's report will have a new look with updated charts/graphs showing the entire activity for the Town. (See Attachment 4)   14.ADJOURNMENT    The McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission adjourned at 6:25 p.m.    MOVED BY Commissioner Tom Barberic, SECONDED BY Vice Chairman Scott Grzybowski to adjourn.  Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously       MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY COMMISSION ____________________________ Paul Garvey, Chairman ATTEST AND PREPARED BY: ______________________________ Jamie Paul, 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 30th day of November, 2020. I further certify that the meeting was duly called and that a quorum was present. DATED this ____ day of _______, 2020. _________________________________ Jamie Paul, Executive Assistant ITEM 8. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT    Meeting Date: 03/30/2021 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):  DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Potential New Trailhead and Trail from Sunridge Drive Staff Summary (Background) Attachments New Trailhead Map  Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 03/25/2021 04:54 PM Final Approval Date: 03/25/2021  ITEM 10. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT    Meeting Date: 03/30/2021 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):  DISCUSSION of The Guidelines for Management of the Preserve Staff Summary (Background) Attachments Guidelines for Management of the Preserve  Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 03/25/2021 03:14 PM Final Approval Date: 03/25/2021  Version 01-05-2021 Page 1 GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT OF THE FOUNTAIN HILLS MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVE The intent of the document, as presented by the McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (MMPC), is to describe the principles used to manage the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve (MMP). Its goal is to establish specific implementation guidelines used for decision making and governance of the Preserve. It also serves as a repository to document decisions and policies adopted by the MMPC. Contents Guidelines for Management of the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve 1 A. Intent and Guiding Principles: 2 B. Use, Management and Implementation: 2 1. Oversight 2 2. MMPC Operational Structure 2 3. Relationship with Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills 4 4. Preserve Size 4 5. Use Types 4 6. Financials 5 7. Trail Design, Maintenance and Density 5 8. Trailhead Development and Maintenance 6 9. Overuse Management 6 10. Limitation of Amenities 6 11. Education and Outreach 7 12. Safety 7 13. Research 8 14. Archeological Findings 8 15. Preserve Right of Way and Easement Provisions 9 16. List of Regulations 10 17. Revision History 10 Version 01-05-2021 Page 2 A. INTENT AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES: The overall objective for these Guiding Principles is to preserve, conserve and protect the Sonoran Desert in its natural state. Decisions affecting the Preserve should meet the following Guiding Principles criteria: 1. Maintain the natural beauty of the Preserve. 2. Minimize human impact within the Preserve, including: a. Non-essential facilities within the Preserve b. Commercialization in the Preserve c. Prioritization of conservation over development 3. Provide public access to and within the Preserve that encourages a positive and safe experience. B. USE, MANAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION: 1. OVERSIGHT In cooperation with Community Services for the Town of Fountain Hills, the MMPC ensures the application of the Preserve’s Guiding Principles. Appointed by the Fountain Hills Town Council, the MMPC is charged with:  Maintaining the existing, undisturbed desert landscape of the Preserve  Providing regulations that will protect wildlife habitats and limit human encroachment to specific areas within the Preserve  Recommending use regulations for the Adero Canyon Trailhead (ACT) that grants public access into the Preserve  Providing use regulations for the Golden Eagle Trailhead (GET), including access control into the Preserve through the McDowell Mountain Regional Park (MMRP)  Providing for the development of a trail system within the Preserve and connectivity to abutting trail systems in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve (MSP) in Scottsdale and within the McDowell Mountain Regional Park (MMRP) to the north. 2. MMPC OPERATIONAL STRUCTURE STRUCTURE OF MMPC WORKING GROUPS In 2020 the MMPC organized its seven commissioners into two working groups each aligned the various visions and tasks as outlined in Community Services’ Strategic Plan. WORKING GROUP 1 INFRASTRUCTURE & OPERATIONS - Trail Development and Maintenance - Protection - Safety Vision / Task #1 / #3 Trail Development and Maintenance #2 / #1 Protection - Preserve, protect and enhance natural resources Version 01-05-2021 Page 3 Planning: Work to balance nature and man-made environments Environment: Design/program activities sensitive to environmental sustainability #3 / #3 Safety - Optimize safe utilization of outdoor space WORKING GROUP 2 OUTREACH & PROMOTION - Promotion - Public Information and Messaging - Outreach Vision / Task #2 / #5 Promotion - Showcase Community Services (SCFH) as essential to town Collaborate with government associations and civic groups (SCFH) #5 / #2 Public Information & Messaging - Expand public access to information #5 /#3 Outreach - Foster effective relationship with community orgs, schools IDEA FLOW AND MMPC IDEA VETTING PROCESS The following idea qualification process was adopted by the MMPC in 2019. This process would be applied as additional consideration filters following compliance with the Guiding Principles. Step 1 - VETTING: 1. Does it meet the Guiding Principles? 2. Does it complement or conflict with our mission to Preserve the Preserve? 3. Does it take the source into consideration - Town, Community, SCFH, within MMPC? (Town source should take priority) 4. What problem does it solve or what need does it satisfy? 5. What are the funding requirements? (both capital and expense as well as necessary or long- term funding sources) 6. What is the level of effort to pursue? (Is it achievable within the means of the MMPC?) Step 2 – APPROVAL (presented by Working Group at a monthly MMPC meeting) 1. Outline the problem or need. 2. Provide several possible scenarios with pros and cons for each. 3. If appropriate, provide a recommendation for approval/disapproval. Step 3 – PRIORITIZATION (once approved) 1. Are there time constraints in implementing the idea? (budget deadlines, seasonal considerations, resource availability, etc.) 2. Will funding complexities affect completion? Version 01-05-2021 Page 4 3. RELATIONSHIP WITH SONORAN CONSERVANCY OF FOUNTAIN HILLS The Preserve benefits considerably from the Town’s relationship with the SCFH (scfh.org). The SCFH Trailblazers are the operational arm that build and maintain the Preserve’s trails. The Town funds tools for the Trailblazers for use on the Preserve trails. SCFH Trailhead Hosts provide information to Preserve guests to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking and biking experience. SCFH hosts a booth at the Great Fair that profiles the Preserve. SCFH maintains a supply of maps at the Trailheads and around town. SCFH maintains the trail counters distributed throughout the Preserve. The counter stats are gathered monthly, compiled in a spreadsheet and distributed to the Town for trend analysis. SCFH replaces the batteries of these counters each spring and fall. 4. PRESERVE SIZE The Preserve consists of 824 acres bordering Scottsdale’s MSP, the MMRP and residential neighborhoods of eastern Fountain Hills. These 824 acres are per County records zoned as OSP and PAD. Click here for a HISTORY OF THE PRESERVE and click here for a PRESERVE MAP WITH BOUNDARIES. Parcel Sq ft Acre 1 115,826 2.66 2 129,199 2.97 3 665,423 15.28 4 6,711,141 154.07 5 8,711,998 200.00 6 1,601,997 36.78 7 3,015,422 69.22 8 2,320,833 53.28 9 6,524,460 149.78 10 2,503,437 57.47 Sub total 32,299,736 741.50 Toll Brother's donation 3,577,198 82.12 Total 35,876,934 823.62 5. USE TYPES Recreational - the Preserve is reserved exclusively for hikers and mountain bikers. Bike riding is allowed on the Preserve trails, except for the Overlook and Ridgeline Trails. eBikes are not Version 01-05-2021 Page 5 permitted anywhere in the Preserve due to the safety risks of machine-powered transport on the trails. Horses are also not allowed in the Preserve. Commercial - all formally organized events (races, music & art festivals, weddings, etc.) are required to apply for and comply with the Town’s events application process. Under no conditions will a commercial event (either for profit or non-profit) be conducted at a trailhead without prior written permission from the Town. 6. FINANCIALS a) OPERATIONAL BUDGET The Preserve is supported by a budget managed by Community Services. This is largely a placeholder budget within Community Services and is not actively managed by the MMPC. Budgetary items include provisions for trailhead utilities, trail signs, maps, etc. This budget also funds tools for use by SCFH for trail work. Large capital expenditures such as new construction projects are funded outside of this annual MMPC operating budget. b) FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES AND DONATION BOXES There are no formal fundraising activities in place to supplement the Preserve’s budget. Should such funding be warranted, the Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills (SCFH) would be a likely source to provide or raise money. Any projects requiring external funding must be approved by the MMPC prior to their pursuit. Fund-raising events are allowed in the Preserve (see Commercial Use requirements), yet the Town does not permit donation boxes at the trailheads or within the interior of the Preserve. 7. TRAIL DESIGN, MAINTENANCE AND DENSITY Expansion of the existing network of trails should be in compliance with the Guiding Principles of the Preserve. Consideration should be given to providing a diversity of experiences on Preserve trails. Trail density and usage (hikers only, hikers and bikers) should be considered in the planning of additional trails. Trail design should uphold minimalist construction techniques and be sensitive to impact on neighboring communities. Click here for a map of the current network of trails. Trail maintenance should be performed on an on-going and as-needed basis. Normal wear and tear by increased use warrants constant attention to the condition of the trails, while “surge” maintenance is required from unusual weather events (flooding, snow, rock slides, etc.). Maintenance would also include continuous improvement techniques to increase the safety aspects of the trails and/or improve the visitor experience. All such improvements require approval of the MMPC. Signage should be of a minimalist nature to the extent it offers the visitor safe and informative decisions while following the Town of FH sign regulations. The design should be consistent with existing signage - with the Ridgeline Trail offering a model for sign density and placement. The Version 01-05-2021 Page 6 MMPC approves all signage requirements, while the Town manages sign design and ordering. Sign installation and maintenance is performed by the SCFH. The three entrances to the Preserve: the ACT, the Sonoran Trail from the MMRP and the Andrews-Kinsey trail from the MSPand the GET, will have signs showing the Preserve map and Preserve rules. The beginning of each trail will have a sign indicating trail name, length, and difficulty rating. Secondary trails leading off main trails will have a sign indicating “To” the trail. Where appropriate additional signage will indicate scenic overlook sites, directional signs, and “bikers yield to hikers” signs. Trail naming has occasionally honored past volunteers who helped shape the Preserve in its early days. The current practice is that new trail names should be representative of the individual characteristics of the trail itself and its surroundings. The MMPC recommends the trail name to the Town Council for approval. The Difficulty Rating of Preserve trails ranges from “Easiest” to “Extremely Difficult”. The Difficulty Rating is a symbol, accompanied by a picture, which diagrams an average ‘Grade' of steepness providing users comparable visual images. Elevation Change was a metric previously applied to trails. In 2020 the MMPC chose to drop the use of Elevation Change on the trail signs and Preserve maps. Elevation Change lacks a universal definition and carries multiple interpretations that could mislead users. Trail counters are distributed at key locations along several trails and at the ACT. The intent of the trail counters is to capture generalized trends of hiker traffic across sections of the Preserve. Counter deployment is not intended to be trail specific. 8. TRAILHEAD DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE Trailhead planning and development is largely determined by Community Services. It remains the current intent, however, that the Trailheads at ACT and GET remain the main trailheads to the Preserve. Additional “Public Access Points” may be developed but not to the extent of the ACT or GET. Trailhead maintenance is essentially the responsibility of the Town, while the Conservancy (via the direction of the MMPC) maintains the Preserve’s interior. The MMPC directs all interior development and maintenance activities within the Preserve. 9. OVERUSE MANAGEMENT Visitor impact to the Preserve is of primary concern and care should be taken to ensure Preserve access and use remains within the bounds of the trailheads and trails as designated for the Preserve. Strict abidance of the Preserve rules, especially those pertaining to conservation practices, trail use, pets and trailhead use, will help lessen human impact to the Preserve. 10. LIMITATION OF AMENITIES The Guiding Principles provide for a minimalist approach to amenities in the Preserve. Although park benches were installed in the past, benches are now limited to their existing locations Version 01-05-2021 Page 7 around the ACT. Park benches are discouraged within the Preserve as they are inconsistent with the Guiding Principles. Lighting, water and restroom facilities are restricted to trailheads only. Any other amenities within the Preserve (flag poles, signage, monuments, etc.) must comply with the Guiding Principles and be approved by the MMPC. 11. EDUCATION AND OUTREACH The Preserve should be promoted and visitation encouraged via the Promotion and Outreach working group of the MMPC and in cooperation with Community Services and the Town. Any promotional pursuits and resulting activities must comply with the Guiding Principles, Town regulations and intended use of the Preserve. PRESERVE MAPS The MMPC is responsible for recommending edits to the Preserve maps while the Town maintains the masters. Community Services is responsible for ordering these maps as well as maintaining their supply at the following locations: - GET - GET guard shack - ACT - Kiosk at Town Hall - Kiosk at Community Center - Visitor center at Chamber of Commerce INFORMATION PLAQUES AND QR CODES Outside the trailheads, information plaques are currently limited to an illustrated bird chart on the Wayne Tall Trail, and a valley overview at the end of the Overlook Trail. Additional plaque and information signage within the interior of the Preserve require MMPC approval. However, note that these resources do not necessarily align with the Guiding Principles of the Preserve. QR codes were discontinued in 2019 due to their low adoption rate. PRESERVE WEB RESOURCES Two (2) websites are maintained by Community Services identifying the MMPC and the main features of the Preserve. The MMPC offers update recommendations for both of these sites. Additional Preserve and hiking resources can also be found on the Conservancy’s website at SCFH.org. 12. SAFETY Cell service is available from most trails within the Preserve. Version 01-05-2021 Page 8 Emergency Markers (EM) are distributed along the trails to aid in emergency response location identification. Each EM is labeled with sequential numbering leading away from the trailhead. Providing this information to dispatchers can aid in emergency response. Commencing with the construction of the Ridgeline Trail in the fall of 2020, EMs were deployed with less density (1/4 to 1/2 mile apart) than prior trails and placed around intersections and/or a distinguishing feature of the trail. Landing Zones (LZ) exist within the Preserve to assist in helicopter rescue efforts. Each LZ carries a unique identifier as noted on each LZ sign. In the fall of 2020, with the input of the Fountain Hills Fire Department, the MMPC decided to limit the number of landing zones to those pre-existing. No new landing zones would be constructed within the Preserve, while those pre- existing will be maintained for operational use. A Preserve Trails Rescue Plan is maintained by the Town via updates from the MMPC. This Plan is utilized by the Fountain Hills Fire Department to aid in emergency response within the Preserve. An AED is to be installed and maintained at the ACT. No AEDs are available at the GET. First Aid Kits are not available at the trailheads. The Town expressed liability concerns with maintaining such kits. However, the SCFH Trailhead Hosts (when present) are equipped with first aid kits. ADA accessibility is only available at the Preserve Trailheads. Security cameras in other Town parks have demonstrated minimal value in deterring theft and criminal activity It was decided in 2019 to not equip the trailheads with security cameras due to their insufficient cost/benefit. Doggy bags are supplied at the ACT and GET for use by dog owners to clean up after their dogs. They are not available within the interior of the Preserve. It was decided not to install a doggy bag dispenser at the entrance to the MMRP on the Dixie Mine Trail as that land is privately owned and not maintained by the Town. 13. RESEARCH The Preserve may host occasional research programs (flora, fauna, archeological, etc.) to improve our knowledge and preservation of the Sonoran Desert. Any such projects require the approval of a research plan to be submitted and approved by the MMPC. One such project is the Non-Native Invasive Plant program (NNIP). The NNIP program assesses the presence of non-native invasive plants within the Preserve and is a component of a larger assessment program within the Phoenix Valley. This program is spearheaded by the SCFH and includes assessment, recommendation and remediation phases. 14. ARCHEOLOGICAL FINDINGS Version 01-05-2021 Page 9 Any discovery of items suspected to have archeological value should be brought to the immediate attention of the MMPC. Upon such discovery, any and all activities that may disturb or harm these items should be paused while a formal assessment is undertaken by the MMPC. Findings formally authenticated to be of archeological significance will be detailed in this document and the MMPC will enact the necessary steps to ensure the preservation of the findings. 15. PRESERVE RIGHT OF WAY AND EASEMENT PROVISIONS The following lists all known rights of ways and easements per County records. Note that it is not the intent of the MMPC to promote development of the Emergency Access Road along the Promenade Trail, nor is it the Fountain Hills Fire Department’s intent to utilize such road for emergency response. More so, for the sake of public and first responder safety, it is advisable that pursuit of such a road first be reviewed with qualified, experience first responders and emergency management professionals who can council the Town of the inherent risks and mitigation requirements of such a pursuit. Name Number Date Relevance Main Preserve Deed Deed No. 011201371 2001 Identifies inventory of easement docs Toll Brothers Development Agreement Resolution No. 2018-11 Sect 5.3 2018 Provides provisions for emergency access road Grant of Reservoir and Access Easement - Eagles Nest 2001-1201365 2001 North water tank easement. Eagles Nest – South Side Reservoir 2001-1201366 2001 South Side Reservoir – no impact Promenade Trail Easement 2001-1201367 2001 Promenade Easement SRP Easement Docket 11016 Page 155 1975 Outlines broad easement rights within T3N R6E; establishes the right for power line towers across the Preserve Mtn Bell Right of Way Agreement Docket 10045 Page 237 1973 Same easement as SRP Final Settlement Agreement – Eagles Nest Plat Resolution No. 2014-08 2014 Page 64 references doc 1998-0727173 Grant of Easement - Eagles Nest 1998-0727173 1998 Easement connecting Eagles Nest to Eagle Ridge Drive FH General Plan 2010 Page 20 2010 References easement from GE Trailhead to MMRP Version 01-05-2021 Page 10 16. LIST OF REGULATIONS The Town maintains a list of regulations for the trailheads and the Preserve interior so as to ensure the integrity of the Preserve as well as ensuring public safety. These regulations can be found on the Town Code web site. 17. REVISION HISTORY 01-05-2021 Initial document release. ITEM 11. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT    Meeting Date: 03/30/2021 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 on Non-Native Plants Assessment Plan Staff Summary (Background) Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 03/25/2021 02:48 PM Final Approval Date: 03/25/2021  ITEM 12. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT    Meeting Date: 03/30/2021 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services Prepared by: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant Staff Contact Information: Rachael Goodwin, Community Services Director Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language):  REVIEW AND DISCUSSION of Trail Counter Activity and Trail Counter Recorder Staff Summary (Background) Attachments Trail Counter Activity  Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 03/25/2021 02:54 PM Final Approval Date: 03/25/2021  Estimated Not in service ACT restricted access start/stop Fountain Hills Trail Counter Activity Botanical Garden Trail Lake Overlook Trail Sonoran Trail - North End Andrews-Kinsey & Western Loop Trails Overlook & Ridgeline Trails ACT Promenade Gate ACT Parking Lot Entrance YTD Ttls 2017 Jan 6121 400 250 6771 Feb 8699 500 338 9537 Mar 8150 700 388 9238 Apr 5402 600 399 6401 May 3118 300 300 3718 Jun 2563 300 300 3163 Jul 2377 300 300 2977 Aug 1750 300 300 2350 Sep 2100 300 300 2700 Oct 4000 325 300 4625 Nov 5900 375 300 6575 Dec 7097 425 300 7822 2017 Total 0 57277 4825 3775 0 0 0 65877 2018 Jan 6984 483 240 7707 Feb 6448 737 1059 8244 Mar 2491 9948 1581 1461 15481 Apr 1262 5153 2409 500 9324 May 925 3356 898 300 5479 Jun 563 1816 1042 300 3721 Jul 439 1646 500 300 2885 Aug 370 1622 500 300 2792 Sep 650 1935 500 300 3385 Oct 1030 3715 500 450 5695 Nov 1630 5463 655 628 8376 Dec 2251 5001 487 2101 7363 17203 2018 Total 11611 53087 10292 7939 7363 90292 2019 Jan 2291 6969 677 2550 10237 22724 Feb 2467 5505 731 2250 9010 19963 Mar 3295 8080 1150 4150 16564 33239 Apr 1452 5488 1581 1879 6645 17045 May 945 3938 754 1212 666 7515 Jun 449 2471 254 115 183 3472 Jul 402 1736 152 200 200 2690 Aug 386 1533 200 200 200 2519 Sep 690 2588 350 300 300 4228 Oct 1087 3759 500 500 500 6346 Nov 1720 5496 652 700 700 9268 Dec 1818 3913 707 1083 1040 8561 2019 Total 17002 51476 7708 15139 46245 137570 2020 Jan 1904 7657 915 1676 1548 13700 Feb 3784 7230 1064 1284 1408 14770 Mar 4163 9112 1549 789 1342 2479 19434 Apr 1997 7423 1356 597 347 2163 13883 May 1335 5817 382 346 57 950 8887 Jun 933 2189 316 263 109 850 4660 Jul 633 2540 286 494 17 1100 5070 Aug 432 2410 278 365 20 865 4370 Sep 853 3031 511 188 74 400 5057 Oct 1231 4644 492 580 433 1500 8880 Nov 1767 6628 747 1500 1500 8013 20155 Dec 2070 6362 775 3000 3599 11747 9510 37063 2020 Total 21102 65043 8671 11082 7498 33023 9510 155929 2021 Jan 2430 7035 923 3831 4001 14103 9854 42177 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2021 Total 2430 7035 923 3831 4001 14103 9854 42177 67 7 1 95 3 7 92 3 8 64 0 1 37 1 8 31 6 3 29 7 7 23 5 0 27 0 0 46 2 5 65 7 5 78 2 2 77 0 7 82 4 4 15 4 8 1 93 2 4 54 7 9 37 2 1 28 8 5 27 9 2 33 8 5 56 9 5 83 7 6 17 2 0 3 22 7 2 4 19 9 6 3 33 2 3 9 17 0 4 5 75 1 5 34 7 2 26 9 0 25 1 9 42 2 8 63 4 6 92 6 8 85 6 1 13 7 0 0 14 7 7 0 19 4 3 4 13 8 8 3 88 8 7 46 6 0 50 7 0 43 7 0 50 5 7 88 8 0 20 1 5 5 37 0 6 3 42 1 7 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 30000 35000 40000 45000 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total Monthly Tallies 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 11 6 1 1 53 0 8 7 10 2 9 2 79 3 9 73 6 3 17 0 0 2 51 4 7 6 77 0 8 15 1 3 9 46 2 4 5 21 1 0 2 65 0 4 3 86 7 1 11 0 8 2 74 9 8 33 0 2 3 95 1 0 24 3 0 70 3 5 92 3 38 3 1 40 0 1 14 1 0 3 98 5 4 0 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000 60000 70000 Botanical Garden Trail Lake Overlook Trail Sonoran Trail - North End Andrews-Kinsey & Western Loop Trails Overlook & Ridgeline Trails ACT Promenade Gate ACT Parking Lot Entrance Annual Tallies 2018 2019 2020 2021 24 9 1 12 6 2 92 5 56 3 43 9 37 0 65 0 10 3 0 16 3 0 22 5 1 22 9 1 24 6 7 32 9 5 14 5 2 94 5 44 9 40 2 38 6 69 0 10 8 7 17 2 0 18 1 8 19 0 4 37 8 4 41 6 3 19 9 7 13 3 5 93 3 63 3 43 2 85 3 12 3 1 17 6 7 20 7 0 24 3 0 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Botanical Garden Trail 2018 2019 2020 2021 61 2 1 86 9 9 81 5 0 54 0 2 31 1 8 25 6 3 23 7 7 17 5 0 21 0 0 40 0 0 59 0 0 70 9 7 69 8 4 64 4 8 99 4 8 51 5 3 33 5 6 18 1 6 16 4 6 16 2 2 19 3 5 37 1 5 54 6 3 50 0 1 69 6 9 55 0 5 80 8 0 54 8 8 39 3 8 24 7 1 17 3 6 15 3 3 25 8 8 37 5 9 54 9 6 39 1 3 76 5 7 72 3 0 91 1 2 74 2 3 58 1 7 21 8 9 25 4 0 24 1 0 30 3 1 46 4 4 66 2 8 63 6 2 70 3 5 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Lake Overlook Trail 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 40 0 50 0 70 0 60 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 32 5 37 5 42 5 48 3 73 7 15 8 1 24 0 9 89 8 10 4 2 50 0 50 0 50 0 50 0 65 5 48 7 67 7 73 1 11 5 0 15 8 1 75 4 25 4 15 2 20 0 35 0 50 0 65 2 70 7 91 5 10 6 4 15 4 9 13 5 6 38 2 31 6 28 6 27 8 51 1 49 2 74 7 77 5 92 3 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Sonoran Trail - North End 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 25 0 33 8 38 8 39 9 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 024 0 10 5 9 14 6 1 50 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 30 0 45 0 62 8 21 0 1 25 5 0 22 5 0 41 5 0 18 7 9 12 1 2 11 5 20 0 20 0 30 0 50 0 70 0 10 8 3 16 7 6 12 8 4 78 9 59 7 34 6 26 3 49 4 36 5 18 8 58 0 15 0 0 30 0 0 38 3 1 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Andrews-Kinsey & Western Loop Trails 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 13 4 2 34 7 57 10 9 17 20 74 43 3 15 0 0 35 9 9 40 0 1 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Overlook & Ridgeline Trails 2020 2021 73 6 3 10 2 3 7 90 1 0 16 5 6 4 66 4 5 66 6 18 3 20 0 20 0 30 0 50 0 70 0 10 4 0 15 4 8 14 0 8 24 7 9 21 6 3 95 0 85 0 11 0 0 86 5 40 0 15 0 0 80 1 3 11 7 4 7 14 1 0 3 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 14000 16000 18000 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ACT Promenade Gate 2018 2019 2020 2021 95 1 0 98 5 4 9300 9400 9500 9600 9700 9800 9900 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ACT Parking Lot Entrance 2020 2021