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Home My WebLink AboutAGENDApacket__04-27-21_1209_232 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, APRIL 27, 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 April 27, 2021 2 of 4 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 OF Approving the March 30, 2021 Meeting Minutes 5.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Appointing of a Chairperson 6.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Appointing a Vice Chairperson 7.UPDATE on Adero Canyon Trailhead 8.DISCUSSION of Lower Ridgeline Trail Construction Progress/Signs 9.DISCUSSION of The Guidelines for Management of the Preserve 10.UPDATE on Non-Native Plants Assessment Plan 11.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION of Trail Counter Activity and Trail Counter Recorder 12.UPDATE on Community Services Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan 13.ADJOURNMENT McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of April 27, 2021 3 of 4 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 ______ day of ____________________, 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 April 27, 2021 4 of 4 ITEM 4. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Community Services Prepared by: Angela Padgett-Espiritu, Executive Assistant to Manager, Mayor/Council Staff Contact Information: Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): CONSIDERATION OF Approving the March 30, 2021 Meeting Minutes Staff Summary (Background) Attachments Meeting Minutes Form Review Form Started By: Angela Padgett-Espiritu Started On: 04/26/2021 07:57 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS MINUTES OF THE MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION MARCH 30, 2021 1.CALL TO ORDER 2.ROLL CALL PRESENT: Vice Chairman Scott Grzybowski, Commissioner Thomas Aiello, Commissioner Tom Barberic, Commissioner Janice Holden, Commissioner DJ Willard COMMISSIONER ABSENT: Commissioner Bill Craig 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. 4.CONSIDERATION of Approving the November 2 and 30, 2020 Meeting Minutes MOVED BY Vice Chairman Gryzbowski to approve with modification for typographical error to be reflect DJ Willard and not DJ Dillard on November 30, 2020 Minutes, SECONDED BY Commissioner Barberic. Vote: 5-0 Unanimously Moved by Commissioner DJ Willard, seconded by Commissioner Janice Holden tEST Vote: 5 - 0 - Unanimously 5.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Appointing a Chairperson 5.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Appointing a Chairperson Vice Chairman Grzybowski lead the discussion on whether to hold a vote until the seat is filled by the new incoming Commissioner that is to be filled in April. Commssioner Barberic would like all seven members to vote. Ms. Goodwin informed the Commission that interviews were set for April. It was agreed that the vote for Chairman and Vice Chairman would be delayed until the next meeting. 6.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Appointing a Vice Chairperson Vice Chairman Grzybowski lead the discussion on whether to hold a vote until the seat is filled by the new incoming Commissioner that is to be filled in April. Commssioner Barberic would like all seven members to vote. Ms. Goodwin informed the Commission that interviews were set for April. It was agreed that the vote for Chairman and Vice Chairman would be delayed until the next meeting. 7.UPDATE on Adero Canyon Trailhead Ms. Goodwin shared that a power is holding up the opening of the restroom. A press release will be put out once the restrooms are up and running. Commissioner Barberic spoke about parking on the street and if there is foreseeable problem with additional homes going in. Ms. Goodwin mentioned that there have been offers from Adero Canyon to run shuttles. Commissiner Aiello added that there are no signs prohibiting parking on side of road. Discussion of additional parking options was discussed by Ms. Goodwin which will be in Phase II. 8.DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Potential New Trailhead and Trail from Sunridge Drive Ms. Goodwin conveyed the importance of trail connectivity. Commissioner Barberic stated that the new trail will not be easy to build. 9.DISCUSSION of Lower Ridgeline Trail Construction Progress Commissioner Barberic informed the Commission that decent progress is being made to get done by April. They have made it to the crest and making way down to Ridgeline on schedule. Commissioner Aiello stated that there will be a Phase 3. 10.DISCUSSION of The Guidelines for Management of the Preserve Discussion was tabled until April as not all Commissioners had an opportunity to read The Guidelines for Management of the Preserve. 11.UPDATE on Non-Native Plants Assessment Plan McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of March 30, 2021 2 of 3 11.UPDATE on Non-Native Plants Assessment Plan Commissioner Holden reported no rain has provided little change. They have been identifying, observing and logging what is being seen and how much. 12.REVIEW AND DISCUSSION of Trail Counter Activity and Trail Counter Recorder Vice Chairman Grzybowski will reach out to Stan Rudan to see if he will continue his work as trail counter. 13.UPDATE on Community Services Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan Ms. Goodwin informed the Commission the Master Plan will be going before Council on April 20, 2021 to hear firsthand the results and findings. Upon completion of edits and revisions it will go before Council for final endorsement in May. 14.ADJOURNMENT MOVED BY Comissioner Barberic, SECONDED BY Commissioner Aiello to adjourn Vote: 5-0 Unanimously The McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Adjourned at 6:05pm COMMUNITY SERVICES ADVISORY COMMISSION __________________________________________ Amy Arnold, Chairperson ATTEST AND PREPARED BY: ________________________________ Patti Lopuszanski, Executive Assistant McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Meeting of March 30, 2021 3 of 3 ITEM 5. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Administration Prepared by: Angela Padgett-Espiritu, Executive Assistant to Manager, Mayor/Council Staff Contact Information: Request to McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission (Agenda Language): DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION of Appointing of a Chairperson Staff Summary (Background) Form Review Form Started By: Angela Padgett-Espiritu Started On: 04/26/2021 08:00 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 ITEM 6. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 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 CONSIDERATION of Appointing a Vice Chairperson Staff Summary (Background) Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 04/26/2021 08:26 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 ITEM 7. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 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 on Adero Canyon Trailhead Staff Summary (Background) Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 04/26/2021 08:27 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 ITEM 8. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 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 of Lower Ridgeline Trail Construction Progress/Signs Staff Summary (Background) Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 04/26/2021 08:28 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 ITEM 9. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 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 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: 04/26/2021 08:21 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 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 10. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 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: 04/26/2021 08:20 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 ITEM 11. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 Meeting Type: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Administration Prepared by: Angela Padgett-Espiritu, Executive Assistant to Manager, Mayor/Council Staff Contact Information: 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: Angela Padgett-Espiritu Started On: 04/26/2021 07:35 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 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 2341 2307 983 4080 4703 14268 13164 41846 Mar 4006 9677 970 4402 4819 15317 13652 52843 Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2021 Total 8777 19019 2876 12313 13523 43688 36670 136866 ITEM 12. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 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 on Community Services Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan Staff Summary (Background) Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 04/26/2021 08:17 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021 ITEM 13. TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: 04/27/2021 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): ADJOURNMENT Staff Summary (Background) Form Review Form Started By: Patti Lopuszanski Started On: 04/26/2021 08:24 AM Final Approval Date: 04/26/2021