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Home My WebLink About020410PZ:\Council Packets\2010\R2-4-2010\100204A.docx Last printed 1/27/2010 5:40 PM Page 1 of 3 NOTICE OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE FOUNTAIN HILLS TOWN COUNCIL TIME: 6:30 P.M. - REGULAR SESSION WHEN: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2010 WHERE: FOUNTAIN HILLS COUNCIL CHAMBERS 16705 E. AVENUE OF THE FOUNTAINS, FOUNTAIN HILLS, AZ PROCEDURE FOR ADDRESSING THE COUNCIL Anyone wishing to speak before the Council must fill out a speaker’s card and submit it to the Town Clerk prior to Council discussion of that Agenda item. Speaker Cards are located in the Council Chamber Lobby and near the Clerk’s position on the dais. Speakers will be called in the order in which the speaker cards were received either by the Clerk or the Mayor. At that time, speakers should stand and approach the podium. Speakers are asked to state their name prior to commenting and to direct their comments to the Presiding Officer and not to individual Councilmembers. Speakers’ statements should not be repetitive. If a speaker chooses not to speak when called, the speaker will be deemed to have waived his or her opportunity to speak on the matter. Speakers may not (i) reserve a portion of their time for a later time or (ii) transfer any portion of their time to another speaker. If there is a Public Hearing, please submit the speaker card to speak to that issue during the Public Hearing. Individual speakers will be allowed three contiguous minutes to address the Council. Time limits may be waived by (i) discretion of the Town Manager upon request by the speaker not less than 24 hours prior to a Meeting, (ii) consensus of the Council at Meeting or (iii) the Mayor either prior to or during a Meeting. Please be respectful when making your comments. If you do not comply with these rules, you will be asked to leave. Mayor Jay T. Schlum Councilmember Mike Archambault Councilmember Ginny Dickey Councilmember Dennis Brown Vice Mayor Cassie Hansen Councilmember Dennis Contino Councilmember Henry Leger Z:\Council Packets\2010\R2-4-2010\100204A.docx Last printed 1/27/2010 5:40 PM Page 2 of 3  CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Mayor Schlum  INVOCATION – Carolyn Goldberg, President of Temple Beth Hagivot  ROLL CALL – Mayor Schlum  MAYOR’S REPORT (i) A review of upcoming community events. (ii) The Mayor will read a proclamation declaring February 13, 2010, as Public Safety Appreciation Day. CALL TO THE PUBLIC Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431-01(G), public comment is permitted (not required) on matters not listed on the agenda. Any such comment (i) must be within the jurisdiction of the Council and (ii) is subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. The Council 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 Councilmembers may (i) respond to criticism, (ii) ask staff to review a matter or (iii) ask that the matter be placed on a future Council agenda. CONSENT AGENDA 1. CONSIDERATION of approving the TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES from January 12 and 21, 2010. 2. CONSIDERATION of a FINAL REPLAT FOR A LOT JOIN at 10251 N. Nicklaus Drive, aka Plat 401-B, Block 3, Lot 8. (APN’s 176-10-031 and 176-10-073A). Case#S2010-02. 3. CONSIDERATION of a SPECIAL EVENT APPLICATION for the GREAT FAIR sponsored by the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce to be held February 26, 2010 through February 28, 2010, and will require closure of parts of Avenue of the Fountains, Parkview Ave., Verde River Drive and Saguaro Blvd. 4. CONSIDERATION of a SPECIAL EVENT LIQUOR LICENSE APPLICATION submitted by Tait Daniel Elkie (Veterans of Foreign War Post 7507) for the purpose of a fundraising event (Great Fair), located at Saguaro Blvd and Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ, scheduled to be held on February 26, 27, 2010, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and February 28, 2010, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. REGULAR AGENDA 5. CONSIDERATION of the EXPENDITURE in the amount of $30,269.00 (plus tax) to Precision Electric Company, for the repair of Fountain Lake pump #2. 6. PRESENTATION by Audra Koester Thomas, Chair of the Strategic Planning Advisory Commission, and DISCUSSION of the Strategic Plan Update Working Paper #2: VISIONING REPORT. 7. CONSIDERATION of a TEMPORARY USE PERMIT for a “Farmers’ Market”, repeating outdoor retail sales events for 2010. Case#TU2010-01. Z:\Council Packets\2010\R2-4-2010\100204A.docx Last printed 1/27/2010 5:40 PM Page 3 of 3 8. CONSIDERATION of a proposed PRELIMINARY MASTER PLAT for “Fountain Hills ASLD”, located all, or in part, in Maricopa County Township 3 North, Range 6 East, Sections 1,2, and 3. Case# S2009-07. 9. COUNCIL DISCUSSION/DIRECTION to the Town Manager. Items listed below are related only to the propriety of (i) placing such items on a future agenda for action or (ii) directing staff to conduct further research and report back to the Council: A. None. 10. SUMMARY of COUNCIL REQUESTS and REPORT ON RECENT ACTIVITIES by the Town Manager. 11. ADJOURNMENT. DATED this 28th day of January 2010. Bevelyn J. Bender, Town Clerk The Town of Fountain Hills endeavors to make all public meetings accessible to persons with disabilities. Please call 480-816-5100 (voice) or 1-800-367-8939 (TDD) 48 hours prior to the meeting to request a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting or to obtain agenda information in large print format. Supporting documentation and staff reports furnished the Council with this agenda are available for review in the Clerk’s office. Z:\Council Packets\2010\R2-4-2010\100204A.docx Last printed 1/27/2010 5:40 PM Page 1 of 3 NOTICE OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE FOUNTAIN HILLS TOWN COUNCIL TIME: 6:30 P.M. - REGULAR SESSION WHEN: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2010 WHERE: FOUNTAIN HILLS COUNCIL CHAMBERS 16705 E. AVENUE OF THE FOUNTAINS, FOUNTAIN HILLS, AZ PROCEDURE FOR ADDRESSING THE COUNCIL Anyone wishing to speak before the Council must fill out a speaker’s card and submit it to the Town Clerk prior to Council discussion of that Agenda item. Speaker Cards are located in the Council Chamber Lobby and near the Clerk’s position on the dais. Speakers will be called in the order in which the speaker cards were received either by the Clerk or the Mayor. At that time, speakers should stand and approach the podium. Speakers are asked to state their name prior to commenting and to direct their comments to the Presiding Officer and not to individual Councilmembers. Speakers’ statements should not be repetitive. If a speaker chooses not to speak when called, the speaker will be deemed to have waived his or her opportunity to speak on the matter. Speakers may not (i) reserve a portion of their time for a later time or (ii) transfer any portion of their time to another speaker. If there is a Public Hearing, please submit the speaker card to speak to that issue during the Public Hearing. Individual speakers will be allowed three contiguous minutes to address the Council. Time limits may be waived by (i) discretion of the Town Manager upon request by the speaker not less than 24 hours prior to a Meeting, (ii) consensus of the Council at Meeting or (iii) the Mayor either prior to or during a Meeting. Please be respectful when making your comments. If you do not comply with these rules, you will be asked to leave. Mayor Jay T. Schlum Councilmember Mike Archambault Councilmember Ginny Dickey Councilmember Dennis Brown Vice Mayor Cassie Hansen Councilmember Dennis Contino Councilmember Henry Leger Z:\Council Packets\2010\R2-4-2010\100204A.docx Last printed 1/27/2010 5:40 PM Page 2 of 3  CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Mayor Schlum  INVOCATION – Carolyn Goldberg, President of Temple Beth Hagivot  ROLL CALL – Mayor Schlum  MAYOR’S REPORT (i) A review of upcoming community events. (ii) The Mayor will read a proclamation declaring February 13, 2010, as Public Safety Appreciation Day. CALL TO THE PUBLIC Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431-01(G), public comment is permitted (not required) on matters not listed on the agenda. Any such comment (i) must be within the jurisdiction of the Council and (ii) is subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. The Council 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 Councilmembers may (i) respond to criticism, (ii) ask staff to review a matter or (iii) ask that the matter be placed on a future Council agenda. CONSENT AGENDA 1. CONSIDERATION of approving the TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES from January 12 and 21, 2010. 2. CONSIDERATION of a FINAL REPLAT FOR A LOT JOIN at 10251 N. Nicklaus Drive, aka Plat 401-B, Block 3, Lot 8. (APN’s 176-10-031 and 176-10-073A). Case#S2010-02. 3. CONSIDERATION of a SPECIAL EVENT APPLICATION for the GREAT FAIR sponsored by the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce to be held February 26, 2010 through February 28, 2010, and will require closure of parts of Avenue of the Fountains, Parkview Ave., Verde River Drive and Saguaro Blvd. 4. CONSIDERATION of a SPECIAL EVENT LIQUOR LICENSE APPLICATION submitted by Tait Daniel Elkie (Veterans of Foreign War Post 7507) for the purpose of a fundraising event (Great Fair), located at Saguaro Blvd and Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ, scheduled to be held on February 26, 27, 2010, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and February 28, 2010, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. REGULAR AGENDA 5. CONSIDERATION of the EXPENDITURE in the amount of $30,269.00 (plus tax) to Precision Electric Company, for the repair of Fountain Lake pump #2. 6. PRESENTATION by Audra Koester Thomas, Chair of the Strategic Planning Advisory Commission, and DISCUSSION of the Strategic Plan Update Working Paper #2: VISIONING REPORT. 7. CONSIDERATION of a TEMPORARY USE PERMIT for a “Farmers’ Market”, repeating outdoor retail sales events for 2010. Case#TU2010-01. Z:\Council Packets\2010\R2-4-2010\100204A.docx Last printed 1/27/2010 5:40 PM Page 3 of 3 8. CONSIDERATION of a proposed PRELIMINARY MASTER PLAT for “Fountain Hills ASLD”, located all, or in part, in Maricopa County Township 3 North, Range 6 East, Sections 1,2, and 3. Case# S2009-07. 9. COUNCIL DISCUSSION/DIRECTION to the Town Manager. Items listed below are related only to the propriety of (i) placing such items on a future agenda for action or (ii) directing staff to conduct further research and report back to the Council: A. None. 10. SUMMARY of COUNCIL REQUESTS and REPORT ON RECENT ACTIVITIES by the Town Manager. 11. ADJOURNMENT. DATED this 28th day of January 2010. Bevelyn J. Bender, Town Clerk The Town of Fountain Hills endeavors to make all public meetings accessible to persons with disabilities. Please call 480-816-5100 (voice) or 1-800-367-8939 (TDD) 48 hours prior to the meeting to request a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting or to obtain agenda information in large print format. Supporting documentation and staff reports furnished the Council with this agenda are available for review in the Clerk’s office. Support and Enjoy our Local Restaurants,Stores and other Businesses ◦Great Food, Merchandise, Services and Experiences are here in Fountain Hills ◦Your support of Local Businesses helps to strengthen our community Thursday’s Noon-Dusk Art on the Avenue Downtown FH Feb. 4-7th Great Fair Sr. Softball Tournament Golden Eagle Park Sat., Feb. 6th 9-3PM FH Coin & Car Show FH Presbyterian Church Sat., Feb. 13th 10-2PM Public Safety Appreciation Day Fountain Park Fountain Hills High School Sports ~ Basketball / Soccer / Wrestling ◦High School State Tournaments are underway check www.AiAonLine.org February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 1 February 4, 2010 Presentation to Council Strategic Planning Advisory Commission Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Tonight’s Presentation • Strategic Plan Update Process • Phase II Process Overview • Values and Vision • Next Steps Strategic Plan Update 2009-2010 February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 2 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Strategic Plan Update Process •Phase I:Strategic Plan Audit (June – July 2009): Strategic Plan Gap Analysis •Phase II:Education and Affirmation (August – December 2009): Visioning Report •Phase III:Construction (January - March 2010): Draft Plan Update •Phase IV:Plan Adoption (April 2010) Strategic Plan Update 2009-2010 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Phase I Purpose • Evaluate current Strategic Plan – Status of strategic activities – Evaluation of tool – Revisit Plan values – Revisit Plan priorities • Identify ‘gaps’ of Strategic Plan – Implementation of strategic activities – Usefulness as a tool – Relevance of values and priorities Phase I: Strategic Plan Audit February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 3 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Evaluation of 2005 Values • Strong, continued support – Preserve small town character – Community participation, involvement and volunteerism – Environment – Public safety • Need more study – Cultural diversity – Recreational opportunities – Education • Emerging, new values? – Economic vitality – Health and welfare – Environmental sustainability Phase I: Strategic Plan Audit Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Phase II Overview •Purpose:Visioning •Product:Values and Strategic Vision •Activities: – Feedback Session – Issues Forums – Youth Visioning – Organizational and Stakeholder Presentations – Planning Team meetings – Executive Staff meetings – Council Retreat; Council Workshop – Town Commissions Total participants in Phase II: over 300 Total participation in process and information sharing: over 1,000 Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 4 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Discovering Values and Vision Questions we asked following our Phase I feedback: • What does “sense of community”, “small town feel”, and “quality of life” mean to you? • What change to our community would bother you most? • What are the answers to “not enough to do” for youth, adults, seniors? • What is the role of commuting and local employment? • How do we maintain and increase our property values and community investments? • What are the ingredients to a vibrant community? Phase II: Visioning Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Discovering Values and Vision Questions we asked following our Phase I feedback, continued: • What do you like about Fountain Hills today? • What do you want for the future of Fountain Hills? • What do you not want to see happen in the future? Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 5 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Issue Forums Phase II: Visioning November 4 and 19 Issue Forums Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Youth Visioning Phase II: Visioning Fountain Hills High School Visioning Dialogues February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 6 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Youth Visioning Phase II: Visioning Boys & Girls Club Town Visioning Activity Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Great Visions …in their own words Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 7 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Great Visions …in their own words Phase II: Visioning Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Great Visions …in their own words Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 8 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 After consumption of all feedback… (nearly 100 pages of raw feedback) Phase II: Visioning Phase II 100 most frequently used words; does not include youth letters Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Results of Phase I & II: Values and Vision Values • Civility • Civic Responsibility • Environmental Stewardship • Economic Vitality • Education, Learning and Culture • Maintain and Improve Community Infrastructure • Public Safety, Health and Welfare • Recreational Opportunities and Amenities Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 9 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Value: Civility What does valuing civility mean? • Friendly, welcoming atmosphere • Civil discourse is encouraged and expected • Value seeing friends and neighbors • Like being greeted by name at merchants • Sense of belonging Phase II: Visioning Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Value: Civic Responsibility What does valuing civic responsibility mean? • Commitment to volunteerism • Citizen’s contribute to Town’s success • Foster open and engaging government • Accessibility to leadership Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 10 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Value: Environmental Stewardship What does valuing environmental stewardship mean? • Protection of majestic views and important viewsheds • Stewardship of Sonoran Desert and its flora and fauna • Prevention of noise, air, water, light pollution • Fostering innovation and conservating resources (energy) Phase II: Visioning Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Value: Economic Vitality What does valuing economic vitality mean? • Reduce number of trips residents take out of Fountain Hills • Increase the time (and money) visitors spend in Fountain Hills • Develop a mixed-use Town core where we can live, work, learn and play • Economic development activities that support vitality and sustainability Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 11 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Value: Education, Learning and Culture What does valuing education, learning and culture mean? • Provide quality education and training • Access to fine arts and culturally enriching opportunities and amenities • Nurturing life long learning opportunities Phase II: Visioning Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Value: Maintain and Improve Community Infrastructure What does valuing the maintenance and improvement of community infrastructure mean? • Quality infrastructure and facility maintenance: streets, sidewalks, parks, streetscape, buildings, etc. • Maintain a clean and appealing community • Investing in our future: Town revenue diversification and equalization of community maintenance Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 12 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Value: Public Safety, Health and Welfare What does valuing public safety, health and welfare mean? • Sense of security and safety of residents and visitors • Value personal health and welfare • Promotion of healthy lifestyles • Accessibility to quality healthcare amenities • Nurture the peaceful serenity of the community Phase II: Visioning Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Value: Recreational Opportunities and Amenities What does valuing recreational opportunities and amenities mean? • Parks, pathway/bike network • Connectivity of recreational resources and activity centers • Recreational programming for all ages • Community events, celebrations and activities— reasons to gather • Entertainment options Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 13 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 SPAC’s Visioning Retreat Phase II: Visioning Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Vision Fountain Hills is a distinctive community designed to invigorate the body, mind and spirit, and strives to: •Be stewards of this unique enclave, dedicated to preserving the visual aesthetic and experience and to living in balance with the Sonoran Desert; •Champion the diversity of experiences our residents bring to our community and rely on this depth of experience to innovatively address our challenges; •Be economically sustainable and anchor our vitality in an active, vibrant town core that serves us culturally, socially and economically; and, •Be civic-minded and friendly, taking responsibility for our Town’s success by building partnerships and investing our talent and resources. Phase II: Visioning February 4, 2010 SPAC Phase II Council Presentation 14 Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Next Step: Phase III • Draft Strategic Plan Development – Construct Draft Strategic Plan – Receive public feedback – Hold joint Council/SPAC meeting March 30 Phase III: Construction Strategic Plan Update: 2009-2010 Questions and Comments? Strategic Plan Update 2009-2010 Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Strategic Planning Advisory Commission Strategic Plan Update January 2010 Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Table of Contents Background 2009-2010 Strategic Plan Update: Phase II.......................................................................................................1 What is the Visioning Report?.................................................................................................................................1 Refining the Dialogue.............................................................................................................................................2 Values and Vision...................................................................................................................................................2 Values ..........................................................................................................................................................................3 Vision............................................................................................................................................................................6 Appendix A: Feedback Session #2 Responses.................................................................................................................A-1 B: Issue Forum Summaries..................................................................................................................................B-1 Issue Forum #1: November 4, 2009..........................................................................................................B-1 Issue Forum #2: November 7, 2009..........................................................................................................B-7 Issue Forum #3: November 19, 2009......................................................................................................B-11 C: Organizational Meetings Summaries.........................................................................................................C-1 McDowell Mountain Elementary School Open House.............................................................................C-1 Fountain Hills Middle School Open House ................................................................................................C-1 Fountain Hills High School Open House.....................................................................................................C-1 Business Vitality Advisory Council Meeting...............................................................................................C-1 Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting....................................................................................................C-1 Council Retreat...............................................................................................................................................C-2 Planning Team Meeting................................................................................................................................C-2 Friends of the Hills..........................................................................................................................................C-4 Senior Services Advisory Commission/Community Center Advisory Commission..............................C-4 Chamber Business Showcase........................................................................................................................C-4 Public Safety Advisory Commission............................................................................................................C-4 Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission.............................................................................................C-4 Men’s Discussion Group.................................................................................................................................C-5 Fountain Hills Herb Society and Garden Club.........................................................................................C-6 D: Youth Visioning ..............................................................................................................................................D-1 E: Youth Letters....................................................................................................................................................E-1 F: Other Phase II Feedback..............................................................................................................................F-1 Fountain Hills Strategic Plan Update Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Background 2009-2010 Strategic Plan Update: Phase II In early 2009, SPAC recognized the forthcoming planning horizon of the Strategic Plan and submitted a public involvement plan to Council for the update of its Strategic Plan. This report summarizes the feedback received during Phase II of the four-phased Strategic Plan Update program: Phase 1: Strategic Plan Audit (June – July 2009): Evaluate the current Fountain Hills Strategic Plan and conduct a gap analysis. Phase II: Education and Affirmation (August – November 2009): Educate residents and leaders on the changing realities facing Fountain Hills. Phase III: Construction (November 2009 – February 2010): Reconstruct a Strategic Plan that addresses the vision of Fountain Hills. Phase IV: Plan Adoption (February – March 2010): Provide to Council a citizen-endorsed Strategic Plan Update that addresses the vision and values of Fountain Hills. The end product will be an update of the Town’s Strategic Plan, grounded in a citizen- driven Vision, and crafted in a way that proves to be a useful tool for Council. What is the Visioning Report? The purpose of this report is to translate the feedback received in Phases I and II into key vision components which will serve as the foundation for the Strategic Plan Update. Phase II of the Strategic Plan Update was intended to further investigate issues and ideas offered during Phase I of the process; in doing so, SPAC designed Phase II around the gaps identified during Phase I, or, those issues that needed further clarification and dialogue. While the report provides a summary review of the feedback received, all raw data (including responses from Feedback Session Form #2, Issue Forum small group discussion summaries, and meeting notes) can be found in the report’s appendix. This feedback not only serves to validate community values and vision, but the specific ideas and opportunities shared with SPAC by residents will be used as the strategies and initiatives of the Strategic Plan Update (Phase III). In total, over 300 people participated in Phase II activities (Issue Forums, Feedback Sessions, and Youth Visioning) and nearly 600 others attended meetings and events where SPAC provided presentations or facilitated discussions with participants regarding the Strategic Plan Update. To date, over 1,000 individuals have participated in the Update process, or have attended a meeting or event where SPAC solicited feedback. Combined with eNewsletter outreach through the Town and Chamber, as well as continued coverage in the Fountain Hills Times and Scottsdale Republic, SPAC has communicated the Strategic Plan Update to thousands. January 2010 Page 1 Fountain Hills Strategic Plan Update Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Refining the Dialogue As outlined in Working Paper #1, the Strategic Plan Gap Analysis evaluated the Strategic Plan’s implementation and identified what, if any, strategic questions existed in citizens’ values and vision for the Town’s future. Based on the analysis and feedback received during Phase I of the Update process, the following questions were asked to help refine community values and outline a vision for our future: • What does “sense of community” and “small town feel” mean? What aspects contribute to “quality of life”? • What one change to this community would bother you the most? • What are the answers to ‘there’s not enough to do in Fountain Hills’? For seniors? For families? For young adults? For youth? • How long are commutes for Fountain Hill’s residents? Where do residents of Fountain Hills currently work? What resources are needed to increase employment? • How do we protect our precious investments; how do we retain or increase our property values? • What are the ingredients to a vibrant, exciting community? How do we balance the natural serenity with vibrant economy? • Looking into the future, what do you not want to see happen in Fountain Hills? • What are your ideas for improving the financial stability of Fountain Hills? SPAC used these questions to design several public feedback instruments, including the online and paper Feedback Session Form #2, small group discussion questions for three Issue Forums and various organizational dialogues, as well as at the discussion guide for the Youth Visioning Day at Fountain Hills High School. Values and Vision As part of the original Strategic Plan, value statements were identified as those words and phrases most repeated during early phases of the effort. As part of the Strategic Plan Update, SPAC revisited the words previously identified to see if each reflected the present desires of our residents. After review of the feedback received, SPAC revised the values and crafted a vision. Taken independently, these values will serve as the ‘focus areas’, or skeleton, in which the Strategic Plan Update is built; taken together, these value statements paint a strategic vision for the community. January 2010 Page 2 Fountain Hills Strategic Plan Update Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Values Civility In Phase I of the update process, residents often used terms like “sense of community” and “small town feel” to describe what they liked best about Fountain Hills. In Phase II, SPAC asked residents to define what these terms meant to ensure that the Strategic Plan addressed the core features of our special community. What residents told us was that they valued the friendly atmosphere of Fountain Hills and the sense of civility of our community. Respondents told us that they value seeing their friends and neighbors out on a walk or being greeted by name at area merchants. Others noted that the friendliness of Fountain Hills residents was what they first noticed when they arrived in Town. In short, residents often reminded us that our community provides a simple, but often forgotten, aspect of humanity: a sense of belonging. Civic Responsibility Many participants remarked on the shared sense of volunteerism, accessibility to governance and the ability for the community to come together to meet challenges as what they liked most about Fountain Hills. Residents defined a sense of community as the “peaceful relationship with the people and the town government” and the inspiring sense of volunteerism in Town: “A community is often defined by the number of volunteer organizations that are active in community activities.” Participants recognized how volunteerism builds community connectivity and ties citizens to the Town’s success. Participants remarked at the openness of government and accessibility of leadership in Fountain Hills. Residents emphasized the importance of fostering accessible leadership and told us they expect an open and engaging government. Environmental Stewardship Residents value the incredible views and the ability to live in harmony with the wild animals and native plants of the Sonoran Desert. Residents also recognize that this extraordinary environment is fragile and that coexistence involves a special level of stewardship. Residents want to prevent noise, air and water pollution, and encourage the use of energy conservation technologies which are compatible with our desertscape. Environmental stewardship is also a priority of our youth; kids told us if they were Council Member for a day, they “would not let anyone litter” and hoped that one day we wouldn’t need gas to run our cars. Residents also noted the desire to preserve our dark skies, viewsheds and ridgelines that make Fountain Hills a unique enclave in the greater Valley. After reviewing all of the feedback, it is clear that residents want to ensure we remain at the height of desert living! January 2010 Page 3 Fountain Hills Strategic Plan Update Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Economic Vitality Residents told us that they’d like fewer excuses to leave Town and more reasons to play and stay in the community. Residents remarked that we simply need “to find ways to keep people here more than the five minutes they stay to take a picture of the fountain!” The joint efforts of the Town, Chamber and Business Vitality Advisory Council have not gone unnoticed by the community; numerous residents echoed support for the Downtown vision designed by Swaback Partners earlier this year. At its core, the vision integrates compact mixed-use (live, work, learn, play) development with pedestrian-friendly design. Youth and adults alike remarked that a concept that brings quality restaurants and focused retail opportunities matched with entertainment venues scaled to suit our small Town is desired and needed in order to be a full-service, sustainable community. As such, the Town must continue to facilitate economic vitality by supporting quality business development and investment at a scale of development that is comfortable for residents. Education, Learning and Culture We were reminded again of the importance our community places on providing quality, continuing educational opportunities; we heard from students, adults and seniors that we cannot demand less than the best educational resources for our community and access to fine art and cultural amenities. When asked about his “favorite things” about living in Fountain Hills, kids told us that they liked “…the pretty statues in Fountain Hills Park,” for example. When visiting with the Senior Services Advisory Commission and Community Center Advisory Commission in a joint meeting this fall, Commissioners shared that continuing education and training, especially for baby- boomers and residents in job transition, are important considerations, and an amenity our community should continue to support. Maintain and Improve Community Infrastructure While our iconic feature, our world famous fountain, remains a treasure, residents noted it’s not just the fountain we need to care for. Respondents routinely remarked that maintaining quality infrastructure across Town assets and continued maintenance of our community serves as our foundation for success. Many respondents specifically sited the need to maintain infrastructure like streets and sidewalks, and protect amenities, such as parks and streetscape, as basic ingredients to community sustainability. Additionally, participants underscored the importance of a sustainable revenue structure for Fountain Hills, and encouraged leadership to continue to explore revenue diversification, including revisiting the discussion regarding a property January 2010 Page 4 Fountain Hills Strategic Plan Update Working Paper #2: Visioning Report tax, and investigating other vehicles to equalize the cost of maintenance across all property owners. Public Safety, Health and Welfare The sense of security and safety of residents and visitors has routinely been cited as a value of residents and it’s been made clear that the public safety and personal security of our residents cannot be compromised. However, as part of Phase I and II of this process, we learned that it’s more than just public safety that our community values; concern for personal health and welfare was also highlighted. Participants described Fountain Hills as a place that simply “pampers your psyche”. As our society grows more heath conscious, many participants remarked that Fountain Hills is already providing the kind of environment people are seeking for a healthier lifestyle: hiking and biking trails, access to quality healthcare amenities (like Mayo Clinic), and the restful, peaceful serenity of our community are all amenities that Fountain Hills should continue to foster. Recreational Opportunities and Amenities Many residents told us that what builds sense of community are the amenities and opportunities that allow people to recreate, participate and have fun together. Our Town’s parks, recreational programming and senior services are noted and appreciated, and residents desire that these amenities remain undiminished. However, youth and elders alike encouraged us to find more ways for community members to gather and have fun together; festivals, parades, community events at Fountain Park, and public plazas for neighbors to casually gather were some of the ideas shared by participants. The values identified by residents of Fountain Hills are not mutually exclusive from each other; continued investment in and stewardship of recreational amenities in our community help to support the other principals of our community. Many participants recognized the shared value of recreational amenities in Fountain Hills, such as “sidewalks, paths, trails, and bike lanes, reduce automobile use, contribute to protection of the environment, provide recreational and physical exercise opportunities to citizens, and take advantage of Fountain Hills’ closeness to the Sonoran Desert. All of these objectives will help Fountain Hills continue to have a desirable quality of life that will foster economic vitality and support property values.” January 2010 Page 5 Fountain Hills Strategic Plan Update Working Paper #2: Visioning Report January 2010 Page 6 Vision Fountain Hills is a distinctive community designed to invigorate the body, mind and spirit, and strives to: • Be stewards of this unique enclave, dedicated to preserving the visual aesthetic and experience and to living in balance with the Sonoran Desert; • Champion the diversity of experiences our residents bring to our community and rely on this depth of experience to innovatively address our challenges; • Be economically sustainable and anchor our vitality in an active, vibrant town core that serves us culturally, socially and economically; and, • Be civic-minded and friendly, taking responsibility for our Town’s success by building partnerships and investing our talent and resources. Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Appendix A: Feedback Session #2 Responses The following contains all comments, unedited, that were received through Feedback Session #2. Each bullet represents the comments submitted on that particular question by an individual respondent. Feedback Session #1 went live on September 22 and was closed on November 20. Total Participants: 105 1. How would you define the term “sense of community”? What does having a “sense of community” mean to you? • A sense of common interest in where we live, meaning active participation in community events. • Togetherness • I'm not sure. I really don't uderstand this question. I don't know what "sense of community" means or is. Do you know? • Active, vibrant, multi generational with options for all residents to live, work learn and play • Belonging to a town that is cared for with dignity and respect for the land and loved for it's beauty and the all the people living within it's hallowed mountains • It is when residents are vocally proud that they live in that community. It is heard in speaking and shown by car stickers, tee shirts, etc that indicate such pride. • I think you're doing a great job with community activities. People really look out for each other, which is a great safety feature. • Having a walkable central area with small businesses and attractive gathering and "lingering" areas. • I like the quaint feeling of FH. "Sense of Community" would involve more opportunity to shop and eat at a viable downtown area. A place where people can congregate and enjoy the environment. • This is really too subjective to have much meaning, but to me it means having a feeling of being tied emotionally to the group within which one lives. A sense of loyalty to the group and willingness to participate in its activities. • Understanding the vision of th leadership and has been imbraced by the citizens • Small town where people know & help each other. Safe environment. • To me it means that we(the town)makes decisions for all the people not just a few. We have lived here for 21 yrs and we've seen good changes and also some bad changes. We don't need a family poolits a big loser for everyone. Also we need to keep the competion for garbage haulers. • We take pride in our Town and we look out for each other as we plan for the future. When we go into a local business, we're often greeted by name. As the Valley sprawls into a mega-metro area, we have basically lost the sense of community. • FUN! places & events where you see friends. Summit trailhead. Comm cntr not convention cntr we have now (FUN all ages, rock walls, fitness, billiards, airhockey, bouncers, child care for town meetings for parents. A comm aquatic cntr (not a comm pool) FUN: slides, lazy river, theraputic & play jets & competitve pool for events & HS swim team. • WHEN THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND LOCAL BUSINESSES JOIN TOGETHER WITH LOCAL RESIDENTS,INCLUDING ALL HOA'S AND WORK TOGETHER ON PROJECTS AND PLANS AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES. • knowing your neighbors, giving to others in need in our own neighborhoods • Small town atmosphere, supportive government to the desires of all community members not just a select group, community events, etc. • Feeling like I am home, that when I meet someone new in FH, I have an expectation that I will see them again multiple times. And that we will recognize each other and exchange greetings. The feeling of being at home also includes knowing that if I need help from someone that I feel comfortable that I'll be able to count on someone for that help. • People who know each other, are welcoming to everyone. • The term "sense of community" to me means the way the community is small and we have certain January 2010 Appendix A-1 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report things that the community does for example the Art Fair that we have twice a year. • A small town thats really close together. • I means a lot there are not much communitys left like this • A sense of community would be a safe society. There would have to be fun activities for all ages. The activeities would have to be provided for old people, teens, children, and adults. Everyone would have to be close and respectful to all. • a small, relaxing town where everyone knows eachother and it isn't very crowded. • Sense of community is the feel of kidness between all that are in the community. I think that good communities have freindly activities for all kids, adults and seinors. Everyone says hi or smiles or appropriatly acknowledges one another in the community. • Everyone feels safe and comfortable while out and about in the town. People wave as they pass one another in the streets. There are town activities that everyone can be involved in. (The Art Fair, Ballet Under the Stars, etc.) • my sense of community is centered around 1. The events that are sponsored by the town (e.g. Thanksgiving Day Parade, Art Festival), 2.The opportunity that is afforded to the residents to provide input on the community's strategic direction, 3.The organizations and groups supported within the community. • A sense of community to me is a community in which it is easy to be engaged in activities with others, and there are fun activities going on. • An environment in which the community residents are engaged in the conversation about the primary events in the town. People engaged with each other. • Belonging to a group of people, an area where you feel connected, concerned for others, willing to contribute to make things better and a sense of pride. A unique place to live, build relationships and have a gov’t city that due to size and focus is more responsive to its members and long term prosperity. • A sense of belonging to something. The Phoenix metro area consists of many large and fast growing cities. They all offer the same shopping and dining experiences. Fountain Hills is unique; it is a beautiful town with unique restaurants and boutiques. As a resident of the town I am proud to be a part of the community. • A sense of community means having a place that feels like home: warm, friendly, clean. A place where you feel connected and safe. • A sense of community is a peaceful relationship with the people and the town government. I am able to have input into the forming of plans and help to keep my community a beautiful place to live. • Sense of community is that place where I belong. I am proud to be here and want to work to make my community better. My community is safe, clean, neat, outstanding schools, open local government, and filled with churches. • The sense of community is a sense of belonging to a group of people who have similar objective in mind. They get this feeling by working together with representatives to achieve common goals. • A cohesive feeling town (not rambling) with a personality. An interesting downtown area that is attractive has interesting small businesses. Also conducive to people being able to congregate, walk, play area – the Fountain Park is nice that way. • It’s a place where people can call ‘home’ no matter what area of the country they’ve moved from. It’s where people get to know each other and not just in group gatherings. It’s when everyone wants the community to succeed. It’s volunteering to help each other. • The people of the town getting together for sports, for concerts, for events – mostly centered around the park - so things stay in the center of town – and all should have a charity there. For example, Christmas concert for the homeless. Oktoberfest for the Boys and Girls Club, etc. Farmer’s market. • People of town gathering for sports events, concerts, movie in park, etc. – especially events in park (Fountain) and Ave of Ftns. – Town Center • A feeling that the majority of residents have similar goals for the town. It means people feel comfortable going places in the town – they feel they are part of the town. Feel that their opinions are heard and taken into consideration. Decisions are made on the basis of what is good for town as a whole. The town is welcoming to newcomers & eager to make the part of January 2010 Appendix A-2 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report the community. Government is responsive. • People like helping people. Small town feel. Being proud of your community & volunteering. • Having a family feeling where we all take pride in where we live and to work to empower each other to be good citizens. • Sense of community is where a group of people are proud to a ‘whole.’ Where there is genuine caring for all ages & where volunteerism is high. • Great neighbors. Many community activities. Pride in our town. • A sense of the community includes all of us in Fountain Hills. We need to stop the small bickering and unite for a town of giving, not taking. Keep the ‘small town’ with a total commitment to being the best. • A sense of unity toward a common goal. Where people and businesses and government work toward goals together. Where 2+2=5 because work hand-in-hand and enjoy what they are doing. • Coming from a very large city, I can feel the sense of community here in Fountain Hills – Our local fire department is very special-whenever I see Todd and other firemen around town they are always friendly. The sheriff’s dept is also friendly as well. The people at our Town Hall and Community Center all are very helpful and cordial as well. We are lucky to have people who care in the positions. • Residents living, socializing, shopping in a small area of a larger mass of land. Means to me being comfortable and secure and seeing familiar faces when out and about in my community. • I feel sense of community is the town cares about the people & their feelings. Thanks for all your efforts. • Friendly people. Service people trustworthy – willing to help. Town government open and available – willing to listen to people’s wants & needs. • Knowing people who are a part of our lives. I noted it particularly when the community came together when ‘hate’ was displayed by defacing property. • Volunteering & being active in the community helps give the ‘sense of community’ that I enjoy & that should be encouraged. • Sense of community is the reason we moved here. We moved from a small town & always had ‘community’ within it. We are aging and want peace and quiet, yet not a 55 & over living. Sense of community = having our voices heard, keeping us safe & keeping our town special. • Sense of community means feeling like you belong to something. The community should care about its residents and then should be a mutual sense of responsibility between the town & residents. The residents should individually take ‘ownership’ of his/her part as a resident/citizen. • Groups working together for benefit of the larger community. Respect for leadership and diversity! Please have more partnerships with Ft. McDowell. • Friendly people who are there for you in an emergency. • I would define the term ‘sense of community’ as individuals in the community feeling connected to one another and to the town. • A sense of community is when all the old people stop rioting about stupid stuff. They run the town and is way annoying! • safety...everybody knows everybody • safety • I think ‘sense of community’ means members of the community using their input to contribute and do what’s best for the local residents. • It means like you know what everything is in your community and what everything has to offer. • Being close to your neighbors and having fun things to do. When there are events everyone goes. • It means being together with your community and being involved. • Sense of community is having a sense of your community. It means eating, living, and breathing Fountain Hills. • The ways the community is interpreted. It means a lot because this is where we live. • The way a community functions by the citizens. Having a sense of community is important because it makes a community a much better place to live. • The feel of a town, having fun places to go to. January 2010 Appendix A-3 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • A sense of community is everyone knows each other. • Being surrounded by people you know, having activities to do on a daily basis. • Having a community that does stuff together. • Sense of community = know everything about your town. • Having locals own business and everyone knows each other. A sense of community would be feeling safe and familiar with what’s going on. • Sense of community is when the community gets together and feels like a whole. • That it’s responsible community. • It means organized. • I don’t know. • I don’t know what this means. • Volunteer work, joining local groups, friendships. • Having facilities and means for people to gather and share interests and goals. • A community that provides a safe environment. Accessibility to needed services with entertainment venues with a culturally diverse population. • It means having activities that bring a community together at the same time – like special events and venues. • Looking out for each other in your neighborhood. Visit or call the sick or lonely. Watch for crime and help police. Help seniors too that need assistance. Support town activities and business. Volunteer time. P.S. Would like to see our fountain increase output to 30 minutes. Would bring in business if advertised. Ask owners of all those empty store by the fountain to lower their rent so stores can be occupied. Empty for far too long! • Feeling like you belong to that town, not the larger area (i.e., Phoenix). You feel like you are part of the events that happen in the community/ It is our event, parade, band, programs, local events. • Small town feel is what you get when government realizes this is a bedroom community and their target market is folks who can afford to live here, pay the taxes and demand very little in services. Not the guy with six kids, a ten year old car and half his net worth in the clothes on his back. • Feel ‘togetherness’ by knowing what other groups are doing, what activities available for everyone, having a variety of small business and a variety of local stores for shopping. 2. How would you define the term “small town feel”? What elements of that “small town feeling” does Fountain Hills need to protect? Why? • Low population density. Low crime rate. Accessible public officials. Downtown center. • Far away from other cities and towns. Open spaces. • Less traffic, more dialogue with your neighbors, knowing more about your neighbors (which can be good or bad), destinations in town geographicallly closer to you, quieter, fewer commercial establishments. • It's probably best defined by physical dimensions, e;g population size. As we are limited by the size the Town can grow to I think the problem wil take care of itself • A sense of closeness for one another w/a desire to work & volunteer within the town in the areas we are blessed with talents, energy & funding to which we may contribute. A desire to protect the town from overcrowing of people, overbuilding, blight, fire hazards, frivilous use of water, deterioration of structures & roads throughout the community. • 1. Local shopping district 2. Local events for residents 3. Slower speed limits 4. A local newspaper 5. Limited local manufacturing 6. Neighborhood events 7. Churches • small town means self contained. I grew up in a small town in Oregon, we had almost everything we needed within the city limits. We have a movie theater, grocery stores, home improvement places, restaurants, bakeries, churches, state services, etc. I think the only thing Fountain HIlls is January 2010 Appendix A-4 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report missing is a movie theater. • Leadership must be engaged with and responsive to citizens and civic groups. • We DO NOT need a community pool. We need more viable places to shop and eat. Mini Kierland with small movie theater!! A farmer's market on Saturday's would be terrific with veggies, cheeses, some meats, breads and desserts. Midwest towns have these fairs on Saturday and people come from all over to shop and have coffee. Advertise - they come. • Again, how does a small town "feel"? I guess a feeling of having govt under control and responsive to citizenry, a safe and orderly community, and a welcoming attitude towards others. FH needs to avoid divisive, petty issues by inviting citizen participation, but also exerting leadership and not allowing pressure groups to dominate. • Not a weekend(night life) destination. Not a commerical destination, such as large car dealerships. • Small town is not too much traffic. Pedestrian & cycle friendly. Ability to congregate in a central outdoor location, such as a town square. Community events. All above mentioned as well as FH natural beauty & parks & hiking to enjoy it. • We lost the small town feel a long time ago that no longer pertains to our town anymore.I'm sorry to say that but its very true about our town. • Sense of community comments apply here. What I do not like is the hodge-podge of marginal strip centers populated by struggling retailers. A "Main Street" concept may be long overdue and difficult to retro-fit. • One school system, one sports system, and non overlapping/competing events so you can goto to a bunch of events and run into people you know at all of them. • People coming out to support local events and school events, people willing to help other people just because it is the right thing to do is the small town feel. Keep the local events happening and get young and old involved. • We grew up in a small town but have lived in large cities around the world, the difference is the recognition of people and expectation that we will meet them and know them for a long time. We've met many friendly people in Amsterdam, London and Sydney but didn't have the same expectation. • Safe, boring, small, quiet. We should protect the safe part, not the boring part. • The "small town feel" is the small school and how everyone kinda know each other because of the size. • Everyone knows everyone, small school, • Most people would have to know each other and many people would have to like each other. • peacefulness, everybody knows everybody • Small town feel is the feeling where you know most of your town. You know the people that are in your town, you know the activivies that go on. There is a sense of home in your community. We need to protect the sense of home in our community. The sense of security in our town needs to stay. • Fountain Hills is safe and sheltered and that is important. I also like how this town is not overly industrialized. For example, there isn't incessant traffic noises or excessively bright lights. • citizen involvement, small population size, low crime, community events, open government process --- all of these elements give residents a sense community and belonging • Geographic isolation and the size of our town – approximately. I think with Fountain Hills being land locked and population size locked, this is pretty much a given. • To me it means a community in which thought is given to progressive and appropriate planning and expansion. I like the idea of modification to the park, walkways and outdoor seating at restaurants • Easy to get to businesses, more personal, intimate customer relationships, repeat business is important. Friendly, caring people, clubs, organizations that create positive event for many sub- sets of demographics. Local sporting events, clubs, and community events, need to protect views, small businesses, and community events • I think we need to protect and support local businesses. • We need to protect our local restaurants and businesses. We need to be family friendly and business friendly. January 2010 Appendix A-5 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Knowing your neighbors and caring about their well-being. The town must always keep the best for the people in mind. The attitude and the contentment of the people make good relations possible. • Small town feel is knowing you will recognize and see your neighbors around town. You also know police officers and town officials. We need to protect the fast pace of living that is drowning citizens. Does every thought have to be shared on a cell phone? Do we take the time to enjoy the natural beauty of Fountain Hills? • The small town feel comes from knowing each other including town leaders. This is protected by the local businesses and supporting local events. • We need to avoid being a mini-Scottsdale. I don’t believe people moved here for that – or they would have moved to Scottsdale in the first place. Make a friendly environment for people to open businesses. We need better restaurants. • It’s when you can greet people by name and walk the town knowing pretty much all areas. Don’t have the ‘hustle/bustle’ of a lot of traffic and traffic lights. Where major crime is not a part of daily life. Gatherings in the community such as Thanksgiving parade, Oktoberfest, art festivals. • Preserved land must be protected and be accessible. Parks and Recreation spaces well-utilized: Quiet uncluttered feeling must be maintained – that’s why people moved here. Events in the Parks bring people together. Golden Eagle Park is very well-utilized. Fountain Park could be better utilized – better lighting, etc. • Parks and recreation areas/spaces fully utilized. Make the Preserve Land owned by the town accessible to residents. Maintain open areas/desert as much as possible – that’s why people moved here. A cohesive downtown area. The current visioning that quiets Saguaro and pulls Fountain Park & Ave of Ftns. Together a great start – make downtown walkable. • Small town feeling to me is knowing our neighbors and townspeople. Friendly greetings at every business and shop in town. Keep it friendly & welcome. The 2 big fairs a year expose our visitors to our great town. That’s how we came to know Fountain Hills – we came to Phoenix for a winter vacation & decided to come out & see the fair. • Everyone knows everyone else. Slow pace – not in a hurry to get some place. Not too many stop lights. • Many ‘Mom & Pop’ businesses. Minimal tourism. Friendly. Safe. • No speed or red light cameras. Our parks and pedestrian areas are our highlight. Also the many family-oriented activities our town is becoming noted for. James Dobson is not the only one that should focus on the family. • A small town feel is knowing others by name & being able comfortably interact with those you know. Fountain Hills needs to continue the community events such as the Thanksgiving Parade, St. Pat’s celebration, the movies & the entertainment in the park. • Small community where you see familiar faces and people care about each other. Low crime. Leaders listen. • Small town feel. Minimum traffic, easy access to downtown, good parks, good traffic circulation and access to shopping. Fountain Hills needs to protect the above. • Where the town is small enough that people is their neighbors and friends around town and say ‘hi’ and stop and talk. Also community leaders have time to ‘really’ listen to town’s folk over a cup of coffee. Town events like parades with kids, movies in park, etc. • One element missing – why can’t we do something to clean up the Fountain Lake so the residents can fish in the lake – Scottsdale has a fishing lake that we enjoyed before we moved up here – the elderly and the young would really love the activity they could share. Perhaps it would entice the young to get outside. Also, why can’t we offer more physical activities for the young such as gymnastics to help prepare our future Olympians – after all they are our future. • Knowing neighbors, public officials, business owners recognizing you, and not having to travel very far for shopping, events, etc. Being familiar enough with residents, whether in public or neighborhoods, to have a sense of security & recognizing the signs of potential danger or harm. • I feel that we need to make people want to come into our town for its fountain – friendliness & places to shop, eat, and enjoy our surroundings. I (we) love Fountain Hills! ☺ • Again friendly people – even strangers. Ease of access – wide streets, short distances to stores, etc. Size of town, small enough so able to see and meet same people – out and about - January 2010 Appendix A-6 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report therefore build friendships. • This is what attracted me to FH in the first place. It is a feeling that you can live where you do all or most of your personal business – library, activities, purchasing, etc. I live at Village at Towne Center for that reason. I walk to many activities. The traffic is less than larger communities. • By having a specified area as we now have the ‘Town Center’ defined by signs. By having the town hall, library, museum etc. As are now have it & not spreading out into ‘sprawl’. • Safety – personal property & personal, crime, noise, traffic – keep the majority of large traffic on the perimeter. No large chain stores, keep speed limits on residential streets 25-30 mph. Unlike larger towns – for walkers & bikers safety. • A small town feel has a personal/caring quality to it. People are friendly, courteous and care about each other and the physical infra structure. The need to protect all of the above mentioned attributes. • Access to services and businesses. Access to leaders. Respect for schools. Intergenerational activities. • Easy access to local stores, lack of the ‘hustle & bustle’ of a big city. Small local library. • Fountain Hills needs to protect its small businesses and small school system in order to keep its ‘small town feel’. • A small town feel is being able to go to the grocery store and see the same people. We should protect the safety of our small town and low crime rate along with the beautiful park. • Small schools, small population. • In a small town it is more cleaner and you pretty much feel safe. It is very big and more calm. • Good relationship between genders • I think ‘small town feel’ incorporates light traffic, many suburban areas, and businesses that are not only controlled by large chains. • It makes you feel safe and a sense of safety. You also know everyone so everyone says hi to everyone. • Knowing everybody, protect not being busy. • A small town where everyone feels together like a family. Fountain Hills is a small safe town where anyone would be lucky to live. • Small town feel is having the feeling of a small town. Fountain Hills needs to protect people. • The small town feel is a safe feeling. FH needs to protect it because safety is a necessity. • A small town feel is defined by quaint areas, friendly people, quiet and a nice setting. • Small friendly community that knows each other. • A boring town. A confined place. • Small town feeling is almost like a village. • Knowing everyone/everything that’s going on. Clean streets/security. • Everything is near the Ave. of the Fountains because it’s nice to have a center-based community. • Not completely crowded with sky scrapers and huge businesses. • When there are small, locally owned shops. When it’s little, too. • I love our small town feel and that it is a small town. We cannot expand the town with more people. • Not a lot of huge name companies in town. • Small town feel is barely any shops, mostly residential. We need to protect the fountain and the Arizona architect. • Small town feel: A sense of feeling comfortable in your community and knowing what’s going on. I think FH needs to protect its ‘uniqueness’ and ‘small feeling.’ We should keep it unique and add more unique and young restaurants and boutiques. • The town is too small and kinda boring. • The safe feeling should be protected so everyone feels secure. • It’s quiet and peaceful. • I don’t know. • I don’t know what this is. • Small town feel: know a lot of people in the community. Having a lot but not all of the necessities January 2010 Appendix A-7 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report of life. In all small towns, residents must go to the neighboring city for cultural activities. • Active community center, welcoming attitude. • No ‘huge’ industries moving to town. No ‘loud noise’ industries. No ‘polluting’ that overpowers our natural earthy aroma in our town. • Town government and services provided are integrated to a small town feel while inspiring a feel of volunteerism. A community is often defined by the number of volunteer organizations that are active in community activities. • A small town feel is generated when people know people and are engaged in town activities. Volunteer activities need to be protected and promoted. • Protect Avenue of the Fountains from huge buildings being constructed. No theatre on this street or high rise stores. No ‘Kierland’ ideas. Discourage real estate and beauty salons on the Avenue. Instead, small stores, i.e. gelato, choclatier, arcade for teens, boutiques, art shops, trendy jewelry (Brighton), no ‘junky’ stores (more a little upscale, antiques, candles, pottery (mid- priced), no junk. Restaurants (no McDonald’s or same). Leave for Shea Blvd. No more banks. People enjoy walking down the Avenue going store to store where there are wonderful shops and restaurants with patios with lots of shade trees and fountains. Don’t obscure beauty with high rises and big ugly cinemas. • Not having large (high) apartments, large buildings, large shopping centers. Having space on various sides of Fountain Hills, Indian Reservation, McDowell Mountain Park. Not getting too big population-wise. The fountain and the park around it make you feel that you are in a small town. It belongs to us. • Sense of community develops when government realizes its role is to take care of police and fire (safety), parks and public property. Not operate like the former town manager. Not try to tell developers what their projects must include. How did that trick work out so far? Remember that the town exists for the residents, not the realtors, developers, or Chamber of Commerce. You need the residents to spend money in town. They can shop anywhere. Choose wisely. • Variety of age groups, variety of businesses, walk to library, bank, stores, etc., activities for all ages at parks, holiday activities for all age groups. • Some type of booster antenna to improve FM/AM radio reception, an ordinance to prevent trucks from downshifting gears as they approach a stop light/sign, request the Reservation to put in a temporary road that would exit the Reservation farther north (adjacent to the Ellman property) and force these trucks coming from gravel pits/cement factories/etc. along #87 to use that route? 3. What change to the community would bother you most? • Substantial population increase. • 12-screen theater • Any more high density residential developments. Any more commercial developments. Any additional two story construction of any kind (which ruins the wiews and only enriches the developers). Any more growth or traffic. Continued influx of illegals. • If it became a bedroom community • The introduction of large shopping centers citaububg big box stores. The deterioration of roads and buildings. Crime in general and a discregard for the safety of all residents. • Change promoted by profit instead of function. Proposed changes involving multi resident developemnt and cinemas will take away from the small town feeling and ruin the Ftn Park area. • We need more roads in/out...however, if those changes were done on a major scale (freeway, etc) I don't think I'd like that. • Anything that is less environmentally sustainable. • I don't want to see a large swimming pool or arena for sports. We have enough parks and again we need to bring an audience that will spend money. We read in the paper that FH is full of retirement-age people -- well, then let's try to get them to spend more money. Too many backyard pools to put that much money into a large public pool. • Poorly designed town center. Only really strong leadership can prevent development of the town center from becoming a dog's breakfast of special interest pressures, tacky commercial January 2010 Appendix A-8 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report development, and short term, scattershot development. Hold out at all costs for a town center that looks, feels and really is a center. • The lack of the citizens to support ($$$) government in providing the services that we want/expect: parks, senior services, public works, fire, and police. • Losing the desert beauty, quiet streets & night skies. • We don't need a 12 show theater it makes more for a 6 show theater would suffice. Also we don't need all this big building around the park that's ridiculous and very costly. No pool is needed that is nothing but a money loser. Also we still need the competion of different garbage haulers. You know years ago bus loads of people would come from al • A return to the "our way or the highway" type of local government that we experienced before Wally Nichols came on the scene. • To have even fewer FUN choices for kids and everyone (Keep the events we have, add more like fourth of July fireworks). More congestion, more signals & more four way stops... hate them!bring people in but have a traffic plan to accomodate the traffic. Add roundabouts like the ones in Scottsdale on Cactus. • If we tried to market ourselves as if we were No. Scottsdale. Most people I know moved to Ftn Hills because it was NOT Scottsdale. • More rental properties. Rentals work against small town feel, against people remaining & participating in the community over the years. They are temporary "here today, gone tomorrow". We experienced this in our home town community of 8,000 population; the character dropped considerably when rental properties replaced older homes and open space. • Making it less teen friendly. • Nothing is so important to me that I don't want to change. • Our town doesn't need any more nail salons or coffee shops. • crowded transportation systems, traffic • If there was MORE snow birds.... they are terrible! They drive to slow and are awful at the cross walks. I would not like it if the community became an unsafe place to live and have fun it. • Making it a large city like Phoenix. I like the quaint feel of the town. It is nice to know that I don't have to watch out for shady characters when I go out for a run, and to know that I don't have to try to fall asleep to traffic noises. • elimination of community sponsored events or rise in crime • Excessive restrictions causing a very closed feeling. • large scale industrial development, controlled expansion of residential building • Lack of resources to manage the city to maximize its potential, lack of maintenance of great parks, allowing our roads asphalt to deteriorate more and reflect on our community image • The change that would bother me most is more traffic lights and/or stop signs. I think the ones at Sunridge and El Lago are not necessary and were a waste of the town’s money. • Lack of resources to keep streets and parks looking good. • Growing too large to consider the feelings and needs of the people. • If we failed to maintain our excellent schools in Fountain Hills. Could we attract a junior college? • Large numbers of national companies coming to town to do business. • Street lights, big box stores. Don’t punish people for moving and building here by hitting them with higher fees and taxes. • A 12-plex movie theatre. A 3-4-plex theatre will be sufficient. Fountain Hills can’t compete with Scottsdale or Mesa. Adding street lights in the residential area. • 12-plex movie theatre complex. City not large enough to support it. A smaller venue might work. • If you can attract a movie theater, please put it downtown! Please don’t build more restaurants & shops in Fountain Park and ruin the park. Also don’t build a museum in the park – we have a wonderful museum next to the library. Plant more trees in park. Please don’t build tunnel or bridge at Ave. of the Fountains and Saguaro. A traffic signal controlled by pedestrians would be enough. They had Saguaro torn up for 2 years to put in the signal at El Lago. • Anything too large for the size of the town. Let’s keep it small and not too ‘touristy.’ • Becoming a small Las Vegas. Concentrating on tourism. • Personally, I am glad most big retailers are not near the center of our community. I am one of the few that is happy a movie theater and more has not been yet developed on Ave of Fountains. I January 2010 Appendix A-9 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report feel that Fountain Plaza is a bit overbuilt. • A 12-plex movie theater. A 3 – 4-plex theater is OK. It does not make sense to compete with Scottsdale or Mesa. • Too many bars, more crime & less community activities. More traffic • Too much ‘outside’ commercial things. We need balance. • A big movie theatre. If necessary, keep it out of our downtown area – near the B-line would be close enough – or on Shea Blvd. • Annexing more land. Building large stores or promoting large businesses. • Building more buildings but having them empty would be sad because business will feel doomed before they would start – thus – they won’t come to FH to start a business. • Too much traffic • More traffic, We need to keep walking areas safe. I am disturbed that Saguaro Blvd. Is a thru- way. The lake should be the focal point and it is not because of traffic. • Not enough funds to keep FH pristine looking. • The construction of more office spaces, housing, We have enough empty storefronts, offices & homes. Less police protection. Not considering a public pool area with exercise classes for people. • Increased crime and indifference. When economic times improve, the failure to bring back activities/events that were cut from the budget. • Intolerance for diversity! People must be willing to pay taxes! Schools must be supported pre-K- 12 grades. • Large population increase with loss of small town feeling. • Some changes to the community that would bother me are loss of the fall and spring art fairs, loss of maintenance of the fountain park, increase in elderly driving population. • Don’t ruin Fountain Park. Stop putting in so many stop signs and upgrading stop signs to stop lights. • More people, more closed restaurants. • If there is less stuff to do, because there is already not enough stuff to do. • Sports facilities. • Putting in more statues instead of saving the money for something bigger. • Having more cops and less freedom. • If the nice places get gross. • If the gangsters took over. • Shopping area like Mill Avenue in Tempe. More chain restaurants like Olive Garden. • If we built more condos! It seems in the past few years that has been the only thing built. • Street lights. • Wasting money on something the youth in this town would consider ‘boring’. • More old people. • More stupid stoplights! Keep the small businesses. • A lot of expensive stores, or stores that take over little businesses. • Adding too many things right next to the fountain. • If it became a corporate and capitalist wasteland. • More amenities for elderly and retired. • Taking away small business or adding street lights. • Concentrating on clean energy. Our town is too small already so there is no point. • Most typical Mexican and Italian restaurants. I think we need something more like a Pita Jungle or something that serves healthier “different’ looking food. • More parks for little and older kids. • More old people, we have way too many. • More strict rules/more MCSO police. • nothing. • I don’t know! • I would dislike seeing the town further deteriorate in infrastructure, such as roads and sewer. I January 2010 Appendix A-10 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report don’t want to see more buildings at the ridge lines; I don’t want more of the town politics to be the silent, behind closed doors type. Governance should be out in the open. • Building to attract kids or things for kids. • Disintegration of the infrastructure and services. • To see it become financially unable to maintain itself at a level that attracted us to it in the first place. • A huge cinema on ‘Avenue’, needs to be on Shea with other like properties with big, ugly parking lots and hot cement. Causes lots of traffic (too much) for our small town and near our fountain. • Large, tall buildings, large signs or billboards, too large businesses, shopping centers. • Screwing up Fountain Park with shops and hundreds of trees. Just leave it alone. • More ‘Big Box’ stores. 4. We heard from residents that there is simply “not enough to do” in Fountain Hills. How do we solve this for families and youth? • Movie theater, public pool, more community sponsored events at the park. • I don't think this is a valid complaint. I don't think there is anything to resolve. In my opinion there is more than adequate activities and things to do in Fountain Hills and the supply of activities is virtually unlimited if you consider what is avalilble in neighboring cities whthin a fifteen to twenty minute drive. • I believe a movie theater would help with the youth • Create committees to locate, review, schedule and structure concerts and activities through the full 12 months of the year. Please focus on May, June, July, August, September for additional indoor activities for ages 40s,50s. • We have great facilities but no planning. How about a family frisbee tounament in Ftn Park? Everything is there already -except organization. Hire a cruise entertainment director since they know how to organize events. The park district offers a lot but they don't promote other than a mailer. DO VISIBLE THINGS! • we need a movie theater • A movie theater or a venue that combines dining with movie watching, or both. An active mixed recreational center, e.g. tennis, skate park. • Utilize the park system more with sports programs. Perhaps encourage a chain restaurant like Dave & Busters or Peter Piper Pizza. A concept that has games for children. Movie theater is also a key component. We drive down to Shea to see a movie and then eat down there versus FH!! • I don't agree. If this means places for teenagers to just "hang about" FH can do just fine without. What, exactly, is it that families want to "do". The fountain park is busy weekends with families on picnics, using the splash park, and walking about -- but the people there appear to be outsiders; very few seem to be FH residents. • Expand Parks programs. Bowling alley and movie theater. • A small movie theater complex, book store, mini golf, hiking, better park amenities such as more pavillions & bathrooms. • I think there is plenty to do for families and the young people all they have to do is get involved with the kids activities for both the parents and the kids. • A pool is long overdue and the water aerobics aspect is probably under-appreciated. A movie theater, please. A series of events in the park with a balance between the various arts. My baptism to FH was the Count Basie band, most likely underwritten by MCO. • Comm center not conv cntr, aquatic center, skating/hockey/sports rink, more events, place to hold birthday parties chuck E cheese, peter piper, etc. spray ground at all park to keep cool for summer, pocket parks, paths connecting activity hubs, summit trailhead. Add an exciting playground like the 3 story slide see festival foothills park Buckeye. • A public swimming pool - examples of great ones are Hamilton Pool in Chandler, and the McDowell Mountain Aquatic Center. A movie theater! Both of these would be enjoyable to people of all ages, provide year round entertainment value and bring jobs and income to Fountain Hills. • Sports center w/ pool. January 2010 Appendix A-11 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Frankly as the parents of a 16 1/2 yr old, we don't agree. The expectation of those parents that believe we need a mall, or a "hang out" place is out of place with small town character and values. There is plenty to do in this town for kids. The only thing we can think of is more in town bike trails. • Have a downtown where teens are welcome and not frowned upon for existing. • We could have a swim pool, a ice rink and maybe a movie theater and more resturants. • Movie theatre, community pool, arcade • A cineplex would help satisfy everyone. we NEED another panda express. • movie theater, access to an amusement park, vibrant downtown area, more variety of food restaurants, video game stores, more shopping in general • A downtown center with little shops and restaurants. Especially clothing stores, bookstores, icecream parlors, healthy restaurants with vegetarian options, etc. Preferably these shops would not be overly expensive, more in the price range of the average teenager. • attract a movie theater, establish a boys and girls club or other youth organizations • I think Ftn Hills has a unique opportunity to attract nearby Scottsdale, Gilbert, Mesa & Phoenix residents to come and enjoy activities in Ftn Hills if we create them. Because of our rich beauty and significant open space downtown, we have the ability to create a town that is both attractive and beautiful. I will send set of possible fun activities separately. • Leverage our parks, hiking, skate park, outdoor sports of tennis, basketball, volleyball, dog park and disc golf. Add technology focused events for social networks and learning. Leverage family involvement (like movies in the park) • More events at the park – I think the movie nights and Easter event are great ideas. Maybe in the future children’s theatrical performances and classes could take place at the Fountain Park. Another way to attract youth and their families is to get the schools involved. Performances from local school choirs, band, orchestra, dance, etc. might draw crowds. Another idea might be a ‘Fountain Hills idol’ contest or a ‘Fountain Hills Has Talent’ competition. Local businesses and restaurants could sponsor the event while providing the town with an idea of the services or products they provide. • Park events, sporting events • Families should find activities for themselves and their children. • Movie theatre • Encourage business development along Avenue of the Fountains. Make it cooler and add shaded areas • The Park/Rec is trying to do a good job of having activities. That is what I grew up with in the Midwest and a person can make it what they want. It’s up to the individual. • More family entertainment in the park. Plenty of summer and weekend programs for the children (parks & rec). • More family entertainment in park like movie in park is a good example. • A community swimming pool & movie theater. • We must go back 50 years where being with family was enough. No one should be bored if their priorities are straight. Kids need to have volunteer opportunities. When we make a difference – it’s hard to get bored. • We’ve only been in the community a couple of years & are ‘empty nesters’ so we’re not certain how strong the Park Rec program is. We raised our children in a community where the program excelled & there was plenty offered for ages 3-18 plus adults too. • Movie theater. Kid-friendly restaurants. More play areas. Lights around lake. • School activities, church activities • Community heated indoor/outdoor pool. Dawn lights around the lake • Cleaning up the Fountain so fish could be added – it would add very fond memories for our town’s families. • Re: all of these questions – A community should never have to provide ‘entertainment’ for its residents in lieu of what we should discipline ourselves. • I feel FH needs an indoor pool that can be used for all. The HS could have a swim team, open family swim, SR. Time, etc. Lake Havasu has a lovely pool facility. There could be a cost per family, person, etc. To help defray cost. We definitely need a pool!” January 2010 Appendix A-12 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • How about a youth center? • More facilities should be encouraged to be built to allow gathering of people. A larger theatre should be emphasized in a more distinct location – a pool for youth, a recreation area or building for teens. • I don’t necessarily agree. An improved business climate might lead to accomplishing amenities such as a theatre & good restaurant- perhaps a community pool, but basically I think there is already a lot to do. • Local movie theatre. Lights around Fountain Park. • More recreational activities – a pool for example. A movie theatre – activities that are intergenerational. • Movie theater, YMCA, Music store, Community pool, Book store, Mall • Movie theatres. • Better places to go out to eat and movies. • More sports. • I think families and youth need a movie theatre (it doesn’t need to be huge) and Panda Express needs to return in a location that is accessible to more residents (many people I know have told me that they were sad to see it leave). • A movie theater and maybe a mini mall or something like that. • Fun sports and water activities. • Movie theater, more shopping. • A zoo, a movie theater, amusement park. • Pit in better restaurants, movie theater, shopping, petting zoo. • Rock climbing, shops, more playgrounds, movie theaters. • Movie theater, community pool, shops. • Turn the fountain into a swimmable beach, music venue. • A movie theater, music shop, a music venue where bands can play. • I lived in a village for 2 years and there was more to do than this town. • Shopping/outdoor shopping mall (Mill Avenue), movie theater, arcade, trails for hiking, July 4th fireworks, carnivals, jobs for teens. • Have kid-friendly, yet fun for all ages. More free events that people can participate in also help the Boys and Girls Club teen side expand. • Pool, theater, more places to eat, shopping, paddleboats at the fountain, arcade. • Music stuff. • Movie theater, community events for teens to enjoy. Music. Bigger restaurants. • Teen clubs, Bring back some of the community events (4th of July, for example). • Arcades, shopping, activities. • YMCA, restaurants, shopping. • Movie theater! ‘Scottsdale’ feel clothing shops. Make Avenue of the Fountains like Mill Avenue. • More fun family activities. • Malls, theatres, music stores, places for bands (local or popular) to play. • Movie theatre, mall, indoor ice skating rink, musical festival, Dairy Queen. • Movie theater, pool/water park, carnival, concert venue, stores/shopping mall, rec center, band slam, indoor ice skating, Dairy Queen. • Busses, movie theatre, Spencer’s, Hot Topic. • Use the money we have to actually build something entertaining/Stop being lazy about the town and use the 7.2 million dollars from the retirement people. • Activities. • A family friendly rave! • By building a YMCA with aquatic and exercise center. • Don’t know, don’t care. • Get a movie theater in town. Gat a new ‘Disney World AZ’ somewhere in Fountain Hills. • What’s wrong with getting involved in sports (of choice); karate, hiking (lots), church youth groups, youth and family theater groups, in FHS:, skateboarding. Peaks Fitness has a pool. What is it January 2010 Appendix A-13 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report they want? Kids typically are always bored. It’s up to their parents, not the town to keep them busy. • It is not the town’s job to entertain the residents of any age. Nobody was forced to move here. • We need more teens things and bands, etc. 5. We heard from residents that there is simply “not enough to do” in Fountain Hills. How do we solve this for seniors? • Same as above. • Nothing needs to be resolved for seniors. • I think there is already plenty for seniors to do • Create committees to locate, review, schedule and structure concerts and activities through the full 12 months of the year. Please focus on May, June, July, August, September for additional indoor activities for ages 60s,70s. • Let the Senior Center offer events outside of just their building. Chess/Checkers in the park. Board games along Ave/Ftns? • Now that we have the medical plaza...I think we're in much better shape to care for our seniors • With above could be surfaces for low impact senior oriented group games, as seen in Sun City. • Mini Kireland, movie theater. Saturday Farmer's Market. A destination that is NOT sports related where you can walk around, have a cocktail, supper or lunch or breakfast. I don't think FH promotes itself enough. Scottsdale, Cave Creek or Carefree -- I go there to shop, can't really "shop" in FH, too restricted with no variety or choices. • Add a bocce ball alley near one of the ramadas. I have observed seniors trying to play at the fountain park on uneven grass. This could be installed at very little cost. $ has been spent on a dog park and skateboard facility, so try it. Otherwise, the Community Center and Senior Center offer multiple opportunities for senior participation. • They are on their way with a strong program...maintain. • Same as above. • I believe we have a lot of activities, clubs and other things for the senior citizens, we have the men's club, womens clubs, all you have to do is look at the community center activities, we have health clubs, community theater, etc • See #4. Water aerobics and lap swimming is great for all ages. Backyard pools are too often ornamental. • Same as above, aquatics for aerobics theraputic jets, swim clubs, billiars, airhockey, hiking, skating active adult activities that are healthy sustainable and FUN. • Public swimming and movie theater would be great for Seniors too!! • They have the Sr. Ctr already. • Sorry, can't think of a thing. • I think they're set. • Senior classes • a center to occupy their time. meybe have a driving class to refresh their memory. • a golf resort, casino • public swimming pool (low impact exercise,)town activities like shows (ballet under the stars,) a bowling alley, more activities that they can take their grandkids to, (pottery making places, tea house.) • I do not believe that it is the town’s responsibility to do anything in this regard. I believe there actually is more than enough to do and find it hard to understand why adults would think otherwise. • Continue to expand the excellent senior programs and organization • The Senior Center provides a slew of activities and possibilities. • Competitive stores in Fountain Hills to avoid trips to Scottsdale • There is plenty to do. It is not necessary for the town to provide other activities. • Community Center is good. Don’t know what else to do, as I’m not in that age bracket yet. • There is plenty for seniors to do - city does not have to provide for them. January 2010 Appendix A-14 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Low cost workout facilities. Attract a Dairy Queen. • I think there’s enough for seniors and adults if they look for it. • There is enough now! • I believe the Senior Center has an abundance of activities that are well publicized. • Not certain • More restaurants, shops, & a movie theater. Lights around lake • Movies, performing arts theatre • Continue the many programs now available. • The Fountain Lake - for fishing. • To take care of ourselves. It would be nice to encourage people to be more neighborly & create their own activities. People expect too much from others – I think FH is doing a great job (&adequate) of providing enough. • We have loads of wonderful activities for Sr. • I speak as a senior – we have many, many opportunities – who says we need more? • Seniors have lots to do here and if they don’t it is their fault. Bussing for more seniors would help as people age. Caring for each other is some way to allow people to remain independent. • There is already a lot to do. • Not sure since there is a Sr. Center which has lots of activities. • A movie theatre, community pool. A strong senior center to keep body, minds & spirit healthy and strong. More classes from retired professors. • YMCA, a book store • Bingo night! And shuffleboard. • Safety, bingo • I think that it might be helpful if retirement communities might be more effective if they were a little more secluded (for peace and quiet) but still had access to town (public transportation, a trolley?) • More art shows or things to keep them young or active, like senior softball. • A place for them to meet and do their hobbies. • Who cares, we have Fountain View Village. • Bunko night. • Bingo night. • There’s already enough. Bingo at the community center. • There is enough for them (I worked at the retirement center so I see and interact with seniors). • Swimming pool, Music shop, Anything musically. • Oh everything! • YMCA, Bookstores/lounges, more music in the park/movies in the park. • More trails like through the washes. • YMCA. • Checker tournaments. • Separate events just for them. • NO MORE • They have enough. • Senior center activities for them. • We already have enough for them. They would probably enjoy a movie theatre. • Bingo. • All Fountain Hills has is senior activities. • They have enough. • They have enough. They got everything. • I don’t know. • I don’t know. I don’t really care for old people. • Building a YMCA with aquatic and exercise center. • Just fine now. • Something other than the ‘senior center’ for entertainment that would not be too hard/difficult for January 2010 Appendix A-15 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report seniors to get to. • There’s plenty to do! All seniors need is a cemetery so they can stay forever. • Only town where our seniors don’t have their own center. Last strategic plan, it was on the list for 5th year. Overdue, I think. Pool is suggested. ‘Peaks’ has one. Talk to them about time available and reduced cost. • The senior services of the Community Center are great. • If you find it so bad why come here and why not leave? Stop trying to stick the tax payers for your pet project. 6. We heard from residents that there is simply “not enough to do” in Fountain Hills. How do we solve this for adults? • Same as above. • Nothing needs to be resolved for adults. • Make more jobs available in Town so people don't have to leave • Create committees to locate, review, schedule and structure concerts and activities through the full 12 months of the year. Please focus on singles in the community as we do not have any full town focus on the needs of single people in town. • How about an organized annual Valentine's dance at the community center? A Road Rally? What about an organized nursery for babysitting so adults can get out. • movie theater and a Home Depot. I enjoy not having 'clubs' and such...if I need to get roudy, I can go to scottsdale • More shopping and not the stupid gift stores -- Chico's, Ann Taylor, Talbots stores. AJ's or Trader Joes. We have no up-scale shopping. No more Italian Restuarants, but some reasonably priced concepts that will attract people, ie, Mimi's, Applebees, concept we can pop into during the week besides the Fireside Grill or Euro Pizza. Movie theater. • Why don't FH residents support quality restaurants, coffee shops or nice pubs? FH has a plethora of pizza shops, nail salons, hair salons,sports bars, and burger joints. But good, quality restaurants struggle and don't succeed. Alchemy is gone, Waters Edge just hangs on, Le Boulevard gasps, etc. FH adults need a more sophisticated environment. • Quality resturants with adult varity musical intertainment. • Same as above. Places to congregate such as making Ave of Ftns pedestrian only - with paver steets & shaded town square. Shops on both sides with small movie theater, coffee shop, book store. Things to bring people down town & move from one shop etc to another & linger in the area. • There is plenty for the adults too all people have to do is look around volanteers are always wanted. • See #4 • Same as above, aquatics for aerobics theraputic jets, swim clubs, billiars, airhockey, hiking, skating active adult activities that are healthy sustainable and FUN. Can have separate rooms focused on level of ability but should be multi-generational facility for cost & to be viable. • Sports center w/ pool. • Businesses committed to being open when working adults are out of work! We try to shop FH but the business owners want to work a 9-5 or 9-6 schedule. Bike trails (see for kids) are the only other thing we can think of. • Resturants and shops • adults could have a recreation center where they can socialize and do activities. • restaurants, activities centered around specific interests (book talks, exercise groups like bike groups or walking clubs, art classes, etc.) • we need a gathering place for adults, a bookstore, more restaurants --- so we don't go to Scottsdale all of the time January 2010 Appendix A-16 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Leverage the community center for speaker programs, small concerts, training programs and events such as collecting old computers, create ways for adults to mentor others • A place to eat and then spend time doing another activity. Example: Kierland Commons in Scottsdale. You can enjoy an evening out – not just dinner out. • Most adults should be able to find enough to do without someone holding their hand. • Keep improving health care options in Fountain Hills • There is plenty to do. It is not necessary for the town to provide other activities • Better community theatre • Haven’t played it yet, but ‘pickleball’ seems like a good mixer and good entertainment. Scheduled hikes in our area are good to have. • Parks and recreation – softball, volleyball, tennis leagues. • Plenty to do if they prioritize their families and civic, church opportunities. • We are both working & don’t have a lot of extra time finding things to do. We’ve enjoyed hiking the local trails for ‘something to do.’ • Movie theater, more art programs, more restaurants with entertainment. More Fountain Park events. Lights around the lake • Movies, performing arts theatre, more shopping. • Organized events such as volunteer projects • Fishing at our beautiful Fountain Lake. • I look forward to a movie theater. I think everyone would use them. • Is there a possibility of encouraging businesses to have their companies locate here so that people could live and work within FH? • There is already a lot to do. • Local movie theater. More restaurants, lights around fountain park so we can walk in the evening, they could be on until 9 p.m. • A movie theatre, community pool. Activities designed to keep body, minds & spirit healthy and strong. More classes from retired professors. • Bar (Fancy), Nice restaurants • Cheaper golf. • Trust in the youth. • They may need more places to meet with other adults (clubs, etc.). • More restaurants other than just pizza and pasta places. • A club or bar. • Movie theater, more shopping. • Shopping mall, more restaurants. • A wine bar. • Shops, restaurants, romantic hang-outs, better bars – fancier. • More nice wine bars or restaurants. • Wi-Fi over the whole town. • Open restaurants, Guitar Center, Bike trails. • Restaurants, clubs. • Fancy restaurants/bar & grille. More dog adoption options. • Family oriented activities or an outside eating place. • More of a shopping/dining variety. • Food, shopping, cool attractions. • Bars, activities • Unique places to eat. • Fun but they like it and maybe can be for older kids too. • Clubs and bars! • Bars, clubs. • I don’t know. • A grown-up rave/jumpstyle/hard jump music. • More stores for decent shopping. We need a Lowe’s, Home Depot, etc. January 2010 Appendix A-17 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Don’t know. Probably busy raising family. • Something other than a restaurant for entertainment. • Performing arts center and a movie theater with shops and restaurants that comprise an entertainment district. • Find your own entertainment. That’s what adults do. • Of course – there are things in the Phoenix area that we can do. • A community swimming pool would be an asset to the town as a whole and therefore worth considering. I would like to work part– or full-time from Fountain Hills, but need the following: (select all applicable responses) 11 High speed Internet connection 4 A shared business suite (with work space for meetings, presentations, etc.) 5 Access to office equipment (photocopier, fax machine, computers, etc.) 2 Remote access to company files, software, etc. 10 A new job at a business that is/could be located in Fountain Hills in the following field: • Administrative 13 Other: • I wish to stay retired. • Retired • no interest • I currently work full-time from my home ofc, use the Internet & travel • retired • need an office supply store • prefer to not work in FH because I would want to work for larger corporation • I do not want a job • Don’t have a job but need faster internet for school. • Business looking to hire • Not old enough • High speed internet connection, a shared business suite (with work for meetings, presentations, etc.) access to office equipment (photocopier, fax machine, computers, etc., and remote access to company files, software, etc. are not the town’s responsibility. Another rip-off. Don’t try to stiff the tax payers for internet service. • Not looking for work I cannot or do not want to work part– or full-time from Fountain Hills because: (select all applicable responses) 6 My current job requires regular physical access to resources (files, computers, staff, etc.) only available at a location not within Fountain Hills. 3 My current job responsibilities are inherently travel-related (field visits, flying, distribution, etc.) 28 I am neither employed nor looking for employment (retired) 18 I already work in Fountain Hills January 2010 Appendix A-18 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report 11 Other • I wish to stay retired. • Retired • Can't stay in business here as evident by all the attempts • i am to young • I am a teenager • I have too much homework. • we are self-employed at home • employed at Mayo • not employed, would prefer to work for a larger corporation • I can’t work • Not old enough On average, how long does it currently take you to commute to your job (one-way)? 10 Less than 5 minutes 9 5 to 15 minutes 10 15 to 30 minutes 3 30 to 60 minutes 0 Over an hour 34 Retired or currently not employed 12 Other • Work form home • Retired • N/A • not working now but my commute had been 1 hr 10 min ea way to phx. • Work at home • 5-15 min. i go to school • 5 minutes to high school • work in home ofc & fly to client sites • I work out of my home and write, travel elsewhere to speak • I can’t work • Varies • Use bike 15 No Response What is the zip code of the location to which you most often commute? 18 85268 8 Varying Scottsdale 5 85260 1 85283 1 55341 1 85259 1 85262 1 85007 1 85250 1 85266 1 85282 1 Mesa 1 Tempe 1 Western US 1 N/A January 2010 Appendix A-19 Feedback Session #2 Responses Working Paper #2: Visioning Report January 2010 Appendix A-20 How long have you lived in Fountain Hills? 5 Less than 2 years 16 3 to 5 years 36 6 to 10 years 42 Over 10 years Other: • My whole life I live in Fountain Hills ______ months of the year. 0 1 month 0 2 months 0 3 months 1 4 months 0 5 months 1 6 months 1 7 months 0 8 months 1 9 months 6 10 months 5 11 months 74 12 months 15 No Response How old are you?** 37 Under 20 3 20 to 34 2 35 to 44 6 45 to 54 10 55 to 59 8 60 to 64 21 65 to 74 4 Over 74 15 No Response Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Appendix B: Issue Forum Summaries On November 4, 7 and 19, SPAC hosted Issue Forums, inviting residents and stakeholders to join in small groups and discuss the future of Fountain Hills. The following contains the facilitator summaries of each small group discussion. Issue Forum #1: November 4, 2009 Fountain Hills Unified School District Learning Center Number of Participants: 18 Small Group 1-A Table Facilitator: Audra Koester Thomas, SPAC 1. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Fountain Hills wasn’t intended to be a retirement community; this was intended to be a place where people work/play/live. That was the vision for Fountain Hills and we’ve gotten away from that. • Fry’s grocery store is one of the best views in Fountain Hills but there is a sign that prohibits loitering. We need a place where people can gather, eat lunch, go to the grocery store, etc. • Fountain Hills is a place that you get all dressed up but have nowhere to go. • The new Phoenix Symphony Hall has a great public plaza where people gather—we need something like that. • We’re “mountainous”; once you come to a place like this you don’t want to leave. • We’re unique; we don’t have cookie cutter homes. • We need to maintain our community. Quality infrastructure is important. Streetscape is important; we need to maintain our medians and have quality landscaping that is well maintained. • I clean and safe community is important—it tells me a community cares about itself. • Why is Fountain Hills Boulevard, our name sake, one of the worst streets in Town? • We need to provide services closer to home; transportation costs are increasing and we need to build up our economic base. • We need a reason to hold people here during the day. • Downtown needs to be more organized and pedestrian oriented. • A vibrant community means higher property values. • We need destination shopping, a plaza and placemaking opportunities. • We need to work with Ft. McDowell and Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Communities and create a resort partnership. • We need strong, quality schools: that’s what brings families here. 1997 Parent Magazine named Fountain Hills #1 and it affected our decision to move here. • We need younger people moving in. • Fountain Lake is a destination, and it needs destination improvements like trees and pedestrian friendly orientation. • We need to continue to self promote; our values increase when we’re recognized. We need to find more ways to promote ourselves and our community. • We’re conveniently located to great resources, like the airport, and people like to visit; we need to build off of those qualities. • We should also build off of our proximity to the rim; this is the last major stop before people get to Payson. • We need to be sure to balance dark skies with safety; we should promote indirect lighting initiatives and low level pedestrian-way lighting. • Our views and serenity are important. January 2010 Appendix B-1 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • It’s like we live in a resort; we need to maintain that feeling. • It’s so neat to get up in the morning and see beautiful mountains and see the clear blue sky. • There is little traffic and it’s peaceful; Fountain Hills is a low stress and friendly community. • In Fountain Hills your psyche is pampered—people are relaxed. • Saguaro isn’t an impressive entranceway into our community; it’s not ‘activated’ 2. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • Culturally diverse, in terms of theater, music and entertainment. • Fountain Park. • Having people out on the street; people moving about the community adds and energy. • We need a town square; Prescott has a great public square where people naturally gather, eat and shop—there is a sense of energy about the location. • I’d love to have a reason to wait for a table or make a reservation in Fountain Hills—that would so vitality. • People gathering in a park or splash park. • We need to consolidate activity into one location—we need to promote connectivity between or places of activity. • We need a critical mass for a gathering place: big enough for diverse activity, small enough to be feasible in our community. • I want to go to a destination in Town and expect to see other people there. • Fountain Hills shouldn’t be just a destination for us, but where people can also come visit. • Fountain Hills needs to stay open past 9 pm; things close up too early. • Fountain Hills doesn’t have a place to ‘stroll’ or just walk around (other than Fountain Park). • People need to live in our Downtown • We don’t have a window shopping environment—we need one! • We need to have something big here: a community college, medical technology (work with neighboring Mayo), cultural center, corporate headquarters, etc. • We have a hundreds of people here who would do stuff if there was something to do! • We need connectivity between the Fountain and Downtown. • There is a perception that there is not a lot here, but if we consolidated activity (retail, commercial, entertainment, etc.) people would have a different perception of our offerings. • We need something that makes you want to lave the house! • We should investigate placing Fountain Hills on light rail in the future. • My impression is that there are a lot of people who are against what we’re talking about here— against activity, against vibrancy, against change. • Move the community theater Downtown. • We need to have pedestrian-orientation Downtown. • We should build off of our medical plaza; we need corporate offices or a medical/pharmaceutical opportunity, perhaps through collaboration with Mayo having a specialty division located here or even a small hospital? • Use our technology park and work to expand opportunities. • We need to have incubator space (Skysong); rent space but help line up capital, etc. What are communities you’ve been to that have energy and vitality? • San Diego Gas Light District • Carmel by the Sea • Durango, CO • La Jolla 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our January 2010 Appendix B-2 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • We need to keep residential areas quiet and to control lighting; activity centers should be Downtown and Shea corridor. We should establish different kinds of Districts in Town. • Maintain buffers to divide activity from residential. • Add residential in Downtown; high density residential provides opportunity for an urban lifestyle. • Businesses and activities need to be compatible with our values. • More activity needs to occur in the park, especially in the evenings. • We need a community calendar that outlines all public events and festivities; however; we need enough community activity that there is something going on every weekend and I shouldn’t have to think about leaving town…I just need to walk Downtown where I can hang out! • We should be a place you want to be at. • We need to provide a Fountain experience that lasts more than 30 seconds (long enough to take a photo). • My dream would be that the land is so valuable that we have the most stable, highest property values in the valley. • I hope we can become a place that in the future I never have leave for anything. • We could be known for transit, having the premier outdoor performing arts theater, other features around the fountain, covered and cool parking, etc. 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • If we don’t come up with new revenue streams we’ll be taxing people to death to sustain our quality of life. • We need diverse revenue sources so we don’t diminish our amenities and services. • I don’t want to see businesses disappear. • I don’t wan to be a place just to come and sleep. • I want $1 to turn over 3 or 4 times before it leaves Fountain Hills. • I don’t want our infrastructure to crumble; we need to keep quality facilities and infrastructure! • We need to have 1st class amenities. • We don’t want our Downtown to stay status quo; we want a vibrant space. • We don’t wan tot carve up the mountain sides. • We don’t want to be uninviting to a younger population; don’t want to be a retirement community. • Don’t want an increase in crime. • Don’t want a failing of our schools; we want to have this be a quality school district that will improve home values and that people move here because of our quality schools. • Don’t want things that don’t match with our values, like a strip club. • Don’t want a harsh, negative political environment; we don’t want a loss of civility. • Don’t want dirty heavy industry. • Don’t want air pollution. • I don’t want a community that doesn’t care enough to worry about our character or amenities; I don’t want a community who isn’t willing to pay for a better quality of life. • Don’t want our basic services to be lost. • I think there are a lot of people who will say “I didn’t move here for this…(activity…vibrancy)”; but, if they leave, there will be others who will move here for the activity, for the vibrancy. • I don’t want to be a community that allows the 30% (or minority opinions) to rule the Town. Small Group 1-B Table Facilitator: Alan Magazine, SPAC 1. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? January 2010 Appendix B-3 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Keep it clean • Good security • Keep streets from crumbling • Need to invest in infrastructure • More activities eg. have something every weekend that can be advertised—attract people from region (many good ideas cited) • Need to attract younger people. Median age now 46. If don’t attract young families then 10 yrs. from now will be over 55 community. • Need inspirational vision for future (warm, welcoming, unique, prosperous) • Direct route/access to Ft. McDowell • Convince Phoenix and Scottsdale press to cover FH events • Use the concept of “fountain” to distinguish town eg. have more small fountains around town in strategic locations • Need a theme eg. Prescott Whiskey Row All of above pretty unanimous 2. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • Do well for our size, but not vibrant—people leave to do things. Need such things as movie theater, pool • Need to attract outside people—revenue can’s support businesses that are here • One idea put forward—create what is called “Oasis In the Desert” • Social interaction necessary for vibrancy. • Don’t want to be the Paradise Valley of the Valley—eg. rich. • Evening classes/lectures might draw people • Untapped market—people between here and the 101 • Encourage tours of FH—bring people in for shopping and lunch. 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • Need to concentrate things in center of town (town center) It needs to be the core of activity (bustling) That way, the downtown is vibrant –esp. on weekends—but maintains the serenity of the rest of the town. • Claim made that it is very difficult to get permits for events other than Chamber events. • Suggestion: pathway lights around fountain 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • multi story (5-10) bldgs./bldgs under construction that don’t follow a theme. Unanimous— architectural control of new bldgs. • No bldgs allowed on ridge line • DO NOT WANT DOWNTOWN TO LOOK LIKE IT DOES NOW! • Need movement, progress, timelines—no more talking! • Make places of high visibility better looking eg. Shea and Sugaro. • People would leave if taxes went up disproportionately or if crime increases, pollution. Town needs to offer image of a clean community. January 2010 Appendix B-4 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Small Group 1-C Table Facilitator: Charlotte McCluskey, SPAC 1. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Sense of Safety and Security • Visual beauty and sense of openness • Town “boundaries---know where it starts and stops, not just a sprawl of houses” • “Curb Appeal” of individualized, well-maintained homes broken up by natural topography • Climate…slightly cooler than Valley, with cleaner air • Excelling Schools • Well-maintained washes and open spaces • Convenient to airport, hospitals, major shopping • Quiet neighborhoods with lack of traffic • Feeling of quiet and separateness from the hustle of the Valley 2. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • Activities for all age groups • Activities which bring people together, including social, artistic and volunteer opportunities • Other factors indicated were: • Thriving business activity • Feeling like you are at “Cheers”…”where everybody know your name” • Seeing others who are active and engaged in doing things that make the Town interesting • Living in a place that is growing and changing • Lots of volunteer opportunities for a variety of interests so that you feel connected to the Town’s success What are communities you’ve been to that have energy and vitality? • Portsmouth, NH • Marblehead MA • Durango CO • San Luis Obispo, CA • Santa Fe, NM • Prescott, AZ What are the gaps of vibrancy in Fountain Hills? • Lack of places to find information: kiosks at the parks • Chamber Visitor’s Center and Community Center closed on evenings and Weekends when visitors are in Town • Chamber Visitor’s Center not in the heart of Town • Lack of a central COORDINATED event calendar • Not enough support of Art, so go outside for exhibitions and performances • Need artist studios in downtown • Fountain is the most exciting thing downtown…for 15 minutes an hour…for 12 hrs---not enough • No public pool/fitness facility • Lack of will from Council to do the logical thing in regard to trash hauler problem • Will need more volunteer coordination to fill gaps in services as funds are needed for infrastructure • No cemetery…can’t be buried in the place we love January 2010 Appendix B-5 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • The Business Vitality plan for the Downtown needs full support of committed residents • Reinforce the concept of “Walkability” (1000 ft radius) when grouping entertainment and retail venues • Create an Entertainment district closer to the Avenue than Palisades • Support artist studios downtown, possibly with Town subsidies for a ramp-up period of years • Keep the focus on adding trees and gardens to enhance the people-friendly downtown environment • Support retail on the Avenue to make the “window appeal” of the walking experience more vibrant • Promoting foot traffic with more housing density so that visitors feel a part of the Town culture that is a “happening “ place • Make better use of the Avenue of the Fountain median space to showcase artists and musicians • Support a farmer’s market as a valley-wide draw to bring people here on a regular basis • Events like the Ballet in the Park bring visitors from Mesa and Scottsdale, and provide a great experience for local families at the same time • “Get Over” the idea that closing a segment of Saguaro Blvd for an event is a big inconvenience • Organize events on a regular schedule so that locals and visitors know that “Every 4th Saturday there is music in the Park”, or some activity for families on the Avenue… • Not really worried that we will become “Disneyland” or even Sedona to become more vibrant • Want to see Town develop more creative public/private partnerships for future amenities such as a pool and fitness center, improved venue for the Theater • Want to see a dedicated Town event coordinator, with a budget, and the power to streamline events for whatever organization that wants to sponsor them 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • Unified voice: Do not want to see a “big patch of dirt” in the middle of downtown, with no progress! • Would not like to see crime to the level that we do not feel safe • Would leave if the infrastructure breaks down so that the town looks “shabby” • Would consider leaving if residents polarize for or against growth, and bickering ruins the sense of community • Would leave if the traffic noise ruined the quietness • Would be disappointed if the Dark Skies were ruined by disruptive lighting • Would be disappointed if natural washes were ruined What we would like to see: • Town Council and staff develop policies and procedures that demonstrate support of collaboration, and activities that support growth and vibrancy • Business development staff that is the communication liaison between existing business and new business so interdependency is developed • Flex time that allows for some weekend staffing; 4 day week closes facilities, does not staff parks and facilities when most activity will logically take place…Friday, Saturday and Sunday • Better use of existing assets: Parks, McDowell Mtn Park, Golf courses, bike lanes, hiking availability, and especially Fountain Park January 2010 Appendix B-6 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Small Group 1-D Table Facilitator: Curt Dunham, SPAC Participant came late to Issue Forum and provided facilitator with the following feedback: • The town needs to provide more opportunities for families and people with children to provide input. We are too busy to go to traditional meetings. As I look at the people in this room, you are not hearing from a representative sample of the community (older, retired, men) • FH needs more things for kids to do: o More water and shade at the park for summer use o Activities, like a climbing wall at the community center o Really need an Aquatics Center! o Need activities downtown so young people don’t have to go to Scottsdale • Leadership does not take young people seriously. I used to be on parks and Recreation Commission and my ideas were usually discounted • FH should have no more stops signs or traffic signals. Roundabouts should be installed. The Council has been misled as to the cost of roundabouts. I have offered my services for free to help with design and to show benefits. Have not been taken up on my offer • Need to coordinate the community’s expenditures. The Learning Center we are in cost $900,000 and we have rooms empty at the Community Center which has been taken over by the seniors; young people don’t want to be around there • Fountain Hills is a great place but could be so much better! Issue Forum #2: November 7, 2009 Christ’s Chruch Number of Participants: 4 Small Group 2-A Table Facilitator: Audra Koester Thomas, SPAC 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • A community where the people are descent and respect each other; where people are friendly with each other. • A community where people come together to meet challenges. • A community with more activity in Town where people can participate; we have to go to Scottsdale to do a lot of things, if we could stay here for more things, we’d be more vibrant and our sales taxes would stay here! • We don’t have a variety of shopping, so when we go to Scottsdale to shop, we end up going out to eat in Scottsdale and going out to a movie in Scottsdale. • We need a movie theater, maybe at Shea or in partnership with Ft. McDowell. • The Town needs to be a place that people want to come because we have something nobody else has. • We need transit opportunities in and out of Fountain Hills; shuttle to Mayo Clinic. • We need positive leadership. • Town needs to build partnerships to make some of these opportunities happen. • Fountain Hills needs to be pedestrian friendly. • We need more programs for kids! • We need an outdoor pool or aquatic facility; perhaps partner with the school to have a joint facility to support a school swim team and provide a resource for our community on a season pass basis. • Perhaps a trolley system in town for seniors and youth who don’t drive or others that would prefer not to drive; this would also promote environmentally friendly behavior. • We should work on promotions: see a movie, eat a discounted meal at an area restaurant, get a coupon to shop… January 2010 Appendix B-7 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Fountain Hills is unique and land locked; this increases our property values. • We are a safe community; we need to improve our community policing program so that officers are more familiar with the community and the community is more familiar with the officers. Consider establishing our own police force similar to the marshal program. • We need more reasons to stay here; the more often our residents stay in Town, the better our community will be. • We want to ensure we maintain our safe and peaceful community; addressing traffic and preventing the hustle and bustle of the ‘big city’. • We’re so lucky to live here! • Quality education is something we need to maintain. • We need quality services and amenities. • We need affordable services and activities; we need to provide a range of amenities. • The Fountain could be improved: more activity, more than just a single photograph. Maybe dancing water features and light effects, lasers, pathway lighting around the Fountain to walk at night, color, etc. • We need sufficient youth programs. • Affordable lodging. • We need to be known as a healthy community. 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • Fountain Hills should be a place where people come to have fun; we need an activity center with restaurants, activity, entertainment, shopping, etc.—a place where people can spend an entire day! • We need to investigate having an activity center, like a YMCA, where all generations can come for activity, learning, sports, etc. A place where kids can hand out for a few hours while parents shop, etc. • Consolidate fragmented service delivery; consider Town owned/operated services. • Offer non-credit classes at our community center: personal finance, parenting classes, coping with stress, etc. • We need to provide a range of services that improve the quality of life. • Fountain Hills should be known for our compassion. • We need a range of quality restaurant; we don’t have a quality buffet. • We should celebrate public service and honor our police and fire personnel. 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • We need a second emergency access point to/from Scottsdale; Shea Boulevard needs another route in case of emergency. • Don’t want an attitude that isn’t friendly or kind; want a community that you can strike up a conversation with anyone. • Don’t want a loss of civility—it destroys a town. • Don’t want too high of taxes or pay too much for services. • Don’t want violence or crime. • Don’t want people to feel like prisoners in their own homes because there aren’t transit options. Small Group 2-B Table Facilitator: Charlotte McCluskey, SPAC January 2010 Appendix B-8 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • Things to do for families and individuals at all stages in their lives… • Communities that focus on the future of their children • Cooperative programs and events with the schools and the Town • Use of School facilities for Town educational activities • Programs that stimulate thinking, and expose us to new ideas • Multigenerational programs and activities allow for the values transfer between age groups • Need community Pool and Fitness Center for multi-generational interaction and fitness programs • Need more social and volunteer programs available for women than men • Need a “hobby center” that can provide studio space for wood-working, ceramics, weaving, etc… a rental or by appointment space for the arts for individuals who do not have their own studios or workshops • No way for individuals to give an opinion without being attacked by those who disagree What are communities you’ve been to that have energy and vitality? • Kingwood, TX is a vibrant community with lots of cross-generational activities 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Property Tax: need for all land-owners who benefit from the general increase in values produced by a well-maintained town to pay for the infrastructure that maintains it… • Need to combat those who spread fear that our council will “spend” irresponsibly • Develop a culture of civic responsibility that promotes “paying our fair share” here, not just “back home.” • Maintain the washes, medians, streets • Business community that was flourishing • Create a partnership with service organizations to get out the information about being responsible citizens • Groups helping with “clean-up”, trimming, weeding • Groups committing to communicating about public meetings important Town gatherings, event calendar, shopping locally • Groups communicating about shopping loyalty 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • Would like to see the Downtown development “not get too carried away” with big ideas o Small movie theater o Small bookstore o More interesting shops like Gridley’s o Craft and artist studios o Work with YMCA to get a multi-purpose facility o Not sure we need so many new trees • Would like to see a program to encourage the development of a service attitude by our retail workers…so that Fountain Hills become known as a place where… • “We know that we live in heaven, and we don’t mind sharing it.” 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? January 2010 Appendix B-9 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Things would not like to see: • If we still had no property tax • If the “curb appeal” had not been maintained: poor streets, shabby, overgrown parks and medians, limited access to Community Center • People had become rude and non-communicative • Environment was full of bickering and feeling of unhappiness in the newspaper and at public meetings • If local ordinances cause homeowners to lose the control over their own property o Too many regulations o Sense that code enforcement was “after us” for minor things Things I would like to see: • A multi-generational fitness and aquatic center • Movie Theater • Little places (pocket parks) where people can congregate • People in Town continuing to reach out and care for others in Town • Information promoting reaching out to meet and know neighbors • Topography and work schedules makes knowing neighbors difficult • Need a format that make integrating new people in each neighborhood and street a Town value, not an accident • Improved “walkability” • More sidewalks and bike lanes • More things (recreation; retail) groups in walkable distance • Community facilities for activities that are encouraged to be mulit-generational: Senior Center controlling arts and crafts space precludes transfer of vales between generations • Regular “happenings” on a monthly basis that bring people in from all over the area to share our piece of heaven January 2010 Appendix B-10 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Issue Forum #3: November 19, 2009 Boys and Girls Club of Fountain Hills Number of Participants: 30 Small Group 3-A Table Facilitator: Chris Garbo, Arizona State University 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • Somewhere that “always has something to do” • Somewhere that is visually pleasing and scenic • Movie theater • Miniature golf venue • Drive up ice cream shop that is affordable for kids • Community pool or small water park • Community center building for the entire community, all ages • Community events for all ages in the community • There used to be a community carnival (put on by company “Frazier Shows”), we need the carnival again • Arts and Crafts Fair no longer has rides for the kids How would you describe Fountain Hills now? • There is nothing to do in Fountain Hills: • We have to go to Scottsdale to have fun (to the malls to shop for clothes and movies theaters) • There is no dance studio anymore • The new bowling alley is a good start, but it isn’t big enough • We should develop a mini-mall with shopping along Palisades • Would like to see fishing in Fountain Lake • Fountain Hills is a very clean town What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • Town is directed at older residents • Families need to be the focus of new planning, keep their interest • Dark at night, hard to see and feel safe when walking at night • Must be sure to avoid too much light pollution • If there are places to go, more people will walk What is Fountain Hills’ most exiting and vibrant feature now? • There isn’t one, a movie theater would help • Vibrancy attracts tourism • No place to shop • No shops around the Fountain • Not enough jobs for students • We need more local jobs, office jobs • “We are paying Scottsdale’s taxes” by shopping there regularly • The town does not spend money correctly: $50,000 metal horse? 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? January 2010 Appendix B-11 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Clean and friendly • Safe • Has an excelling high school and other good schools • There are some recreational activities for residents o Five golf courses o Pickle-ball o Frisbee golf o A new hiking trail is being built o Men’s softball league What could be neglected that would cause Fountain Hills to lose its appeal and value? • If the park were neglected • Families may eventually move if they realize there is nothing to do (as their kids get older) How do people visiting you or people you know that don’t live in Fountain Hills describe the community? What do they see as its value? • Fountain Hills is beautiful, safe and welcoming • They like the scenery • Friend asked “Why do you go to Scottsdale to do everything?” • Take friends and family to Old Town Scottsdale when they visit • Splash park is inadequate for teenagers 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • When new businesses open, they are required to adopt a street, we are balanced in this way • Stores should still close early, so that streets aren’t crowded too late at night Other than the Fountain, what should Fountain Hills be known for? • Small town community • Clean and happy community with a lot of things to do • Community with miniature golf, In-n-Out Burger and a movie theater (towns smaller than Fountain Hills have these things) 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • We would not like to see a town that continues to not have anything to do • “If I move back to the area in a couple decades I won’t move back (to Fountain Hills) if there isn’t anything to do.” • Pollution • Tall buildings, this would ruin the scenery Small Group 3-B Table Facilitator: Audra Koester Thomas, SPAC 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • A community where people are super friendly; people smile and say hello; people talk to one another. • Activities like movie in the park, ballet in the park, Halloween at Four Peaks, snow play, etc. • Everything in Fountain Hills closes early; not vibrant! Fountain Hills can be stale. • Wish residents would support businesses in Fountain Hills; too easy to leave and do business in neighboring communities when prices are lower. January 2010 Appendix B-12 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Light up the Avenue of the Fountains; add evening activities. • Add activities in Fountain Lake—paddleboats and more activities around the facility, like concerts and gatherings. • Create a civic plaza, not unlike a piazza in Italy, where people gather and the center of Town exists. A natural place for people to gather and socialize that is not “fenced in.” • An arcade for kids of all ages. • Quaint, unique shops. • Restaurants for younger crowds. • Greening of technology—integrate use of solar, LEED design, etc in all development and redevelopment. • I want to make fewer trips out of Town. • Place a theater downtown or at Shea. • Delighted the bowling alley is open again! 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Stay a unique town, not a big city • Keep community safe; use cameras as a deterrent. • A warm, safe atmosphere. • Views, large lots. • Not having a homeowners association, however, the Town needs to be active in monitoring neighborhoods. • Streetscape and landscaping. • Pedestrian friendly. • Redevelopment of Saguaro; provide incentives for businesses to redevelop and enhance businesses. • Sandwich boards may be a good idea, but can also be an eye sore. • More community-wide recycling; more large containers throughout community. Investigate a single carrier for garbage/recycling to prevent further deterioration to roads. • Preserve swaths of open space and the natural beauty and views! 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • Investigate having our own police department—better community policing. • Protect viewsheds and open space. • Balanced tax structure! 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • Not too much traffic—already uncontrollable between schools. Need traffic planning and use of roundabouts! • Don’t want businesses to look bad; want all development to maintain itself. • Don’t want businesses to be unsuccessful. • Not too many signs; maybe use of pedestals instead of a-frames. • Don’t want our school system to decline. • Don’t want disrespect between anyone—respect should be maintained between young and old! January 2010 Appendix B-13 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Small Group 3-C Table Facilitator: Don Henning, Arizona State University 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • Fountain Hills needs to be a more exciting and vibrant community, including lots of activities for all ages, activities to meet the needs of all residents, emphasis on youth activities and needing more that are affordable and work with parents schedule –weekends, involve town parks • Town Center is not inviting, auto dependent, needs to be more walkable/pedestrian friendly • Need more diversity in retail, keep local retail in FH • Art Festival – strongly supported • Possibilities: o Anchor Activities: Roller Skating Rink, Community Pool (Strong Support), Recreation Center, Fine Arts Facilities, Auditorium o Public transportation in Fountain Hills - Trolley, public transportation to light rail o Public Group Task Force: See how other communities work, extra help and volunteer opportunities to help other residents. What are communities you’ve been to that have energy and vitality? • Kierland Commons - Great Shops, diversity of shopping, diversity of restaurants, walkable/pedestrian friendly area • Chandler – Good flow 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Make sure FH is a desirable place to live and keep it one • Protect Views, keep in mind when/with new development • Maintain landscape and aesthetics of town • Keep FH clean, parks • Maintain perception of safety • More infrastructure to keep people here • More activity/infrastructure down near Fountain Park; more attraction, affordable activities, businesses • Recreational activities, hiking trails • Community involvement activities/events, farmers market, eco-park 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • Limit on expansion • Regulation on what can come to FH - types of businesses • Keep views, methodology/process to maintain views What are other things that Fountain Hills could be known for? • A walkable community – pedestrian access, trails in urban areas, bike lanes, environmental conscious community • Educational facilities – adult classes (educational classes for adults, cooking, etc.) • Safety • Things to do January 2010 Appendix B-14 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • Cell phone towers • High rises • High crime rate • Over building • Unsightly development • Higher taxes • More street lights (like to keep town dark in residential areas for clear night skies) • Level of education (keep up to keep residents in FH) • Retail (no big retail-“Wal-Mart”, keep more local owned retail) Small Group 3-D Table Facilitator: Tim Moore, Arizona State University 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • Fountain Hills provides the opportunity for community members to get involved. • The variety of cultural activities available • Resident participation • Community where people know each other • Fountain Hills is “cliquish”: people running the City – involved in commissions; fractured • Community is for couples and families o Needs more activities and opportunities for singles o Expose the opportunities that already exist – businesses and facilities that could be geared towards singles or singles activities. • The topography of Fountain Hills is an outstanding feature. • Opportunities to get involved • Wide roads – lack of traffic • New medical facility is a good feature • Community center offers a lot of activities • The community could do more with the 32 acre park; better utilization of the area • Museums • More quality restaurants – that stay in Fountain Hills • More variety; more commercial and retail options • Band shell: music venue for people to go and enjoy, multi-use facility • Velodrome: Indoor cycling facility; could draw people and attention from across the country • Swimming pool o Big issue o Fountain Hills does not have a public aquatic center o Dodge City, KS is approximately the same size as Fountain Hills and it has 3 community pools – one of which is open year round. • YMCA o With aquatic center o Provides a place to go for people of all ages • Underutilized land is a big problem in Fountain Hills • Community College extension o Utilize the knowledge and skills of the citizens of the community • Leisure World – Mesa, AZ o Community center o Areas separated into 20’x20’ cubes Skilled trade workshops open to the public Added to existing community center? People do not currently have places to go to work on skilled trades or hobbies • Arts Center – Fine Arts Center January 2010 Appendix B-15 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report o Multi-use building • Find resistance from outsiders o “who would drive that far” o What would people drive to Fountain Hills for other than the fountain? • People come to Fountain Hills to see the fountain and visit the arts festival. • Part-time residents o How do we meet the needs of the changing resident population throughout the year? Snowbirds – summer visitors – weekenders o Vibrant activities for people that live / stay here o Vibrant activities for people who visit o Are these the same activities or will they need to cater to each? • Attract more people • Model boats o Model boat races on the lake Could occur monthly It would provide people within the hobby with a welcoming place to go • Talent of residents o Employment opportunities in Fountain Hills o More employment for skilled labor Most residents travel outside of town to work Most people who work in Fountain Hills do not live in Fountain Hills (i.e. retail industry) • Small movie theater o Could be supported by surrounding communities as well as Fountain Hills Not necessarily a megaplex with dozens of screens but a smaller venue with a few screens. • Enhance the lake 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Amount of developable land o There is not much room for growth in Fountain Hills o Land locked o Near buildout • Opportunity cost to live away from the bigger city • Value of what you get living in Fountain Hills • Location • People like the isolation • Being able to see the stars • People want to get away from things • Its quiet • You can do a million things here • Upscale with a different character other upscale communities o Drives property values • It is not Carefree or Cave Creek o Different character o Wal-mart issue in recent news Those communities showed that they understand that the city needs money from retail, besides the fact that they need somewhere to shop. • Infrastructure o More transportation opportunities What happens in an emergency – there are only a few ways in and out of Fountain Hills January 2010 Appendix B-16 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Additional route out of town Limited amount of access • Lower socio-economic people would change the character if the community o They work at the stores, teach our students o People have to leave to work – come to Fountain Hills to work here • Developing the desert and destroying the character of the community • “Most economically upscale place to live” • Mountains • Variety of homes o Unique construction o “built over arroyos” • “Where do you take them outside of Fountain Hills?” • Hyatt Gainey Ranch • Out of Africa • Friday Night Franks • Greasewood Flats • “Where do you take them in Fountain Hills?” • Museum – “when it is open” • Community center • Park • “Many of the activities are geared towards our grandchildren” • Art in the fountain park o Fountain Hills is becoming known for its art o “Community art is great in Fountain Hills.” • Nice and quiet – no busy-busy • The water pressure is good here • The option of gas and electric – for most areas • “I hate CC & R’s and Associations” o They control the characteristics of the community (good) o “Bottom line, opposed to HOA’s” • Schools are very strong in Fountain Hills o Community is invested in schools o Community should show more interest in school system o “I wanted to live in a community with [good] schools” How do we keep the schools excellent? Home schooling is becoming a huge thing • No property tax in town (bad) o City is continually run on sales taxes o What happens if some of the major retail begins to go under? o How will city operate? 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • Hobby workshops in downtown area o Close to other activities o Hub of activities in downtown center / near lake • Trolley – would that benefit the downtown area? o How would it be funded? Downtown area business groups It would benefit all ages and visitors • Parental permission to participate in downtown activities • Places for young kids to go January 2010 Appendix B-17 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Friendliness • Continuing education to bring in money • Interrelations with Indian communities o Activities with communities o Work together to create amenities – meet the needs of both communities o Commercial development on reservations to make up for lack of developable land in Fountain Hills • Already have good relations with Yavapai • Great art, people, and vistas • Nice, quiet beautiful town • “I don’t want to tell them [about Fountain Hills]. I don’t want them to move here.” • “We like the Fountain Hills International Airport” 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • More traffic • Street lights o Policy to protect the character of Fountain Hills • Homes on the hills o Destroying the scenic vistas of the communities • Angled parking o Takes away from the beauty • Broken infrastructure o Public works o Transportation • Low buildings should be maintained – keep them small • Traffic congestion • Graffiti • Cleanliness – new street sweepers have been beneficial • One company to pick up trash for the whole city o Competition of trash • Communities that do not talk to each other o Consensus on issues • Make the lake usable How do we fund our town in the future? • People that live here temporarily do not pay as much as those that live here year round o Not as invested in the community as others o Visitors don’t always spend money here o Target represents the majority of the towns operating budget • More established businesses that come to the community and stay in the community o Increase volume of sales Small Group 3-E Table Facilitator: David Proffitt and Derek Cardinale, Arizona State University 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? A vibrant community is: • Somewhere that is constantly growing, including businesses and population • A place where people want to spend time, with different restaurants • Somewhere that is always moving • New people • New things for kids (new parks), is the community geared toward all generations? • There is stuff to do after 5PM January 2010 Appendix B-18 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Interaction How would you describe Fountain Hills now? • Good schools • Nothing to do after 5PM • Town events, we need more of them (stuff at the Fountain Park, concerts and movies) • Something every month in the park, keep it affordable What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • A gap does exist • Town falls so short on kids stuff, the park is good • There is a disconnect between residents and businesses, Fountain Hills is growing younger and younger • Need family restaurants • We can attract from 124th Street to Fountain Hills • Businesses do not listen • There is a high turnover for businesses • We need more town surveys to get a pulse of the community • Teen Center should be open later • Grew up in a small town like Fountain Hills, but would love a movie theater • Park lights need to stay on later • Need new companies • Park is poorly maintained by Town • Now is the time to plan while it is slower What is Fountain Hills’ most exiting and vibrant feature now? • Boys and Girls Club • Great parks and recreation • Community theater • Lake area, its underplayed Things we need/need to address: • Need bigger and better events • Community pool and other gathering places to connect the community • Bond for a movie theater • Live theater • Smaller scale Tempe Marketplace • Zoning issues (A-frame signs) • More civic involvement 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Has beauty (this must be maintained beyond the Fountain) • Entrances to the town need to be nice, buildings design should conform • Has good schools, schools are a community driver • Was a top 10 place to live in 1996, we want this recognition back • Home values are realistic, we don’t want to live on the other side of the hill Things that Fountain Hills needs: • We need to draw families January 2010 Appendix B-19 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Need additional recreation • Gymnastics • Karate • Pool (swim team) • Teen Center • Coffee house • Movie Theater • Solar lighting • Art • Continue doing a good job at budgeting and finding money • Utilize sustainable energy by looking toward the future and capitalizing on it • Town should advertise and team with Scottsdale to bring people to Fountain Hills, we need more exposure. • Bring farmers market back • Town should not change direction so often People who do not live in Fountain Hills: • Automatically think you are rich • Love the golf • Say that it is far away • Like Fountain Hills • St. Patrick’s Day is great 3. We have heard that one of the things that people really like, and what set’s our community apart is the serenity and beauty of the desert and mountains. We have also heard that there is a desire to have a vibrant community with thriving businesses, things to do, and places to gather. How can we plan our community to protect the natural serenity that we love but also provide a vibrant business community with activities and places to gather. How do we stay balanced? • Restrictions on building heights are good • Less street lights • We must still make flexible decisions • Beautify our community with natural landscapes • Street cleans are great • Street garbage program should be redone • We must keep up our parks • Varying development, no cookie cutter homes • Nice preserves Other than the Fountain, what should Fountain Hills be known for? • High school football team • Somewhere that always has something to do • Beauty, well known artists/authors 4. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? What would make you want to leave Fountain Hills? • If we do not grow along with the valley • If schools do not grow • Working outside of town • If I have to commute more (we don’t want to increase our travel) • If we do not become vibrant and create jobs • If schools and jobs suffer • Don’t want to be like Downtown Mesa • Do not want blight or abandonment like Queen Creek January 2010 Appendix B-20 Issue Forum Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report January 2010 Appendix B-21 What we want to have in Fountain Hills: Forward thinkers in government A close knit community Do not want the status quo, we should be at the top Organizational Meetings Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Appendix C: Organizational Meetings Summaries The following outlines the events, organizations and groups SPAC attended and presented to over the course of Phase II. Fountain Hills Unified School District Open House August 18, 2009 McDowell Mountain Elementary School Number of attendees at event: approximately 100 SPAC members attended the McDowell Mountain Elementary School open house and provided information regarding the Strategic Plan Update. The following comments were provided by attendees: • Is it still possible to have a theater in Town? • We need more family-friendly activities, like a YMCA facility • We need a public pool, and I’m willing to pay for it! • Parents are busy; we care about our Town but we just don’t always have the time to participate and share. • We love the family-friendly activities: snow play day, our parks, etc. • We should have low level pedestrian lighting at Fountain Park—solar powered lights that are donated by residents with small name plaques. • Boy and girl scouts are great groups to tap and help with public service programs and activities around Town! Fountain Hills Unified School District Open House August 24, 2009 Fountain Hills Middle School Number of attendees at event: approximately 100 SPAC members attended the Middle School open house and provided information regarding the Strategic Plan Update. Fountain Hills Unified School District Open House August 27, 2009 Fountain Hills High School Number of attendees at event: approximately 100 Information regarding the Strategic Plan Update was handed out at the High School open house. Business Vitality Advisory Council Meeting September 10, 2009 Number of attendees at meeting: 14 SPAC members attended BVAC meeting and provided information regarding the Strategic Plan Update. • Emphasized that the needs of the business community are included in the Strategic Plan Update. Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting September 10, 2009 Number of attendees at meeting: 10 January 2010 Appendix C-1 Organizational Meetings Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Chairman Thomas provided a presentation on the Strategic Plan Update and solicited feedback and questions from the Commission. The following questions were asked: • How will you introduce the Issue Forum meetings—will you be providing any sort of introduction to the exercise? • Who will be responsible for comparing the General Plan Update with the Strategic Plan Update to identify any overlap? Council Retreat October 8, 2009 Number of attendees at meeting: 20 Chairman Thomas provided a presentation on the Feedback Session #2 and the upcoming Issue Forums to Council. Planning Team Meeting October 12, 2009 Number of attendees at meeting: 6 SPAC commissioners led attendees through draft Issue Forum questions. The responses to these questions appear below: 1. Fountain Hills has been described as a “bedroom community” [define if needed]. What are the benefits and/or drawbacks of being a “bedroom community”? • People are spending money elsewhere • Less sales tax collection in Town • I work here, so I have to go elsewhere to get “stuff” • A bit of a sense of isolation; not all needed amenities are here. 2. Fountain Hills has been described as a “bedroom community” [define if needed]. What are the benefits of being a “bedroom community”? • Less industry; it’s cleaner • Less traffic • More attractive; more visitors • A relief to come home; seems like you come home to a vacation • I like that we’re a small town, but we don’t have everything we need • Isolation makes us unique; we have definite boundaries 3. Many communities find success as a destination: Sedona, AZ; Jackson Hole, WY; Napa, CA; etc. Should Fountain Hills become better known for something specific? If so, what can be done to enhance our reputation (build arts center; entice major spa; etc.) As a destination, can Fountain Hills be planned to accommodate both residents and visitors without detracting from the experience of both? • This would help our businesses; would help us create a vibrant Downtown • Isn’t this the $64,000 question: to stay as we are or do something different? • Life is about change: let’s control traffic on main roads not in neighborhoods • If we want to increase business here, we need more people to do business here (visitors and residents) • I want more people who live here to work here, too; people who live/work/play in a community make for better constituents; they are more passionate and invested (literally) in the January 2010 Appendix C-2 Organizational Meetings Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report community • Not sure I want to imagine accommodating lots of visitors (like Sedona—no thank you!) Would rather have invested, passionate individuals who live/work/play in Fountain Hills • Focus tourism on our natural assets 4. It is getting more expensive to travel out of Town for employment, shopping, and entertainment. Commuting is costing us time, impacting our environment, and impacting our pocketbooks. Doing business outside of Fountain Hills is also expensive to the Town: the amenities and services provided by the Town are largely funded through sales taxes. Thus, when you shop in Scottsdale, the sales tax you pay goes to support amenities for Scottsdale residents. While it is understood that there will always be reasons that you may need or want to do business outside of Fountain Hills, what could the Town provide to make you think twice about leaving? What could our community provide that would allow you to make fewer trips out of Fountain Hills? • Like Swaback has advocated: concentrate business in one location—great idea! • Lets find a way for individuals to park once in Town rather than driving to different locations; once in your car, it’s easy to just leave Town all together • We need to make Downtown more of a destination (shopping, entertainment, services, etc.) • Capitalize on our natural assets • Ecotourism 5. Could Fountain Hills plan for and invest in the development of quality, high paying employment opportunities to reduce the need for residents to commute out of Town? What are your ideas? • Could increase traffic; taller buildings could impede views • Bring in 3-shift, high tech development! • We might have good medical opportunities (given the new clinic complex Downtown and proximity to Mayo Clinic) • It seems to me that viable retail in Town is hard—it seems like it would be hard to achieve sustainable retail development that solves our viability issues • Great energy comes from a quality employment entity; focus on brining residents here that make higher retail possible • Consider retraining opportunities in Town 6. What amenities do you know that are available in our community that we haven’t listed? • Arcade or a sort of “Dave & Busters” • Movie theater that has competitive prices and is affordable for our residents and youth • We simply need a place to hang out: so many kids go to football games just to “hang out”— we need to foster this sort of concept in Town. • Condense activity into a single location • Pool hall • More compatible development around Fountain Park 7. Assume that you left Fountain Hills for 10 years. When you came back to the community (to visit, to live), what would you like to Town to look like? Be specific. • Natural beauty still exists • Swaback Vision for Downtown has been implemented • Appropriately sized movie theater exists, perhaps showing unique films (to serve as a Valley attraction) • People have a salient understanding of hiking opportunities in and around Fountain Hills • That Fountain Hills has a linked pedestrian network—can get in and around Town without having to drive everywhere • That Fountain Hills has capitalized on our great asset: Fountain Park • Employment opportunities exist and that we’re a community that has linked quality education, employment and residential options; this will prove to define vitality of a community! January 2010 Appendix C-3 Organizational Meetings Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Friends of the Hills October 15, 2009 Number of attendees at meeting: 8 SPAC provided a presentation on the Strategic Plan Update and handed out Feedback Session #2 to attendees. Senior Services Advisory Commission/Community Center Advisory Commission October 19, 2009 Number of attendees at meeting: 15 Chairman Thomas provided a presentation on the Strategic Plan Update and solicited feedback and questions from the Commission. The following feedback was received: • We need to consider our ‘barriers’ (Indian Reservations, Scottsdale, etc.); these things make us ‘land locked’ • We need to address that people go elsewhere to shop—they don’t come here, we go there (Scottsdale)! • I’m worried that we can’t do anything about the decisions made by Indian Reservations (specifically, the kinds of development along Shea/SR 87) • It’s incumbent on people to find something to do; everything shouldn’t be located here • Continuing education and training has been a priority of our Commissions; as ‘Boomers continue to retire, retraining and continuing education (credit and non-credit) is important for Fountain Hills • Need to evaluate opportunities for different generations—youth, adults, Baby Boomers, seniors, etc. Chamber Business Showcase October 28, 2009 Number of attendees at event: 150 SPAC members attended the Business Showcase by hosing a booth and provided information regarding the Strategic Plan Update and handed out Feedback Session #2 forms. Public Safety Advisory Commission November 3, 2009 Number of attendees at event: 5 Chairman Thomas provided a presentation on the Strategic Plan Update and solicited feedback and questions from the Commission. Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission November 9, 2009 Number of attendees at event: 7 Chairman Thomas provided a presentation on the Strategic Plan Update and solicited feedback and questions from the Commission. January 2010 Appendix C-4 Organizational Meetings Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Men’s Discussion Group November 16, 2009 Number of attendees at event: 25 Chairman Thomas provided a presentation on the Strategic Plan Update and solicited feedback and questions from the Commission. The following feedback was received: • We have a beautiful setting—let’s keep it • We bought here because it was an easy commute to my business in Scottsdale’s Airpark, and because of the view of Four Peaks • “Commuting as a necessity” is a negativity; people would want to stay here (to work) if they could! • We came here for what it ‘was’; we moved here for the beauty and quiet—only three traffic lights; we want the feeling of a laid-back community • I have the impression that people are trying to change the community • We moved here for the quiet • We don’t want maintenance of our facilities, buildings and infrastructure to decline; we want good upkeep of our neighborhoods and for them not to deteriorate • We have some problems in the political arena—negativity • I’m fearful of the changing of our economic base • We should limit the terms of our elected officials: 12 to 14 weeks • Fountain Hills has a sort of Mid-west suburban feel; people brought that and supplanted it here • I want to keep our dark skies, the quiet • The seeds of our own destruction are sown in that we cannot complete the capital projects funded by a system dependent on growth: our financing system fails without growth! So, if we don’t or cannot have continued growth, how do we fund things? • Sustaining business needs an active, full-time community; need to generate business activity to boost sales tax dollars • No matter where you go, you’ll grow and change; you cannot stand still! We can’t want and have what Fountain Hills was when we first moved here; we need growth and quality amenities that bring growth • Our economy is dependent on sales tax; we could have a property tax if it is a reasonable amount to address declining sales tax dollars • Our priority should be to keep our standards high: quality streets and infrastructure! • People moving here want a health conscious community and a pedestrian friendly atmosphere; we’ve already missed so many opportunities to connect our activity centers (Basha’s!) We should have a long term goal (15 years) to connect the Town Center via sidewalks and pathways! • Fountain Hills should be a community of trails, sidewalks, paths and bike trails • I moved here because there were no sidewalks; I didn’t want to be Scottsdale • We need to think differently about funding sources: instead of outrageous license taxes, we should add 2 cents onto gas tax which would stay in the locality gas was purchased; this addresses residents, visitors and part-time residents! • I want kids off the streets • We need to have an entertainment focus in Town • We need a movie theater • We end up going and doing shopping in Scottsdale; since we’re already there, we go to a movie and eat dinner…all in Scottsdale • We should have shade structures, misters, etc. and create a pedestrian-friendly environment • I think people rarely go out to eat as a single form of entertainment; I know I usually pair going out to eat with shopping or entertainment—if those aren’t available here, I go elsewhere • We need more walking opportunities with shade; meandering walkways and shaded benches • Make the front of our Fountain Park more attractive, inviting • The answer to building revenue is to find ways to keep people here more than the five minutes they stay to take a picture of the Fountain • We need to build on our existing assets • Need to be real smart about what we do on Avenue of the Fountains; we don’t want to create January 2010 Appendix C-5 Organizational Meetings Summaries Working Paper #2: Visioning Report January 2010 Appendix C-6 something only for a bunch of vacancy and “for lease” signs on buildings • People go to Kierland Commons not to spend money, but because its beautiful and fun…then they end up spending money! • As a part time resident, I’m perfectly happy; I was looking for a retirement community • Having a part time community has consequences—it’s hard to sustain activity! • We need reasons for people to stay in the summer, in the evenings; we need entertainment a couple times a month, like music at the Fountain! • What’s the economic benefit/loss of events like the art festivals to existing businesses? • What is the part time/full time population in Fountain Hills? • We could want tour buses to come see the Fountain, but what else will a tour bus do in Fountain Hills—need more reasons for people to get off a bus and stay! • If you want places to stay open longer, you’ll have to spend at least $5 at those locations to keep them in business; people who live here need to do more business here! • We need a performing arts facility of critical mass; need a “place” or a “venue” at minimum—why don’t we have a quality auditorium that can be shared by the schools, our community and for events? Wish the Phoenix Symphony and other opportunities would come more often! • Don’t like the new business signs—wish we had the old ones back! Fountain Hills Herb Society and Garden Club November 16, 2009 Number of attendees at event: 12 SPAC provided a presentation on the Strategic Plan Update and solicited feedback and answered questions. The following feedback was received: • Biggest concern: continued safety of the community • Supportive of multi-generational activities an exchange of ideas and projects with young and elderly • Supportive of the ‘greening of the Downtown’ project • Supportive of a ‘salsa garden’ (peppers, onions, garlic and tomatoes) as a homeowner’s demonstration project • Would like to start herb gardens for the area restaurants Youth Visioning Feedback Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Appendix D: Youth Visioning The following summarizes the feedback of 133 students interviewed in classrooms at Fountain Hills High School on November 13, 2009. Total Participants: 133 Class #1: Kate Pruett 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? A vibrant community has amenities like: • Splash park; water park • Arcades • Carnivals • Movie theater • Music and cultural festivals • Public pool • Shopping • Activities for teens What would you like to see in Fountain Hills? • Local bands performing at Fountain Park • Acoustic cafés or performances • More sports and club teams: swimming, lacrosse, equestrian • A full service YMCA or recreation center (designed, in part, with contributions from students!) o Rock climbing wall o Pool o Shooting range o Indoor sports courts o Family activities o Health and fitness programming • Avenue of the Fountains become an “all pedestrian friendly zone” • Utilize the tremendous asset, Fountain Park (add a beach or water-side element?) • Expand the wonderful skate park with new amenities (stairs, railings, ramps, bowl), later hours, even lights; would be willing to comply with mandatory helmet/pad requirements • Speed limits enforced for slow/fast cars • Stop signs on Saguaro • Street lights along major thoroughfares • Town transit (trolley?) system for those who don’t drive (youth, seniors) • Biking and dirt bike facility • Teen night club • Ice rink • Ice cream shop (Dairy Queen) • Increased cultural diversity • Paint ball field 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? In other words, the exact same home in another part of the Valley is worth half of what it is here. Why? • Maintain high quality of housing • Quiet and out of the way of the city January 2010 Appendix D-1 Youth Visioning Feedback Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Low crime • Access to the valley • Landscaping maintained • Clean (no trash) 3. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • More golf courses • Outdated buildings • Early curfew (students are out past 10 pm due to jobs and school activities); extend curfew to at least 11 pm Class #2: Sue Burcham Einstein 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? A vibrant community has amenities like: • YMCA or similar recreation and activity center • Movie theater • Music venues • Expanded restaurant options • Ice cream parlor • Transit • Expanded shopping (clothes) • Pedestrian friendly What would you like to see in Fountain Hills? • Core Downtown: • Plaza center, all pedestrian • Music stores • Shopping (Clothes) – known retailers • Build up, not out • Pedestrian lighting; lighting in key activity centers • Music in the park • Music stores • Lit up street signs • Street lights on major roads • Keep all the green landscaping; maintain streetscape • Low level lights • Fountain Lake should be swimmable • Improve skate park: half pipes, stairs, rails, lights • Paddle boats for the Fountain and “beach” area • Gardens at Fountain Park • Connect parks through pathway/trails/bikeway system • Expanded sports/club teams: lacrosse, swim team • Ice skating/roller rink • Arcade • Drive-In theater • Carnival/Circus • Science Museum/Performing Arts Center • Splash Park • Zoo • Public Wi-Fi • Expanded walking paths January 2010 Appendix D-2 Youth Visioning Feedback Working Paper #2: Visioning Report • Expanded holiday events for the community to gather: 4th of July Fireworks; Christmas Downtown: Town Christmas Tree! 2. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • NO “cookie cutter buildings” KEEP originality • A “big business” take over—keep the originality • More hotels • More condos Class #3: Tony Galietti 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? • A vibrant downtown center that includes: o Shops (retail), outlet stores o All pedestrian o Known Restaurants (Mentioned: Chipotle, Panda Express, Trader Joes) o Ice Cream (Dairy Queen) o Movie Theater o Hookah Bar • Public indoor pool • More concerts in the park (let kids or Mayor’s Youth Council help select bands) • Fiddlesticks (Arcades) • Go Carts or Mini Golf • A Community Center that offers a variety of classes for adults AND youth (cooking, metal shop, drama) • More festivals: art—showcase Fountain Hills artists and others that show Valley artists; music festivals with younger music; film festivals • Better utilize Fountain Park: weekend field day competitions for the community • YMCA or recreational facility with rock climbing wall, gym, pool, etc. 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? • Improve sidewalks • Keep desert landscaping • Don’t let buildings become rundown 3. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • Have trash • A mean or disrespectful police force What would you like to see? • Younger families and people and less of a retirement community Class #4: Randy Bragg and Tony Galietti 1. How would you describe an exciting and vibrant community? How would you describe Fountain Hills now? What is the gap between what you defined as an exciting and vibrant community and what Fountain Hills is now? A vibrant Fountain Hills has: • A movie theater • A complete Downtown with walkable stores and entertainment (not unlike Kierland Commons) January 2010 Appendix D-3 Youth Visioning Feedback Working Paper #2: Visioning Report January 2010 Appendix D-4 • Need teen friendly areas (where old people won’t be mad that we hang out) • Aquatics facility • Improvements to existing skate park including full bowl and SHADE! • Ice rink • Yougartology • Improvements at the great Fountain Park: o Boardwalk at the Fountain o Beach • Annual carnival • Paintball, airsoft field • Bikepaths/bikelanes • Transit • Is pedestrian friendly (mister systems, places to hangout, low level pathway lighting) • Need a public plaza! • Expanded Community Center classes for youth and adults: arts, cooking, music, other classes by request 2. No matter what opinions we all have about what Fountain Hills should be in the future we can probably all agree that the value of our property is important to us. Since most peoples’ largest investment is their home or business, what needs to occur between now and 2020 to ensure our properties retain or increase in value? • Views • Quiet • Fountain • Safe and free of crime • Well-kept • Traffic calming • GOOD SCHOOLS! • Keep small and intimate • Multi-generational, cross-generational activity 3. As we look out to 2020 and beyond, what would you not like to see in Fountain Hills? • Traffic • Failing businesses • Inefficient policing (too many cops at the wrong places; not enough in the right places) • No more public art; no public money spent on additional public art • More of a retirement feeling • That kids are bored • Kids being picked on for being rich Youth Letters Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Appendix E: Youth Letters The following letters were written by elementary students during the November 19, 2009 Issue Forum at the Boys and Girls Club. Total Participants: 40 Letters scanned and included on the following pages. January 2010 Appendix E-1 Other Phase II Feedback Working Paper #2: Visioning Report Appendix F: Other Phase II Feedback The following was received outside of Phase II instruments from residents that wanted to follow-up on Issue Forum dialogue or provide general feedback via e-mail. E-mail Communication #1 would it be possible to make/enter a few suggestions/requests into the town via an email, as we are 'snowbirds' and don't get to our Fountain Hls home until between the holidays, and I have read in the paper that there are various forums being held to receive general input from citizens. - can the town erect some type of booster antenna to improve FM/AM radio reception in the area? our next 2 concerns are amplified by our location in town (near the intersection of Saguaro & Grande): - can the town make/enforce an ordinance to prevent trucks from downshifting gears as they approach a stop light/sign, the excess noise of the exhaust/engine backfiring & roaring goes on all day (all the cement/gravel trucks that come thru the reservation on Grande are the worst). - our neighborhood is dreading the onset of the Ellman property development on the north edge of town, when they start with the infrastructure, the cement/gravel/etc truck traffic thru our residential areas (Grande to Saguaro to F/H Blvd & north) will grow exponentially!! Can the town request the reservation to put in a temporary road that would exit the reservation farther north (adjacent to the Ellman property & force these trucks coming from gravel pits/cement factories/etc along #87 to use that route? thank you for your consideration, E-mail Communication #2 Regarding a Walkable Fountain Hills I would hope that the Strategic Plan will include the following elements: As proposed by the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce downtown visioning project, students at Fountain Hills schools, and other individual citizens, I urge the town and community to set the goal of making Fountain Hills a pedestrian-friendly, walkable community – a community of sidewalks, paths and trails, and bike paths and bike lanes, that uses those features to reduce automobile use, contribute to protection of the environment, provide recreational and physical exercise opportunities to citizens, and take advantage of Fountain Hills’ closeness to the Sonoran Desert. All of these objectives will help Fountain Hills continue to have a desirable quality of life that will foster economic vitality and support property values. To these ends, I propose that the Strategic Plan include the following points: 1. Currently the town center area includes a number of strip malls and individual commercial properties that have been designed only for automobile access, and which have no separate pedestrian access, making them inconvenient and uninviting for pedestrians, who must share car lanes to reach the businesses inside. (Examples of such developments include: The strip mall along Palisades Boulevard which houses Starbucks; the strip mall across Palisades Boulevard from Bashas’; the Chase Bank building along Avenue of the Fountains, as well as many more.) The Strategic Plan should declare that no developments should be approved in the future that do not provide pedestrian access, and it should set out the goal that in the case of existing developments, separate convenient pedestrian access should be provided within a period of three years from the plan’s adoption. In most cases related to existing developments, this will only require cutting and paving a path through landscaping, at relatively modest expense. 2. Currently the town center area includes numerous areas without sidewalks, making pedestrian usage inconvenient and even hazardous, and detracting from the cityscape. The Strategic Plan should mandate (1) that henceforth, no developments lacking sidewalks are to be approved; and (2) that the town center should have sidewalks throughout by a definite future time, such as December 31, 2022, (12 years after the plan’s adoption), and state that it will be the responsibility of property owners acting individually or together in local-improvement districts to construct those sidewalks by that time. 3. Currently the town has one wonderful rustic trail, the Lake Overlook Trail in the hills east of Fountain Lake. January 2010 Appendix F-1 Other Phase II Feedback Working Paper #2: Visioning Report January 2010 Appendix F-2 Within the town there are a number of other inviting places to construct trails, such as below Palisades Boulevard along the slope overlooking the Sunridge Canyon Golf Course. The Strategic Plan should establish the goal of adding additional trails that provide citizens and visitors easy access to the scenery and Sonoran Desert environment that surround Fountains Hills, and it should assign that responsibility to a specific city department. (At present, no department seems to have any interest in trail development.) The Strategic Plan should set the goal of creating at least five additional trails over the next 10 years, at a pace of one at least every two years. 4. Citizen involvement. To help foster citizen input and help stimulate activity on the part of government, the Strategic Plan should mandate the establishment of a voluntary Citizens Advisory Committee for Sidewalks, Trails, and Bikeways, which has authority to solicit citizen input related to things that could foster a Walkable Fountains Hills, and bring ideas and provide suggestions to the town government. Also, maybe the deadline for sidewalk construction in the town center should be 10 years in the future, rather than 12, since I now realize the plan has as 10-year horizon. E-mail Communication #3 I was walking on La Montana yesterday and realized there is one more step that could advance the process of making the town center more pedestrian friendly. I don't know if there's still time to add something or not, but I thought I would pass this along. It would be helpful if the strategic plan urged the town to act as soon as possible to fill in gaps in the existing sidewalk network wherever sidewalks are nearly, but not quite complete. Completing those unfinished sections would be a quick and relatively low-cost method to have an early impact on improving walkability. For example, the only sidewalk between the Town Hall and Bashas' is on the east side of La Montana. That sidewalk is complete except for one notable gap. That's in the block where Kelley's Automotive is. A partial sidewalk has been built, but it strangely ends behind a metal railing. This creates a hazardous situation for pedestrians because they are forced to use the bike lane, and there are often cars parked there, which forces the pedestrians into the traffic lane. There are other short gaps in the sidewalk on the south side of Palisades between La Montana and Sajuaro. (and elsewhere, I'm sure -- the citizens advisory committee could help create a list of them) There's no reason to wait for a number of years to remedy these gaps. They ought to be fixed as soon as possible. If possible, the cost of paving sidewalks on these gap properties should be recovered from the landowners, either at the time of paving or recovered by the town when the property is sold. Page 2 of 4 PRELIMINARY MASTER PLAT: This proposal is for approval of a Preliminary Master Plat entitled "Fountain Hills ASLD", a 22 Parcel, 50 Tract master planned community. Parcels range in size from 13.7 acres to 67.11 acres. Tracts range in size from 0.38 acres to 66.55 acres. The Preliminary Master Plat does not create any buildable lots. This Preliminary Master Plat is administrative in nature and is designed to meet the guidelines set forth in State statutes in order to create a legal document which will define the development boundaries of the parcels. The Preliminary Master Plat defines development parcel boundaries to follow the parcel legal descriptions of the previously approved Zoning district and General Plan land use boundaries. The following excerpt is taken from the Fountain Hills Subdivision Ordinance: Section 6.05.D. Significance of Preliminary Plat Approval. Preliminary plat approval constitutes authorization for the subdivider to proceed with the preparation of the final plat and improvement plans and specifications for public improvements. Preliminary plat approval is based on the following terms: 1. Subject to the basic approval. The basic conditions under which preliminary approval of the preliminary plat is granted will not be substantially changed prior to the expiration date. 2. One year approval with extension. Approval is valid for a period of one year from the date of Town Council approval. A request can be made for a single, one year extension of the original preliminary plat approval. An extension of the preliminary plat approval may be granted by the Town Council upon receipt of a letter from the subdivider prior to the expiration date. Extensions are not automatically approved and are at the discretion of the Town Council. 3. No authority to record. Preliminary plat approval, in itself, does not constitute authorization to record the plat. Additionally, with the possible exceptions of Parcel 1, which is zoned C-1, and Parcel 11 which is zoned L-2, which could potentially be developed without further subdivision other than a Final Plat approval, Town Council approval of both preliminary plats and final plats will subsequently be required for each of the development parcels created by this Preliminary Master Plat. Tracts are to be protected as permanent open space. COMPLIANCE WITH ZONING AND THE GENERAL PLAN: Resolution #2008-12 amended the town’s official zoning map and established the current zoning districts and their boundaries for the subject property. The property is primarily zoned for single-family residential development. There is also one commercially zoned district and there is one area zoned for lodging uses. No zoning changes are proposed with this application. Resolution #2008-25 amended the General Plan and established the future land use designations for the subject property. The General Plan designates the majority of this property as “Single Family/Low and Single Family/Medium Density Residential”. The next largest designation is for “Open Space”. There is also one area designated for commercial uses and there is one area designated for lodging uses. No changes to those designations are proposed with this application. Whenever a development is proposed staff must review the request against the Zoning Ordinance and the General Plan Land Use Map to determine if the proposal is compatible with those documents and the long-term goals of the Town. Staff has determined that the existing zoning districts and the proposed parcel boundaries are compatible with both the General Plan Land Use Map and existing zoning. COMPLIANCE WITH PRE-ANNEXATION DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT: Prior to the annexation of the former State Trust Land, the town entered into an agreement with the state that outlined the development potential of the property. Subsequent to the sale of the State Trust Land to the current property owners, Resolution #2008-24 amended the Pre-Annexation Development Agreement. This “First Amendment” to the Pre- Annexation Development Agreement outlines numerous responsibilities and conditions for both the developer and the town during the development process. Staff has reviewed the proposal for compliance with the terms of that amended agreement and has determined that the proposal is compatible with those terms. Subject Property In addition to the requirements contained in the Subdivision Ordinance regarding platting procedures, this proposal is subject to the terms and conditions of the following governing documents:Resolution #2008-12Amendment to the Official Zoning MapResolution #2008-24Amendment to the General PlanResolution #2008-25Amended Pre-Annexation Development Agreement 22 Parcels –18 Residential50 Tracts –Open Space1 Commercial1 Lodging2 Park Access Points and Roadway Relocation Preliminary Master PlatArterial Roadway Approval & ConstructionPark Grading Approval & ConstructionIndividual Parcel Preliminary PlatsIndividual Parcel Final PlatsIndividual Parcel Grading and ImprovementsHouse Construction Staff has determined that the Preliminary Master Plat is consistent with the Town’s Regulations and pre-existing agreements.Approve the Preliminary Master PlatSubject to the stipulations outlined in the staff report.Case #S2009-07