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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMMPC.2010.0928.Agenda THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS 'Sir. AFFIDAVIT OF WEB POSTING OF THE POST MEETING ACTION NOTICE STATE OF ARIZONA } } ss COUNTY OF MARICOPA} The affiant, after first duly sworn deposes and says: That the Fountain Hills Town Clerk, personally posted or had posted a copy of the attached post meeting action notice(s) on the Town's website: ❑ Town Council Meeting Date of: • Town Council Work Study Meeting Date of: E Town Council Special Meeting Date of:r /PRP e__, 9 Commission Meeting Date of: - c ?10 ❑ Other: iihr The above refe - ced ost m eting action notice was posted: iP C , 20J_at isa./p.m. (Fill in date and t me) BY: Zi)l ) I ATURE SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to me this o;9 day of 3 f'T 61 f -6 , 20 i 0• /4I t). /c Notary Public AA- )la 1 J �vl L Expiration Date ATTACH A COPY OF THE POST MEETING ACTION AGENDA NOTICE TO THIS AFFIDAVIT BEFORE FILING. • OFFICIAL SEAL `""�"`„ DOMINICK LABATE Notary Public-State of Arizona t MARICOPA COUNTY ' 'nay My comm.expires Jan.21,2012 CW C:\Documents and Settings\nwalter\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.Outlook\7MON7ZDG\Affidavit of Web Posting the Post Meeting Action Notice-etc(2).doc 8/25/10 POST ACTION AGENDA NOTICE NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING V"P OF THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION ��'Is �b that is Jr MVP SEPTEMBER 28 2010 5:30 P.M. Town of Fountain Hills Council Chambers—First Floor Pursuant to 38-431.02,notice is hereby given to the members of the Town Council,the McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission of Fountain Hills and to the general public that the McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission of Fountain Hills will hold a regular meeting open to the public on Tuesday, September 28,2010,at 5:30 PM, at the Town of Fountain Hills,Council Chambers, 16705 East Avenue of the Fountains,Fountain Hills,AZ. A majority of the Council members may be in attendance. No official action will be taken. RULES FOR ADDRESSING THE COMMISSION—ADOPTED 1/18/90 It is the Commission's desire to hear public comment on agenda items. As it is important to maintain order during the meeting,please adhere to the following rules of order if you wish to speak: 1. All citizens wishing to speak must first be recognized by the Chairman 2. The Chairman will not call for public comment on an item until after a motion has been made and seconded and the Commission has had adequate opportunity to discuss the item. 3. Please stand and state your name and address after being called on to speak. 4. All comments must be directed to the Chairman. 5. TIME LIMIT-3 MINUTES PER PERSON PER ITEM. 6. Statements should not be repetitive. 7. Persons or groups wishing to make longer presentations should see the Director of Parks and Recreation prior to the meeting. The agenda for the meeting is as follows: • Pledge of Allegiance 1) CALL TO ORDER and ROLL CALL 2) Call to the Public NO ACTION TAKEN 3) CONSIDERATION of Approving the August 24,2010 Meeting Minutes APPROVED 4) Discussion of plans for McDowell Mountain Month NO ACTION TAKEN 5) Discussion of plans for the Art Fair boot NO ACTION TAKEN 6) Status of the agreement between Fountain Hills and the Regional Park regarding the Sonoran Trail - Director Mayer NO ACTION TAKEN 7) Report from Legislative liaison Lina Bellenir NO ACTION TAKEN 8) Update on the tools for the Preserve NO ACTION TAKEN 9) Update on connectivity trail in Preserve—Chair Myers NO ACTION TAKEN 10)CONSIDERATION of requesting Council to approve limited usage of horses on the connectivity trail APPROVED 11)CONSIDERATION of cancelling the November 23rd meeting POSTPONED 12)CONSIDERATION of Adjournment @ 6:07 P.M. Pursuant to Title II of the American with Disabilities Act(ADA),McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission does not discriminate on the basis of a disability regarding admission to public meetings. Individuals with disabilities who require auxiliary aids or services for effective communication in this meeting may contact Nancy Walter at 480-816-5152 (voice)or 1-800-367-8939(TDD),72 hours prior to the meeting start time. Dated this 21th day of September 2010 McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission — By: Mark C.Mayer,Director of Parks and Recreation Morrison Institute for Public Policy ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Understanding Arizona's Propositions: Prop 301 By Kristin Borns and CJ Eisenbarth Hager Senior Policy Analysts Morrison Institute for Public Policy Proposition 301 - Sweeping the Land Conservation Fund Proposition 301 asks Arizonans to sweep the outstanding balance in the Land Conservation Fund,often referred to as Growing Smarter,to help balance the state budget for the fiscal year that began on July 1. The Joint Legislative Budget Committee - or JLBC,the budget staff for the Legislature - estimates successful passage of the proposition would result in more than $123 million swept into the General Fund.,However,JLBC notes that the cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale, as well as Coconino County,already have applied to purchase State Trust Land parcels.This could either result in the cities'applications coming to a halt if the process is not finished prior to the fund sweep, or it could result in decreasing the fund balance by up to$50 million if the purchases are completed in time.,' This proposition was referred to voters by the Legislature because the Land Conservation Fund was established via the ballot in 1998,and as a result of another successful voter initiative to limit legislative interference, is legally"protected"from legislative modification. In other words, in order to sweep the funds and end the program,the Legislature must receive voter permission. Legislators passed and the governor signed a budget for this current fiscal year presuming voters would say"yes"to both this and Proposition 302, which seeks to sweep another dedicated fund that provides for early education and health.While other state funds were subject to transfers and sweeps over the last two years,the Land Conservation Fund's designation as"voter protected" meant it could not be swept either in FY2009 or FY2010, which ended June 30. The Land Conservation Fund receives an annual appropriation of$20 million from the General Fund.This appropriation is scheduled to cease in the current fiscal year, FY2011..v The fund is used to support a program administered by the Arizona State Parks Board to award grants for purchase or lease of State Trust land that the Arizona State Land Department has identified as suitable for conservation:,The resulting profits of the purchase are deposited into the State Land Trust Fund,which provides financial benefit for public education. The Conservation Acquisition Board, established in statute, provides recommendations on grants from the fund.Additionally,the fund can only pay up to 50%of the appraised value of the property, obligating the other partner for the remaining cost." Eligible grantees include state agencies, counties, incorporated cities or towns, school districts, special districts and nonprofit organizations. In FY2009, the fund awarded $9.35 million for the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Valencia Archaeological site in Pima County vii Yes on Proposition 301? "lf passed, Proposition 301 will plug a$124 million hole in the current state budget. Failure will result in Proponents of the ballot measure first further reductions in the programs that receive state and foremost point to the current support:K-12 schools,universities, low income health budget crisis.The state has made care, and prison spending." permanent spending reductions in excess of$2 billion since FY2008v", -Kevin McCarthy,ATRA president from a variety of program areas -Lori Daniels,ATRA board member including health, human services and education.The State Parks Board no Source:Secretary of State's Office longer receives any General Fund money as a result of budget decisions made to bring the General Fund into balance. Legislative leaders and the governor claim the state no longer has the money necessary to provide for all the programs it has funded in the past. Prioritizing in unprecedented,tough economic times is an argument made frequently in favor of sweeping and ending the Land Conservation Fund program. Furthermore,federal mandates, when coupled with voter-protected programs, lock away a large portion of the state General Fund. In 2008,for example, voter-protected allocations were estimated at more than one-third of the total General Fund budget.ix Voter authorization for the fund sweep,according to proponents, is necessary to begin bringing spending in line with expenses. Additionally, proponents note that the fund's $20 million allocation was set to cease after FY2011 anyway.Therefore,the sweep is simply ending a sun-setting program one year early in transferring unused funds to meet a critical budget deficit. If Proposition 301 does not pass,a $123 million hole opens up in the current-year budget. No on Proposition 301? In The Arizona We Want, a recent Gallup survey of Arizonans asking residents to identify what they value about the state,the "By diverting dollars from this fund, the Legislature hurts both study found "the state's natural conservation efforts and education -dollars from the Fund go beauty and open spaces are into the Trust where the primary beneficiary is public seen by citizens as our greatest education. Our budget crisis will someday pass, but the asset." negative impact to a child's education can have a long lasting detrimental legacy and our lands can be lost forever." When participants were asked to rate a variety of quality of life -Dr.Bonnie F.Saunders components,47% rated "beauty president,League of Women Voters of Arizona or physical setting" as "very -Dr. Barbara Klein good." ist vice-president, League of Women Voters of Arizona Source:Secretary of State's Office Additionally, participants were asked to choose one of six options for spending of private and tax dollars to build Arizona's infrastructure. "Implement policies that balance population growth with preserving open space and recreational opportunities"was identified by 21.5%of respondents as the most single important best use, behind only adopting a water management plan.Supporters, many of whom include conservation groups, note that if the Land Conservation Fund is eliminated the lone state fund available for the purchase of land for preservation goes away permanently. Opponents also cite the fund's cost-effectiveness, noting the successful grantee is required to provide 50% of any purchase expense, at a minimum.Additionally,they note, Proposition 302 - the proposed transfer of money designated for early education and health - has a provision that funds will be accounted for separately and used for purposes similar to the existing fund.x There is no such protection in Prop 301 for Land Conservation Fund dollars. Opponents say elimination of the Land Conservation Fund, even a year early,will negatively impact both preservation of open space and funding for public education - another budget item that has been significantly impacted by the recession and budget deficit. Just as proponents of the measure note the severity of Arizona's budget crisis, opponents of Proposition 301 point out that even if this money is swept and the program disappears,the budget crisis is not solved.JLBC recently released updated estimates of the budget deficit for the current fiscal year and noted that even if both this and the early education/health funds are swept,there is still a possible revenue shortfall of more than $280 million xi Additionally, AHCCCS, the state's Medicaid agency, is reporting it will face a $1 billion shortfall at the start of the next fiscal year as federal stimulus comes to an end.xi1 Critics of the measure argue that not only will a key priority program approved by voters be eliminated, but that elimination will not lead to stable fiscal footing for the state. The Bottom Line A"yes"vote would transfer the remaining balance of the Land Conservation Fund, estimated at$123 million,to the General Fund.This would result in the elimination of the grant program to preserve land near urban areas. '.JLBC Draft Analysis.http://www.azleg.gov/alispdfs/Council/2010BallotMeasures/AdoptedHCR2002.pdf "JLBC.Fiscal Impact of Legislatively Referred Ballot Measures. http://www.azleg.gov/jIbc/ballotpropsumm3 0 1-3 02.pdf iii Ibid. Ibid. v Arizona State Parks Board.FY 2009 Annual Report for Grants Program • A.R.S 41-511.23 "'Ibid. • JLBC.Budget Background Presentation.June, 23, 2010. http://www.azleg.gov/j1bc/budgetbackground.pdf 'x Morrison Institute. What If Arizona Defined"Dire Straits"and"Temporary"Today? http://morrisoninstitute.asu.ed u/p ublications-reports/special-reports/2010-what-if-...-a-special-report-on- arizonas-budget-crisis/2010-what-if-...arizona-defined-dire-straits-and-temporary-today Prop 302 sweeps an outstanding fund balance as does 301.However,302 differs in that the early education funding is an ongoing tax,so the future revenues are also redirected. JLBC.Budget Status.Aug. 27, 2010 http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/budgetstatus082710.pdf • http://azcapitoltimes.com/news/2010/09/16/ahcccs-faces-1 b-b udget-deficit-in-fy 12/ Revised September 2010/Morrison Institute for Public Policy is a leader in examining critical Arizona and regional issues,and is a catalyst for public dialogue.An Arizona State University resource,Morrison Institute uses nonpartisan research and communication outreach to help improve the state's quality of life. lEatMorrison Institute for Public Policy ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Understanding Arizona's Propositions: Prop 302 By Kristin Borns and CJ Eisenbarth Hager Senior Policy Analysts Morrison Institute for Public Policy Proposition 302 - Sweeping the Early Childhood Health and Development Board Fund (First Things First) Proposition 302 asks Arizonans to sweep the Early Childhood Health and Development Board Fund, more commonly referred to as First Things First(FTF),to help balance the General Fund budget for the current fiscal year. If voters approve the sweep,the Joint Legislative Budget Committee - or JLBC, the budget staff for the Legislature - estimates a $345 million benefit to the General Fund.This includes not only the current balance in the fund, but anticipated revenue from a tobacco tax that was established to fund the original early education program) Proposition 302 also proposes permanently directing that tobacco tax to the General Fund, with an estimated benefit of$40 million per year to the Department of Economic Security and $80 million to the General Fund for FY2012 and beyond. Legislators passed and the governor signed the Statute requires each regional budget for this current fiscal year presuming voters council be composed of 11 would say "yes"to both this and Proposition 301, which members who live or work in the seeks to sweep another dedicated fund that provides region and must include: for land conservation and preservation near urban • Parent of a child 5 years or areas. younger • Child care provider The fund sweep is being referred to voters because First • Health services provider Things First was created by voter initiative in 2006, and • Public school administrator as a result of another voter initiative is legally • Early childhood educator "protected"from legislative modification. In order to • Member of the business sweep the fund and redirect the tobacco tax revenue, community • Representative of the faith voters must approve the change. community • Representative of a Established when 53%of voters approved the measure philanthropic organization in 2006ii, First Things First increased the state sales tax • If there is an Indian tribe in the on cigarettes by$0.80 per pack, as well as on other region,an official or employee of tobacco products.A central board and 31 regional tribal government partnership councils were established statewide to identify development and health needs at both the state Source:A.R.S.8-1162 and local level.The system then distributes monies THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS 'Sir. AFFIDAVIT OF WEB POSTING OF THE POST MEETING ACTION NOTICE STATE OF ARIZONA } } ss COUNTY OF MARICOPA} The affiant, after first duly sworn deposes and says: That the Fountain Hills Town Clerk, personally posted or had posted a copy of the attached post meeting action notice(s) on the Town's website: ❑ Town Council Meeting Date of: • Town Council Work Study Meeting Date of: E Town Council Special Meeting Date of:r /PRP e__, 9 Commission Meeting Date of: - c ?10 ❑ Other: iihr The above refe - ced ost m eting action notice was posted: iP C , 20J_at isa./p.m. (Fill in date and t me) BY: Zi)l ) I ATURE SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to me this o;9 day of 3 f'T 61 f -6 , 20 i 0• /4I t). /c Notary Public AA- )la 1 J �vl L Expiration Date ATTACH A COPY OF THE POST MEETING ACTION AGENDA NOTICE TO THIS AFFIDAVIT BEFORE FILING. • OFFICIAL SEAL `""�"`„ DOMINICK LABATE Notary Public-State of Arizona t MARICOPA COUNTY ' 'nay My comm.expires Jan.21,2012 CW C:\Documents and Settings\nwalter\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.Outlook\7MON7ZDG\Affidavit of Web Posting the Post Meeting Action Notice-etc(2).doc 8/25/10 POST ACTION AGENDA NOTICE NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING V"P OF THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION ��'Is �b that is Jr MVP SEPTEMBER 28 2010 5:30 P.M. Town of Fountain Hills Council Chambers—First Floor Pursuant to 38-431.02,notice is hereby given to the members of the Town Council,the McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission of Fountain Hills and to the general public that the McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission of Fountain Hills will hold a regular meeting open to the public on Tuesday, September 28,2010,at 5:30 PM, at the Town of Fountain Hills,Council Chambers, 16705 East Avenue of the Fountains,Fountain Hills,AZ. A majority of the Council members may be in attendance. No official action will be taken. RULES FOR ADDRESSING THE COMMISSION—ADOPTED 1/18/90 It is the Commission's desire to hear public comment on agenda items. As it is important to maintain order during the meeting,please adhere to the following rules of order if you wish to speak: 1. All citizens wishing to speak must first be recognized by the Chairman 2. The Chairman will not call for public comment on an item until after a motion has been made and seconded and the Commission has had adequate opportunity to discuss the item. 3. Please stand and state your name and address after being called on to speak. 4. All comments must be directed to the Chairman. 5. TIME LIMIT-3 MINUTES PER PERSON PER ITEM. 6. Statements should not be repetitive. 7. Persons or groups wishing to make longer presentations should see the Director of Parks and Recreation prior to the meeting. The agenda for the meeting is as follows: • Pledge of Allegiance 1) CALL TO ORDER and ROLL CALL 2) Call to the Public NO ACTION TAKEN 3) CONSIDERATION of Approving the August 24,2010 Meeting Minutes APPROVED 4) Discussion of plans for McDowell Mountain Month NO ACTION TAKEN 5) Discussion of plans for the Art Fair boot NO ACTION TAKEN 6) Status of the agreement between Fountain Hills and the Regional Park regarding the Sonoran Trail - Director Mayer NO ACTION TAKEN 7) Report from Legislative liaison Lina Bellenir NO ACTION TAKEN 8) Update on the tools for the Preserve NO ACTION TAKEN 9) Update on connectivity trail in Preserve—Chair Myers NO ACTION TAKEN 10)CONSIDERATION of requesting Council to approve limited usage of horses on the connectivity trail APPROVED 11)CONSIDERATION of cancelling the November 23rd meeting POSTPONED 12)CONSIDERATION of Adjournment @ 6:07 P.M. Pursuant to Title II of the American with Disabilities Act(ADA),McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission does not discriminate on the basis of a disability regarding admission to public meetings. Individuals with disabilities who require auxiliary aids or services for effective communication in this meeting may contact Nancy Walter at 480-816-5152 (voice)or 1-800-367-8939(TDD),72 hours prior to the meeting start time. Dated this 21th day of September 2010 McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission — By: Mark C.Mayer,Director of Parks and Recreation Morrison Institute for Public Policy ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Understanding Arizona's Propositions: Prop 301 By Kristin Borns and CJ Eisenbarth Hager Senior Policy Analysts Morrison Institute for Public Policy Proposition 301 - Sweeping the Land Conservation Fund Proposition 301 asks Arizonans to sweep the outstanding balance in the Land Conservation Fund,often referred to as Growing Smarter,to help balance the state budget for the fiscal year that began on July 1. The Joint Legislative Budget Committee - or JLBC,the budget staff for the Legislature - estimates successful passage of the proposition would result in more than $123 million swept into the General Fund.,However,JLBC notes that the cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale, as well as Coconino County,already have applied to purchase State Trust Land parcels.This could either result in the cities'applications coming to a halt if the process is not finished prior to the fund sweep, or it could result in decreasing the fund balance by up to$50 million if the purchases are completed in time.,' This proposition was referred to voters by the Legislature because the Land Conservation Fund was established via the ballot in 1998,and as a result of another successful voter initiative to limit legislative interference, is legally"protected"from legislative modification. In other words, in order to sweep the funds and end the program,the Legislature must receive voter permission. Legislators passed and the governor signed a budget for this current fiscal year presuming voters would say"yes"to both this and Proposition 302, which seeks to sweep another dedicated fund that provides for early education and health.While other state funds were subject to transfers and sweeps over the last two years,the Land Conservation Fund's designation as"voter protected" meant it could not be swept either in FY2009 or FY2010, which ended June 30. The Land Conservation Fund receives an annual appropriation of$20 million from the General Fund.This appropriation is scheduled to cease in the current fiscal year, FY2011..v The fund is used to support a program administered by the Arizona State Parks Board to award grants for purchase or lease of State Trust land that the Arizona State Land Department has identified as suitable for conservation:,The resulting profits of the purchase are deposited into the State Land Trust Fund,which provides financial benefit for public education. The Conservation Acquisition Board, established in statute, provides recommendations on grants from the fund.Additionally,the fund can only pay up to 50%of the appraised value of the property, obligating the other partner for the remaining cost." Eligible grantees include state agencies, counties, incorporated cities or towns, school districts, special districts and nonprofit organizations. In FY2009, the fund awarded $9.35 million for the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Valencia Archaeological site in Pima County vii Yes on Proposition 301? "lf passed, Proposition 301 will plug a$124 million hole in the current state budget. Failure will result in Proponents of the ballot measure first further reductions in the programs that receive state and foremost point to the current support:K-12 schools,universities, low income health budget crisis.The state has made care, and prison spending." permanent spending reductions in excess of$2 billion since FY2008v", -Kevin McCarthy,ATRA president from a variety of program areas -Lori Daniels,ATRA board member including health, human services and education.The State Parks Board no Source:Secretary of State's Office longer receives any General Fund money as a result of budget decisions made to bring the General Fund into balance. Legislative leaders and the governor claim the state no longer has the money necessary to provide for all the programs it has funded in the past. Prioritizing in unprecedented,tough economic times is an argument made frequently in favor of sweeping and ending the Land Conservation Fund program. Furthermore,federal mandates, when coupled with voter-protected programs, lock away a large portion of the state General Fund. In 2008,for example, voter-protected allocations were estimated at more than one-third of the total General Fund budget.ix Voter authorization for the fund sweep,according to proponents, is necessary to begin bringing spending in line with expenses. Additionally, proponents note that the fund's $20 million allocation was set to cease after FY2011 anyway.Therefore,the sweep is simply ending a sun-setting program one year early in transferring unused funds to meet a critical budget deficit. If Proposition 301 does not pass,a $123 million hole opens up in the current-year budget. No on Proposition 301? In The Arizona We Want, a recent Gallup survey of Arizonans asking residents to identify what they value about the state,the "By diverting dollars from this fund, the Legislature hurts both study found "the state's natural conservation efforts and education -dollars from the Fund go beauty and open spaces are into the Trust where the primary beneficiary is public seen by citizens as our greatest education. Our budget crisis will someday pass, but the asset." negative impact to a child's education can have a long lasting detrimental legacy and our lands can be lost forever." When participants were asked to rate a variety of quality of life -Dr.Bonnie F.Saunders components,47% rated "beauty president,League of Women Voters of Arizona or physical setting" as "very -Dr. Barbara Klein good." ist vice-president, League of Women Voters of Arizona Source:Secretary of State's Office Additionally, participants were asked to choose one of six options for spending of private and tax dollars to build Arizona's infrastructure. "Implement policies that balance population growth with preserving open space and recreational opportunities"was identified by 21.5%of respondents as the most single important best use, behind only adopting a water management plan.Supporters, many of whom include conservation groups, note that if the Land Conservation Fund is eliminated the lone state fund available for the purchase of land for preservation goes away permanently. Opponents also cite the fund's cost-effectiveness, noting the successful grantee is required to provide 50% of any purchase expense, at a minimum.Additionally,they note, Proposition 302 - the proposed transfer of money designated for early education and health - has a provision that funds will be accounted for separately and used for purposes similar to the existing fund.x There is no such protection in Prop 301 for Land Conservation Fund dollars. Opponents say elimination of the Land Conservation Fund, even a year early,will negatively impact both preservation of open space and funding for public education - another budget item that has been significantly impacted by the recession and budget deficit. Just as proponents of the measure note the severity of Arizona's budget crisis, opponents of Proposition 301 point out that even if this money is swept and the program disappears,the budget crisis is not solved.JLBC recently released updated estimates of the budget deficit for the current fiscal year and noted that even if both this and the early education/health funds are swept,there is still a possible revenue shortfall of more than $280 million xi Additionally, AHCCCS, the state's Medicaid agency, is reporting it will face a $1 billion shortfall at the start of the next fiscal year as federal stimulus comes to an end.xi1 Critics of the measure argue that not only will a key priority program approved by voters be eliminated, but that elimination will not lead to stable fiscal footing for the state. The Bottom Line A"yes"vote would transfer the remaining balance of the Land Conservation Fund, estimated at$123 million,to the General Fund.This would result in the elimination of the grant program to preserve land near urban areas. '.JLBC Draft Analysis.http://www.azleg.gov/alispdfs/Council/2010BallotMeasures/AdoptedHCR2002.pdf "JLBC.Fiscal Impact of Legislatively Referred Ballot Measures. http://www.azleg.gov/jIbc/ballotpropsumm3 0 1-3 02.pdf iii Ibid. Ibid. v Arizona State Parks Board.FY 2009 Annual Report for Grants Program • A.R.S 41-511.23 "'Ibid. • JLBC.Budget Background Presentation.June, 23, 2010. http://www.azleg.gov/j1bc/budgetbackground.pdf 'x Morrison Institute. What If Arizona Defined"Dire Straits"and"Temporary"Today? http://morrisoninstitute.asu.ed u/p ublications-reports/special-reports/2010-what-if-...-a-special-report-on- arizonas-budget-crisis/2010-what-if-...arizona-defined-dire-straits-and-temporary-today Prop 302 sweeps an outstanding fund balance as does 301.However,302 differs in that the early education funding is an ongoing tax,so the future revenues are also redirected. JLBC.Budget Status.Aug. 27, 2010 http://www.azleg.gov/jlbc/budgetstatus082710.pdf • http://azcapitoltimes.com/news/2010/09/16/ahcccs-faces-1 b-b udget-deficit-in-fy 12/ Revised September 2010/Morrison Institute for Public Policy is a leader in examining critical Arizona and regional issues,and is a catalyst for public dialogue.An Arizona State University resource,Morrison Institute uses nonpartisan research and communication outreach to help improve the state's quality of life. lEatMorrison Institute for Public Policy ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Understanding Arizona's Propositions: Prop 302 By Kristin Borns and CJ Eisenbarth Hager Senior Policy Analysts Morrison Institute for Public Policy Proposition 302 - Sweeping the Early Childhood Health and Development Board Fund (First Things First) Proposition 302 asks Arizonans to sweep the Early Childhood Health and Development Board Fund, more commonly referred to as First Things First(FTF),to help balance the General Fund budget for the current fiscal year. If voters approve the sweep,the Joint Legislative Budget Committee - or JLBC, the budget staff for the Legislature - estimates a $345 million benefit to the General Fund.This includes not only the current balance in the fund, but anticipated revenue from a tobacco tax that was established to fund the original early education program) Proposition 302 also proposes permanently directing that tobacco tax to the General Fund, with an estimated benefit of$40 million per year to the Department of Economic Security and $80 million to the General Fund for FY2012 and beyond. Legislators passed and the governor signed the Statute requires each regional budget for this current fiscal year presuming voters council be composed of 11 would say "yes"to both this and Proposition 301, which members who live or work in the seeks to sweep another dedicated fund that provides region and must include: for land conservation and preservation near urban • Parent of a child 5 years or areas. younger • Child care provider The fund sweep is being referred to voters because First • Health services provider Things First was created by voter initiative in 2006, and • Public school administrator as a result of another voter initiative is legally • Early childhood educator "protected"from legislative modification. In order to • Member of the business sweep the fund and redirect the tobacco tax revenue, community • Representative of the faith voters must approve the change. community • Representative of a Established when 53%of voters approved the measure philanthropic organization in 2006ii, First Things First increased the state sales tax • If there is an Indian tribe in the on cigarettes by$0.80 per pack, as well as on other region,an official or employee of tobacco products.A central board and 31 regional tribal government partnership councils were established statewide to identify development and health needs at both the state Source:A.R.S.8-1162 and local level.The system then distributes monies through grants for eligible programs for children 5 and under. The funding is spent in five general program areas that include quality learning opportunities, educated teachers and caregivers and healthy children.The agency reported grant awards of more than $31 million for FY2009 and in excess of$106 million for FY2010, with grants awarded both statewide and in each of Arizona's 15 counties. It anticipates awarding$191.5 million in grants for the current fiscal year, which began on July 1,assuming Prop 302 is unsuccessful. The board of First Things First lost a court challenge on the wording of the ballot measure.The board contended the language was not impartial,did not mention the agency's moniker of "First Things First,"which was not included in the original ballot measure, and did not clarify that only 10%of the funding received from the tobacco tax is for administration.While acknowledging that he may have included "First Things First" in the description,the Superior Court judge found the language sufficiently neutral.u. Yes on Proposition 302? Proponents of the ballot measure first and foremost point to the current budget crisis.The state has made permanent spending reductions in excess of$2 billion since FY2008iv from a variety of program areas including health, human services and education.Additionally, proponents note that First Things First is only able to serve specific populations. Arizona is not alone in targeting cuts to pre-k programs. In the last year, Illinois has cut$32 million, New York$30 million and North Carolina,the program Arizona used as a model for First Things First,$5 million.v The Arizona agency also has faced criticism that its grant process has potential conflict-of- interest issues and that a disproportionate number of dollars have been awarded to but a few agencies. In review of grant contracts provided by the agency, 144 grantees were awarded contracts in FY2010. Of those,seven were between $1 million and $2 million, and six were in excess of$6 million.Valley of the "Proposition 302 essentially redirects funds from specialized Sun United Way received nearly preschool programs that serve a narrow population to core $27.9 million, or more than one- health and human services programs that will benefit far quarter of the total amount to all more children and families." recipients. -Glenn Hamer,president&CEO A consistent criticism lobbed at Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry First Things First since passage of -Reginald M. Ballantyne Ill,chairman the original initiative is that the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry agency spent too much time and money establishing a Source:Secretary of States Office bureaucracy and did not get funds into the community as quickly or efficiently as possible.State Sen. Ron Gould, R-Lake Havasu City, often identified as one of the staunchest conservatives in the Legislature,commented, "They[FTF] enriched themselves by creating a bureaucracy at the ballot box."" Proponents also point to what at times has been a contentious relationship between the agency and the Legislature.The agencysuccessfullysued the Legislature in 2009 for sweeping g y` g � �' $7 million in interest from the fund."' Additionally, in the fall of 2009,the Department of Health Services (DHS)approached the FTF board to provide scholarships to cover substantial increases in cost for licensing child care centers when DHS's licensing budget was cut. FTF opted not to fund the scholarships.The agency argued that per statute, FTF money cannot be used to supplant General Fund dollars that are cut, and as a result could not fund the DHS request.vhh Other supporters point out that Prop 302 requires the swept funds and future tobacco revenue to be used for similar purposes and that prioritizing is required in such unprecedented fiscal times of crisis. Federal mandates,when coupled with voter-protected programs, lock away a large portion of the state General Fund. In 2008,for example, voter-protected allocations were estimated at more than one-third of the total General Fund budget.ix Voter authorization for the fund sweep, according to proponents, is necessary to begin bringing spending in line with expenses. If Proposition 302 fails, a $345 million deficit opens up in the current fiscal year budget. No on Proposition 302? Opponents of Proposition 302 - many of whom have launched a coordinated effort including a website, Facebook page and YouTube presence - first point to the benefits of early education and health and how those benefits carry through K-12 education and contribute to a ready workforce.Additionally, many question the intent of going back to voters to undo an initiative they already have approved at the ballot box. The science and study of early brain development has led to research-based conclusions about the value of early childhood experiences: "Ensuring that children have positive experiences prior to entering school is likely to lead to better outcomes than remediation programs at a later age,and significant up-front costs can generate a strong return on investment."x Further, three cornerstone studiesw of early education whose models have been replicated estimate the benefit of high-quality preschool education to cost at a ratio ranging from 5 to 2, up to a benefit-to-cost ratio of 16 to 1.xli With the elimination of full-day kindergarten as part of last year's budget cuts, opponents of the proposition argue an agency committed to delivering early education is critical now, more than ever. Opponents of eliminating FTF "ln addition to being created by voters, FIT program and counter the argument that the funding decisions are guided by parents,educators,and administrative structure is a business leaders to meet the specific needs of their bloated bureaucracy by pointing to communities." the enabling legislation that permits only 10%of the tobacco -Jennifer Bonnett,executive director tax collected to go towards Arizona Public Health Association administrative costs.Additionally, -Dorothy Hastings,immediate past president the regional council format, while Arizona Public Health Association bulky, provides a tool for local control according to agency Source:Secretary of states Office advocates. To those who question the amount of time it took to award grant funds, opponents of Prop 302 note that the statute established by the original initiative set a deadline of 2009 to begin distribution, which the agency met. Further,the agency advised one reason the fund carries a balance is that they do not spend current-year tobacco tax,instead awarding grants based on prior year revenue to ensure awards match available funding. In response to questions about conflict of interest,the agency points out that staff and regional council members undergo conflict-of-interest training and recuse themselves from funding discussions and decisions when appropriate.xth Opponents of Proposition 302 also note that FTF offered an interest-free loan to the state with values ranging from $260 million in January.,to upwards of$300 million in May.xv The governor originally included this loan in her budget proposal released in January. Ultimately, however,the Legislature rejected the loan and instead referred the fund sweep to voters. Concerns also have been raised that the Legislature is trying to co-opt a revenue source -the tobacco tax - that has never been intended or calculated as part of the General Fund.Also, there is no way to ensure the swept money will not be used for other purposes, or supplant other General Fund money. Advocates of the early education and health fund point out that once the money is swept and the tax redirected to the General Fund,the entire agency as well as the early education system that has been implemented thus far simply goes away- perhaps forever,since they doubt even when good fiscal times return, such an agency will be funded again. Just as proponents of the measure note the severity of Arizona's budget crisis, opponents of Proposition 302 do,too.They point out that even if this money is swept and the FTF program disappears,the budget crisis is not solved.JLBC recently released updated estimates of the budget deficit for the current fiscal year and noted that even if both this and the land conservation fund are swept,there is still a possible revenue shortfall of more than $280 million.xv1 Additionally,AHCCCS,the state's Medicaid agency, is reporting it will face a $1 billion shortfall at the start of the next fiscal year as federal stimulus comes to an endxvii Critics of the measure argue that if Prop 302 passes, not only will a key priority program approved by voters be eliminated, but also the state's fiscal footing will remain shaky. The Bottom Line A"yes"vote would transfer the balance of the Early Childhood Health and Development Board Fund, estimated at approximately$345 million,to the General Fund.Additionally,the tobacco tax that currently funds the program would be redirected to the General Fund.A requirement would be that swept money be used for similar purpose to the Early Childhood Health and Development Board fund. As a result of the sweep, however,the Early Childhood Health and Development Board, or First Things First,would no longer exist,and no further grants to statewide or local programs would be awarded for early education and childhood health programs. JLBC.Fiscal Impact of Legislatively Referred Ballot Measures. http://www.azleg.gov/j lbc/ballotpropsumm3 0 1-3 02.pd f ii Secretary of State's Office. Fischer,Howard."Judge tosses First Things First ballot challenge."Arizona Guardian. July 26,2010. "JLBC.Budget Background Presentation.June, 23, 2010. http://www.azleg.gov/j1bc/budgetbackground.pdf "Epstein,Dale Ph.D.and Steve Barnett,Ph.D.Brief Report:Funding cuts to state funded prekindergarten programs in FY10& 11.July 7,2010.http://nieer.org/pdf/Funding_Cuts_to_State- F un ded_Prekindergarten_Programs_in_FY 10_FY 11.pdf "Newton,Casey."Early-ed program back on ballot."Arizona Republic. March 17,2010. http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/2010/03/16/20100316ear1y-childhood-education- session.html Kossan,Pat."Child agency defends how money spent.". Arizona Republic.March 21,2010. http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2010/03/21/20100321first-things-first.html ""'del Puerto,Luige."Fate of First Things First hinges on ballot measure.".Arizona Capitol Times. March 19,2010.http://azcapitoltimes.com/news/2010/03/19/fate-of-fast-things-fast-hinges-on-ballot-measure/ " Morrison Institute. What If Arizona Defined"Dire Straits"and"Temporary"Today? http://morrisoninstitute.asu.edu/publications-reports/special-reports/2010-what-if-...-a-special-report-on- arizonas-budget-crisis/2010-what-if-..:arizona-defined-dire-straits-and-temporary-today Summary of Essential Findings.A Science-Based Framework for Early Childhood Policy. Using Evidence to Improve Outcomes in Learning,Behavior,and Health for Vulnerable Children.Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University.August,2007. 'The three studies often referred to are:Carolina Abecedarian,Chicago Child-Parent Centers and High/Scope Perry Preschool. Frede,Ellen C.Ph.D and W.Steven Barnett,Ph.D,Editors. Who Goes to Preschool and Why Does it Matter?Preschool Policy Facts.National Institute for Early Education Research. ""'Horizon interview on KAET Channel 8 with Rhian Evans Allvin,Executive Director of First Things First.April 7,2010.http://www.azpbs.org/horizonldetaiivid.php?id=2352 "'"The Executive Budget Summary,Fiscal Year 2011. http://www.azgovemor.gov/documents✓AZBudget/2011/FY2011_BudgetSummaryFINAL.pdf "First Things First Board Resolution,adopted May 18,2010. "I JLBC.Budget Status.Aug. 27,2010 http://www.azleg.gov/jIbc/budgetstatus082710.pdf "ii http://azcapitoltimes.com/news/2010/09/16/ahcccs-faces-1 b-budget-deficit-in-fy 12/ Revised September 2010/Morrison Institute for Public Policy is a leader in examining critical Arizona *ow and regional issues,and is a catalyst for public dialogue.An Arizona State University resource,Morrison Institute uses nonpartisan research and communication outreach to help improve the state's quality of life. Tracks and Snacks Great opportunity for kids to explore the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve! Come learn about snakes, lizards, javelinas, coyotes and other desert creatures. The hike is approximately 3 miles and is easy to moderate in difficulty. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2010 8:00 AM GOLDEN EAGLE TRAILHEAD at the end of Golden Eagle Blvd. Celebrate McDowell Mountain Month with a hike led by Maricopa County Parks Ranger Amy Ford followed by free snacks and juice with Mayor Schlum! Cost is $2 per hiker for entry into McDowell Mountain Regional Park. Kids under 12 must have a parent accompany them on the hike. For questions call or send an email to: Carol Ayres 480-837-8290 or quail10@aol.com or Elena Torre 480-353-0071 or etslp@aol.com. Sponsored by Town of Fountain Hills 8141 McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission and the Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills 4/710i; NEWS RELEASE Town of Fountain Hills<>Community services<>Recreation )'=e 16705 E.Avenue of the Fountains< >Fountain Hills,Arizona 85268 480.816.5151<>480.837.3999 FAX<>www.fh.az.gov 'bat is A' FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SEPTEMBER 16, 2010 Page 1 of 1 CONTACT: Bryan Hughes Recreation Supervisor (480) 816- 5135 bhughes@fh.az.gov McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission and Fountain Hills Sonoran Conservancy's FABULOUS FALL HIKING EXPLORATION SCHEDULE McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission and the Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills have prepared quite a diverse fall hike schedule. The fall hikes vary from Trail Fitness, Kids Hikes and McDowell Mountain Celebration to Dog Fitness and Walk off the Turkey. The Trail Fitness Hike, starting at the end of Eagle Ridge Drive and scheduled for October 2, will be led by Kerrianne Sand. This moderate hike will be 4-8 miles depending on the hikers. Hikers may choose a trail with the leader once in the Preserve. Emphasis will be on learning all the tricks to stay fit once on the trail. So, get off the couch, grab two bottles of water, and enjoy the outdoor beauty and fresh air. Next is the Kids and McDowell Mountain Celebration Hike starting at the Golden Eagle Trailhead scheduled for Saturday, October 23, and led by Fountain Hills Town Mayor Jay Schlum and Ranger Amy Ford. This easy to moderate, three mile hike will teach the Kids about the critters in the Preserve and will end with breakfast with the Mayor. Kids who hiked eat free. Children under 12 must have a parent with them....so c'mon Mom, Dad, Grandma and Grandpa join the fun. And let's not forgot our cuddly canines. Yes, November 6 is the Dog Fitness hike. This 3 mile easy to moderate hike will be led by Ingrid Appelt and will begin at Golden Eagle. Hikers will learn the basics of dog safety and etiquette and depart for the trails. During the hike, Ingrid will stop and share trail tidbits. Hikers may continue on the trails once the instruction is over. There is a one dog per hiker limit. Last in the fall schedule is the Walk-Off the Turkey Cross the Preserve Hike beginning at the Golden Eagle Trailhead scheduled for Saturday, November 27. This invigorating 6-7 mile moderate to exhilarating hike may add in the Western Loop Trail for an added calorie burn. Bring at least two bottles of water and burn-baby-burn those calories! All hikes will start at 8:00 a.m. and each hiker must register at the start of each hike. Hikes are FREE, with exception of the $2 entry fee into the McDowell Mountain Regional Park. Hikes beginning at the end of Eagle Ridge Drive must start and finish with stewards as we cross private land. Hikes beginning from Golden Eagle Trailhead require the $2 fee for the Regional Park. For more information contact Carol Ayres, FHSC at 480-837-8290 email: Quaill0@aol.com or Commissioner Elena Torre, email: Etslp@aol.com. ### �O°��AlIlN�jL�� NEWS RELEASE 0 z Town of Fountain Hills<>Community Services<>Recreation b 16705 E.Avenue of the Fountains< >Fountain Hills,Arizona 85268 480.816.5151<>480.837.3999 FAX<>www.fh.az.gov •9l111111Fi ',hat is No. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SEPTEMBER 28, 2010 Page 1 of 1 CONTACT: Bryan Hughes Recreation Supervisor (480) 816- 5135 bhughes@fh.az.gov Up, Up, And Away Around Fountain Hills Win a Free '/2 Hour Helicopter Ride The fabulous fall fun continues as Town of Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission launches its very first contest of the year with the winner receiving a free one-half hour helicopter ride. High above in the sky, the winner will experience the majestic beauty of Fountain Hills like no other. To enter, one simply needs to answer correctly five simple questions that test the basic knowledge of the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve. The winner will be drawn from all the correct entries. Members of the Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills and the Town of Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission are not eligible to enter. Download a survey or enter online at www.fh.az.gov/trails-preserve.aspx Send entries to: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Town of Fountain Hills 16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 The winner will be drawn during the McDowell Mountain Month on October 21, 2010. The helicopter ride is scheduled for Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 9 a.m. Participants must be able available at that day and time. If the winning entry is unable to claim the prize, the prize will go to the first alternate. ### JETMNMgt Z Town of Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission o t o` `PP and the Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills .. p °ha Win a Free Helicopter Ride Contest The Town of Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission and the Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills invites you to enter this easy contest and win a one-half hour helicopter ride over Fountain Hills. The questions are easy and test basic knowledge of the Preserve in Fountain Hills. So here goes: 1. Where is the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve? ❑West side of Town ❑ East side of Town n Next to the 64-acre Fountain Park 2. How many acres are in the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve? ❑40 acres ❑ 110 acres n 740 acres 3. Where is the trailhead to enter the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve? ❑ Next to Fountain Park ❑ End of Eagles Nest Drive n Near Town Hall 4. How many trails are in the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve? ❑ Four ❑ Eight ❑Twelve 5. How many miles of trails are in the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve? n 2 miles II]4miles ❑ 6miles The winner will be drawn from all the correct entries. Members of the Sonoran Conservancy of Fountain Hills and the Town of Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission are not eligible to enter. Send entries to: McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Town of Fountain Hills 16705 E.Avenue of the Fountains Fountain Hills,AZ 85268 The winner will be drawn during the McDowell Mountain Month on October 21, 2010. The helicopter ride is scheduled for Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 9 a.m. Participants must be able available at that day and time. If the winning entry is unable to claim the prize,the prize will go to the first alternate. Name: Email: Phone: t. Oft TOWN OFF FOUNTAIN + < O HILLS PROCLAMATION < OFFICE OF THE MAYOR WHEREAS, the preservation of the McDowell Mountains and the Sonoran Desert has been established as a high priority of the Town of Fountain Hills and its citizens;and WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Town of Fountain Hills to celebrate the unique environment of its Preserve;and WHEREAS, it is also the intent of the Town of Fountain Hills to k raise awareness regarding the need to preserve these valuable treasures for future generations;and WHEREAS, the first permanent access trail to the Preserve has , been completed that links the McDowell Mountain Regional Park's Dixie din Mine Trail to the Preserve's northern boundary via the Sonoran Trail; and NOW, THEREFORE, I, JayT. Schlum, Mayor ofthe Town ofFountain y Hills,Arizona, do hereby declare the month of October 2010 as: "McDOWELL MOUNTAIN MONTH" rs in Fountain Hills and call upon all citizens to take a moment during the month to appreciate the beauty of this community treasure. Jay T. Schlum, Mayor ATTEST: z, Bevelyn J. Bender, Town Clerk NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN PRESERVATION COMMISSION TUESDAY,SEPTEMBER 28,2010 5:30 P.M. 'ltlal IS Nvo" . Town of Fountain Hills Council Chambers—First Floor Pursuant to 38-431.02,notice is hereby given to the members of the Town Council,the McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission of Fountain Hills and to the general public that the McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission of Fountain Hills will hold a regular meeting open to the public on Tuesday,September 28,2010,at 5:30 PM, at the Town of Fountain Hills,Council Chambers, 16705 East Avenue of the Fountains,Fountain Hills,AZ. A majority of the Council members may be in attendance. No official action will be taken. RULES FOR ADDRESSING THE COMMISSION—ADOPTED 1/18/90 It is the Commission's desire to hear public comment on agenda items. As it is important to maintain order during the meeting,please adhere to the following rules of order if you wish to speak: 1. All citizens wishing to speak must first be recognized by the Chairman 1. The Chairman will not call for public comment on an item until after a motion has been made and seconded and the Commission has had adequate opportunity to discuss the item. 3. Please stand and state your name and address after being called on to speak. 4. All comments must be directed to the Chairman. 5. TIME LIMIT-3 MINUTES PER PERSON PER ITEM. 6. Statements should not be repetitive. 7. Persons or groups wishing to make longer presentations should see the Director of Parks and Recreation prior to the meeting. A The agenda for the meeting is as follows: • Pledge of Allegiance 1) CALL TO ORDER and ROLL CALL 2) Call to the Public 3) CONSIDERATION of Approving the August 24, 2010 Meeting Minutes 4) Discussion of plans for McDowell Mountain Month 5) Discussion of plans for the Art Fair booth 6) Status of the agreement between Fountain Hills and the Regional Park regarding the Sonoran Trail - Director Mayer 7) Report from Legislative liaison Lina Bellenir 8) Update on the tools for the Preserve 9) Update on connectivity trail in Preserve—Chair Myers 10)CONSIDERATION of requesting Council to approve limited usage of horses on the connectivity trail 11)CONSIDERATION of cancelling the November 23rd meeting 12)CONSIDERATION of Adjournment Pursuant to Title II of the American with Disabilities Act(ADA),McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission does not discriminate on the basis of a disability regarding admission to public meetings. Individuals with disabilities who require auxiliary aids or services for effective communication in this meeting may contact Nancy Walter at 480-816-5152(voice)or 1-800-367-8939(TDD),72 hours prior to the meeting start time. Dated this 21 th day of September 2010 McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Oy: vtarkB C.Mayer,Director of Parks and Recreation