By Thomas McGuire
The Republic | azcentral.com
I’ve had the privilege of serving the citizens of Cave Creek as a member of the Town Council for three terms. It has been both a challenging and rewarding experience. Cave Creek is a unique Western community of freedom-loving people who want to preserve our rural identity, and I am proud to have been a resident for the past 12 years. I support economic growth to ensure a bright and secure future for Cave Creek — growth on our terms. In the past four years, sales-tax revenues have dramatically increased. Walmart, which I supported, is a prime example.
Cave Creek faced critical issues when our lack of water forced businesses to truck in water in 2007. The Department of Environmental Quality mandated a new wastewater plant as the former plant reached capacity at about the same time. Low-interest government- guaranteed loans of $74 million were obtained from the Arizona Water Infrastructure Finance Authority. The loans have been partly paid off by federal stimulus funds.
This council has established a plan to pay off all our debt not later than 2030. In addition to meeting our debt service, the town now has a fund balance of $3.4 million. Above all, we must avoid any temptation to use our fund balance for government beyond voter-approved levels.
I support rezoning of certain areas in the vicinity of Carefree Highway. But we must have appropriate buffers for residential neighborhoods and adequate regard for the businesses in our historic Town Core. New businesses will enhance our economic viability and the resulting sales-tax revenues will allow us to avoid town property taxes.
I have strongly supported preservation of our high-Sonoran desert environment with new zoning. This council and I have established open spaces along with my own ongoing efforts to connect all of Cave Creek with equestrian- friendly, multiuse trails. Our goal is to unite the community for years to come.
Our equestrian and artist groups help define Cave Creek. They should be promoted as we also encourage community- based organizations that provide vital services.
My wife and I are very pleased that we chose to live in Cave Creek. In addition to my council duties, my service has included volunteer work for the Cave Creek Museum, 10 years of guiding hikes at the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, trail maintenance throughout town and volunteering at numerous community events. I would be honored to continue my service to Cave Creek as a re-elected member of the Town Council.
Thomas McGuire is running for his fourth term as a Cave Creek councilman.
