General Obligation Bond Committee Meeting 3-10-09 - City of Surprise

does have a repayment ordinance that states if a developer develops within ten
years, the city receives reimbursement for street improvements. Mr. Oliver
indicated the city wants development to pay for itself, either through repayment
ordinances, requiring that infrastructure be provided by the developer, or through
development impact fees. Mr. Oliver stated that because Maricopa County is not
in agreement about the proposed aerial tramway in the White Tanks, that project
is off the list. He is considering a venue at or near the tennis center to seat 2500-
5000 patrons. Mr. Coronado of the Community and Recreation Services
Department is researching the feasibility of such a venue. It could include a
retractable screening device.
Mr. Oliver spoke of the Loop 303 which will be funded with state money. The City
has a commitment from the state to proceed North to South on construction
which will commence December 2010 and be completed by December 2011.
This does not include the bridges at Bell Road.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Johnny Montoya:
Mr. Montoya asked: in regards to the Property Valuation Assessment, would a
$400K home be assessed higher than a $200K home? He also asked if this
General Bond request is consistent with the 2001/2002 General Plan?
Mr. Askelson responded that a $400K home would indeed be twice the amount
of a $200K home. Mr. Elkins responded that the General Plan is being followed.
Billy:
Mr. Billy stated he thinks there is pork in this program. He stated that Public
Safety should be the #1 priority and there should be more money dedicated to
the Fire Dept. and the Police Dept. He reiterated that we need more protection.
Martha Bails:
Ms. Bails suggested the Project Categories list be added to the City of Surprise
website. She said she would like residents who can’t attend these meetings have
the opportunity to see the projects listed. She also stated that when a new City
service is added/built, an additional maintenance cost is added to the City’s
annual budget which cannot be funded by funds from the bond. Ms. Bails also
asked what our current primary and secondary property tax is. Ms. Bails also
stated her real concern is the $25 million allocated to economic development.
She asked what the land is intended for and where is it? She as a resident would
not vote for something that does not explain what the money is intended for.
Parks and Recreation could be removed because if you add a park, you will need
to use general fund money to support the park. Transportation – she is
concerned about the current issues the City faces. She stated the City could
better help residents understand the true impact. Ms. Bails also stated the
residents could be paying for this bond for 30-40 years.