In a joint meeting with the Town Council on May 29, McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Chairman Bill Myers made a pitch for the town to budget $33,200 for Preserve operation and …
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MMPC outlines budget goals
By Mike Scharnow
Preserving and maintaining the McDowell Mountain Preserve will be a long-term concern of town government.
Posted
By Bob Burns
In a joint meeting with the Town Council on May 29, McDowell Mountain Preservation Commission Chairman Bill Myers made a pitch for the town to budget $33,200 for Preserve operation and maintenance.
Myers was citing a letter he wrote to the mayor and council that was approved by the MMPC at its April 23 meeting.
“We believe it is important for the town to address the safety, health, enjoyment and maintenance of the town’s largest and most expensive single asset,” the letter states.
However, as of late April the budget work for the 2013/2014 fiscal year was completed and ready for council approval of a preliminary budget May 2.
Community Services Director Mark Mayer said the commission members were informed the budget for the upcoming fiscal year was set and the request would need to be delayed for consideration in the 2014/2015 fiscal year budget.
Myers makes the point that there has been a significant increase in usage of the preserve trails since unrestricted access became available on the Sonoran Trail from the Dixie Mine Trail in McDowell Mountain Park.
With that access, along with efforts to attain even better, easier access, the commission is focusing efforts on educating the public on this community asset.
The land for the preserve had a price tag of about $17 million in taxpayer dollars.
At 940 acres the Preserve is 16 times larger than Fountain Park, often considered the town’s crown jewel.
“Usage of the Preserve has increased by hikers, bicyclists, runners, school children and others of all ages and abilities,” the commission letter states. “Along with greater usage, the Preserve trails require increased maintenance.”
The commission is suggesting the funds be spent specifically on four items; people counters to help determine usage of trails, trail maintenance tools, vehicle for transport of supplies and people and a part-time employee (ranger) dedicated to the safety, maintenance and other requirements of the Preserve.
Myers said the commission members recognize the severe budget constraints the town is experiencing.
“The intent of this letter is to help recognize the importance of the Preserve and assist in the budgeting process for the appropriate allocation of the scarce funds,” the letter states.
