Increasing public participation doesn’t equate to expanding government’s role. Yet that’s exactly how Mr. Cannarsa interpreted mayoral candidate Ginny Dickey’s proposals suggesting more residents have a say in town decision-making.

I know what Ginny said at her Town Talk Tuesday. By the way, has Mr. Yates reached out with multiple open meetings allowing input and questions from residents?

Ginny’s words: “It’s very clear that people have great ideas and a wealth of knowledge. It’s not a new concept for Fountain Hills to rely on volunteers and commissions. It seems we could expand boards and commissions, creating a larger circle to include residents.

“We need leadership’s unwavering support and staff to manage these steps to help us all in the long run. This is where some of the questionable spending comes into play. Eliminating lagoon studies and wayfinding sign projects won’t solve our shortfall, but focusing the funding we do have on better goals to benefit more of us is possible.”

For example, Mr. Yates’ legacy includes support of a $39,000 lagoon study; $160,000 spent this year because Yates supported firing our attorney, a decision likely costing $100,000 more annually; $30,000 yearly Yates wanted for renting space at Park Place, where his employer is now the leasing agent; support of $150,000 on wayfinding signage and $115,000 annually for a communications director.

Ginny said, “To the existing boards and commissions, possibly add committees found in other cities, and suggest staff to help with overall customer service our residents deserve. This is where some of those lesser amounts of funding could be better spent; not reinventing the wheel but finding a way to utilize those citizens’ ideas.”

The facts don’t support trying to frame this as a big government move. I think many residents have tired of this ideological divide. Vote for Ginny!