Paying for local government services is our responsibility. We wouldn’t expect a stranger to pay for our cellular plan. If these services are fiscally mismanaged (and they are not), it is also our responsibility to communicate our concerns and vote for new leaders.

The half-street in front of the lot we reside on only exists because of that lot. It provides critical access. Larger lots have greater associated street maintenance expense. Delays to maintenance increase those expenses.

A portion of the fire protection expense protects the structure we reside in. Ask your insurance agent what the homeowners’ insurance would cost if fire response time increased to 20 minutes. We are the direct beneficiary of the insurance savings. A more expensive home has greater insurance savings and greater benefit from fire protection.

The same can be said of police protection. What would happen to our insurance costs, valuables and quality of life if protection was severely reduced? Again, those with bigger, fancier things derive a greater benefit.

These services pertain to our shelter. They are higher priority than that frothy beverage from Starbucks or dinner out. They are higher priority than premium cable subscriptions or cellular plans. They are higher priority than that pimped-out BMW sports coup, RV, or boat.

A fixed retirement income does not absolve responsibility. No one else made our retirement financial decisions. Strained finances are also no excuse. No one else made our purchase, education or career decisions. Even so, a shiny, new federal tax cut and property tax relief measures can help.

Unlike the fixed environmental fee, big retailers will pay a fair share with a property tax. It’s time to pay to preserve the Fountain Hills we love, expect and receive. If you want cheaper, minimalist services, unincorporated Maricopa County awaits you.