From major thoroughfares to countless offshoots snaking through town, local streets are likely to be a big part of many conversations throughout 2017.

As reported on page 1A, councilmembers are saying that, following the major repairs to Shea and Saguaro Blvds., residents seem to be pretty happy with their local streets. Mayor Linda Kavanagh pointed out that comments come in concerning streets that residents travel on their daily commute but, for the most part, street talk has been quiet in terms of needed repairs.

At recent Council meetings, though, the future of Fountain Hills’ roads has been a recurring topic. Whether or not the Town should maintain a “zoned” approach versus a needs-based approach has been discussed, as well as the potential need of high-tech evaluations. The zoned approach made sense when it was first established but, at present, the Town is unable to keep up with the funding or timeframe initially expected to take care of local roads on an annual basis. Switching to a needs-based approach might allow those limited funds to be more directly funneled toward the streets in more dire need of repair.

As for the high-tech evaluation, it will be interesting to see what the Council decides concerning the proposed $106,000 project. While Town staff can certainly provide an assessment on what is at eye level, the evaluation would be able to provide information on what is going on under the surface, which could have an impact on how future projects are prioritized. Then again, when street repairs are already stretching the budget, is it in the Town’s best interest to spend funds on another study?

Finally, based on what we’re seeing in our Letters, it seems like bonds and the possibility of a property tax are starting to become hot topics once again. As residents begin a dialogue on what would be best for Fountain Hills concerning funding, we imagine local streets will pave their way into the conversation sooner or later.