Carefree Truth

Issue #293, December, 2013

 

 

 

An audience member at the November Town Hall meeting asked about the No Bow Hunting signs.  Mayor David Schwan explained that Carefree used to prohibit hunting within the Town limits.  Several years ago, there was pressure from people who enjoy it to open more areas to hunting, so the Legislature passed a "one size fits all" law disallowing towns to prohibit it.

 

 

 

Several Carefree citizens got a shock when they walked out of their homes and found a hunter standing there with a bow and arrow, or found an arrow sticking out of their wall.  Gary Neiss arranged a hearing in front of the Game and Fish Commission, which was attended by Mr. Neiss, the Mayor, and Councilman John Crane.  As Carefree has some large lots, they agreed to amend the law for Carefree.  Now, no bow hunting is allowed within 1/4 mile (440 yards) of a residence. No Bow Hunting signs are required in order to enforce it.  This year, Game and Fish has stepped up enforcement, and MCSO is aware of the change too.  If you see illegal hunting, you can call MCSO at 602-876-1011.    

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVdCZW4VGYM

 

 

 

 

 

Al Swanson, of Venues Cafe, was upset over the sewer rates for restaurants in Carefree, which are charged according to the number of seats in a restaurant.  He realizes that the rates are regulated by the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC), but cited rates significantly lower charged by the municipal sewer companies in Cave Creek, Scottsdale, and Phoenix, which are partially subsidized by property taxes and rates spread across other users.  He requested that Carefree pass a resolution forcing Liberty Water to lower the rates for Carefree restaurants.  

 

 

 

Mayor Schwan responded that the Town Council had authorized him to send a letter to the ACC asking them to look at this the next time a rate case comes before them.  If the sewer treatment plant in the Boulders closes, a rate case would be brought at that time.  Because the Town has been working with the sewer company on this potential closing, they have access to utilities attorneys who work with the ACC.  They were told that the ACC will not change the rates until a rate case is brought before them.  This is expected to take 1-3 years.  They need to work with the sewer company and the ACC to find an appropriate rate. 

 

 

 

Town Clerk Kandace French said she understands his frustration with the time frame and money involved, but it's a jurisdictional issue, and the resolution he requested is not enforceable.  She said that if he doesn't want to wait for the actions available to the Town, as a private business owner, he has the right to take action against the sewer company and/or the ACC.

 

 

 

Mayor Schwan explained that the ACC exists as a separate body under the authority of the Arizona Constitution, and is second in power only to the State Legislature.  They have their own system, and all must conform to it.  That's what the Town is trying to do.  The lawyers they spoke to said anything else is wasting time and money.   

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wb5qz7JMBk8

 

 

Lyn Hitchon

 

 

 

Prepared by Carefree Truth

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