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Bambi
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Posted: Wed Sep 2nd, 2009 11:14 pm |
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Pinal County Press Release
For Immediate Release Contact: Heather Murphy (520) 866-6057
September 1, 2009
Mailing of Tax Statements Delayed Due to Inaction on State Budget
FLORENCE – ] Pinal County Treasurer Dolores “Dodie” Doolittle has the unpopular task of mailing and collecting property taxes for properties in Pinal County . Due to the protracted negotiations that have delayed approval of a state budget, she is advising taxpayers that the bills will be mailed later than usual.
“Normally, the state would have its budget approved with plenty of time for local governments to set their tax rates,” Doolittle said. “Because we still don’t have a state budget, I can’t send out accurate bills.”
The statements that the Treasurer’s office sends include not only the county tax rate, but also the tax rate of other government jurisdictions such as school districts, municipalities and special taxing districts such as fire districts. While those rates have been set, the state is still debating the possible repeal of one line item on tax bills.
“A key issue in the budget discussions is the possible repeal of the State Equalization Tax,” Doolittle explained. “It is important to get property tax information out to property owners in a timely manner. We can’t afford to wait much longer and it is not fair to property owners and mortgage companies who are beginning to call in for the taxes due. Both Maricopa and Pima Counties have also decided to delay the mailing in the hopes of getting certainty on the state budget.”
“Based on the deadline for Governor Brewer to take action on the budget, we have moved the printing date for the tax statements with the intent to have them in the mail on the 18th of September,” she said.
This could surprise some taxpayers because October 1 is the due date for the first half of your annual tax bill.
“By statute, the due date is October 1 but you have a grace period of 30 days before you start accruing a penalty for late payments,” Doolittle said. “We’re telling people now that they really have until October 31 to make their payment”
“Also, if you are in a position to pay the full year’s taxes at once, you actually have a grace period until December 31 to pay the entire bill without a penalty,” she added.
The State Treasurer has had to borrow money to meet the state’s financial obligations because an official state budget has not been approved. Doolittle said that unlike the state, Pinal County will not have to borrow to meet the county’s financial needs. This is because the Board of Supervisors approved a structurally balanced budget that cut the primary property tax rate by 20 cents and slashed spending by almost $57 million over the prior year’s budget. Pinal County ’s primary property tax today is the lowest it’s been in 32 years.
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Bambi2
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Posted: Fri Jun 5th, 2009 12:23 am |
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Pinal County Press Release
For Immediate Release Contact: Joe Pyritz
June 3, 2009 (520) 866-6226
Heather Murphy
(520) 866-6057
Supervisors Approve Reduction in Force
FLORENCE – With falling revenues and the ever present need for service provision, the Board of Supervisors approved a budget resolution that will reduce the workforce for Pinal County in FY2010.
The Supervisors voted to eliminate 160.5 positions, the majority being positions that are already vacant and haven’t been filled. On Friday, June 12, 42 employees will be given a notice of lay-off.
“This is not a measure we take lightly,” said Chairman David Snider. “Many private sector companies have been dealing with these issues for the past 18 months. Our workforce was appropriately sized up to this point, but with the truly significant decline in revenues that we’ve seen since last October, we must enter the new budget year with a much leaner and more economical organization. These are good employees who are being let go at no fault of their own.”
District 2 Supervisor Bryan Martyn said that the vote to conduct the reduction in force is a hard choice to make.
“There simply is no easy way to do this,” Supervisor Martyn said. “We are committed to providing quality services. This appears to be the only way to scale our workforce to the workload anticipated in the upcoming months.”
Looking over the budget resolution, Vice-Chairman and District 1 Supervisor Pete Rios asked that there be an effort to bringing the laid-off employees back as soon as possible.
“I echo my colleagues when they say this is a tough decision to make.” Supervisor Rios said. “I would like to ask that when the economy improves, we look at hiring these people back, perhaps looking at them as a priority.”
Pinal County , along with other counties in Arizona , is still unsure to what extent the legislature will dip into their coffers to help balance the state’s budget. There are various budget proposals being bantered about by the legislature and Governor Brewer. The Supervisors are keeping an eye on the daily developments from Phoenix , hoping to have an answer sometime before the county budget comes before the board on June 27.
"The state legislators are exploring lots of strategies that balance the state budget by shipping the counties a truckload of pain with a price tag in the millions,” said Chairman Snider. “We believe the state's elected leaders need to solve their problems, just as we are solving ours, but they need to do so in a manner that does not effectively and completely disrupt our ability to provide quality services to the residents of Pinal County . We are hoping Governor Brewer will call upon her past experience as a Maricopa County Supervisor to persuade leaders that sending an IOU to Arizona 's counties is not fiscally responsible."
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Bambi2
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Posted: Thu May 14th, 2009 06:28 pm |
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Pinal County Press Release
May 14, 2009 Board Adopts Tentative 2009-10 Budget
FLORENCE , AZ – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors today adopted the tentative 2009-2010 budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1. Additional revisions in some of the details are likely before the final budget is adopted on June 24. When introducing the budget, the County Manager acknowledged the aggressive decline in revenues that prompted two rounds of budget cuts, a freeze on hiring and travel and about 37 layoffs during the current fiscal year. The layoffs stemmed from cuts in grant or state-funded programs.
“Our economy has taken a drastic hit and it’s affecting us all, from all angles. The state continues to wrestle with a deficit of historical proportion. It is still unknown what effect state cuts will have on our county budget,” County Manager Terry Doolittle said.
The budget session opened with a recap of achievements during the 2008-09 budget year, including an increase in the childhood immunization rate of 18 percent, a landmark accord with the Union Pacific Railroad to help fund grade-separated crossings, a reduction in the tax rate and earning a high, stable bond rating.
The tone changed swiftly when the discussion shifted to increased demand for home health care services – up 13 percent over the prior year – and the sobering account of the revenue declines. Building permits are down by 61 percent, the county sales tax is down 15 percent and state shared sales tax is 23 percent lower than the prior fiscal year.
The tentative budget is $33.6 million less than the budget approved for 2008-2009. The total amount of the budget from all funds is $412,193,853. This amount cannot be increased but could be further reduced.
There are several strategic priorities identified by the Board and elected officials. Those include:
- Regional leadership,
- Growth,
- Public Safety,
- Healthcare,
- Transportation,
- Jobs and Economic Development,
- Accountability, and
- Financial Responsibility.
The County Manager and Budget Director have offered the Board monthly briefings on the state of the county’s finances since the start of the year. The Board of Supervisors has been clear in its directive: Focus on delivering quality service to the public, provide financial stability for the county now and ensure the future financial stability of the county. Public health and safety are top priorities.
The County Manager outlined that the goal of the budget was to deliver quality service to the public, preserve vital programs and minimize the loss of jobs. Layoffs, he said, are a necessary reality due to the economy, funding cuts and shifts in priority to ensure that the needs of the community are met.
Approximately 50 current county employees will be affected by the layoffs. Layoffs are not anticipated to affect public safety, probation officers, the County Attorney ’s office or positions in the Justice and Superior Courts. These cuts are in addition to the 37 positions that were eliminated in Fiscal Year 2008-09 due to reduced revenues or grants that were not renewed.
Also proposed was an across the board pay cut of five percent (5%). The Board of Supervisors has requested a work session or series of work sessions to look at strategies that might result in no salary cuts or a smaller reduction in pay.
The lack of answers from the state fostered debate over whether a pay cut could be scaled back or eliminated altogether. The three Supervisors offered differing opinions on how to approach the delicate balance between program, personnel or pay cuts and achieving a balanced budget.
“We face some grim and realistic choices,” Chairman David Snider said. “To have a balanced budget we could drain the rainy day fund to meet the obligations of on-going salaries remaining untouched, lay additional people off or institute salary reductions. I do not see many favorable choices there.”
“In the private sector, they have been dealing with these issues for the past couple of years. I think we should count ourselves lucky for not having to consider this until now,” Chairman Snider added.
District 2 Supervisor, Bryan Martyn, said he was uneasy about voting for the tentative budget with so many questions unanswered.
“I think this warrants more discussion,” Supervisor Martyn said. “We need to examine going into our fund balance. I don’t know what the long term risk could be by dipping into the rainy day fund. I would like to see more options.”
Additional budget work sessions have not been scheduled. The Board adopted the tentative budget but will look at the array of possible strategies to address the shortfall before adopting the final Pinal County budget on June 24.
District 1 Supervisor, Pete Rios, explained that adopting the tentative budget does not tie the hands of the Supervisors if they want to consider other budget balancing options.
“In the state legislature, there were good years where we could spend on needed items and bad years where we had to cut,” Rios said. “Before we adopt the final budget, we have some wiggle room here to discuss what course we want to set for the upcoming fiscal year.”
The tentative budget passed with a two to one vote. Chairman Snider and Supervisor Rios voting aye, Supervisor Martyn voting nay.
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Bambi
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Posted: Tue Feb 24th, 2009 05:31 pm |
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Pinal County Press Release]
For Immediate Release Contacts: Heather Murphy 520-866-6057
February 24, 2009 or Joe Pyritz 520-866-6226
Property Owners to Receive Notice Of Valuation by Mail Soon.
FLORENCE , AZ – Each year, the Pinal County Assessor mails a Notice of Valuation to all property owners. Valuations for the 2010 tax year are going to be mailed on Friday, February 27, 2009.
“Valuations will be somewhat lower due to the downturn in the economy. Areas most likely to see a drop in property valuations are the areas that grew the fastest during the real estate boom,” Pinal County Assessor Paul Larkin said. “This will mean that the property taxes due in 2010 will, for many, be lower due to the economic realities of today’s real estate market.”
The notice of valuation is not a tax bill. It is the document that alerts the property owner to what the Assessor’s office believes the property’s value is. Next year’s tax bills will be based on this valuation.
Assessments, Larkin said, are based on sales ratio studies – what similar homes are selling for in the area – and other economic information pulled from a variety of sources. There are two components to the assessment:
Primary Rate: The Primary rate is based on the “limited value.” The limited value is based on a formula set by statute and is not subject to appeal.
Secondary Rate: The Secondary rate is based on the “Full Cash Value” of the property.
“The full cash value of your property should bear some resemblance to the market value of your property if it were for sale in 2009 or 2010,” Larkin explained. “There is a 60 day window to file an appeal of your assessment, if you believe it is incorrect. The clock runs out on the appeals process on April 28. We advise individuals to read the full text of their valuation notice to understand the document and act on it if necessary.”
No action is necessary unless a property owner disagrees with the assessed valuation.
Larkin added that the 2010 valuation year began in August 2007 and ended July 2008.
“While I don’t have a crystal ball, based on what the market has done since July 2008, it is entirely possible that we will see low or lower valuations for the 2011 tax year as well,” Larkin predicted.
That’s good news for taxpayers but could be bad news for special districts, school districts and the community college district whose funding is paid, in part, by taxes.
Assessor Larkin also reminded taxpayers that owners of rental property are obligated under state law to disclose that the property is a rental property.
For more information concerning property valuations or the Assessor's Office, go to http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov and select Assessor.
For answers to questions about the valuation notices or for information and forms, call 520-509-3555 or 888-431-1311. Call volumes are highest on Mondays or during the lunch hour. To minimize hold times, consider calling Tuesday through Friday and avoiding the lunch break.
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Last edited on Tue Feb 24th, 2009 05:32 pm by
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Bambi
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Posted: Fri Feb 20th, 2009 11:19 pm |
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Pinal County Press Release
For Immediate Release Contact: Joe Pyritz
February 20, 2009 (520) 866-6226
Heather Murphy
(520) 866-6057
Looking for a Deal? Pinal County Vehicle and Heavy Equipment
Auction Takes Place February 28
FLORENCE – Are you looking for a second vehicle?
Do you need a big truck to haul big loads?
If so, you may find what you want at the upcoming Pinal County vehicle and heavy
equipment auction on Saturday, February 28. The auction takes place at the county’s
Fleet Services Yard at 900 South Pinal Parkway in Florence. The gates open at 6:00 am
and bidding begins at 7:00 am.
“This is always a big event for us,” said Fleet Services Director Rey Flores. “We usually
get a lot of people for this auction and I think there will be even more this year.”
Flores says potential buyers can inspect the vehicles up for auction on Thursday,
February 26 from 7:00 am until 2:00 pm, or on the day of the auction.
“We will have a wide variety of cars and trucks,” Flores said, “from vehicles confiscated
by the Sheriff’s Office to our heavy equipment that we have replaced with newer
models.”
Flores did warn that all vehicles are sold as is.
“Our county vehicles are high milers, but they are usually in good condition. But when it
comes to cars that were confiscated by the Sheriff’s Office, we don’t know if there are
any problems with them. Sometimes you will find a diamond in the rough at these
auctions. That’s why it’s important to inspect the vehicles before you bid on them,”
Flores explained.
To participate in the auction, bring a $100 cash deposit to obtain a bidder’s number. The
winning bidder must pay the balance within one hour of the last item sold and before the
vehicle is removed from the premises. Payments are taken in cash or certified funds.
The fleet services staff will even take a Debit Card with a PIN number. Checks will be
accepted only with a letter of credit from a financial institution. If the winning bidder is
unable to pay for the vehicle, it will be resold and the cash deposit will be forfeited.
Flores said that there are usually good buys to be found at the auction, but a person will
be bidding against auto dealers from outside the county.
“We have some pros come in from the Valley to bid on vehicles. Hopefully we’ll have
some good buys for everyone. But just remember,” Flores stressed, “the bidding is fast
and furious.”
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Bambi
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Posted: Fri Jan 23rd, 2009 05:14 pm |
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Pinal County Press Release
For Immediate Release Contact: Joe Pyritz
January 23, 2009 (520) 866-6226
Heather Murphy
(520) 866-6057
Assessor's Office Representatives Accepting Applications for Exemptions
FLORENCE – Representatives from the Assessor’s Office will be visiting satellite locations to accept applications for property exemptions from Pinal County residents.
The applications the Assessor’s Office representative will accept are for Widow and Widowers or Disabled Person Property Exemptions. The filing deadline for the exemptions is the last day in February.
The Assessor’s Office will have a representative at the following locations:
- Apache Junction – Roy Hudson County Complex (Treasurer’s and Recorder’s Satellite Office); 575 North Idaho Road . Thursday, January 29, 8:00 am until noon and 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm.
- Casa Grande – Casa Grande County Complex; 820 East Cottonwood Lane . Wednesday, February 4, 10:00 am until 1:00 pm.
- Mammoth – Mammoth County Complex ; 118 South Catalina Avenue . Thursday, February 5, 10:00 am until 1:00 pm.
All first time applicants must apply in person. If you have applied in the past you can re-apply by mail accompanied by a Notary Public’s signature and stamp. For more information, please call (520) 866-6311.
To file for the property exemptions you must present the following documents to the Assessor’s representative:
Requirements for Widow and Widower’s Exemption
· Must be a permanent resident of Arizona]
Must have resided with their spouse in Arizona at the time of the spouse’s death or if their spouse died while a resident of another state, then the surviving spouse must have come to Arizona before January 1, 1969]
· Must present the death certificate of the deceased spouse to the Assessor]
· Must not have property value (within the State of Arizona ) that exceeds a net assessed value of $22,997]. Net assessed value can be found on your tax notice or Notice of Valuation card
· Must file an application each year between first Monday in January and thru last day of ]February
· Must be able to state that either item A or B below is true:]
None of my children under 18 years of age resided with me during the previous calendar year. The total income from all sources including myself, my spouse, and any children aged 18 or more who resided with me, did not exceed $28,202 during the previous calendar year.
At least one of my children who was under 18 years of age OR who was totally and permanently disabled, resided with me during the previous calendar year. The total income from all sources including myself, my spouse, and any other of my children, resided with me, did not exceed $33,842 during the previous calendar year.
Requirements for Disabled Persons Exemption
· Must be a permanent resident of Arizona
· Must be over the age of 17]
Must be medically certified as 100 percent and permanently disabled by your doctor (The Assessors Office] will supply the necessary medical forms)
· Must not have property value (within the State of Arizona ) that exceeds a Net assessed value of $22,997. ]Net assessed value can be found on your tax notice or Notice of Valuation Card
· Must file an application each year between first Monday in January and thru last day of February
· Must be able to state that either item A or B below is true:
None of my children under 18 years of age resided with me during the previous calendar year. The total income from all sources including myself, my spouse, and any children aged 18 or more who resided with me, did not exceed $28,202 during the previous calendar year.
At least one of my children who was under 18 years of age OR who was totally and permanently disabled, resided with me during the previous calendar year. The total income from all sources including myself, my spouse, and any other of my children, resided with me, did not exceed $33,842 during the previous calendar year.
To file for the property exemptions you must present the following documents to the Assessor’s representative:
- Copy of spouse’s death certificate. If the spouse died out of state, the applicant must prove residency in Arizona prior to January 1, 1969 (Widow or Widowers Exemption)
- Medical Certificate from an Arizona licensed physician – forms will be available (Disabled Persons Exemption)
- 2008 Arizona State Income Tax Return
- Copy of the prior year’s tax bill or valuation card of all properties in Arizona
- License plate numbers for all motor vehicles
- Title/Tax bill
- Arizona Driver’s License or Arizona Identification
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Bambi
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Posted: Mon Dec 29th, 2008 11:02 pm |
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Pinal County Press Release
For Immediate Release Contact: Michael Searle
December 29, 2008
Annual Fiddler & Bluegrass Jamboree Comes to Town
3 day event has something for everyone!
CASA GRANDE – It’s not long until musicians from across the country will make their way to the Pinal County Fairgrounds for the 23rd Annual Fiddlers and Bluegrass Jamboree.
For only $4.00 a day, (children under 12 are free) you will be treated to the finest in music, food and entertainment. The event takes place Friday through Sunday, January 9-11.
The majestic Budweiser Clydesdales will be on display throughout the event. On Saturday watch them hitch up and dress out the gentle giants. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see these amazing animals up close and personal.
Nancy Kobert’s Amazing World of Birds will be back once again. Nancy and her avian friends have become a crowd favorite at the jamboree. The show includes demonstrations with exotic birds, comedy routines and you might learn a thing or two while you see the birds strut their stuff.
Nancy and her birds have been on Jay Leno, Animal Planet and been in major motion pictures including Dreamworks’ Paulie. You can see Nancy and her delightful winged friends three times each day. Also be sure and catch Zeke’s Model-A Hillbillies, their unique presentation is something you have to see to believe.
If you are a doo-wop fan you won’t want to miss The Keepsakes. Performing twice on Saturday, The Keepsakes will entertain you with favorites from the 50’s and 60’s. Don’t forget your poodle-skirt and duck tail haircut!
Saturday will also be your chance to see multi-talented singer, Tiffany Jo in person. This young lady is taking the music scene by storm. An accomplished, award winning yodeler, Tiffany also sings country, folk and other crowd pleasers.
Another crowd favorite is the Classic Car show taking place all day Saturday. Hot rods, muscle cars and other classics will be challenging each other for trophies in 27 different categories. It’s not too late to enter your car in the event.
The big boys will be heaving and pulling on Saturday and Sunday as the antique tractor pull will take place both days.
For only $4.00 you’ll be treated to great food, unique shopping and great music. Gates open each day at 9:00 am and close at 5:00 pm.
For more information, call 520-509-3555 or 866-431-1311. You can also visit http://www.pinalcountyfair.com. All the fun takes place at the Pinal County Fairgrounds, 512 S. 11 Mile Corner Road , Casa Grande.
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Bambi
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Posted: Mon Dec 15th, 2008 08:27 pm |
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EPA GIVES MORE POLICY-MAKING VOICE TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS. Finally!
State and local governments will have more involvement in developing federal environmental rules thanks to a new EPA policy that broadens the agency’s consulting efforts with intergovernmental partners when new regulations and policies cost more than $25 million each. This is a significant lowering of the previous consultation threshold of $100 million.
EPA’s new policy updates existing policy that was put in place to carry out Executive Order 13132, Federalism. The order requires the federal government to consult with elected state and local government officials before proposing regulations or actions that have substantial direct effects below the national level, either by virtue of their implementation costs or their preemption of state or local authority.
When the order was first issued in 1999, EPA and other federal agencies adopted an interpretation of “substantial direct effects” consistent with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA), a 1995 law that set the state and local consultation threshold at $100 million per rule.
However, based on its experience in conducting rulemakings over the last several years, EPA said it has determined a need for state and local input on a wider range of regulations and is lowering the consultation threshold to $25 million.
EPA’s action comes at a time when state and local officials are calling for a stronger working relationship with their federal partners in solving many of today’s major environmental challenges.
The National Governors Association, the National Conference of State Legislatures, the Council of State Governments, the National Association of Counties, the National League of Cities, the International City/County Management Association and the U.S. Conference of Mayors recently issued a joint statement urging the incoming administration to “adopt a policy of constructive engagement” and to “cooperate and consult with state and local leaders.”
These seven associations, along with three others (National Association of Towns and Townships, County Executives of America and Environmental Council of the States), constitute the group of 10 organizations with whom EPA will consult under its new Federalism policy.
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Bambi
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Posted: Mon Dec 15th, 2008 08:17 pm |
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News Releases
12/15/2008 - NACo highlights ready-to-go infrastructure
A snap-shot survey of 73 counties from 27 states reported that 2,388 infrastructure projects totaling an estimated $21.9 billion are “ready-to-go,” which would create jobs and stimulate the national and local economies if funded by a new federal economic stimulus package currently under consideration by Congress.
My question is do we get any of that money?
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Posted: Mon Dec 15th, 2008 05:47 pm |
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For Immediate Release Contact: Joe Pyritz
December 15, 2008 (520) 866-6226
Heather Murphy
(520) 866-6057
Discount Prescription Cards are Still Available
FLORENCE- The Pinal County Board of Supervisors are reminding all residents and winter visitors that discount prescription cards are still available.
The discount card, which was launched in July of this year, is a program sponsored by the National Association of Counties (NACo). The card offers an average savings of 20 percent off the retail price of commonly prescribed drugs.
“I encourage anyone, regardless of whether they are a resident or one of our winter visitors, to come by any county government office to pick up one of these discount cards,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman David Snider. “This card can be used by any county resident to receive discounts on their needed prescriptions – they can even use it for prescribed medicines for their pet.”
Chairman Snider further explained that around 59 percent of county pharmacies currently accept the card and that a national network of over 57,000 retail pharmacies accept the discount card as well.
“I would hope our visitors from other states would stop in sometime and pick up a card,” the District 3 Supervisor said. “When you examine the cost of prescription medicines, it makes perfect sense to use this card.”
There is no cost to county taxpayers for Pinal County and NACo to make these money-saving cards available to residents.
The card is simple to use, there are no forms, no membership fees and no limits on how many times it is used. All a person has to do is present the card at any participating pharmacy. Anyone can use it regardless of age, income or even existing medical coverage.
The discount card program is administered by Caremark Rx, Inc.
For answers to Frequently Asked Questions, click on http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/HealthHumanServices/Pages/NacoFAQ.aspx
For a list of locations where you can get a card, beginning July 1, visit: http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/HealthHumanServices/Pages/WherecanIgetone.aspx
If internet access is not available please call the Pinal County Citizens Contact Center at: (520) 509-3555 or 888-431-1311.
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Bambi
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Posted: Thu Dec 11th, 2008 11:34 pm |
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[Press Release]
For Immediate Release Contact: Joe Pyritz (520) 866-6226
December 11, 2008 Heather Murphy (520) 866-6057
Construction to Begin on the Kings Ranch Road]
Pathway Project in Gold Canyon
GOLD CANYON – Pinal County ’s Department of Public Works announced today that construction of the Kings Ranch Road Pathway Project will begin January 12, 2009 and will continue for the next 5 months. The majority of construction activity will occur within Pinal County ’s right-of-way with local access being maintained. At this point, Pinal County officials do not anticipate the closure of Kings Ranch Road .
BluCor Contracting, a private contractor, was recently hired to complete the construction work. The project consists of constructing a 10-foot wide concrete pathway along Kings Ranch Road in Gold Canyon . The one-mile pathway will begin at Sandtrap Drive and stretch to Alameda Road . The path will give pedestrians and bicyclists a safe way to travel along Kings Ranch Road .
“This is the first stage of a multi-phase project that will initially connect the school with the business district,” said District 2 Supervisor Sandie Smith. “Later, we hope to continue to link the residential area as part of our parks trails and open space planning as funding becomes available. The County has set an ambitious goal to connect our population centers with quality recreation areas and this is one example of that process starting to take shape.”
The majority of the funding for the project is provided by the Federal Highway Administration through Arizona ’s Transportation Enhancement Grant Program with sponsor matching funds from Pinal County .
For additional information on the Kings Ranch Road Pathway Project, please visit Pinal County ’s website at http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/PublicWorks/Documents/NewsReleases/Final%20KRRP%20Website%20Flyer.pdf. If you are interested in receiving e-mail updates on the construction of the pathway, please contact Kathy Borquez at 520-866-6406 or kathy.borquez@pinalcountyaz.gov.
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Bambi
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Posted: Sun Nov 23rd, 2008 05:06 pm |
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Now: If we only had a local Library out here.
For Immediate Release Contact: Heather Murphy (520) 866-6057
November 20, 2008 Joe Pyritz (520) 866-6226
Free Wireless High Speed Internet Access] at your Library
FLORENCE – Imagine walking into any public library in Pinal County and finding a free high-speed wireless internet connection available for your use. This vision is now a reality.
The Pinal County Library District recently announced the availability of free high-speed wireless internet “hotspots” at all twelve library locations around the county.
“This is a major benefit for Pinal County residents,” said Denise Keller, County Librarian . “Free wireless internet access can assist business professionals, students, travelers or anyone else who needs to do research, transfer files or simply access their email. You can just walk into the library, open up your laptop and begin surfing the web. It’s a natural fit with public libraries’ mission of providing access to information.”
Challenging economic times may lead people to cancel their home internet provider, Keller said, but they should not be deprived of access to the informational and educational resources available through the web.
Unlike wireless networks found in many coffee shops, airports and hotels, there is no charge to access any of the libraries’ hotspots. To take advantage of a library’s wireless hotspot, a customer only needs a laptop or Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) that has wireless connectivity. Most laptops and PDAs are now shipped with wireless functionality built in. Others can easily add wireless capability by using an inexpensive adapter.
While libraries will continue to offer internet access at library computers, the wireless networks allow customers to use their own laptops to access high speed internet in the library. This is extremely convenient for people who have their business documents, research, schoolwork and email account settings saved on their own computers.
As portable computing devices like laptops and PDAs increase in popularity, the demand for wireless has grown. Pinal County library customers have already begun to express their appreciation.
“We hear from many customers who found our information on the web,” says Keller. “Winter visitors and other travelers are thrilled that they can access the internet so conveniently and without charge.”
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Attached: A complete list of libraries, their hours and locations is attached. This information is also posted at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/Library/Pages/LibraryLocations.aspx
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gk
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Posted: Sat Nov 22nd, 2008 08:42 pm |
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At the last public meeting on the railroad yard everyone present was against the trade with the exception of the railroad and the state land Department. Th public meeting was held ONLY for them to be able to say they held one.
The deal between the railroad and the state was already made and decided on before hand. Everyone that spoke against it simply wasted their time, as the land department had no intention of allowing ANYTHING OR ANYONE derail their plans. It was a takeover of some of Arizona's finest park, and pristine land for Corporate profits and Corporate pollution.
Every one of those knuckle heads in the department need to be replaced, because they really do not work for the publics interest, nor for the state, but for Corporations and developers
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Bambi
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Posted: Sat Nov 22nd, 2008 08:23 pm |
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| Well; we're the public. The State is the public's servant. Let's get them working on it. Everyone should email the State and the County.....both are there to serve and protect us.
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gk
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Posted: Sat Nov 22nd, 2008 07:27 pm |
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Bambi,
I had the exact same concerns sometime back, if that mess catches fire it will be major mess. I wondered why the county or whoever could not cut some fire breaks in it and do a controlled burn, or even just tear them out.
I was told that the previous owner of the property had traded that land to the State Land Department for some land up north, so now that property belongs to the state. From what I have seen from the past actions of the state land trust they are more of a developers resource than anything. They trade good usable land for land that usually can be used for other developers.
They were the major proponent and actually rammed through the trade ,( to the opposition of a near total opposition to the trade,) of the Picacho rail yard disaster. The result is, we get a big major polluting rail yard right next to the pristine Picacho park.
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Bambi
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Posted: Sat Nov 22nd, 2008 06:29 pm |
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As a concerned resident, I would like to ask that the citrus farm composed of dead citrus trees along Hunt Hiway, across from Solera, be destroyed, before a fire occurs.
A few years back, several of you might remember the piles of disposed citrus wood that caught on fire between Hunt and Empire, east of Ellsworth. Citrus wood is a slow burner but it burns hot. That fire burned for days and we had a dark cloud over a vast area for days.
Let's be proactive, and cut those dead trees down.
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Bambi
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Posted: Sat Nov 22nd, 2008 06:25 pm |
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[Press Release]
For Immediate Release Contact: Joe Pyritz
November 21, 2008 (520) 866-6226
Pinal Officials Seek Public Input on Upcoming Wildfire Protection Plan
FLORENCE- In 2002, the Bullock Fire charred over 30,000 acres and threatened the town of Oracle .
In 2003, the Aspen Fire charred 76,000 acres and again threatened the town of Oracle .
In 2005, a wildfire in Dudleyville destroyed 3 homes and sent residents to evacuation shelters.
In order to try and avoid the dangers posed by blazes, Pinal County Emergency Management Officials are developing a Community Wildfire Protection Plan and they would like your input.
“We want to know what residents think when it comes to wildfires in their communities,” said Emergency Management Director Pete Weaver. “It’s a problem not limited to just one area of the county, but wildfires pose a danger to all areas of the county.”
Weaver explained that the plan looks to show residents what the potential at-risk communities are along with offering solutions to help better protect their property.
“We are working with multiple agencies from fire districts to the Bureau of Land Management to make this plan a document that can be used by everyone from the small homeowner to a large business,” Weaver said. “We invite all residents to come to a public meeting so we can show them the draft plan and listen to their concerns. You cannot put a price tag on safety.”
Public Meetings:
- Casa Grande – Monday, December 8, Casa Grande City Council Chambers, 510 E. Florence Boulevard . 6:30 pm
- Superior – Tuesday, December 9, Town of Superior Senior Center , Main and Mall Street . 6:30 pm
For more information:
- Pinal County Emergency Management at 520-866-6415
- Richard Remington, Logan Simpson Design Inc (520) 884-5500.
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Bambi
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Posted: Fri Oct 17th, 2008 11:12 pm |
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For Immediate Release Contact: Joe Pyritz
October 14, 2008 (520) 866-6226
Heather Murphy
(520) 866-6057
Early Voting Sites Open to Pinal County Voters]
FLORENCE- Voters who want to avoid the lines at the polls on November 4th’s General Election can place their ballot at numerous locations throughout Pinal County .
“We have our main office in Florence open for early voting as well as our satellite offices in Apache Junction and Casa Grande,” said County Recorder Laura Dean-Lytle. “These three sites are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, through the end of October.”
In addition to the three County Recorder offices, there will be regional early voting sites in various areas of the county, Dean-Lytle added.
“We are working hard to make voting a little easier for those who want to place their ballot before the general election.”
If you were mailed an early ballot, please don’t forget to vote it, sign it and send it back in to Pinal County .
Monday-Friday Early Voting Locations (8:00 am until 5:00)
- Florence ; Recorder’s Office (Building E) County Complex
- Apache Junction; Recorder’s Satellite Office; 575 N. Idaho Road, Suite 110
- Casa Grande; Recorder’s Satellite Office; 820 E. Cottonwood Lane
Regional Early Voting Locations
- Maricopa; 19955 N. Wilson Avenue ( JP Court ); Thursday, October 16 and 23
- San Tan; 968 W. Hunt Highway (Next to Johnson Utilities); Tuesday, October 14, 21 and 25
- Saddlebrooke; 63701 E. Saddlebrooke Boulevard , Suite C; Wednesday, October 15 and 22
- Kearny ; 355 Alden Road ; Saturday, October 18
- Arizona City ; 13970 S. Sunland Gin Road ; Saturday, October 18
- Gila River Indian Community; Site to be Determined; Friday, October 17 and 24
If you have any questions please call the Pinal County Citizen’s Contact Center at (520) 509-3555 or 888-431-1311.
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Bambi
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Posted: Fri Oct 17th, 2008 10:39 pm |
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As a courtesy to District 2 Supervisor Sandie Smith, I am forwarding her monthly column to you for inclusion in an upcoming issue. If you have any questions about Supervisor Smith's message, please contact her at 520-866-6104.
November 2008 Article from Sandie Smith
Following up on the Greening of Pinal County as well as the efforts of last year’s Pinal County Town Hall I would like to take this opportunity to express our further commitment to this “greening” in the form of recycling.
Altogether we have approximately 107 community recycling locations and business recycling partners throughout Pinal County. To visit the information regarding these locations and business community partners go to http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/PublicWorks/MaterialRecoveryCenter/Pages/RecyclingSites.aspx .
The success of the recycling programs has been overwhelming and it is very hard to keep up with the demand. Our recycling centers are overflowing, citizens are wanting more of these recycling centers in their communities and they wish to increase the items they are able to recycle. It is very hard to meet this demand with available grants and with the income from turning in the recycling products.
One of the hurdles to curbside recycling by private solid waste collectors has been that the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has a rule that mandates two times a week pick up of “garbage” which does not allow for recycling once a week and solid waste pick up once a week. An opportunity came to us in the form of a solid waste collection company that wanted to recycle curbside and needed to get a “rule change” with ADEQ in order to do this. The Pinal County Health Department and the private refuse company have worked with ADEQ to allow this recycling and solid waste pickup in the same week.
With respect to the particulars, ADEQ recently granted Right Away Disposal (RAD) a solid waste collection company, a variance from the twice a week collection of garbage requirement contained in the agency’s solid waste rules. Approval of the variance is based on RAD's plan to provide garbage collection once a week and substitute a curbside pickup of recyclables in place of the second garbage pickup. RAD's plan calls for implementation of its recycling program within 90 days. The company will provide new recycling containers for all participating customers within the designated service area. These containers are in addition to existing trash containers. Pick up days for a given service area will remain the same with trash picked up on the first collection day of the week and recyclables on the second scheduled pick up day. The service area approved as part of the variance encompasses unincorporated areas of Pinal County to the east and south of Apache Junction including Gold Canyon, Entrada Del Oro, Florence Junction, Queen Valley, San Tan Foothills and Queen Creek. Not included are the incorporated towns and cities because Pinal County has no authority to negotiate for other governments.
RAD will be collecting and recycling paper, cardboard, chipboard, glass, plastic containers, steel food cans, aluminum cans, disposable bakeware and foil. A comprehensive list of acceptable recyclables will be provided to each customer. The recyclables will be processed and stored at a Phoenix recycling center pending the approval and construction of RAD's Waste Technology and Recycling Facility proposed for Apache Junction.
Our Health Department is willing to work with any company as well as any government that would like to provide curbside services to our mutual citizens.
In addition to these efforts, we have cleanups in 11 communities as well as Free Disposal for all Pinal County residents two times a year. These county-wide disposal events will be on November 15, 2008 and April 18, 2009. Items accepted at these events are refrigerators, yard debris, metal/white appliances, construction material, E-Waste, recyclables (cardboard, plastic bottles, newspaper, metal cans), and passenger car tires (limit 5 tires per person per year).
For more information on these events go to our web site at:
http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/PublicWorks/MaterialRecoveryCenter/Pages/CommunityCleanupEvents.aspx .
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Bambi
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Posted: Tue Sep 9th, 2008 08:26 pm |
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For Immediate Release Contacts: Heather Murphy 520-866-6057
September 8, 2008 or Joe Pyritz 520-866-6226
[Flu Season] is Around the Corner, Schedule Flu Shots Starting September 22
FLORENCE , AZ – The Pinal County Public Health Services District will begin providing flu shots to the public on Wednesday, October 1, 2008 by appointment only. For your convenience, and to ensure short wait times, we will begin scheduling appointments starting Monday, September 22, 2008 and continuing through the end of November. In order to schedule appointments for adults, please call toll free 1-888-431-1311, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.
Flu shots through the Pinal County Public Health Services District are just $15, a bargain compared to the cost of cold and flu medicines or trips to the doctor's office and missed work.
If you are unable to schedule an appointment, the opportunity to receive a flu shot as a “walk-in” will be available on the following days after October 18, 2008:
Kearny – Wednesdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 355 Alden Road
Oracle – Wednesdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 1870 West American Way
Eloy – Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 302 East Fifth Street
Mammoth – Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 110 Main Street
Superior – Thursdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 60 East Main Street
Apache Junction – Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 575 North Idaho , Suite 301
Coolidge – Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 119 West Central Avenue
Casa Grande – Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 802 East Cottonwood Lane , Building E
Stanfield – The 3rd & 4th Wednesdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at 36711 West Papago Drive
Maricopa – Wednesdays 9:00 am to 3:30 pm parked at 44625 West Garvey Avenue
Please be advised, all Pinal County Public Health Services District clinics will be closed in observance of the national holidays on Monday, October 13th, Tuesday, November 11th and Thursday, November 27th.
The Pinal County Public Health Services District has not received flu vaccines for children yet. Upon receipt, children can receive a flu shot without an appointment at their local Pinal County Public Health clinic. That information will be posted on the Pinal County Information Hotline toll free at 1-866-763-7252 as it becomes available.
In order to reduce that chance of catching the flu this season, the Public Health Department recommends frequent hand washing using soap and warm water for 30 seconds. If you do become ill, it is important to stay home to help prevent spreading the illness to others.
For more information on influenza and vaccinations, please call the Health District hotline at 1-866-763-7252.
The number to call for appointments is 1-888-431-1311
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Bambi
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Posted: Fri Aug 22nd, 2008 02:28 am |
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PHOENIX - For the past few months, I-10 drivers may have noticed work taking place along the right shoulder of the freeway through the Broadway Curve. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has been widening the freeway in this area to allow drivers a safer way to exit at Broadway Road and State Route 143 by adding an additional lane beginning at US 60 (Superstition Freeway).
Starting Monday morning, drivers will see the freeway in its new configuration with the newly completed lane and right shoulder. But in order to complete the $3.1 million project, I-10, US 60 and State Route 143 will need to be restricted this weekend. Crews need to install traffic sensors in freeway lanes, move and install overhead signs, apply rubberized asphalt and re-stripe the new section.
Weekend restrictions:
I-10
Westbound narrowed to one lane from the US 60 interchange to SR 143 from 9 p.m. Friday to noon Saturday (Aug. 23).
Westbound] narrowed to three lanes from the US 60 interchange to SR 143 from noon Saturday to 5 a.m. Monday (Aug. 25).
Westbound Broadway off-ramp closed from 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday (Aug. 25).
US 60
Westbound narrowed to one lane from the I-10 interchange to SR 143 from 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday (Aug. 25). East Valley drivers traveling to Phoenix or Sky Harbor International Airport can detour around the restriction by using Loop 101 (Price Freeway) to Loop 202 (Red Mountain Freeway).
Northbound on-ramp closed at Baseline Road to I-10 and US 60 from noon Saturday to 5 a.m. Monday (Aug. 25).
SR 143
Northbound lanes closed from 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday (Aug. 25). Airport access is open at I-10 and 24th Street in Phoenix.
This project is part of the Regional Transportation Plan approved by Maricopa County voters in 2004. Under the plan, a variety of transportation improvements in the Phoenix area, including new and expanded freeways, transit facilities and local street upgrades, are being constructed through 2025. More information on the Regional Transportation Plan is available at http://www.azdot.gov/ValleyFreeways.
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Bambi
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Posted: Fri Aug 22nd, 2008 01:27 am |
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For Immediate Release Contact: Joe Pyritz
August 21, 2008 (520) 866-6226
Heather Murphy
(520) 866-6057
Mosquito Fogging Scheduled for Several areas in Pinal County
FLORENCE ––Pinal County Environmental Health Services announced today that mosquito samples collected in the City of Eloy, Arizona City, south of the City of Coolidge, northwest of the Town of Florence and the Johnson Ranch area have tested positive for West Nile virus.
This brings to twenty the total number of West Nile virus positive mosquito samples collected by Environmental Health in 2008.
In response, Environmental Health will conduct adult mosquito fogging, weather permitting, beginning Sunday August 24th, 2008 through Tuesday August 26th, 2008 from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
- City of Eloy fogging encompasses Battaglia Drive to the north, La Palma Road to the east, Milligan Road to the south, and Eleven Mile Corner Road to the west.
- Arizona City fogging encompasses Alsdorf Road to the north, Sunland Gin Road to the east, Phillips Road to the south, and Henness Road to the west.
- South of the City of Coolidge fogging encompasses Kleck Road to the north, State Highway 87 to the east, Storey Road to the south, and La Palma Road to the west.
- Northwest of the Town of Florence fogging encompasses Arizona Farms Road to the north, Quail Run Road to the east, Hiller Road alignment to the south, and Walker Granite Road alignment to the west (This area includes the Magic Ranch Subdivision).
- Johnson Ranch fogging encompasses the Union Pacific Railroad tracks to the east, Judd Road to the south, Hunt Highway to the west and Roberts Road to the north (This area includes Rancho Bella Vista, Rancho Bella Vista South and parts of the Johnson Ranch Homeowners Association subdivision).
For maps of the scheduled fogging areas, see our website at http://www.pinalcounty.org/envhealth.
The pesticide that will be used during fogging is called Anvil. It is a pre-mixed, ready to use product that contains two active ingredients: Sumithrin (2%) and piperonyl butoxide (2%). Sumithrin is a man-made version of a natural pesticide found in chrysanthemum flowers. Piperonyl butoxide enhances the ability of Sumithrin to kill mosquitoes. Anvil is registered with the U.S. EPA and is effective against mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus. There are several things that residents can do to reduce exposure during fogging:
There are several things that residents can do to reduce exposure during fogging:
· Close all windows and doors. Air conditioners can still be operated, but if they have vents to bring in outside air, they should be closed. Turn off evaporative coolers.
· Stay inside your home
· If possible, bring pets inside.
· Thirty minutes after the end of the scheduled fogging each night, you may resume normal activities.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. West Nile virus can cause severe illness in people and horses, although not everyone that is infected will develop symptoms. People of all ages can be affected. However, the elderly may be more prone to serious illness.
County health officials urge all county residents to “Fight the Bite” and follow these simple personal precautions to avoid mosquitoes and the diseases they may carry:
· Avoid outside activity between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
· If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs and use an insect repellent containing an EPA registered active ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the label.
· Make sure doors and windows have tight fitting screens and remain closed. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes in them.
· Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around the home by removing standing water in potted plants, tires, bird baths and other containers where water may collect.
· Ensure that swimming pools and decorative water features are properly maintained.
· Change water in flowerpots, birdbaths and pet watering bowls located outdoors at least twice per week.
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gk
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Posted: Thu Aug 7th, 2008 11:09 pm |
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| Hwy 79 is now open with some delays due to ongoing investigation
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gk
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Posted: Thu Aug 7th, 2008 07:05 pm |
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| Highway 79 will be closed most of the day near the area. An alternate route should be found
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Bambi
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Posted: Thu Aug 7th, 2008 06:12 pm |
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DPS: 9 dead in rollover near Florence
There were 18 passengers in the 98 GMC SUV when the collision occurred around 9:15 a.m. on SR 79 northbound at MP 117, just north of Tom Mix Monument, according to DPS spokesperson Carmen A. Figueroa.
DPS reported that nine people have been reported dead and nine have sustained injuries.
Figueroa said the one-vehicle collision is on the right side of the roadway and both southbound and northbound lanes are temporarily closed.
The cause of the rollover is currently unknown and the investigation is ongoing
Last edited on Thu Aug 7th, 2008 06:12 pm by
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azcats_01
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Posted: Thu Aug 7th, 2008 05:54 pm |
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http://www.azstarnet.com/metro/251169.php
Election 2008 Pinal Republicans seek foothold in newly open supervisor seats
By Brian J. Pedersen
arizona daily star Tucson, Arizona
Published: 08.04.2008 Pinal County has been run by a three-person Board of Supervisors since 1911. In that time, only Democrats have held those three positions. But with two long-standing incumbents stepping down in the fall, Pinal County Republicans feel their time has come to wrest control of the board. "This is our best chance to date," said Tommy Tucker, chairman of the Pinal County Republican Party. Of the 11 candidates running for the three seats, five are Republicans. Three of those are vying for District 2, which includes Apache Junction, Florence, part of Queen Creek, and several heavily populated unincorporated areas that are considered part of the Phoenix metropolitan area. That seat has been held for the past 14 years by Sandie Smith, who like District 1 Supervisor Lionel Ruiz is retiring. Ruiz is stepping down after 16 years on the board. Of the three spots, District 2 appears most likely to go to a Republican. That area is where nearly half of Pinal's 45,974 (as of Friday) registered Republicans live. It is also home to nearly half the county's 133,654 registered voters. "This is the election that we're going to start setting a precedent of Republicans in office," said Todd House, who lost to Smith in 2004 and is up against Bryan Martyn and Danielle Tomerlin in the Sept. 2 Republican primary for District 2. "There will be no more of that good ol' boy network that's been in place for so long. There will now be a watchdog in there."
Many Republicans in Pinal County are linking Democratic candidates to the scandal involving former Pinal County Manager Stanley Griffis, who is serving 3 1/2 years in prison for stealing more than $400,000 in county transportation funds, Democrats say. "They're trying to make a big deal of that," said Pete Rios, a state representative for Pinal-heavy District 23 who is leaving the Legislature to run for the District 1 supervisor seat. "They're trying to wrap him around some other incumbents' necks, too, like the sheriff." District 1 is Pinal County's largest district, yet its least populated. It includes the towns of Eloy and Mammoth, and unincorporated areas such as Oracle, Red Rock, SaddleBrooke and San Manuel. All of those areas are poised for rapid growth similar to what other parts of the county already have experienced, Rios said. "It may be a little bit slower here, but it's coming," Rios said, noting planned large-scale residential communities in Mammoth and San Manuel, and a proposal by the San Carlos Apache Indian Tribe to build a casino along state Highway 77 north of Mammoth. "We need to be prepared." Rios said party affiliation should not matter to voters who are most concerned with the best interests of the county, an opinion shared by nearly every Democrat running for county supervisor. "I am optimistic and hopeful that, regardless of who sits on the county Board of Supervisors, that will be the county touchstone," said David Snider, who is seeking his second term overseeing District 3, which includes Casa Grande and fast-growing Maricopa. "Partisan politics should not affect things."
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Bambi
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Posted: Thu Aug 7th, 2008 05:25 pm |
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[Pinal County Launches Early Voting for September Primary]
FLORENCE- You’ve seen the signs dot the roadways, you’ve heard the speeches, now it’s time to vote.
The Pinal County Recorder’s Office is pleased to announce early voting options for September’s primary election.
“We’ve had 18,000 requests for early ballots,” said County Recorder Laura Dean-Lytle. “I’m glad people are taking an interest in the political process.”
Dean-Lytle added that her office is taking an aggressive step to encourage more voting in the county.
“We are setting up once-a-week early voting locations throughout the county,” Dean-Lytle said. “In addition to our daily early voting locations in Florence , Apache Junction and Casa Grande, residents will have the chance to cast their vote in six other areas. We feel it is important to place the ballot box as close as possible to those who wish to vote early. I hope residents take advantage of this service.”
Monday-Friday Voting Sites (Sites are open from 8:00 to 5:00):
- Florence – County Recorder ’s Office, Building E at the County Complex on Butte Avenue
- Apache Junction – 575 N. Idaho Road, Suite 110 at the Roy Hudson County Complex
- Casa Grande – County Recorder ’s Satellite Office at 820 E. Cottonwood Lane
Regional Early Voting Sites (All regional sites are open from 9:00 to 4:00):
- Maricopa – 44625 W. Garvey Avenue ; open Thursdays August 7, 14, & 21
- San Tan – 968 W. Hunt Highway (next to Johnson Utilities); open Tuesdays August 12 & 19
- Saddlebrooke – 63701 E. Saddlebrooke Boulevard , Suite C; open Wednesdays August 13 & 20
- Gila River Indian Community – TBA
Special Saturday Early Voting Sites (Weekend voting sites open 9:00 to 4:00)
- Maricopa – 44625 W. Garvey Avenue; August 9
- Saddlebrooke – 63701 E. Saddlebrooke Boulevard , Suite C; August 9
- Kearny – 355 Alden Road ; August 16
- Arizona City – 13970 S. Sunland Gin Road ; August 16
- San Tan – 968 W. Hunt Highway (next to Johnson Utilities); August 16
- Florence – County Recorder ’s Office, Building E at the County Complex ; August 23
- Apache Junction – 575 N. Idaho Road, Suite 110 at the Roy Hudson County Complex; August 23
- Casa Grande – County Recorder ’s Satellite Office; 820 E. Cottonwood Lane ; August 23
For more information please call the Pinal County Citizen Contact Center at 520-509-3555 or 888-431-1311. Information can also be found on the web at http://pinalcountyaz.gov.
Last edited on Thu Aug 7th, 2008 05:26 pm by
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JJohnson
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Posted: Fri Aug 1st, 2008 09:27 pm |
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| Wow .. And I did not find that on the GSTAC website either. But they have plenty of time to fight a raised median in another town.
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Bambi
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Posted: Fri Aug 1st, 2008 08:26 pm |
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Mosquito Fogging Scheduled for the Cities of Casa Grande and Maricopa, along with the Johnson Ranch area
FLORENCE ––Pinal County Environmental Health Services announced today that mosquito samples collected near the cities of Casa Grande, Maricopa, and the Johnson Ranch area have tested positive for West Nile Virus. This brings to four the total number of West Nile Virus positive mosquito samples collected by PCEHS in 2008. Environmental Health will conduct adult mosquito fogging, weather permitting, beginning Monday August 4th, 2008 through Wednesday August 6th, 2008 from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
The area to be fogged in the City of Casa Grande encompasses Earley Road to the north, Henness Road to the east, Selma Highway to the south, and Peart Road to the west.
[size= ]The area to be fogged in the City of Maricopa includes the subdivisions of Maricopa Meadows, Alterra North and Alterra South.
In Johnson Ranch the area to be fogged encompasses the Union Pacific Railroad tracks to the east, Judd Road to the south, the Gantzel Road alignment to the west and Bella Vista Road to the north.
For maps of the scheduled fogging areas, see our website at http://www.pinalcounty.org/envhealth.
The pesticide that will be used during fogging is called Anvil. It is a pre-mixed, ready to use product that contains two active ingredients: Sumithrin (2%) and piperonyl butoxide (2%) Sumithrin is a man-made version of a natural pesticide found in chrysanthemum flowers. Piperonyl butoxide helps Sumithrin work better against mosquitoes. Anvil is registered with the U.S. EPA and is effective against mosquitoes that carry West Nile Virus. There are several things that residents can do to reduce exposure during fogging:
· Close all windows and doors. Air conditioners can still be operated, but if they have vents to bring in outside air, they should be closed. Turn off evaporative coolers.
· Stay inside your home.
· If possible, bring pets inside.
· Thirty minutes after the end of the scheduled fogging each night, you may resume normal activities.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. West Nile Virus can cause severe illness in people and horses, although not everyone that is infected will develop symptoms. People of all ages can be affected. However, the elderly may be more prone to serious illness.
County health officials urge all county residents to “Fight the Bite” and follow these simple personal precautions to avoid mosquitoes and the diseases they may carry:
· Avoid outside activity between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
· If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs and use an insect repellent containing an EPA registered active ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the label.
· Make sure doors and windows have tight fitting screens and remain closed. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes in them.
· Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around the home by removing standing water in potted plants, tires, bird baths and other containers where water may collect.
· Ensure that swimming pools and decorative water features are properly maintained.
· Change water in flowerpots, birdbaths and pet watering bowls located outdoors at least twice per week.
The County has a mosquito hotline and a webpage. If you would like information on mosquito prevention and control, please call: 866-287-0209, ext. 6200, or visit the West Nile Virus webpage at http://www.pinalcounty.org/envhealth
For information or questions concerning the health effects of West Nile Virus, please call the Pinal County Public Health Information Hotline: 866-763-7252.
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