Development News for Queen Creek, Arizona

Queen Creek Council Approves Property Tax Freeze Extension and Adopts Financial Policy Updates

The Queen Creek Town Council unanimously approved a resolution to adopt the property tax ordinance for the upcoming fiscal year, setting the rate at $1.46 per $100 of assessed value. This action continues the town's property tax freeze policy, now in its fourth year, which aims to keep property tax amounts stable for existing homeowners while revenue increases are driven by new construction. This policy has resulted in an estimated $13.4 million in taxpayer savings over the past four years, with a projected $20 million in savings by the end of the fifth year. The council also discussed updates to the town's financial policies, including a new policy to treat certain volatile revenues and capital expenses over $3 million as one-time funds, aiming to ensure fiscal stability and responsible growth.

Queen Creek Council Votes to Remove 789 Acres from General Plan Planning Area

The Town Council voted to remove approximately 789 acres, located south of Combs Road and east and west of Gantsell, from the town's general plan planning area boundary. This decision followed staff analysis indicating that anticipated expenditures would exceed estimated revenues if the area were to be annexed. The Planning Commission had previously recommended approval of this amendment with a 7-0 vote. Residents from the affected areas expressed opposition, citing misinformation received during their home-buying process and concerns about future service levels and community inclusion. The council acknowledged the residents' concerns but ultimately voted to remove the area from the planning boundary, citing fiscal responsibility and the need to protect the town's existing residents and taxpayers.