News & Information: News and Announcements

Clark L. Smithson Appointed as District Two Supervisor

System Account — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:12:06 GMT

Press Release Date: 5/14/2012

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FLORENCE – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors has chosen Clark L. Smithson to be the new Supervisor for District Two. Smithson will be sworn in as District 2 supervisor in the coming days. A date and time was not determined at press time. He will represent the district that covers Apache Junction, San Tan Valley, Queen Valley and parts of Florence and Queen Creek. He replaces Bryan Martyn who resigned his seat on April 30 to accept the position of Arizona State Parks Director.

Smithson, who resides in Apache Junction, is currently a City Councilmember for the City of Apache Junction, a position he will resign to take the oath of County Supervisor. Smithson has served on Pinal County’s Planning and Zoning Commission, on the Superstition Mountain Community Facilities District and was a director of the Chandler Education Foundation and has filled leadership roles in many other civic and community groups.

He is also a former city planner and city manager who currently does substitute teaching for grades 3 through 12.

In his application materials, Smithson said he will not be a candidate in November’s election for county supervisor.

“My desire is to fill the remainder of the current term expiring January, 2013, then run again next spring for the position of city councilmember in the City of Apache Junction, which position I currently am honored to hold,” he stated in the cover letter.

Smithson’s selection came after a process that required individuals to submit applications, letters of interest and/or résumés by Friday, May 7. The qualified applicants were invited to make a five-minute presentation in a work session at a special public meeting on Wednesday. This afternoon, the Supervisors met in open session to discuss and select a successor to former Supervisor Martyn.

“I am confident we have selected a person of integrity, character and, above all, one who cares about the issues in their district,” Chairman Pete Rios said. “I look forward to working with Supervisor Smithson for the remainder of his term. I will do everything I can to make his transition to the office as smoothly as possible.”

“Mr. Smithson has a wealth of experience in government, including service on Pinal County’s Planning and Zoning Commission, as well as responsible positions in city government as a planner and city manager,” Supervisor David Snider said. “I was impressed by his wealth of experience in government and his varied other interests and civic activities.”

Smithson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from UCLA and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California. He has also taken postgraduate studies in Education Administration at ASU.

Smithson moved to Arizona in 1984 and has resided in Apache Junction since 2001.

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Application materials for all nominees can be found on the Pinal County website at http://goo.gl/IAlbX.

Learn More about County Services at Community Meetings

System Account — Mon, 14 May 2012 17:16:40 GMT

Press Release Date: 5/14/2012

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FLORENCE – Who decides which roads get paved? How do I find out the air quality forecast for my neighborhood? Why are there codes for private property? What can I do to make my community safer?

Those types of questions and more will be answered at three Pinal County community meetings being held in each supervisorial district. The purpose of these community meetings is to give residents a chance to learn more about county services by interacting with staff from Public Works, Air Quality, Planning and Development, and the Sheriff’s Office.

Each gathering will be conducted in an open house format so residents can arrive any time during the designated hours to meet with county staff.

The community meetings will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Pinal County Public Works Maintenance Facilities on:

Thursday, May 24th, 305 E. Superstition Boulevard in Apache Junction
Thursday, June 28th, 1410 N. Justice Drive in Oracle

The meetings will be held in the district’s public works buildings so that residents can tour the maintenance facilities and learn more about road work activities in their community.

Giveaway drawings will be held at 5:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. For more information, contact: Kathy Borquez at (520) 866-6406 or e-mail at: kathy.borquez@pinalcountyaz.gov

Pavement Preservation Projects to Begin May 14 in Hidden Valley

System Account — Mon, 14 May 2012 16:58:17 GMT

Press Release Date: 5/14/2012

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FLORENCE – Pinal County Public Works crews will be placing an Asphalt Dust Rock Palliative (ADRP) layer on roads in Hidden Valley Monday, May 14. ADRP is similar to a chip seal and it is used to renew the road surface and cut down on dust. Crews should finish up the work in three weeks, weather permitting.

This pavement preservation project will include a combined total of 74,887 square yards of material used or approximately 4.30 lane miles of improved road. The project will use 1695 tons of chip and 160 tons of oil. The ADRP will lengthen the life of the road while also helping improve air quality by minimizing dust.

The roads to be affected by the pavement preservation project include:

May 14-18:

Robin Road between Warren Road and Ralston Road – 1.02 miles

May 21-25:

Ralston Road between State Route 84 and Robin Road – 1.23 miles
Ralston Road between Century Road and Dune Shadow Road – 1.0 mile

May 28-June 1:

Dune Shadow Road between Ralston Road and Warren Road – 1.05 miles

Please be alert to possible traffic delays. Drivers are urged to obey the speed limit and all posted signs and barricades while traveling through these construction zones.

Employees in the Pinal County Public Works Department appreciate your patience and understanding as they work to improve your drive throughout the county.

To see the location of the ADRP project and other sites where road construction is taking place inside Pinal County, go to Public Works’ road construction map at: http://goo.gl/Imi9E.

Animal Care & Control Sees Increase in Parvo Among New Intakes

System Account — Wed, 09 May 2012 19:12:54 GMT

Press Release Date: 5/9/2012

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FLORENCE – Parvovirus is a serious, extremely contagious viral infection that primarily affects dogs. Recently, Pinal County Animal Care & Control has seen an increase in the number of new intakes, strays and puppies that appear sick with parvo infection.

Parvo infection is preventable with a vaccine. All dogs coming into the shelter are vaccinated against a variety of infections, including parvo, but the vaccine does not help an already sick dog. Even after vaccination, there is a period of susceptibility that can last up to two weeks until the vaccine reaches full effectiveness.

“People need to keep new puppies away from places like dog parks and pet events where they could come in contact with unvaccinated animals,” Animal Control Director Kaye Dickson said. “All dogs should be vaccinated against parvo. Most vets administer a combination vaccine that will protect against parvo and other infectious diseases.”

If you find a stray dog, Dickson advises to keep the stray separated from your other pets until its owner is found or until you are sure it is not sick. Examination by a veterinarian is the only way to be certain of a parvo diagnosis but there are some tell-tale signs.

Parvovirus causes a variety of symptoms but one fairly reliable indicator is extremely pungent and sometimes bloody diarrhea. Dogs actually shed the virus in their stool even weeks after coming in contact with the infection. Dogs may exhibit unusual posture, be lethargic and dehydrated, have a fever and/or vomiting. Parvo can be fatal. Young animals seem to be at greatest risk but dogs of any age can be affected.

“Parvo is hard to kill because most household cleaners are not effective against the virus,” Dickson said. “One half cup of bleach per gallon of water can be applied to anything that the dog touched, walked on, played with or may have had contact with fecal matter. Because the virus can live so long, you really have to be spraying down and cleaning constantly. The best solution is prevention and vaccination.”

The normal vaccination interval for puppies is at six, nine and twelve weeks. Puppies should not be socialized with other dogs at parks or events for at least two weeks after the last vaccination.

“We think the increase we’re seeing is because it is breeding season and people may be spending more time outdoors with their pets,” Dickson said. “We need people to be aware that this is an extremely contagious disease in canines – coyotes are probably susceptible, too. Maybe that’s why we see it in the stray population.”

Whatever the case, Dickson says parvo infection is not a death sentence. “We are seeing a big jump in suspected cases. This requires heightened attention from the public, veterinary community and Animal Control workers.”

Pinal County Animal Care & Control operates a combination shelter and adoption center at 1150 South Eleven Mile Corner Road in Casa Grande. Shelter hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and 10 AM to 2 PM on Saturdays. Animal Control has dogs and cats of all ages and breeds for adoption. Pets available for adoption are listed on www.petharbor.com.

House, Senate Pass Resolution Supporting Proposed Rail Project Coalition of Advocates Key to Rallying Support

System Account — Wed, 09 May 2012 19:11:15 GMT

Press Release Date: 5/9/2012

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FLORENCE – The Union Pacific Railroad first announced plans to construct a classification yard in the Picacho area in 2006. Last month, Arizona’s state Senate and House approved a resolution in support of the project. Senate Concurrent Resolution 1044, sponsored by Senator Al Melvin, (SCR1044) passed the House with a 46-4 vote and passed the Senate 19-9.

A bi-partisan group of Pinal County and state leaders have thrown their support behind this proposed 950-acre project, a classification yard at which Union Pacific will sort rail cars thereby making its operation more fuel efficient and cost effective. The proposed Red Rock project is strategically located in Pinal County, which is bisected by two major interstates and adjacent to the Pinal Air Park and Phoenix and Mesa Foreign Trade Zones.

“This project would be a tremendous economic engine for Arizona. By being able to efficiently transport products to market, Arizona companies would benefit. It would bring immediate employment as well as sustainable, living-wage jobs,” said Pinal County Board of Supervisors’ Chairman Pete Rios. “I am proud of my colleagues at the Legislature for recognizing the importance of this to the state of Arizona and to the West as a whole.”

“If we are serious about economic development and serious about growing jobs in this country, we have to have get serious about delivering products to consumption markets effectively and efficiently,” said Supervisor David Snider. “The Senate and House, by approving this resolution sent a message that they are serious. The critical next step is for the State Land Department to establish a process by which the state land can be auctioned or sold.”

Private sector investment will help get the economy moving again, Snider said. Union Pacific has made significant investments toward increased rail capacity such as laying a parallel set of tracks through Arizona. A fact sheet on Union Pacific’s website indicates that the company has invested more than $607.5 million in Arizona since 2007.

A classification yard is a way for the rail company to optimize efficiency and reduce the number of trips it makes hauling empty cars. Tucson and Flagstaff are Arizona’s biggest rail towns, with Phoenix in the middle. UP’s Tucson facility is land-locked and therefore cannot expand. The Red Rock project would enhance efficiency and create growth opportunities for Union Pacific while also creating jobs.

The project would be situated along Interstate 10, just north of Park Link Drive. The land at the site is nearly perfectly flat, making it ideal for construction of a consolidation yard.

Rios said that Union Pacific has been a good corporate citizen for Arizona by investing in the state and by working with Arizona’s cities, towns and counties to find solutions to problems or citizen complaints.

“I remain very confident that the Union Pacific’s proposed Red Rock Project will be good for Arizona and good for the West. This project will help Pinal County become a logistics hub for national and international commerce,” Rios said.

The next critical step is for the Arizona State Land Department to put the land up for auction. There is no specific timetable for that to happen but Chairman Rios and Supervisor Snider are hopeful that significant progress can be made this calendar year.

Additional Resources:
Pinal County’s website: http://pinalcountyaz.gov/ed/Pages/UnionPacific.aspx

Source for investment in Arizona facts: http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/usguide/attachments/state_factsheets/az.pdf

SCR1044 was introduced by Senator Al Melvin with cosponsors Senator Linda Gray, Senator Gail Griffin and Representative Frank Pratt. Here is a link to the text: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/50leg/2r/bills/scr1044h.pdf

Candidates District 2 Supervisor Announced Today

System Account — Mon, 07 May 2012 21:57:02 GMT

Press Release Date: 5/7/2012

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FLORENCE – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors met on April 27 to discuss the process they will use to select a candidate to represent District 2 through the end of the year. Supervisor Bryan Martyn resigned his seat, effective April 30, to accept the position of Arizona State Parks Director.

Arizona Revised Statutes 11-211.A and 16-230.A require that the person selected be a qualified elector in District 2 and be registered to vote as a Republican – the same party as the individual voters originally elected to the Board.

The selection process required individuals to submit applications, letters of interest and/or résumés by noon today.

The following individuals have applied (names in alphabetical order):

Gordon Brown, San Tan Valley
Tisha Castillo, San Tan Valley
Julian “Jay” Cates, San Tan Valley
John Fulton, San Tan Valley
Gary “Rob” Gartner, San Tan Valley
Dennis Manning, Florence
Paul Anthony Messinger, San Tan Valley
Jill Moritz, Gold Canyon
Robert Ross, Apache Junction
Clark L. Smithson, Apache Junction
Felipe V. Solis, Jr. Queen Creek
Carol Springer, San Tan Valley
Randy J. Stricker, Apache Junction

The Board of Supervisors will have its regularly scheduled Board of Supervisors’ meeting on May 9, beginning at 9:30 AM. Following that meeting at 2:00 PM will be a special public Work Session. Candidates for the position will be offered five minutes to make a public oral statement about their qualifications for selection as District 2 Supervisor.

In the interest of time, presentations are to be verbal only. Pinal County will not be able to load electronic presentations from candidates. The public statement of qualifications at the May 9 meeting is not a requirement for selection, just an option for candidates wishing to make a presentation in person. Notice of that meeting will be posted under Board Meetings/Agendas at www.pinalcountyaz.gov.

The Board of Supervisors will convene again in Special Session, also a public open meeting, on Friday, May 11 at 3:30 PM to make a selection from the candidate pool. Official notice of this meeting will be posted on the website under Board Meetings/Agendas at www.pinalcountyaz.gov.

May’s Diabetes Education Class Covers Depression and Stress Issues for Diabetics

System Account — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:00:53 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/30/2012

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FLORENCE – The Pinal County Public Health District is holding its monthly Diabetes Education classes in May. This month’s classes will deal with depression and stress issues diabetics may come across in their battle with the disease.

Stress related to diabetes can affect blood glucose levels when a diabetic fails to take good care of themselves by watching what they eat. Stress hormones can also contribute to a rise in blood glucose levels.

Studies have shown that female diabetics are more likely to suffer from depression while fighting the disease.

Diabetes Education Program Coordinator Mary Gonzales hosts the free classes designed to educate those that suffer from the disease and offer them help in a supportive environment.

All diabetics are encouraged to attend and share their experiences and how they’re coping with diabetes.

The support groups will meet at the following locations:

Apache Junction: Tuesday, May 1, 10:00 am. Apache Junction Senior Center; 1035 North Idaho Road
Florence: Thursday, May 3, 10:00 am. Dorothy Nolan Senior Center; 330 North Pinal Street
San Tan Valley: Tuesday, May 8, 3:00 pm. Pinal County Public Health Department; 36235 North Gantzel Road
Mammoth: Thursday, May 10, 1:00 pm. Mammoth Community Center; 101 Fifth Street
Superior: Tuesday, May 15, 10:30 am. Superior Senior Center; 326 Main Street
Eloy/Toltec: Thursday, May 17, 10:00 am. Eloy/Toltec Adult Center; 3925 North Shira Street
Casa Grande: Tuesday, May 22, 3:00 pm. Casa Grande Public Library – APS Community Room; 449 North Drylake Street
Maricopa: Thursday, May 24, 3:00 pm. Maricopa Public Health Department; 41600 West Smith-Enke Road, Building 15

If you would like to know more about the Diabetes Education Program, call Mary Gonzales at 1-800-231-8499 ext. 7338 or email at mary.gonzales@pinalcountyaz.gov.

San Tan Valley to Benefit from Road Improvement Projects

System Account — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:00:23 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/30/2012

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FLORENCE – Residents in San Tan Valley will soon see county-contracted crews working to improve roads in the area. Micro-surfacing is slated to be applied beginning Tuesday, May 1, 2012, on the following roads:

Hunt Highway at various locations near Magic Ranch, Copper Basin and Johnson Ranch.
Golf Club Drive from Johnson Ranch Boulevard to Hunt Highway
Johnson Ranch Boulevard from Bismark Street to Golf Club Drive

This pavement preservation project will include a combined total of 41,269 square yards of material used or approximately 5.02 lane miles of improved road. The project will use 619 tons of aggregate and 77.38 tons of emulsion. Southwest Slurry Seal will be performing the work under a contract with Pinal County.

Foul weather or temperature extremes could affect the schedule for this project. The entire project should be completed in less than two weeks.

A message board will be installed by April 30th to alert residents of the road improvements. Please be alert to possible traffic delays. Drivers are urged to obey the speed limit and all posted signs and barricades while traveling through these construction zones.

Employees in the Pinal County Public Works Department appreciate your patience and understanding as they work to improve your drive throughout the county.

For more information, please contact: Pinal County Public Works (520) 866-6411 Or email: PCRoadMaintenance@pinalcountyaz.gov

Pinal County’s website features a host of information pertaining to county services, tourism, road projects, public health and much more. Explore www.pinalcountyaz.gov and discover Pinal County’s wide open opportunity.

Process for Naming District 2 Supervisor Outlined in Meeting Today

System Account — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:59:40 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/30/2012

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FLORENCE – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors met this morning to discuss the process they will use to select a candidate to represent District 2 through the end of the year. Supervisor Bryan Martyn resigned his seat, effective April 30, to accept the position of Arizona State Parks Director. Arizona Revised Statutes 11-211.A and 16-230.A require that the person selected be a qualified elector in District 2 and be registered to vote as a Republican – the same party as the individual voters originally elected to the Board. The selection process outlined at today’s special session of the Board includes:

Applications, letters of interest and/or résumés are due by NOON on Friday, May 4. There is no formal application to submit and any combination of a letter of interest, résumé or other documents outlining the applicant’s qualifications for office should be mailed, or submitted in person, by noon on May 4 to:

Sheri Cluff
Clerk of the Board
Pinal County Board of Supervisors
31 North Pinal Street, Building A
PO Box 827
Florence, AZ 85132

Candidates should indicate their address, party affiliation and contact information in the application.
The Board of Supervisors will have its regularly scheduled Board of Supervisors’ meeting on May 9, beginning at 9:30 AM. Following that meeting, at a time to be determined, a special public Work Session will be held at which candidates for the position will be given a specified period of time to make a public statement about their qualifications for selection as District 2 Supervisor. Notice of that meeting will be posted under Board Meetings/Agendas at www.pinalcountyaz.gov.
The Board of Supervisors will convene again in Special Session, also a public open meeting, on Friday, May 11 in the afternoon to make a selection from the candidate pool. This meeting is expected to start at 2:00 PM but official notice will be posted on the website under Board Meetings/Agendas at www.pinalcountyaz.gov.

During today’s meeting, Supervisor Bryan Martyn indicated the qualities he thought should be considered in appointing his successor and offered a name for consideration. The Pinal County Republican Committee also offered three nominees for consideration. Board members expressed appreciation for the nomination but indicated they will welcome all applications from any qualified candidates, including applications from these nominees.

Environmental Investigations Unit Busy with Repeat Dumping Cases

System Account — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:56:30 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/27/2012

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FLORENCE – Patiently and repeatedly, a local area property and development company has been cleaning up other peoples’ messes. The costs incurred to clean up someone else’s trash has totaled well into the thousands. Pinal County’s Environmental Investigators are looking for evidence or tips from the public that will bring the random dumping to an end.

In the Signal Peak Estates* area – largely rural with open desert all around – some residents have been throwing their trash, construction debris and household garbage onto undeveloped property nearby. For at least the past three years, the garbage and debris has been piling up on neighboring private property. The neighboring private property owner oversees just over 800 acres near Signal Peak Estates.

“The property managers have been wonderful to work with,” said Pinal County Emergency Management Director Lou Miranda. Miranda supervises the environmental investigations unit. “They aren’t causing the problem but have always taken responsibility to clean it up. Recently, an unknown individual used a front-end loader to push dirt and trash up against the fences and onto an easement. It could cost as much as $10,000 for clean-up because there are gas meters, water lines and other infrastructure to work around.” People may not be aware that it is illegal to dump debris on private property, state land or open desert, Miranda said. “Our investigators say that this is an ongoing problem. It appears to be caused by one or more people who are choosing not to subscribe to a trash collection service and are, instead, using the desert as their dumping ground,” Miranda added.

When caught, the individuals doing the dumping can face fines. Miranda is asking neighbors to keep an eye out and report any suspicious activity to the Desert Dumping/Illegal Dumping hotline at 520-866-6400.

The Environmental Investigations unit is part of Emergency Management in Pinal County’s Development Services group. They can enforce administrative codes which can carry fines or penalties. If enough evidence exists to pursue criminal charges, investigators will work with the Pinal County Attorney’s Office for review.

Environmental Investigations has a case near Casa Grande that is headed in that direction, Miranda said. Someone illegally dumped construction debris, boards, wall board and other materials – complete with dangerous rusty nails – on a parcel of state land.

“We are still gathering and documenting our evidence but we sincerely appreciate the County Attorney’s Office for their support,” Miranda said. “Between tips from the general public, witness statements and all the documentation we have, we are hoping for a successful outcome. Everyone has been very cooperative.”

*Near Warren Drive and Signal Peak Road east of Casa Grande and Interstate 10.

County Debuts Veterans’ Resource Page on its Website

System Account — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:52:48 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/18/2012

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FLORENCE – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors has created a new website page to provide veterans of the US armed services a convenient place to go for links to sites and information that may be helpful. The page can be found using this shortened web link: http://goo.gl/nfErj. You can also find the Veterans’ Resources section on the left navigation ladder on www.pinalcountyaz.gov main page.

“My colleagues and I have heard about the challenges veterans face – not only in their daily lives, but when they reenter the workforce or seek help with medical or educational services,” said Board of Supervisors’ Chairman Pete Rios. “We wanted to use a portion of our website to help ease the way for our veterans and their families.”

“Each member of the Board of Supervisors is appreciative of the service and sacrifice made by military service members who serve at home or abroad,” said David Snider. “With the closing down of operations in the middle east, we will see an increasing number of veterans returning to our communities and workplaces. This site is dedicated to helping in that transition.” “Whether it is information about health care, education, employment or financial resources, veterans young and old will find useful information on the website,” said Supervisor Bryan Martyn, who is a veteran having served in Iraq, Afghanistan and other global hot spots.

The website also features links to discounted tickets, as well as discounts on products and services. The county’s criterion for listing such discounts is that the discounts are widely available in Arizona and elsewhere.

While Pinal County does not administer any specific programs aimed at veterans, the resources and links on this page will help veterans connect up with the services or opportunities that interest them. This site is not intended to be a comprehensive source of information but a helpful place to start looking for information.

Pinal County’s website www.pinalcountyaz.gov is packed with useful information for residents, visitors, businesses or people looking to start or relocate a business. Please bookmark the site in your web browser.

Casa Grande Area to Benefit from Road Improvement Projects

System Account — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 16:37:54 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/17/2012

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FLORENCE – Residents in the Casa Grande area will soon see county-contracted crews working to improve roads in the area. Micro-surfacing is slated to be applied beginning April 23, 2012, on the following roads:

Jimmie Kerr Boulevard (From Earley Road to Broken Spoke Street)
Sunland Gin Road (From Nelson Farms Road to the Union Pacific Railroad Tracks)

This pavement preservation project will include a combined total of 62,272 square yards of material used and will encompass 7.58 lane miles that will be improved. Southwest Slurry Seal will be performing the work under a contract with Pinal County.

Foul weather or temperature extremes could affect the schedule for this project.

A message board will be installed by April 18th to alert residents of the road improvements. Please be alert to possible traffic delays. Drivers are urged to obey the speed limit and all posted signs and barricades while traveling through these construction zones.

Employees in the Pinal County Public Works Department appreciate your patience and understanding as they work to improve your drive throughout the county.

For more information, please contact: Pinal County Public Works (520) 866-6411 Or email: PCRoadMaintenance@pinalcountyaz.gov

Pinal County’s website features a host of information pertaining to county services, tourism, road projects, public health and much more. Explore www.pinalcountyaz.gov and discover Pinal County’s wide open opportunity.

APS Advisory Issued for APS Customers in Eastern Pinal County Towns

System Account — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 22:41:07 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/13/2012

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Kearny, Hayden, Winkelman to be affected by temporary outage

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Office of Emergency Management has been advised by Arizona Public Service (APS) that the power company will be having a planned power outage this Sunday, April 15. Pinal County was notified as an advisory but has no actual role or specific details about the work being performed by the utility on its infrastructure. The purpose in issuing this press release is to increase awareness and alert the public.

Here is the complete advisory from the utility company:

APS Customers to Experience Planned Outage

ALL APS customers in the towns of Kearny, Hayden and Winkelman will experience a short outage on April 15 to accommodate the completion of permanent repairs to the area’s electric infrastructure.

To minimize any customer inconvenience, the outage has been scheduled for the early morning hours of April 15, a Sunday. Expected to last approximately four hours, the outage is scheduled to occur within the 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. timeframe.

The permanent repairs – being made on a line that feeds an APS substation – will help ensure reliable service for APS customers in the area.

Customers with questions can call 800 253 9405

We appreciate your patience, and we thank you for allowing us to be your energy provider.

As a result of this work, APS customers will have to reset clocks and any other household equipment that uses power to keep time (landscape systems, answering machines, some water softeners, etc.).

Pinal County’s website www.pinalcountyaz.gov is packed with useful information for residents, visitors, businesses or people looking to start or relocate a business. Please bookmark the site in your web browser.

Diabetes Education Class Covers Eye and Kidney Health for Diabetics, Free to Attend

System Account — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:15:45 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/10/2012

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FLORENCE – The Pinal County Public Health District is holding its monthly Diabetes Education classes in April. This month’s classes will deal with diabetic eye and kidney health.

Diabetes can cause damage to four parts of your eye: retina, vitreous, lens and optic nerve. Undiagnosed or untreated diabetes can cause serious damage to the kidneys and is one of the leading causes of kidney disease.

Diabetes Education Program Coordinator Mary Gonzales hosts the free classes designed to educate those that suffer from the disease and offer them help in a supportive environment.

All diabetics are encouraged to attend and share their experiences and how they’re coping with diabetes.

The support groups will meet at the following locations:

San Tan Valley: Tuesday, April 10, 3:00 pm. Pinal County Public Health Department; 36235 North Gantzel Road
Mammoth: Thursday, April 12, 1:00 pm. Mammoth Town Hall; 125 North Clark Street
Superior: Tuesday, April 17, 10:30 am. Superior Senior Center; 326 Main Street
Eloy/Toltec: Thursday, April 19, 10:00 am. Eloy/Toltec Adult Center; 3925 North Shira Street
Casa Grande: Wednesday, April 25, 3:00 pm. Casa Grande Public Library – APS Community Room; 449 North Drylake Street
Maricopa: Thursday, April 26, 3:00 pm. Maricopa Public Health Department; 41600 West Smith-Enke Road, Building 15

If you would like to know more about the Diabetes Education Program, call Mary Gonzales at 1-800-231-8499 ext. 7338 or email at mary.gonzales@pinalcountyaz.gov.

Learn More about County Services at Community Meetings

System Account — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:47:03 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/5/2012

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FLORENCE – Who decides which roads get paved? How do I find out the air quality forecast for my neighborhood? Why are there codes for private property? What can I do to make my community safer?

Those types of questions and more will be answered at three Pinal County community meetings being held in each of Pinal County’s current supervisor districts. The purpose of these community meetings is to give residents a chance to learn more about county services by interacting with staff from Public Works, Air Quality, Planning and Development, and the Sheriff’s Office.

Each gathering will be conducted in an open house format so residents can arrive any time during the designated hours to meet with county staff.

The community meetings will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Pinal County Public Works Maintenance Facilities on:

Thursday, April 26th, 22539 W. Peters Road in Casa Grande
Thursday, May 24th, 305 E. Superstition Boulevard in Apache Junction
Thursday, June 28th, 1410 N. Justice Drive in Oracle

Vital Records are Now Available at Two New Clinics

System Account — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:08:52 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/2/2012

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FLORENCE, AZ – Pinal County Public Health has relocated its Vital Records program to better serve the public. Records are now available at the two newest Pinal County Public Health Clinics in San Tan Valley and Maricopa.

The Maricopa clinic is located at 41600 West Smith-Enke Road, Building 15. Certified copies of birth and death certificates are now available in Maricopa Tuesday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

The San Tan Valley Public Health Clinic is at 36235 North Gantzel Road. Vital Records and clinic hours at this location are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Birth and death certificates are also available by mail. The address for this service is P.O. Box 2945, Florence, AZ 85132.

Pinal County Vital Records accepts cash, check or money order. Certified copies are $20 each. Amendments/corrections/establishment of paternity is a $30 fee, which includes one certified copy of the amended certificate.

Arizona is a closed records state, meaning that you have to meet certain criteria to obtain birth and death certificates. To learn more about ordering vital records, call 1-800-231-8499 or view general information at http://goo.gl/rSRsu. Information specific to birth certificates is posted at http://goo.gl/h6tDd. For information about death certificates, go to http://goo.gl/RgF6V. (Please note that these are official county website links that were shortened for ease of use.)

Birth certificates are available for anyone born in the State of Arizona after 1950. Death certificates are available for anyone who passed away in the State of Arizona after January 27, 2008. If you need a birth or death certificate prior to these dates, you will need to contact the State Vital Records office in Phoenix.

As of February 7, 2012, the Vital Records location in Florence is closed.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about Public Health programs in your community, please call 1-866-960-0633.

Use Pleasant Spring Weekends to Save Your Home from Fire Risk Become Firewise

System Account — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:46:25 GMT

Press Release Date: 4/2/2012

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FLORENCE – Spring rains contribute to the growth of brush and weeds in our yards and in the open desert. Higher temperatures will dry the weeds, tumbleweeds and desert brush and what was formerly green and beautiful becomes fuel for fierce wildfires. By becoming Firewise,* you can protect your home and your community.

Firewise is group of principles that you can use to create “defensible space” around your home. Defensible space means that you have a 30 foot perimeter of space around your home that is lean, clean and green. Lean means you prune back shrubs and tree branches within 15 feet of any structures. Clean means you clean out dead plant material from around your home. Green means you have planted fire-resistant vegetation and are keeping it healthy and green.

Also, make sure your home is properly marked for emergency access by having an entryway that is clear from any flammable material. Most of all, have a plan in case you need to evacuate due to fire.

Before you are confronted with an emergency, it’s a good idea to have the following emergency plans in place. Be sure to take into consideration any specific family health issues as well as the needs of family members who may suffer from disabilities or medical conditions.

Post your local fire and police station numbers by your home phone and program them into your cell phone.
Decide where you will go in case of a fire and plan how you will get there.
Plan for your pets and their safety also.
In case of fire, have tools available such as a shovel, rake, axe, handsaw, chainsaw and a 2 gallon bucket. Also make sure you have:

Flashlights and extra batteries.
First aid kit.
Dust mask to help filter air.
Wrenches or pliers to turn off utilities.
Battery or hand-crank radio with extra batteries.
Three day supply of non-perishable food.
Local maps.

To learn how residents of the Pinal County community of Oracle worked to make their town Firewise, view the video on Pinal County’s YouTube channel at http://goo.gl/H1gF7. Learn more at www.ready.gov and www.firewise.org.

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*Firewise Communities is a program of the National Fire Protection Association and is sponsored by the US Department of the Interior, National Association of State Foresters and USDA Forest Service. Learn more at www.firewise.org.

Adoption Event Features Animals from Hoarding Case

System Account — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 17:50:40 GMT

Press Release Date: 3/16/2012

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Florence, AZ – Dogs and cats that were once part of a massive hoarding case in Hidden Valley will be put up for adoption in a special event this Saturday. It’s St. Patrick’s Day and the event will offer a lucky second chance for these pets.

Pet Club Maricopa, 21145 North John Wayne Parkway will host the adoption event from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 17.

“These animals came from some very horrible conditions,” said Animal Care and Control Director Kaye Dickson. “When we found them, the dogs were without food and clean water. More than 100 animals came from that case. We are fortunate that many of them are going to be adoptable.”

The dogs and cats will be up for adoption at a reduced rate thanks to a donation from Petsmart Charities. Dogs will be priced at $70.00 and cats at $40.00. The animals have already been spayed or neutered, microchipped and vaccinated. Most of the dogs are believed to be four years old or younger. They’re about knee high to an average adult with medium multi-colored fur.

“We encourage anyone looking for a new member of the family to come on over to the Pet Club on Saturday. We’re hoping that people reward these dogs with a second chance at a happy life,” Dickson said.

2012 Pinal County Fair Day-by-Day

System Account — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 16:47:44 GMT

Press Release Date: 3/7/2012

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FLORENCE, AZ – The Pinal County Fair is just around the corner and the excitement is building. A fabulous time is sure to be had with music, carnival rides for toddlers to thrill seekers, livestock shows, incredible displays of creations from throughout the county and so much more.

Entertainment is always a big part of any fair experience. Monkeys, dogs, birds and more are just some of the incredible shows you’ll see. Daily acts include:

Rockets K-9 Comets Frisbee Dog Show,
Kobert’s Amazing World of Birds,
Doggies of the Wild West,
Mistress of Mesmerism Hypnotist Show,
Juggler Greg Frisbee,
Balloon Man Skip Banks and lots more

Wednesday, March 14 is Bring a Friend Day. Buy one admission and get one free. The Fair opens at 4:00 PM.

Thursday, March 15 will feature National Recording Artist Jamie O’Neal. Singing her top hits including When I think About Angels and There is No Arizona along with her favorites like She’s Somebody’s Hero. There is one show only and Jamie takes the stage at 7:30 PM. The fair opens Thursday at 4:00 PM.

Friday, March 16 is both Seniors Day and Kids Day. Seniors 55 and over will receive half price admission (just $4) all day. Kids 19 and younger will be FREE from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Entertainment features will include local doo-wop group The Keepsakes and country favorites The Doo-Wah Riders. Also Friday brings Wild About Monkeys. The show includes an “Evan Almighty” star is sure to be fun for the whole family. The fair opens at 10:00 AM Friday.

Saturday, March 17 brings the annual Youth Livestock Auction. Beginning at noon, it’s the culmination of a lot of hard work for the youth of Pinal County. The fair opens at 10:00 AM. Saturday will also feature local favorites Sunset Route on the main stage.

Sunday, March 18 is Family Fiesta Day and Read to Ride! Nonstop music begins with Power Drive at 2:00 PM on the Main Stage. Read to Ride rewards kids who read 6 books, complete the form and bring it to the fair. They will receive free admission and four free carnival rides!

The Pinal County Fair remains an incredible value. For less than the price of a movie (Adult admission is just $8.00, kids 6-12 are $4 and kids 5 and under get in for FREE), you get hours and hours of enjoyment. To save even more, buy your unlimited carnival ride tickets early for the best deal. Tickets are on sale now through March 13 at local Chambers of Commerce (Arizona City, Coolidge, Eloy and Florence) and at the Food City in Casa Grande.

Don’t miss out as Family Fun for Everyone awaits you at the 2012 Pinal County Fair!

The Pinal Fairgrounds and Event Center is the home of the Pinal County Fair and is located at 512 South Eleven Mile Corner Road in Casa Grande. For more information visit www.pinalfairgrounds.com or call 520-723-7881.

Opportunity to Comment on Draft Five-Year Transportation Improvement and Maintenance Program

System Account — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:49:57 GMT

Press Release Date: 3/5/2012

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FLORENCE – Pinal County is seeking public comment on its draft transportation improvement and maintenance program. The public comment period ends Wednesday, March 14. This program is Pinal County’s short-range transportation plan that establishes the schedule and identifies funding for planning, construction, and maintenance projects.

The Transportation Advisory Committee approved the draft plan in February. The committee, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, is a citizen panel who meet annually to review, update, and recommend a program of transportation projects. After the public comment period, the program will be submitted to the Board of Supervisors for final approval in March.

This year’s program is posted online and available for public review along with comment by visiting www.pinalcountyaz.gov (All County Departments>Public Works>Transportation Advisory Committee). You may also use this safe shortcut to access the program: Draft TIMP FY1112-1516

If you would like a copy of the program mailed to you, please write or e-mail your request to:

Pinal County Transportation Advisory Committee
Attn: Kathy Borquez
P. O. Box 727
Florence, AZ 85132

E-mail: PCTAC@pinalcountyaz.gov

For more information on the county’s transportation program including how you can submit a project for consideration, please contact Kathy Borquez at kathy.borquez@pinalcountyaz.gov or 520-866-6406.

Valuation Notices to be Mailed by Assessor Today

System Account — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:30:25 GMT

Press Release Date: 3/5/2012

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FLORENCE, AZ – Valuations for the 2013 tax year will be mailed today to all individuals who own property in Pinal County. Valuations are set through formula prescribed by state statute. The formula has a lagging indicator meaning that the formula factors in sales of property in 2010 through June 2011.

In general, the valuation most property owners will receive will reflect a decline in value over prior years. It is not a reflection of what the value of your property is at this moment in time in 2012.

“Over the last several years, property values have taken a beating throughout the country and certainly here in Pinal County,” said Pinal County Assessor L. Paul Larkin. “There are some signs of recovery on the horizon and home sales are picking up pace. Pinal County is still anticipating a growth in the net population for 2012.”

If you do not receive a valuation notice, please check to see that the Pinal County Assessor’s office has your current address. You can look up your property online using Parcel Search at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/Assessor. If your address changed, please submit a change of address form using the Change of Address Form online. This form is also posted on http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/Assessor.

If your address is correct and you did not receive a Notice of Valuation you should contact the Pinal County Assessor’s office at 520-866-6361.

If you feel your valuation or property classification is erroneous, please call 520-866-6361 or 888-431-1311 to request a Petition for Review of Valuation form. There is a 60 day window to file a Petition for Review of Valuation. The appeal deadline is April 30, 2012.

Vital Records will be Available at Two New Clinics

System Account — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:27:51 GMT

Press Release Date: 3/5/2012

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FLORENCE, AZ – Pinal County Public Health has relocated its Vital Records office to the new Public Health Clinic in Maricopa, AZ. The clinic is located at 41600 West Smith-Enke Road, Building 15.

Certified copies of birth and death certificates are now available in Maricopa from Tuesday through Friday between 8:00 AM. and 6:00 PM.

As of February 7, 2012, the location in Florence is closed.

Vital Records will also be available at the San Tan Valley location. It is expected to open March 12, 2012. Hours of operation will be Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The clinic is located at 36375 North Gantzel Road.

Pinal County Vital Records accepts cash, check or money order. Certified copies are $20 each. Amendments/corrections/establishment of paternity is a $30 fee, which includes one certified copy of the amended certificate.

Birth and death certificates are also available by mail. The address for this service is P.O. Box 2945, Florence, AZ 85132.

Arizona is a closed records state, meaning that you have to meet certain criteria to obtain birth and death certificates. To learn more about ordering vital records, call 1-800-231-8499 or view general information at http://goo.gl/rSRsu. Information specific to birth certificates is posted at http://goo.gl/h6tDd. For information about death certificates, go to http://goo.gl/RgF6V. (Please note that these are official county website links that were shortened for ease of use.)

Birth certificates are available for anyone born in the State of Arizona after 1950. Death certificates are available for anyone who passed away in the State of Arizona after January 27, 2008. If you need a birth or death certificate prior to these dates, you will need to contact the State Vital Records office in Phoenix.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about Public Health programs in your community, please call 1-866-960-0633.

Public Health Services Available at Two New Clinics

System Account — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 23:54:52 GMT

Press Release Date: 2/24/2012

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FLORENCE, AZ – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors, staff and construction partners recently held ribbon cutting ceremonies for two new Public Health Clinics – one in San Tan Valley and one in Maricopa.

The Maricopa ribbon cutting was February 7 at 41600 West Smith-Enke Road, Building 15 in Maricopa. The Maricopa location is open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Maricopa site also houses the Pinal County Vital Records Office, which moved from Florence. All Vital Records services will be available through the Maricopa site from this point forward.

The San Tan Valley ribbon cutting was February 21 at 36375 North Gantzel Road. The San Tan Valley location is staffed Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

“We had some unforeseen delays in the shipment of some of the furnishings for the San Tan Valley location. Services are now available there because we stationed the Mobile Health Clinic on site until we are fully open,” said Tom Schryer, Pinal County Public Health Director.

The clinics are designed to be permanent locations for public health services in those communities. Services available at these facilities include:

Childhood Immunizations (no charge for children 18 and under)
Well-woman health checks
Cervical Cancer screenings
Breast Cancer screenings
Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases
Reproductive health services (non-surgical)
Administration of the WIC Program (Women’s, Infants & Children nutrition education for eligible families)
Flu shots
Referrals to smoking cessation programs
Adult immunizations (TDAP, TB Skin Tests, Hepatitus B)
Diabetes Support Groups (special schedule)

To schedule an appointment or learn more about Public Health programs in your community, please call 1-866-960-0633.

Mosquito Fogging set for Maricopa and San Tan Valley

System Account — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 22:52:03 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/29/2011

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FLORENCE – Pinal County Environmental Health Services announced today that adult mosquito fogging will be conducted in Maricopa and San Tan Valley beginning Tuesday, August 2 through Thursday, August 4. Mosquitoes trapped during routine surveillance for West Nile virus tested positive, resulting in the need to fog the area to prevent transmission of the disease to humans.

So far this year, there has not been a reported human case of West Nile virus in Pinal County.

08/02/2011 – 08/03/2011 in SAN TAN VALLEY – Area encompasses Bella Vista to the north, Union Pacific Railroad Tracks to the east, Omega Drive to the south and Gantzel Road to the west between the hours of 11:00 pm to Midnight.

08/03/2011 – 08/04/2011 in the CITY OF MARICOPA – Area encompasses: John Wayne Parkway to the east, Sage Brush Drive to the south, Green Road to the west and McDavid Road to the north between the hours of 1:00 am to 5:00 am.

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 US Environmental Protection Agency and is effective against the 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 who 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-tighting 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.

What Are the Symptoms of West Nile?
No Symptoms in Most People. Approximately, 80 percent of people (about 4 out of 5) who are infected with West Nile will not show any symptoms at all.

Milder Symptoms in Some People. Up to 20 percent of the people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for as short as a few days, though even healthy people have become sick for several weeks.

Serious Symptoms in a Few People. About one in 150 people infected with West Nile will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

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.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/EnvironmentalHealth/Pages/Home.aspx.

Would you like to learn more about Pinal County Government? Channel Pinal, the county’s Public, Education and Government channel is on YouTube. Supervisor interviews, video press releases, news maker interviews and more at: http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov. Subscribe and you will be alerted anytime a new video is downloaded onto the YouTube site from Channel Pinal.

‘Senior Freeze’ Applications: Apply now through September 1

System Account — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 22:51:32 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/2/2011

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Pinal County Assessor Ready to Help with Application Materials

FLORENCE, AZ – September 1 is the deadline for filing for the Senior Property Valuation Protection or more commonly known as the ‘Senior Freeze.’

“This is an important program approved by the state that allows us to freeze the full cash value of a primary residence,” Pinal County Assessor Paul Larkin said. “What this does is provides a greater degree of financial stability for people with qualifying low incomes. With property valuations reflecting a decline in value, this could be an ideal time for seniors to lock in their valuation for the next three years.”

Larkin explained that state laws do not allow taxing jurisdictions to freeze taxes because tax bills reflect the tax rates of multiple jurisdictions such as fire districts, school districts and community colleges.

“The actual tax bill may fluctuate from year to year but because the full cash value of the property is frozen, people on low or fixed incomes should see less movement in the total tax amount,” Larkin said.

The total gross income of all owners is what is used to determine eligibility. For a one-owner property, the income limit is $32,352. If there are two or more owners, the limit is $40,440. Income is verified using tax returns, W-2 forms or 1099 forms.

To qualify for the valuation freeze, at least one of the property owners must be 65 at the time of application. The property must be the primary residence and the individual(s) must have lived there at least two years. Owners can protect up to ten acres, plus the primary residence as long as it is at the same location and is identified by just one parcel number.

Applicants need to provide proof of residency with an Arizona driver’s license or Arizona ID card. If the property held in trust, individuals must provide proof of trustees along with the application.

Once approved, the valuation freeze is in effect for three years. Six months prior to the expiration of the current period, the Pinal County Assessor mails existing freeze recipients a reminder to renew by reapplying. The Assessor cautioned that the freeze will remain in effect even if property values decline.

Assessor Larkin’s Exemptions Department is available to answer questions or assist with obtaining or completing the application. The phone number for general questions and assistance is 888-431-1311 or 520-509-3555.

Pinal County Joins Alliance to Market ‘Sun Corridor’ in California

System Account — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 22:51:06 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/2/2011

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FLORENCE, AZ – Earlier this month, regional economic development and governmental agencies formed a strategic alliance to market the Sun Corridor region in an effort to entice economic development from California to Arizona. The Sun Corridor is an area stretching from Nogales to the Flagstaff area. It is one of just 10 areas of the United States that will see much of the economic and employment growth in the next 35 years.

The Arizona Sun Corridor Partnership is comprised of Pinal County, the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), the Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation (GYEDC), Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, Inc. (TREO) and the City of Flagstaff. These partners have pooled funds to hire a contractor to focus on business development efforts in California.

“We have considerable advantages when it comes to the cost of doing business. If you are a company in California that is looking to expand or relocate, we want you to know the many advantages the Sun Corridor offers,” Pinal County Board of Supervisors’ Chairman Pete Rios said. “As the economy recovers, it is essential for us to position this entire region to diversify Arizona’s employment base and attract new business.”

Sean Ahern has been hired to educate businesses about the benefits and opportunities available in the Arizona market. He will also take the lead in coordinating meetings between economic development leaders, corporate real estate executives and professional site selectors. Ahern, a California native and an Arizona resident for the past seven years, emphasized his personal experiences with both markets.

“Arizona’s close proximity to the California market is extremely advantageous to companies interested in entering or expanding in the southwest,” Ahern said. “California is one of Arizona’s natural partners in trade and commerce and I look forward to working to promote that instinctive business exchange.”

“Participating in the Arizona Sun Corridor Partnership will enhance our ability to attract living-wage jobs and technology employment,” Supervisor Bryan Martyn said. “I’ve been working with aerospace and technology companies to help position Pinal County for growth in the high-tech defense and national security arenas.”

The Arizona Sun Corridor Partnership intends to work in conjunction with California business owners so they can continue offering their products or services to the southwest market with significantly lower operating costs.

“Arizona, and particularly the Sun Corridor region, offers a great place to launch or expand a business, particularly companies engaged in international trade and commerce,” Supervisor David Snider said. “We have a major rail corridor that recently doubled its capacity, access to multiple major airports and air freight operations and we are positioned right in the CANAMEX corridor. These are significant assets that this partnership can help us market.”

For more information about the Sun Corridor partners, please visit the following Web sites: Greater Phoenix Economic Council www.gpec.org Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, Inc. www.treoaz.org Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation www.greateryuma.org Pinal County www.pinalcountyaz.gov City of Flagstaff www.cityofinnovation.com

Media Contacts for Arizona Sun Corridor Partnership affiliates: Danny O’Connor (GPEC) 602-262-8638 Laura Shaw (TREO) 520-243-1940 Julie Engel (GYEDC) 928-782-7774 ext. 12 Stacey Button (City of Flagstaff) 928-779-7613

PetSmart Charities, Rescues & Others Rally to Help after Hoarding Cases

System Account — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 23:18:07 GMT

Press Release Date: 2/13/2012

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FLORENCE – Much needed help has arrived in the days following two back-to-back animal hoarding investigations. Pinal County Animal Care & Control responded to two hoarding cases involving 158 dogs, cats and birds during the first week of February.

PetSmart Charities is providing $15,500 in grant funding through its Emergency Relief program. The dogs from the first hoarding cases will benefit from $9,500 to assist with medical expenses. Another $6,000 will be used to cover medical expenses for the cats. PetSmart Charities has also provided much needed supplies including:

Plastic kennels, cat carriers and wire crates
Pet beds
Dog and cat food
Kong toys
Cat litter and pans
Food and water bowls

The first case involved 93 dogs and two adults living in squalid conditions with no running water or electricity. The animals’ owner admitted that they were overwhelmed and voluntarily surrendered the animals. The property was declared uninhabitable and the home’s renters were forced to find other accommodations. County Environmental Health and Building Safety departments were involved in the assessment. The landlord was unaware of the extent of the problem.

Two days later, one dog and 59 living cats were pulled from a house that also contained carcasses of nine dead cats. Two adults were living in the home, which investigators described as “living in a locked litter box that was never cleaned in four years.” After an altercation with Pinal County Sheriff’s deputies, the male occupant was arrested. They were not allowed to live in the property after it was inspected by Environmental Health and Building Safety.

Here is an update on the status of the animals:

Each dog and cat has been checked by a vet. Blood work was done on some of the animals.
Most of the female dogs are pregnant – about 10 in all.
None of the cats are believed to be pregnant, likely due to infection and poor physical condition.
None of the animals in either case were spayed or neutered, based on physical examinations.
Many of the cats have upper respiratory infections and some of the blood work has come back positive for feline leukemia.
All of the dogs received a combo vaccine and bordatella (kennel cough) preventative.
Dogs and cats exhibiting signs of respiratory infection are being treated with antibiotics.
All blood testing needs to come back before spay/neuter surgeries can be scheduled. Animals that are recovering from infections will not receive surgery until they are restored to good health.

At the recommendation of the veterinarian one cat was euthanized due to an acute respiratory infection as well as possible hip displacement with infection. One dog was euthanized due to seizures, malnourishment, weakness, possible Valley Fever and a severe respiratory infection.

“The animals were barely clinging to life and the chance for any meaningful recovery was slim,” Kaye Dickson, Animal Care & Control Director explained.

“Fortunately, a vet has come forward with an offer to do the spay/neuter surgeries at a reduced rate,” said Dickson. “This will enable us to stretch the PetSmart Charities grant to cover as many of the animals as we can.”

Dickson said she and her staff “owe a debt of gratitude” to all the volunteers who came forward to help with large or small tasks related to these cases. She said it was especially gratifying to get the supplies and grants from PetSmart Charities.

“They really do ‘walk the walk’ in the way they show their commitment to animals,” Dickson said. “It’s nice to see a hometown Arizona company give back to the community like PetSmart does.”

The owners of the cats have asserted their rights to possess the animals and are not surrendering them. Animal Care & Control will have to take the case before a judge to petition for ruling to award custody of the animals to Pinal County and prevent the owner from possession.

Shelter hours for the month of February will be from 8 AM to 6 PM. The adoption offices will be closed on Saturdays in February.

Calls for Animal Care & Control services are handled at 520-509-3555 or toll free at 888-431-1311. For information about lost or found pets or to see information on animals for adoption at the shelter, go to Animal Control on www.pinalcountyaz.gov or use this shortened URL: http://goo.gl/LqALP. Lost and Found is in red near the bottom of the page. PetHarbor is the website used to list adoptable animals at the shelter.

Planning & Development Launches Interactive Map

System Account — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:18:01 GMT

Press Release Date: 2/10/2012

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Transparency in Action: Documents will be posted on line for 90 days or more

FLORENCE, AZ – Continuing to demonstrate its commitment to transparency in government, the Pinal County Board of Supervisors along with the Planning & Development department announce an interactive web-based source for planning and development information.

“Pinal County gets a lot of calls from people who want to know more about projects in their community, particularly if they’ve received or read a legal notice about a pending case,” said Arline Studley, Records Manager for Pinal County Planning & Development.

“We provide substantially more information than is required by law. People appreciate that, especially when they’re trying to find out about a project near their home or office,” said Ms. Studley added. “The public can now view exactly the same information that members of the Planning & Zoning Commission and Board of Supervisors review before making a decision on a case.”

Pinal County’s Planning & Zoning Commission is made up of citizen volunteers who evaluate proposed projects and make recommendations. The Commission can recommend approval, denial or stipulate approval if certain conditions are met. The recommendation then goes to the Board of Supervisors for a final decision.

The starting point to access this information is the Planning & Development home page at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/PlanningDevelopment/Pages/Home.aspx.

Next, click on Notice of Hearing on the left side. This directs you to a map with color-coded pins depending on the type of case or stage in the process.
Once you click on a pin, a box will appear with a basic description of the case.
If you are looking for more information, you can click on VIEW NOTICE OF HEARING. This takes you to the actual Notice of Hearing containing details on the case.
While on the same page as the map, you can scroll down and see the list of cases by hearing date for both the Board of Supervisors and the Zoning Commission.

Case documents will be available online from the time the Notice of Hearing is posted (30 days prior to the Planning & Zoning meeting), through the hearing at Planning & Zoning. The case information will be updated to reflect the zoning board’s recommendation and remain accessible through the Board’s decision on the case and for 30 days thereafter.

Ms. Studley acknowledged that the project would not have been possible without the assistance of many of her colleagues, especially the staff in the county’s Information Technology department.

“We are pleased to raise the bar on government transparency with access to this information on the internet. The county has an “A” rating for website transparency but we aren’t content to rest there,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Pete Rios. “This is another step in the County’s effort to keep the public informed and provide useful e-government services.”

In January 2009, the Pinal County Board led the way by making background information and detailed documentation for Board agenda items available online.

Pinal County offers many other ways to stay up-to-date on activities and events:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov
E-mail News Feed: http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/NewsInformation/Pages/MailingList.aspx
Nixle Emergency Alerts: http://local.nixle.com/county/az/pinal/

February is the Month of Love at Animal Care & Control

System Account — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:45:45 GMT

Press Release Date: 2/8/2012

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Changes to Office Hours & Adoption Fees for February Only

FLORENCE – For the entire month of February, Pinal County Animal Care & Control is dropping the fee to adopt a dog to $55 and dropping the cat adoption fee to just $20.

“The decision to add a pet to your household should be carefully thought out but our shelter pets have so much love to share, we wanted to try a month long promotion,” said Animal Care & Control Director Kaye Dickson. “We also have to make temporary changes to our hours and days of operation, due to other outreach events and an injured staff person who required emergency surgery.”

The shelter will not be open on Saturdays in February but will instead stay open an extra hour each weekday. Pinal County Animal Care & Control will be open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

“Our kennel technicians will tend to the animals in the shelter throughout the weekend but sufficient staffing will not be available to open for the public,” Dickson said.

“I want people to know that we can make arrangements for lost or stray animals to be returned to their owners on the weekend,” Dickson emphasized. “All they need to do is call us on Friday and we’ll make a weekend appointment for a staff person to reunite them with their lost pet.”

Pinal County’s Adoption Center and Animal Control offices are at 1150 South Eleven Mile Corner.

Animal Control officers will host a rabies vaccination/licensing clinic in February in Florence on February 25 from 9 AM to 11 AM at the Florence Dog Park Mutt Show. The dog park is located at 200 East 8th Street.

Calls for Animal Care & Control services are handled at 520-509-3555 or toll free at 888-431-1311. For information about lost or found pets or to see information on animals for adoption at the shelter, go to Animal Control on www.pinalcountyaz.gov or use this shortened URL: http://goo.gl/LqALP. Lost and Found is in red near the bottom of the page. PetHarbor is the website used to list adoptable animals at the shelter.

Animal Care and Control Officers Find 59 Cats in Queen Valley Home

System Account — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:48:26 GMT

Press Release Date: 2/7/2012

Body:

QUEEN VALLEY – Pinal County Animal Care and Control officers and Sheriff’s deputies served a search warrant on a home in Queen Valley Friday morning. By the afternoon, 59 cats and one dog were removed from the residence.

Queen Valley is located five miles north of Highway 60, west of the Town of Superior.

“What was very shocking is that we found nine carcasses of deceased cats inside the home,” Animal Care and Control Director Kaye Dickson said. “We were not expecting to see that.”

Before Animal Care and Control officers were able to enter the home, a male resident was arrested by Sheriff’s deputies after making threats to law enforcement and animal control officers.

Sergeant Lonnie Buckels, a 20-year veteran of the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, said this was one of the worst cases of animal hoarding he has seen in his career.

“We exhausted all means of resolving the situation immediately with the residents,” Director Dickson said. “We were hoping they would surrender the animals voluntarily, but we ended up having to get a judge to serve a search warrant.”

Animal Care and Control officers said the inside of the residence was filled with feces and smelled strongly of cat urine. A trailer located on the property was also filled with fecal matter and in poor condition. Officials from Pinal County’s Risk Management and Environmental Health were on hand to assist officers and to further examine the residence out of concern for the safety of the residents.

The animals will be kept at Animal Care and Control’s shelter on Eleven Mile Corner Road where they will be examined by a veterinarian. Many of the cats are believed to be in poor physical condition with disease or illness likely in some. How many and whether the cats will be available for adoption will be determined in the next few weeks.

This case comes in the same week as Animal Care and Control officers are investigating another hoarding case. In that instance of hoarding, 93 dogs were removed from a double wide trailer in the Hidden Valley area.

Once this investigation is complete, evidence and vet reports will be forwarded to the County Attorney’s Office for possible criminal charges. If the County Attorney’s Office declines to press charges, Animal Care and Control can pursue civil and administrative charges.

Shelter hours for the month of February will be from 8 AM to 6 PM. The adoption offices will be closed on Saturdays in February.

Calls for Animal Care & Control services are handled at 520-509-3555 or toll free at 888-431-1311. For information about lost or found pets or to see information on animals for adoption at the shelter, go to Animal Control on www.pinalcountyaz.gov or use this shortened URL: http://goo.gl/LqALP. Lost and Found is in red near the bottom of the page. PetHarbor is the website used to list adoptable animals at the shelter.

(MEDIA: There will be no updates from this case over the weekend.)

Arizona Secretary of State Awards Election Officer Certificates to 23 County Employees

System Account — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:47:58 GMT

Press Release Date: 2/7/2012

Body:

FLORENCE – Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett paid a brief visit to Pinal County on Monday afternoon. Secretary Bennett was on hand to award election officer certificates to Pinal County employees who have attended and passed classes regarding election laws and processes in the State of Arizona.

Employees either took a two-day recertification or a one-week certification class conducted by the Secretary of State’s Office. The certification allows the employees to work as election officers in the upcoming primary, general and any special election.

Animal Care & Control Responds to Extreme Hoarding Case

System Account — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:35:22 GMT

Press Release Date: 2/3/2012

Body:

87 dogs, 5 exotic birds and another 6 dogs captured one day later

FLORENCE – On Tuesday afternoon, Pinal County Animal Care & Control personnel responded to another case of extreme animal hoarding in an unincorporated are south of Maricopa. In total, 93 dogs were taken in, along with five exotic birds.

“Our officers have responded to multiple cases of animal hoarding in the last twelve months,” said Kaye Dickson. “We worked through the night to shuttle these animals to our shelter after finding them on a remote rural property. Our shelter is exceeding capacity and we are operating under emergency conditions.”

The home was uninhabitable, according to Animal Control. There was no electricity and no running water. Floors were covered with garbage and several inches of fecal matter. One dog had severely infected bite wounds and had to be euthanized to prevent continued suffering.

“We worked this incident in fear for our own health,” Dickson said. “I cannot fathom how the two adult residents were able to live there.”

The owner voluntarily surrendered the animals, allowing the animals to be put up for adoption in the coming weeks. A veterinarian must first examine the dogs as part of the ongoing investigation. Shelter hours for the month of February will be from 8 AM to 6 PM. The adoption offices will be closed on Saturdays in February.

County’s Redistricting Map Clears Hurdle at Department of Justice

System Account — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:06:45 GMT

Press Release Date: 2/2/2012

Body:

FLORENCE – Today the Pinal County Elections Department received notification that the US Department of Justice has analyzed the county’s redistricting submission and does not object to the redistricting plan.

Throughout 2011, the county held a series of public meetings to talk about the proposed maps and get vital input from residents, citizen groups and any other individuals with a stake in the outcome. Public comment was also sought through the county’s website.

The US Department of Justice scrutinized the map and the associated statistical analysis to ensure that the proposed districts comply with the Voting Rights Act.

“After all the time and effort that we put into this process by reaching out to the public, I am not surprised that our redistricting maps were so quickly pre-cleared by the US Justice Department,” said Pinal County Board of Supervisors’ Chairman Pete Rios. “I thank our Elections Department staff for all their hard work.”

“Our mapping choices were not easily arrived at, nor were the decisions simple. We were careful and deliberate as we worked through the issues of competitiveness, compactness, communities of interest and retrogression,” said David Snider, District 3 Supervisor. “However, in the end I thought we made the best possible choice and it is gratifying to have the Department of Justice concur.”

“We contracted with a redistricting expert who is a former Department of Justice employee to ensure that the process went smoothly and we passed DOJ scrutiny on the first submittal. Pinal County taxpayers definitely got their money’s worth,” District 2 Supervisor Bryan Martyn said.

The 2010 Census found that Pinal County’s population is at 375,770. By law, Pinal County must add two new supervisors once it passed the population threshold set in statute, as determined by the official US Census Bureau data. The new officials will run for election in the November 2012 election and will take their oaths of office in January 2013.

The proposed redistricting maps reflect the change by containing five supervisorial districts.

More information on redistricting and the adopted Pinal County Plan (Map 3A) can be found on Pinal County’s website (shortened url) at: http://goo.gl/623wi.

Public Health Clinic Hours Modified with Opening of Two New Clinics

System Account — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:33:12 GMT

Press Release Date: 1/27/2012

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Effective February 1, hours and days of service at some Pinal County Public Health Clinics will be changing. This is to accommodate the staffing of two new public health clinics while only hiring limited additional staff.

“We currently have staff members who move between multiple locations to streamline efficiency,” said Pinal County Public Health Director Tom Schryer. “With the openings in February, our staff will be serving the public through ten clinic locations.”

The Pinal County Board of Supervisors approved construction of two new public health clinics – one each for Maricopa and San Tan Valley. The clinics are in the final stages of completion with the Maricopa location opening on February 7 and the San Tan Valley location opening February 21.

Schryer said one of the Board’s strategic goals for the Public Health program is to ensure that more than 70 percent of the population has access to public health services within ten miles of their residence. Pinal County will be able to meet that goal with the opening of these two locations.

The clinics are designed to be permanent locations for public health services in those communities. Services available at these facilities include:

Childhood Immunizations (no charge for children 18 and under)
Well Woman Health Checks
Cervical Cancer screenings
Breast Cancer screenings
Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases
Reproductive health services (non-surgical)
Administration of the WIC Program (Womens, Infants & Children nutrition education for eligible families)
Flu shots
Referrals to smoking cessation programs - Arizona Smokers Help (ASH) Line 800-556-6222
Adult immunizations (MMR, TDaP, TB Skin Tests, Hepatitis B)
Diabetes Support Groups (special schedule)

A complete list of addresses, hours and locations is attached.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about Public Health programs in your community, please call 1-866-960-0633.

SITE	ADDRESS	HOURS	DAYS/SERVICE
Apache Junction	575 N Idaho Rd	8:00-6:00	Wed-Sat (WIC & Nursing)
Casa Grande	820 E Cottonwood Ln	8:00-6:00	Mon-Sat (WIC & Nursing)
Coolidge	119 W Central	8:00-6:00	Thurs-Fri (WIC & Nursing)
Eloy	302 E 5th St	8:00-6:00	Tues-Wed (WIC & Nursing)
Mammoth	110 S Main St	8:00-6:00	Thurs-Sat (WIC on Sat Only)
Oracle	1870 W American Ave	8:00-6:00	2^nd 3^rd 4^th Fridays (WIC Only) 4th Wed (Nursing Only)
Kearny	355 Alden Rd	8:00-6:00	1^st & 3^rd Wed (WIC & Nursing) 2^nd & 4^th Wed (WIC Only)
Superior	60 E Main St	8:00-6:00	2^nd &4^thThursday (WIC Only)2nd Wed (Nursing Only)
San Tan Valley *(New)*	36375 N Gantzel Rd	8:00-6:00	Mon-Thurs (WIC & Nursing)
Maricopa *(New)*	41600 W Smith-Enke Rd Bldg 15	8:00-6:00	Tues-Fri (WIC & Nursing)
San Manuel	23 S McNab Parkway	8:00-6:00	1st & 3rd Thursday (WIC Only)

Centennial Exhibit Added to Bluegrass Festival January 27, 28 & 29

System Account — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:23:11 GMT

Press Release Date: 1/20/2012

Body:

CASA GRANDE, AZ -- Celebrations throughout the state are taking place to help commemorate Arizona's Centennial in 2012. Not to be left out, the 2012 Pinal Agri-Country Bluegrass Festival is joining in the fun! Held at the Pinal Fairgrounds and Event Center on 11 Mile Corner Road in Casa Grande, the festival features top Bluegrass artists from throughout the country. Just added to the festivities is a beautiful museum-like display highlighting our great state over the past 100 years.

The exhibit features photos and information on every Arizona Governor. Event attendees will take a visual trip through the decades featuring tidbits of Arizona history, photos and more. Colorful, interesting, educational and celebratory, it’s a display everyone is sure to enjoy.

The Centennial Exhibit, put together by the Arizona Exposition and State Fair, will be viewable throughout the event and is free with admission.

Other festival highlights will include 3 days of toe-tapping Bluegrass music, Quilt Show, Tractor Pulls (Saturday only), delectable food, terrific shopping opportunities, Classic Car Show (Saturday only) and a special Agri Sprouts Kids' Area on Saturday. The Kids' Area will feature stick horse trail rides, nickels in the haystack, pony rides, hay wagon rides, and much more.

Admission is only $7 for 13 and over. 12 and under is free. Parking is also free. Festival hours are 10 am to 5 pm on Friday, January 27, 9 am to 5pm on Saturday, January 28 and from 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday, January 29. RV camping is available onsite. For more information visit www.pinalfairgrounds.com or call 520-723-7881.

What Voters Need to Know about February 28 Presidential Preference Election & Consolidated Precincts

System Account — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 23:25:25 GMT

Press Release Date: 1/18/2012

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Only voters who are registered to the Republican party or Green party are eligible to vote in the February 28 Presidential Preference Election. Recognized political parties are given the option to participate in a Presidential Preference Election and only the Green and Republican parties have selected to participate for 2012.

If a voter wishes to change party affiliation, he or she must do so by January 30 in order to qualify to vote in the Presidential Preference Election. For information about how to register to vote or make changes to voter registration go to http://goo.gl/g3AiK (shortened URL).

Pinal County will be conducting a Presidential Preference Election on February 28, 2012. State law (A.R.S. §16-248), requires that the county use no more than one polling place per two-thousand registered voters. The county currently has 90 voting precincts (88 actual and 2 administrative) and just over 162,000 registered voters, which requires the consolidation of polling places in order to satisfy the law’s provisions. Additionally, other polling place changes had to be made based on polling site availability.

Each household with an eligible voter will be mailed a sample ballot that lists the name and location of the proper polling place. Sample ballots should arrive about 30 days before the election.

Any voter who is unsure about the assigned polling place can use the Secretary of State's VoterView web site: https://voter.azsos.gov/VoterView/Home.do. A link to VoterView is also on the Pinal County Elections Department home page under Hot Topics.

The changes for the February 28, 2012 Presidential Preference Election are as follows:

Precincts 1, 2 & 3 (Kearny, Kearny Rural & Riverside respectively) will be consolidated and their polling site will be the usual one for precinct 1, the Town of Kearny Constitution Hall, located at 912 East Tilbury Drive, Kearny
Precinct 7, Oracle, will have its polling site moved from the Oracle Community Center located at 685 East American Aveue to the Oracle Justice Court located at 1470 North Justice Drive, Oracle
Precincts 11, 12 and 14 (Picacho, Eloy and Eloy South respectively) will be consolidated and their polling site will be the usual one for precinct 12, the Eloy City Council Chambers located at 628 North Main Street, Eloy
Precinct 15, Saddlebrooke East, will have its polling site moved from the Mountainview Country Club 38759 South Mountainview Boulevard to SaddleBrooke Country Club HOA #1 located at 64500 East SaddleBrooke Boulevard, Saddlebrooke, 85739
Precincts 19 and 20 (Coolidge South and Randolph respectively) will be consolidated and their polling site, a new one, will be the City of Coolidge Council Chambers located at 911 South Arizona Boulevard, Coolidge
Precincts 23 and 27 (Florence North and Poston Butte respectively) will be consolidated and their polling site will be the usual one for precinct 23, the Florence Town Council Chambers located at 775 North Main Street, Florence
Precincts 24 and 25 (Florence South and Cactus Forest respectively) will be consolidated and their polling site will be the usual one for precinct 24, the Florence K-8 School located at 225 South Orlando Street, Florence
Precinct 31, Stanfield, voting-by-mail with no polling site
Precinct 32, Casa Grande North, will have its polling site moved from the First Presbyterian Church located at 702 East Cottonwood Lane to the Casa Grande Justice Court located at 820 East Cottonwood Lane, Casa Grande
Precincts 34 and 36 (Casa Grande South Central and Casa Grande Southeast respectively) will be consolidated and their polling site will be the usual one for precinct 36, the Dorothy Powell Senior Center located at 405 East Sixth Street, Casa Grande
Precinct 40, Apache Junction Superstition, will remain at its usual polling place, the school located at 801 West Southern Avenue, Apache Junction. However, the name of the school has been changed from Desert Shadows Middle School to Cactus Canyon Junior High
Precinct 58, Apache Junction East Central, will have its polling site moved from the John Calvin Presbyterian Church located at 1130 East Broadway Avenue to the Pinal County Complex (lobby of the Recorder’s, Treasurer’s, and Planning and Development Offices) located at 575 North Idaho Road, Apache Junction
Precincts 38 and 82 (Casa Grande Southwest and Cruz Park respectively) will be consolidated and their polling site will be the usual one for precinct 38, the Calvary Chapel located at 962 West Gila Bend Highway, Casa Grande
Precincts 50 and 51 (Superior North and Superior South respectively) will be consolidated and their polling site will be the usual one for precinct 51, the St. Mary’s Center located at 100 Sunset Drive, Superior
Precinct 52, Sutton Summit, voting-by-mail with no polling site

Pinal County maintains and updates its website to feature the latest information and news worth noting. Please bookmark www.pinalcountyaz.gov for future reference.

On-site Help for those Applying for Widow/Widower’s or Disabled Person Property Exemptions

System Account — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 22:45:34 GMT

Press Release Date: 1/12/2012

Body:

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 Widower’s 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:

Mammoth – Mammoth County Complex; 118 South Catalina Avenue. Wednesday, January 25, 10:00 am until 1:00 pm.
Casa Grande – Casa Grande County Complex; 820 East Cottonwood Lane. Wednesday, February 1, 10:00 am until 1:00 pm.
Apache Junction – Roy Hudson County Complex (Treasurer’s and Recorder’s Satellite Office); 575 North Idaho Road. Tuesday, February 7, 8:00 am until 12 noon and 1:00 pm until 4:00 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) 509-3555 or (888) 431-1311.

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 $23,991. Net assessed value can be found on your tax notice or Notice of Valuation card
Income from all sources, excluding social security, cannot exceed $29,421.
If children under 18 years of age reside in the household, the income cannot exceed $35,305.
Must file an application each year between the first Monday in January and through the last day of February
Must be able to state that either item A or B below is true:

A) 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 $29,071 during the previous calendar year.

B) 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 $34,884 during the previous calendar year.

Requirements for Disabled Person’s 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 Assessor’s Office will supply the necessary medical forms)
Must not have property value (within the State of Arizona) that exceeds a net assessed value of $23,991. Net assessed value can be found on your tax notice or Notice of Valuation card
Income from all sources, excluding social security, cannot exceed $29,421.
If children under 18 years of age reside in the household, the income cannot exceed $35,305.
Must file an application each year between first Monday in January and through last day of February
Must be able to state that either item A or B below is true:

A) 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 $29,421 during the previous calendar year.
B) 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 $35,305 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 Widower’s Exemption)
Medical Certificate from an Arizona-licensed physician – forms will be available (Disabled Person’s Exemption)
2010 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

For more information, please attend one of the information sessions or call 520-509-3555. Pinal County maintains and updates its website to feature the latest information and news worth noting. Please bookmark www.pinalcountyaz.gov for future reference. For more information about the Assessor’s Office.

Diabetes Education Class Covers Foot Care for Diabetics, Free to Attend

System Account — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 22:14:09 GMT

Press Release Date: 1/12/2012

Body:

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Public Health District is pleased to continue its popular Diabetes Education Classes in 2012. January’s classes will deal with Diabetic foot care.

Diabetes can cause nerve damage and reduced blood flow to the feet. Proper blood flow is essential for healing. Diabetics need to know how to care for their feet to maintain good health and stave off complications from the disease.

Diabetes Education Program Coordinator Mary Gonzales hosts the free classes designed to educate those that suffer from the disease and offer them help in a supportive environment.

All diabetics are encouraged to attend and share their experiences and how they’re coping with diabetes.

The support groups will meet at the following locations:

Superior: Tuesday, January 17, 10:30 am. Superior Senior Center; 326 Main Street
Eloy/Toltec: Thursday, January 19, 10:00 am. Eloy/Toltec Adult Center; 3925 North Shira Street
Casa Grande: Tuesday, January 24, 3:00 pm. Casa Grande Public Library – APS Community Room; 449 North Drylake Street
Maricopa: Thursday, January 26, 3:00 pm. Maricopa Public Library; 41600 West Smith-Enke Road

If you would like to know more about the Diabetes Education Program, call Mary Gonzales at 1-800-231-8499 ext. 7338 or email at mary.gonzales@pinalcountyaz.gov.

Construction Phase of 1891 Courthouse Renovation Begins January 3

System Account — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 23:59:07 GMT

Press Release Date: 1/9/2012

Body:

FLORENCE – With the interior demolition complete and the architectural design finalized, the next and biggest step of the renovation of the 1891 Courthouse is set to begin – interior construction.

“I’m excited right now,” said construction manager Archie Carreon. “Considering the age of this building, it will be a very sensitive project. It is not typical of our past projects where we build from the ground up. You have to plan this properly, it means taking extra care during demolition and construction.”

Crews from Concord General Contracting in Mesa will arrive bright and early on Tuesday morning ready to give the historic structure a new lease on life. The renovation comes at a time when Pinal County will need space to house five supervisors due to Arizona State Statute, A.R.S. 11-211(A), that requires counties with a population of 175,000 or more people to have a board of five elected supervisors. After the 2010 Census, Pinal County was found to have grown to 375,770 residents.

On January 12, 2011, the Board of Supervisors approved the renovation of the courthouse. The course of action replaced an earlier decision to build a 10,000 square foot building to house the county’s Human Resources Department as well as remodeling Administration Building A to accommodate two more supervisors and staff. The anticipated cost of the earlier project was $3.2 million. The decision by the Supervisors meant that a one-time infusion of $2.8 million dollars would allow the county to complete the renovation.

In addition to the interior construction, crews will also be improving the utilities, paving new parking spaces around the building along with installing new curbs and gutters.

Looking over the blueprints of the renovation, Carreon said that crews will be busy throughout most of the year getting the building ready for its 2013 debut. Work on the courthouse is scheduled to be completed by the end of November.

“There are three aspects of this courthouse that will stand out to people,” Carreon said. “One is the grand staircase at the entrance of the building. People will notice it and the high ceilings when they walk into the courthouse. Next is the complete rebuilding of the ceremonial courtroom on the second floor. Finally, the new Board of Supervisors hearing room will be much larger. The seating capacity will grow to 126 people, nearly double what the current hearing room will hold.”

Carreon added that some of the original interior highlights will be kept for all to admire.

“For example, in the Supervisors hearing room we will have all the original brick exposed and the windows from the old jail cells, complete with bars, will be on display as well.”

There will also be the modern necessities included to make this 19th century building fit into the 21st century.

“All the modern conveniences will be included in the renovation,” Carreon said. “Full insulation, up-to-date air conditioning, fire suppression and alarm equipment, new wiring, contemporary lighting and we will be ADA compliant with a new elevator.”

To keep up on the progress of the 1891 Courthouse renovation, log onto (shortened URL): http://goo.gl/S5Rta. This site contains news about the renovation and videos regarding the project.

Animal Care & Control Officers Seize 28 Dogs from Apache Junction Area Resident

System Account — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:28:02 GMT

Press Release Date: 12/28/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Pinal County Animal Care and Control officers stopped a possible puppy mill operation being run in the Apache Junction area.

Officers responded to the residence following a report from case worker with Child Protective Services who said they witnessed an animal skull in the front of the residence. The report also indicated a strong urine smell emanating from the area. The case worker reported seeing 25-36 dogs on the premises, along with kennels filled with feces. There was no water or food for the animals.

Arriving on-scene, officers found the residence exactly as the case worker described. Upon further inspection, officers found the kennels with six or more dogs housed in them. The animals had contaminated water to drink but no food to eat.

“These animals were being kept in horrible conditions,” said Animal Care and Control Director Kaye Dickson. “The kennels had nothing covering them such as a tarp or any other material. We decided to seek a search warrant due to the conditions we found outside the residence.”

The officers were able to execute the search warrant on Wednesday, December 14. Investigating officers found several record books detailing sales, vaccinations and other documentation pertaining to animals previously on premises. Records for the animals currently being housed by the owner were not up-to-date. The majority of the animals seized were Chihuahuas and Pomeranians.

Inside the residence, officers found some of the animals being kept in small kennels stacked on top of each other. Many of them were caked with feces and had urine-soaked towels inside. The smaller kennels lacked any signs of water for the animals.

After a discussion with the owner, Animal Care and Control officers seized all of the animals on the premises, including 13 dogs that were being boarded at the location. Animal Control officers located the boarding clients and safely returned the animals to their owners.

The vet serving Pinal County Animal Care and Control found that four of the caged animals were pregnant. One other dog recently gave birth to puppies.

“The resident had, at one time, obtained a kennel permit. The permit lapsed earlier in the year,” Dickson said. “The permit allowed them to have up to 20 animals on the premises. The owner clearly was not in compliance with the permit and was not providing humane care and proper treatment for the animals, including basic food and water. Some of the statements the pet’s owner made to our officers lead us to believe that some these dogs were being used in a puppy mill breeding operation.”

The case remains under investigation and review for potential charges, therefore the name and address cannot be released at this time. The animals seized from the home are currently being cared for at Pinal County’s Animal Care and Control shelter. The animals will be held as evidence and not available for public adoption unless the owner surrenders the animals or until the case is finalized.

####

Note: The City of Apache Junction has its own animal control operation. Because this property was outside of Apache Junction's city limits, Pinal County Animal Care & Control had jurisdiction.

Pictures from Apache Junction area home provided by Animal Care and Control

Board Approves Superstition Vistas Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment with 2-1 Vote

System Account — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 17:37:34 GMT

Press Release Date: 12/28/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Following a lengthy discussion about water and transportation issues, the Pinal County Board of Supervisors approved a major amendment to the Comprehensive Plan for the area known as Superstition Vistas in a split vote.

A steering committee, of which Pinal County has been a part of, has been working over multiple years to plan in advance for 275 square miles of land currently owned by the State Land Department. The land mass in question would be larger than Gilbert, Mesa and Chandler combined.

The Arizona State Land Department was the applicant for the major amendment, which would have, among other things, allowed increases in population density for the area while also including pre-planned corridors for future transportation and commerce.

In October, the Supervisors remanded the proposed amendment changes to the Comprehensive Plan back to the Planning and Zoning Commission. The Board asked the commission to examine more thoroughly three key issues:

Use of the Magma Railroad Corridor that crosses the Superstition Vistas area,
Capping the density on the area of the project located north of Highway 60 and east of State Route 79, and
Examining the water availability and usage.

The commission returned the Comprehensive Plan amendment proposal with a recommendation that the Supervisors deny the proposed changes. Earlier last week, the Casa Grande City Council passed a letter of concern regarding the proposed changes to the Comprehensive Plan.

Chairman Pete Rios expressed concerns over density and water availability for the area located south of Highway 60 and east of State Route 79. He asked for support to have that portion of the Superstition Vistas region to be removed from the project boundaries. By doing so, roughly one quarter of the Superstition Vistas’ proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment would be removed. Density and planning provisions of the Comprehensive Plan for that part would then be subject only to those requirements adopted in 2009 and not the proposed changes by the State Land Department.

Even with the removal of that area, Supervisor David Snider still questioned the amount of water that would be needed to sustain a population of people that would eventually occupy the Vistas area. Snider voted against the major amendment changes. Vice Chairman Bryan Martyn and Chairman Rios voted in favor passing the amendments by a 2-1 vote.

Other changes under the major amendment to Superstition Vistas include a high-speed passenger rail corridor, high capacity corridors for traffic and high intensity activity centers located adjacent to the high capacity corridors.

Pinal County experienced rapid growth at a frenetic pace in the mid-2000’s. The Vistas steering committee was lauded by the Supervisors for its efforts to plan well in advance of development with an eye toward sustainability.

The approval of the comprehensive plan amendments lays important groundwork for the eventual development of the Superstition Vistas area. The next step in the eventual shaping of that community would occur when State Land auctions off or sells the land. It could be a decade or more before the first resident moves to the community.

Treasurer’s Mammoth Office No Longer Accepting Cash

System Account — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 23:05:17 GMT

Press Release Date: 12/22/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Beginning the first of January, the Pinal County Treasurer’s satellite office in Mammoth will no longer accept tax payments in cash.

Treasurer Dodie Doolitle said that the satellite office will continue to accept checks, money orders or cashiers' checks.

“There are other options including payment online,” Doolittle said. “Payments can be processed through online banking or a bill pay website. Payment must be scheduled to ensure that it is received in the Treasurer office by the due date shown on the tax bill to avoid late penalties.”

There is also an option to pay your Pinal County property taxes through a third-party vendor that takes credit cards (please be aware: this vendor charges a fee for its service). If you wish to use your credit card to pay property taxes, please call 1-888-2PAY-TAX (1-888-272-9829) and enter Jurisdiction Code 1302 or payments can be made through www.officialpayments.com.

“My office ran a cost analysis on continuing armored car service to the Mammoth office,” said Treasurer Doolittle, “We found it to be cost prohibitive to keep the service. The one run to Mammoth for the armored car cost as much as the same service for Apache Junction, Casa Grande and Florence combined. We are charged with safeguarding the taxpayer’s money and this is a way to save expenses in light of other bill payment options that are now widely available.”

Sustainability Committee Presents Findings to Supervisors

System Account — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 22:44:59 GMT

Press Release Date: 12/22/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Sixteen months ago, a group of Pinal County citizens was appointed by the Board of Supervisors to envision a “sustainable” future. In the December 7th Board meeting, the committee presented its findings to the Supervisors.

“Sustainability means different things to different people,” said District 3 Supervisor David Snider. “The Board was judicious when it gave the committee four specific areas of focus. This was a very intelligent group of residents who stayed on track throughout their timeframe.”

The four areas given to the group included:
• Energy Conservation: New Homes, Commercial/Office/Industrial, LEED and other standards
• Approval Process for Green Electricity Production
• Water Conservation: New Homes and Commercial/Office/Industrial
• Heat Island Mitigation through Reduced Parking Lot Sizes

Each area included a list of recommendations for the Supervisors to potentially adopt grouped by “immediate” and “next step.”

“While the committee was looking at recommendations that could be quickly implemented,” said committee facilitator Kent Taylor, “they also thought very hard about the steps that would be long term. They wanted these changes to last for years down the road.”

In the energy conservation portion of the report, the committee recommended an immediate measure of having new homes meet the Energy Star rating as well as having existing plats meet that standard as well.

District 2 Vice Chairman Bryan Martyn was impressed with the group’s effort. As the Board moves forward with potential decisions related to sustainability, serious consideration will be given to the report’s recommendations.

“Are we going to encourage or make them requirements for new construction?” Vice Chairman Martyn said. “People are going to want to know if there will be a reasonable return on investment. There will be some serious questions that will have to be brought up.”

When the committee looked at immediate recommendations with regard to green electricity production, their focus turned to the county’s Comprehensive Plan. One recommendation is to allow green energy production applications to be submitted as a non-major Comprehensive Plan amendment. This would speed the permitting process. They also thought that the development of a Pinal County Renewable Energy Overlay Zone would allow energy production throughout an entire area.

“Technology is changing so fast,” Taylor said. “We see solar and wind generation as green energy alternatives today. But what is it going to be in the future? Could we see algae power? Who knows what it is going to be?”

In the desert southwest, water conservation is a topic on nearly everyone’s mind. Water is the key commodity that must be present for development to occur and the county is keenly aware of the limitations of the groundwater supply.

The committee had several recommendations to the Board regarding how best to implement water savings throughout the county. Water reclamation, water harvesting and use of gray water were included in the recommendations.

Pinal County’s growth also could bring about a phenomenon called the “urban heat island effect.” According to the Environmental Protection Agency, an urban heat island is an area whose temperature is greater than surrounding rural areas.

The committee thought that more vegetation in parking zones, along with cool coating the pavement and roofs in nearby buildings would help stop an urban heat island from forming.

Following the presentation to the Supervisors, Chairman Pete Rios said he appreciates the work of the committee and hopes that many recommendations are implemented.

“For a volunteer group, spending 16 months together gathering data and coming up with green ideas is not an easy task,” Chairman Rios said. “These ideas would have to come before the public in a hearing to get the ball rolling, but I think there are those who would like to see these ideas implemented while we still have time to have them become effective.”

The members of the committee were: District 1 – Betty Peterson, Dr. Linda Leigh and J. Peter Armenta. District 2 – Fernanda Falbo, Dr. Liz Martin and Mike Schaffer. District 3 – Bill Collings, Gina D’Abella and Dr. Caroline Lobo.

####

Photo Caption: Three members of the Sustainability Committee receive recognition for their work. Front Row: (L to R) Dr. Liz Martin, Gina D'Abella and Bill Collings. Back Row: (L to R) Supervisor David Snider, Chairman Pete Rios and Vice-Chairman Bryan Martyn

Hunt Highway Closed Between Merrill Ranch Parkway and Arizona Farms Road

System Account — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 23:12:39 GMT

Press Release Date: 12/14/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – A section of Hunt Highway between Merrill Ranch Parkway and Arizona Farms Road is temporarily closed due to a failure in the south bound section the roadway.

Pinal County Public Works crews working to fix the road are anticipating repairs to be completed by 5:00 pm today. Crews are removing the section of the road that failed, replacing it with a sub-grade and then will pave that portion of the road.

Drivers in the area can take the following detour:

Northbound: Make a right on Merrill Ranch Parkway. Proceed east to Felix Road. Make a left turn on Felix Road. Proceed north to Arizona Farms Road. Make a left turn and head west to Hunt Highway.
Southbound: Make a left turn onto Arizona Farms Road. Proceed east to Felix Road. Make a right turn onto Felix Road. Head south to Merrill Ranch Parkway. Turn right onto Merrill Ranch Parkway, head west to Hunt Highway.

Public Works appreciates your patience while they work to repair this section of Hunt Highway. Please drive with caution.

Apache Junction Public Health Clinic Hours Modified, Effective Jan. 4

System Account — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 21:01:55 GMT

Press Release Date: 12/8/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – The Pinal County Public Health Services Clinic located at 575 North Idaho Road in Apache Junction will be changing service hours, effective Wednesday, January 4, 2012.

The new operating hours will be Wednesday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The Apache Junction Public Health Clinic offers a full range of public health services:

FREE Child Immunizations (walk-ins welcome)
Adult Immunizations (walk-ins welcome)
Sexually transmitted disease testing and counseling (walk-ins welcome)
TB skin testing (walk-ins welcome)
Woman Infant and Children (WIC) nutrition services (by appointment)
Supplemental nutrition for the elderly (by appointment)
Well Woman cancer screening (by appointment)
Family Planning/Reproductive Health Services (by appointment)

The office will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

“We are constantly evaluating the needs of our residents to meet their needs in the most efficient and effective manner,” said Tom Schryer, Pinal County Public Health Director. “We have discovered that most of our residents access the clinic Wednesday through Saturday. Staying open until 6:00 and offering full-day Saturday service gives families the opportunity to access services with minimal interruptions to school or work schedules.”

For appointments, questions or additional information, please call toll free at (866) 960-0633.

Eloy Public Health Clinic Reopens, Ready to Serve Residents

System Account — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 20:59:22 GMT

Press Release Date: 12/15/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – The Pinal County Public Health Services Clinic located at 302 East 5th Street in Eloy is now open to the public. It was forced to close as a result of flood-related damage from a broken water pipe.

The operating hours will be Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM for Nursing Services and Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM for WIC services.

“We’re excited to reopen the Eloy Public Health Clinic to the community of Eloy and its surrounding area. It is important that key public health services are conveniently available to our communities,” said Tom Schryer, Pinal County Public Health Director.

The Eloy Public Health Clinic offers a full range of public health services:

FREE Child Immunizations (walk-ins welcome)
Adult Immunizations (walk-ins welcome)
Sexually transmitted disease testing and counseling (walk-ins welcome)
TB skin testing (walk-ins welcome)
Woman Infant and Children (WIC) nutrition services (by appointment)
Supplemental nutrition for the elderly (by appointment)
Well Woman cancer screening (by appointment)
Family Planning/Reproductive Health Services (by appointment)

The clinic is open to the public now and appointments are being accepted for the services listed above. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 1-866-960-0633.

Federal Program Already Making Strides at Taking Foreclosed Homes Off Market

System Account — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:08:57 GMT

Press Release Date: 12/5/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – The federal Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP3) was developed to help stop the growing list of foreclosures across the nation. The goal of the program is to target emergency assistance to state and local governments that will allow them to acquire, redevelop or demolish foreclosed properties.

Earlier this year, Pinal County was allocated $3.16 million in the third round of funding from the program. Following public input and supervisor approval, the money was targeted for three areas in the county.

“While $3.16 million is a great deal of money, it isn’t enough to spread throughout the entire county and still be effective,” said Adeline Allen, Pinal County’s Housing and Community Development Director. “Our strategy is to target four areas of the county that we feel are in the greatest need of funds and meet Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) strict criteria.”

Neighborhoods in Apache Junction, Coolidge and Casa Grande were selected for use of the funds. The neighborhoods chosen are small and relatively compact in order for the NSP3 funds to make a positive impact.

Allen said there are four goals of this third round of funding:
• Attracting owner-occupants to target areas, including middle-income households
• Increasing the homeownership rate and leveraging opportunities for private lending
• Redeveloping and reoccupying vacant properties
• Improving properties and property values, thereby also stabilizing the tax base

Patricia Farnworth, the program’s coordinator for Pinal County Housing, said the money received from NSP3 will be used in various ways to make homeownership affordable.

These homes must be owner-occupied and the owner’s primary residence,” Farnworth said. “We are employing four different mechanisms to distribute the funds: down payment assistance, rehabilitation help, closing costs and a direct loan to the borrower.”

The first mortgages through the bank are make-sense loans to be paid back. The money Pinal County contributes is a zero interest loan that is forgivable as long as the participant complies with the program.

Pinal County intends to use some of the NSP3 funds to purchase four or five lots in Apache Junction and partner with an organization to build homes on those lots.

To qualify for the NSP3 funds, HUD looks at Pinal County’s median income level and uses that as a base figure for the income of the borrower along with all family members living in the home. There are two levels for qualification. Level 1 has two categories -- very low income below 50 percent of median (this equates to a family of four earning less than $32,750) and low income below 80 percent of median (this equates to a family of four earning less than $52,400). Level 2 is a moderate income below 120 percent of median (this equates to a family of four earning less than $78,600).

As of December, two houses in Coolidge are now occupied due to the NSP3 funds.

“So far, we have closed on two homes with three more pending,” Farnworth said. “The 20 percent down payment greatly increases opportunities for first mortgage approval. Without this assistance, most of these buyers would have no other options.”

The assistance provided to these new homeowners included help on the 20 percent down payment, $5,000 toward the closing cost of the home and some funds to help rehabilitate the domicile. Before the potential owners receive the money, they must first go through an eight -hour training provided by HUD-certified counselor.

“One of our home buyers was very pleased he took the HUD course,” Farnworth said. “He told me that the course prepared him for the entire process. He was confident that he understood the documents he signed with the title company and felt comfortable with his decisions.”

Farnworth explained that the process of finding foreclosed homes that meet HUD requirements for the loans is not an easy task.

Individuals work with independent realtors to locate qualified homes based on the maps, lender-owned status, and vacancy status. Challenges include investors making offers to close more quickly than we can because they do not need a 90 day vacancy like we do and what appears to be a possible increase in short-sales/decrease in foreclosures.

“This program will be successful for Pinal County,” Farnworth said. We have almost 70 applicants looking to become eligible for the program. If we can get them into a home, it’s a win-win situation. We take a foreclosed home off the market and occupy it with owners who will be able to live their American dream.”

Roadway of the Future: Pinal County East-West Corridor Study Begins

System Account — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:12:23 GMT

Press Release Date: 11/16/2011

Body:

Public Input Important to Process, 2 Meetings to Attend

FLORENCE, AZ – Pinal County, in cooperation and coordination with the City of Casa Grande and City of Maricopa, is initiating a study to examine new transportation routes that provide connectivity through western Pinal County. Transportation goals include new high-capacity roadways that can handle the projected east-west travel demand within the area.

A parkway with restricted access is one concept being examined as part of the study. The study will investigate corridor options within Pinal County that could pass through portions of the City of Maricopa and the City of Casa Grande.

A large study area has been identified and public input is essential as the County and Cities develop concepts to address the projected travel demand. The corridor may also pass through private property, land under the jurisdiction of the Arizona State Land Department, Bureau of Land Management, the Ak-Chin Indian Community, or other jurisdictions.

The county and cities are encouraging members of the public to participate in the study by attending one of the scheduled meetings in Maricopa or Casa Grande. The meetings will provide an overview of the study, present the environmental and engineering processes and schedule, allow attendees to ask questions and, most importantly, provide the opportunity for valuable public input on the study.

Representatives from the county, city personnel, and study team members will be on hand to answer questions. The comments received from these meetings will be used to help identify critical issues to be addressed in the Environmental Assessment.

Thursday, December 8, 2011
6:00 to 8:00 PM
Presentation at 6:30 PM
City of Maricopa, Maricopa Unified School District
District Office Administrative Building
Board Room # 118
44150 West Maricopa/Casa Grande Highway
Maricopa, AZ 85138

Wednesday, December 14, 2011
6:00 to 8:00 PM
Presentation at 6:30 PM
City of Casa Grande, Council Chambers
510 East Florence Boulevard
Casa Grande, AZ 85122

Individuals with disabilities may request accommodations, such as a sign language interpreter or alternative documents, by calling (602)560-1692 or by faxing (602)253-1202. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange accommodations.

People who cannot attend the meetings may still offer email input at pinaleastwest@jacobs.com.

Educational Help for Students & Adults Available at No Charge from Library District

System Account — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 15:50:39 GMT

Press Release Date: 11/15/2011

Body:

Need a Tutor but Don’t Have the Funds for Expert Help?

FLORENCE, AZ – It has never been easier to find and access information using the internet. While our young people are developing and honing their critical thinking and research skills, there are new resources to help them with school work. Best of all, there are no fees or charges so the help is free to users. Tutor.com is a site that helps students of all ages with homework, studying, projects, essay writing and test preparation in every subject, including algebra, statistics, chemistry, physics, social studies and English.

Adults can get help with resume writing, GED prep, and academic support. All sessions are online and one-to-one with a live tutor. Any community member with a library card can access the new online services from the library or from the comfort of their home. The service includes a real-time writing center and 24/7 access to worksheets, videos and tutorials in just about any subject.

The live, online tutoring and resume writing service is available every day from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Students and adults signing on for the first time can create FREE account that allows them to store assignments, notes and more. The site just added a mobile feature for Tutor.com users for access from mobile devices such as certain smartphones and tablet devices.

Tutor.com is free to all Pinal County residents. You will need a library card to access most databases from home. Contact your local library to get a free library card (for a list of locations, click on this shortened web link: http://goo.gl/nexiJ).

To enter the database library, follow these steps:

Get out your library card and fire up your computer.
Go to www.pinalcountyaz.gov/library.
In the lighter green bar at the top, click on RESEARCH.
Click on the topic that interests you such as Tutor.com under Homework & Student Resources.
Enter your library card number.

Patrons of the Casa Grande and Apache Junction libraries can also access the online databases through the library site at www.cglibrary.org or www.ajpl.org. The steps to open the databases are slightly different when entering the catalog through these websites.

Pinal County Animal Care & Control Closed Saturday, November 12

System Account — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:58:37 GMT

Press Release Date: 11/8/2011

Body:

Attending Public Outreach, Adoption & Rabies Clinics during November

FLORENCE, AZ – Veterans’ Day weekend, the Pinal County Animal Care & Control facility will be closed to the public on Saturday, November 12. The shelter is usually open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturdays but the county is hosting a booth at an adoption event in Maricopa that same day.

Staff will tend to the animals in the shelter throughout the weekend but sufficient staffing will not be available to open for the public due to the adoption event and the holiday weekend. Saturday hours will resume November 19.

Adoption Events

Casa Grande – Thursday, November 10, 2011 Adoption Event from 9:00 – Noon at Mission Royale, for residents and invited guests of the Mission Royale community in Casa Grande. Mission Royale is south of the Promenade Shopping Center in Casa Grande just East of I-10.

Maricopa – Saturday, November 12, 2011 Adoption Event from 10:00 to 2:00 at Pet Club in the City of Maricopa at 21145 North John Wayne Parkway

Rabies clinics for month of November

Casa Grande Area

Saturday, November 19, 2011 8:00 to 10:00 AM at the Pinal County Animal Care & Control offices at 1150 South Eleven Mile Corner

Apache Junction Area

Thursday, November 10, 2011 from 10:00 to noon at the Apache Junction County Complex at 575 North Idaho Road

Maricopa Area

On Tuesdays in November: November 8, November 15, November 22, November 29 from 11:00 to 1:00 PM at the City of Maricopa Interim City Hall at 45145 West Madison Avenue

San Tan Valley Area

On Wednesdays in November: November 9, November 16, November 23, November 30 from 10:00 to noon at the Copper Basin YMCA at 28300 North Main Street in San Tan Valley

Courthouse Renovation Named Arizona Centennial Legacy Project

System Account — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:08:58 GMT

Press Release Date: 11/3/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – The Arizona Historical Advisory Commission has officially designated the 1891 Courthouse Renovation Project as a state of Arizona Centennial Legacy Project. On February 14, 2012, Arizona will celebrate its centennial statehood anniversary. Cities, towns and counties are planning a variety of events and celebrations to pay homage to the state’s first 100 years.

“In Pinal County, there is nothing more significant than the decision my colleagues and I made to restore the 1891 Courthouse and return it to use,” said Pinal County Board of Supervisors’ Chairman Pete Rios. “We are grateful that the Arizona Historical Advisory Commission has selected this as an official Centennial Legacy Project.”

Coinciding with this news, Pinal County has created a website so visitors near and far can keep tabs on the renovation project. Photos of the courthouse, its history, restoration and more will be updated regularly. There is even a place where people can sign in to add their memories of the courthouse.

You can find a link to the 1891 Courthouse Renovation Project on left side of the county’s main home page www.pinalcountyaz.gov or use this link: http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/PublicWorks/Courthouse/Pages/Home.aspx.

The Board’s decision to renovate the courthouse replaces an earlier decision to build a 10,000 square foot building to house the county’s Human Resources Department as well as the remodeling Administration Building A to accommodate two more supervisors and staff. The anticipated cost of the earlier project was $3.2 million. The 1891 Courthouse, currently vacant, consists of 22,449 square feet of space.

“By using an additional $2.8 million of one-time money,” County Manager Fritz A. Behring said, “we can manage the expansion of the Board, preserve a landmark that we have responsibility to maintain anyway and take advantage of the lull in construction activity to get favorable pricing on labor and materials.”

By law, the Board of Supervisors has to expand to a five-member board now that the official US Census population has topped the expansion threshold of 175,000 residents. The current administration building does not contain the necessary office space for the new officials or their formal board meetings.

“The courthouse is a focal point for Florence and a focal point for Pinal County. It is an asset to the community and I have been an ardent proponent of seeing it used again,” said District 2 Supervisor Bryan Martyn.

“Think about the history – the trials, marriages, meetings, official actions. History was written there,” said Supervisor David Snider. “I’m pleased to say history will be written there again.”

When visitors come through the west entrance, they will immediately see the grand staircase brought back to its original design. To their right will be a gallery featuring historic photographs, papers, paintings depicting the rich history of the courthouse and Pinal County. The first floor will house the official meeting chambers for the five-member Board of Supervisors.

On the building’s second floor the original courtroom will be brought back to its 1891 glory. This area will be open for people to hold ceremonies, meetings and weddings. Plans call for public meeting space to also be available on the first floor for community groups to reserve.

Working with Pinal County on this historic project are the Town of Florence, the State Historic Preservation Office, Arcadis Engineering and Swan Architects. An oversight group made up of Pinal County officials, Florence historians and City Council members have worked for months to draw up a plan to renovate the building and make it useful for government business.

Future updates on the website will show video and photos of the demolition, construction and renovation as it progresses. There are two videos on YouTube already:

Renovation of an Arizona Landmark: http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov?feature=mhee#p/u/9/JeNrMbX7Mnc

Interior Demolition of 1891 Courthouse: http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov?feature=mhee#p/u/8/7W-eEUghMvY

Pinal County to Honor Veterans on Wednesday, November 9

System Account — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:03:57 GMT

Press Release Date: 11/2/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors will hold its annual Veterans Day celebration on Wednesday, November 9, beginning at 2:00 pm. The approximately hour-long ceremony will take place on the steps of Administration Building A; 31 North Pinal Street in Florence.

The public is invited to come and celebrate the service of Pinal County veterans. This year’s guest speaker is former Air Force Fighter Pilot Jeff Latas. The retired Colonel flew the F-15 Strike Eagle in several missions throughout the world. He also worked at the Pentagon managing weapons modernization programs.

There is no charge to attend this event, light refreshments will be served following the program.

Board of Supervisors to Meet Tuesday, November 29

System Account — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 22:58:57 GMT

Press Release Date: 11/2/2011

Body:

Earlier Published Schedule Showed Meeting on 30th, Now Set for 29th

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors will meet on November 9 and November 29 at the regular start time of 9:30 AM. A schedule published earlier showed the Board meeting on November 30 but that meeting has been canceled and rescheduled for Tuesday, November 29.

Arizona State University’s Morrison Institute for Public Policy will be hosting its third annual State of our State Conference on Wednesday, November 30. Chairman Pete Rios, Vice Chairman Bryan Martyn and Supervisor David Snider are planning to attend the conference as guests of the Morrison Institute, at no charge to taxpayers. The theme is “New Directions for Arizona” and topics to be covered include:

New poll: Arizonans' attitudes on social and public-policy issues
Fiscal panel: What's the new equation for our state's success?
Debut of Arizona Directions, an annual indicators scorecard
Panel discussion: How cities can lead the way to recovery
A peek into Arizona's second century: Grady Gammage Jr.

The Pinal County Board of Supervisors typically meets on two or more Wednesdays each month but is not required to meet on a specific day. The meeting schedule is posted online at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/BoardofSupervisors/Pages/MeetingSchedule.aspx and agendas for upcoming meetings and minutes from previous meetings are posted at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/BoardofSupervisors/Pages/Schedule.aspx.

Emergency Alert System to be Tested November 9 at Noon

System Account — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 22:53:30 GMT

Press Release Date: 11/2/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – At noon Arizona time on Wednesday, November 9 there will be a test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The test is a nationwide event coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

As this event draws near, the federal government is encouraging state and county emergency management officials to get the word out to all citizens. Pinal County’s website features a countdown clock on the right side to help raise awareness of the upcoming test.

This test will be heard on the radio and seen on local, cable, and satellite TV. Because of this first nationwide test, it is believed that local 911 systems may become overwhelmed. Please do not call 911 unless you have a real emergency.

The test may look like the regular local emergency alert messages that air on radio or television. Most people are familiar with the alert tone, but there will be some differences in what viewers will see and hear. The audio message will repeat “This is a test.” The video message scroll may NOT indicate “This is a test.”

The message will last for approximately three minutes after which regular television, radio and satellite programs will resume.

As the Federal government prepares to test their capabilities, this event serves as a reminder that everyone should establish an emergency preparedness kit and emergency plan for themselves, their families, communities and businesses.

What is the Emergency Alert System (EAS)?
The EAS is a public alert and warning system that leverages communication systems (digital and satellite television and terrestrial and satellite radio) to allow the President of the United States or local, state and tribal governments to communicate with the public during an emergency.

EAS messages are typically preceded by a series of screeching tones and often appear as a crawling message along the bottom of the television screen. The National Weather Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) routinely use EAS to disseminate emergency weather alerts and advisories.

When will the Emergency Alert System test happen in Arizona?
The Emergency Alert System will be tested at noon Arizona time on Wednesday, November 9. The test will be broadcast over local television and radio stations and last approximately three minutes.

During the test, the National Weather Service (NWS) will provide situational awareness of possible severe weather and climate threats to the United States.

Should the NWS need to activate the EAS to broadcast real-life severe state or local weather alerts, test managers may delay the test in that area to make way for the imminent threat weather alert.

The following resources offer more information on the EAS and the Nov. 9, 2011, test:

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA
Emergency Alert System: Life Saving Messages to the Nation [PDF]
Arizona Broadcasters Association
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Why is the Emergency Alert System (EAS) being tested in Arizona?
The EAS test plays an important role in ensuring Arizona is prepared for all hazards and able to receive critical and vital information should the need arise.

While EAS tests may be temporarily disruptive to radio and television programming, it is important to ensure that the EAS is functional and responsive.

The EAS has never before been tested on a national level. The Nov. 9, 2011, test is an opportunity to baseline the system and its capabilities at all levels.

Is the Emergency Alert System (EAS) being tested anywhere else?
This is a national test. The nationwide test will simultaneously involve television stations, including digital television, cable, satellite audio and television services, and broadcast radio stations across the U.S. and several U.S. territories.

How is the Emergency Alert System (EAS) used in an actual emergency?
In the aftermath of a national catastrophic event, state, local and national agencies use the EAS to transmit crucial information to the public through as many methods as possible.

Board of Supervisors to Meet Tuesday, November 29

System Account — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 22:04:15 GMT

Press Release Date: 10/27/2011

Body:

Earlier Published Schedule Showed Meeting on 30th, Now Set for 29th

New poll: Arizonans' attitudes on social and public-policy issues
Fiscal panel: What's the new equation for our state's success?
Debut of Arizona Directions, an annual indicators scorecard
Panel discussion: How cities can lead the way to recovery
A peek into Arizona's second century: Grady Gammage Jr.

Members of the public may also attend the State of our State conference with payment of a $50 registration fee, which includes breakfast. For more information, go to https://morrisoninstitute.asu.edu/SOS.

The Pinal County Board of Supervisors typically meets on two or more Wednesdays each month but is not required to meet on a specific day. The meeting schedule is posted online at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/BoardofSupervisors/Pages/MeetingSchedule.aspx and agendas for upcoming meetings and minutes from previous meetings are posted at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/BoardofSupervisors/Pages/Schedule.aspx.

County supervisors set priorities for legislative session, thank Governor Brewer for support

System Account — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 21:39:09 GMT

Press Release Date: 10/26/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Concerned by the ongoing impact of state cost shifts on county operations and county residents, Pinal County Supervisors David Snider, Pete Rios, and Bryan Martyn joined nearly forty of their fellow elected supervisors at the 7^th Annual Legislative Summit of the County Supervisors Association (CSA) earlier this month where they established a legislative agenda, discussed priorities for the upcoming legislative session and honored Governor Jan Brewer, who addressed the supervisors and shared her support for counties.

“We were thrilled to welcome Governor Brewer to the summit and acknowledge her efforts on behalf of Arizona counties in this year’s legislative session,” Supervisor Martyn said. “Governor Brewer’s leadership and support protected counties from budget impacts and legislation that would have weakened our ability to serve local residents. We look forward to asking for her support of the counties’ 2012 legislative agenda.”

A key component of that agenda is a call for the legislature to repeal the shift of state prisoners to county jails, set to be implemented on July 1, 2012. If executed, the prisoner shift would transfer a number of felons to the Pinal County jail, leading to significantly higher public safety costs and potentially endangering the safety of inmates and detention officers in the jail.

Also of grave concern to supervisors is the legislature’s use of so-called ‘county contributions’ (forced county payments to the state) to balance the state budget. In the last four state budgets, the legislature has forced Pima and Maricopa counties to ‘contribute’ nearly $125 million. This year, the legislature expanded the number of counties forced to contribute to include Yavapai, Mohave, and Pinal Counties, which were required to provide the state with $5,439,800 million from county coffers. Pinal County alone was required to send over $2.5 million to the state.

The supervisors also expressed their alarm with the legislature’s ongoing shift of Highway User Revenue Fund (HURF) revenue, which has cost counties over $73 million since 2008. Most of the diverted revenue has been used to supplement the budgets of state agencies, including the Department of Public Safety and the Motor Vehicle Division.

While frustrated with the ongoing shift of costs to county governments, supervisors attending the summit applauded Governor Brewer for supporting counties and helping to maintain their ability to serve local residents.

“The Governor showed real leadership this year,” Supervisor Snider declared. “She demonstrated respect for the principle of local control and successfully reduced county impacts in the state budget.”

Speaking to the assembled group of elected county supervisors and other county officials, Governor Brewer thanked the supervisors for their praise and pledged to work with them on the challenges facing the state.

“Too many times, state officials have treated local leaders as adversaries instead of teammates,” Governor Brewer declared. “I am proud to be your partner.”

Brewer also emphasized her support for counties by quoting Ronald Reagan. “The more government we can keep at the local levels, in local hands, the better off we are and the more freedom we will have,” Brewer said.

Supervisor Rios agreed with that sentiment. “The best, most efficient government is the one closest to the people. Let’s hope our state lawmakers feel the same way.”

Board Members Vote on Proposed County Redistricting Map

System Account — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 21:33:52 GMT

Press Release Date: 10/21/2011

Body:

Map & Supporting Analysis to be Submitted for US Department of Justice Review

FLORENCE – On Wednesday, October 19, the Board of Supervisors heard a presentation by Pinal County Elections Director Steve Kizer who explained the public comment process on the three proposed redistricting maps for Pinal County.

Throughout September, the county held a series of nine public meetings to talk about the proposed maps and get vital input from residents, citizen groups and any other individuals with a stake in the outcome. Public comment was also sought through the county’s website.

Draft Map 3 was the preferred map receiving the broadest support. However, as a result of public input, Map 3 was revised to accommodate the concerns of Queen Valley residents, Queen Creek and San Tan Valley areas and Coolidge. The revised map became known as Map 3A and is posted on the county’s website under redistricting.

Today, the Board of Supervisors heard additional public comment before selecting Map 3A to be submitted to the US Department of Justice. The US Department of Justice will scrutinize the map to ensure that the proposed districts comply with the Voting Rights Act.

“We hope that with all of our advance planning and considerations of the public’s concerns that the Department of Justice review goes smoothly,” said Board of Supervisors’ Chairman Pete Rios. “The Department of Justice has 60 days to review the redistricting plan but we understand that deadline can be extended if they require additional information from us.”

The proposed redistricting maps reflect the change by containing five supervisorial districts.

More information on redistricting and the proposed district maps can be found on Pinal County’s website (shortened url) at: http://goo.gl/623wi.

Looking to Sharpen Your Job Seeking Skills? Workforce Readiness Workshops are Just around the Corner

System Account — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:54:09 GMT

Press Release Date: 10/17/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Needless to say, it’s been a tough time for people out of work in this economy.

To help out people who are looking for employment, the Pinal County Library District is joining forces with Central Arizona Human Resources Management (CAHRMA) to host a series of workshops for those who are out of work or who are looking for a better job.

“I am pleased we are able to offer this service for those people who are unemployed,” said Library Director Denise Keller. “Partnering with CAHRMA will allow us to offer the latest advice on what employers are looking for in this job market.”

The workshops will help participants on their job search by showing them where job opportunities are and how to market themselves to potential employers. The workshop will cover what is happening in today’s job market, how to develop a winning resume, writing relevant cover letters and preparing for an interview.

“We want to help Pinal County citizens get back to work,” Keller said. “Hopefully these workshops will help them get a job they will enjoy.”

The workshops will take place at the following locations:
Saturday, October 22

San Manuel Public Library, 108 Fifth Avenue; 10:00 am to 12 noon
Vista Grande Library, 1556 North Arizola Road, Casa Grande; 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Apache Junction Library, 1177 North Idaho Road; 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Saturday, October 29

Maricopa Public Library, 41600 West Smith-Enke Road; 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

The workshops will be held periodically throughout the next 12 months.

For more information please call the Pinal County Library District at (520) 866-6457.

Recycling Services Privatized at No Cost to Taxpayers

System Account — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 22:50:29 GMT

Press Release Date: 10/14/2011

Body:

New Blue Bins Coming to Your Community

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors recently voted to award Right Away Disposal (RAD) a multi-year contract to provide recycling services in Pinal County. County trucks and labor will no longer service the recycling sites around the county but the terms of the contract with RAD will not cost county taxpayers a penny.

Right Away Disposal (RAD) will provide recycling services to the county beginning October 17, 2011. County recycling bins will be replaced with bins that will have RAD and Pinal County decals on them. RAD will collect and process recyclable materials that otherwise would end up in landfills. Countywide Recycling Drop-off Locations and a list of acceptable recyclable items will be listed on the Material Recovery Center’s web site at: www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/PublicWorks/MaterialRecoveryCenter/Pages/Home.aspx.

For several years, Pinal County officials have encouraged recycling as part of their Going Green initiatives. Recycling typically offered a trio of benefits – it extends the life of the county’s landfills, recycling puts good raw material back to use and sales from the raw material can generate income.

“The income side of the equation became increasingly hard to predict and it became increasingly costly to service the recycling sites in labor, fuel, trucking and maintenance,” said Ken Buchanan, Assistant County Manager for Development Services. “Commodity prices for reusable glass, plastic, cardboard and metals have fluctuated wildly in recent years. The public-private partnership model made more sense and the Board approved the agreement with RAD for recycling countywide.”

Pinal County will continue to provide waste tire and appliance recycling services. The drop-off locations for this service are also listed on the web site.

The County will not host any more “Free Dump Days.” Budget constraints for the fiscal year 2011-2012 eliminated funding for this service. The Cactus Waste Landfill will continue to host four free disposal days at their expense. The Cactus Waste Landfill free disposal days are also listed on the web site.

Pinal County encourages communities to continue hosting neighborhood clean ups. Anyone organizing a community clean up day can let us know ahead of time and we can post it on the Material Recovery Center web site.

Residents or businesses with questions or concerns about recycling may call (520) 866-6685. Thank you for helping keep Pinal County clean.

School Superintendent Orlenda Roberts Announces Public Symposiums on “Arizona Ready”

System Account — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 20:08:00 GMT

Press Release Date: 10/12/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Are you a resident who is interested in improving children’s educational opportunities in Pinal County?

If so, School Superintendent Orlenda Roberts invites you to participate with school district leaders in a symposium that will explain and plan for Governor Jan Brewer’s “Arizona Ready” education reform policy.

“We invite any Pinal County resident to take part in any of our two sessions that will explain what ‘Arizona Ready’ is and how to prepare for it,” Superintendent Roberts said. “We are looking to engage county leaders, educators, parents, business owners – anyone who has a stake in the future of our children’s education.”

The Pinal County School Superintendent’s Office will host two symposiums for county residents. The first one will take place at the Florence Holiday Inn on Friday, October 21. The second one will be at the Superior High School Gymnasium on Friday, October 28. Both symposiums will begin at 8:00 am and conclude at 12:30 pm.

“Our aim for the symposiums is to inform participants of the state model for regionally delivered educational services and support, this will help advance the goals set forth in ‘Arizona Ready’,” Roberts said. “Governor Brewer’s educational reform plan identifies relevant, practical, locally-defined and regionally delivered service and support to schools and school districts. This new plan has set an aggressive framework that will assist all of our public schools in ensuring that all students are prepared for success in college and career.”

The School Superintendent said the half-day symposiums have been designed as highly collaborative with a heavy emphasis on attendee’s participation. This will help the Pinal County Education Services Agency (PCESA) in developing a strategic plan for extending the agency’s current programs and services. This will allow PCESA to deliver greater support in the five key areas of “Arizona Ready”: data use, standards and assessment, teacher and principal effectiveness, support for struggling schools and students along with better educational opportunities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).

If you are interested in attending one of the symposiums please contact Janette McClintock at (520) 866-3602 or email at jmclintock@pinalesa.org.

2nd Annual Emergency Preparedness Fair October 28

System Account — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 23:46:08 GMT

Press Release Date: 10/7/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Violent earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions are risks we don’t face here in Arizona but we live each day with a certain level of risk from emergencies. Very recent dust storms, flooding, microbursts, hail storms and other weather-related events come easily to mind. But do you know what to do if you were evacuated due to a chemical spill? Do you or your employer have an emergency plan in the event of floods, fires or other emergencies?

On Friday, October 28 at the Central Arizona College Small Business Development Center, Pinal County Emergency Management will host its second annual Emergency Preparedness Fair from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The event is free.

Captain Frank Duarte of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and Captain Robert Lozano from Northwest Fire are slated to give a keynote presentation on the Giffords’ shooting. Captain Duarte was the Incident Commander who coordinated the response to January’s shooting at a public gathering. Captain Lozano was responsible for the fire and ambulance response.

There will be mini workshops on key topics, exhibits and hands-on demonstrations. The day’s sessions are designed to offer something for everyone – whether it's preparing for a fire or flood to working a fire extinguisher or knowing what to do if there is a medical emergency at your work site.

The event is co sponsored by Central Arizona College, the Arizona Small Business Development Center and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Presenters, booths and exhibits will cover a variety of disciplines, including: public health, fire safety, weather safety, care for animals during emergencies, workplace violence, assisting individuals with disabilities, managing information and the media during emergencies and much more.

Presentations are geared to employees, business owners and managers as well as residents who just want a better idea of what to do in an emergency.

Save the date and plan to attend this valuable free fair!

Emergency Preparedness Fair – Friday, October 28
Central Arizona College Small Business Development Center
540 North Camino Mercado
Casa Grande, AZ
8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Flu Season will be soon upon us, Schedule Your Flu Shot Now

System Account — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:44:02 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/20/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Public Health Services District is now accepting appointments for adult flu shots. Please call toll free 1-888-431-1311, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm to schedule your flu shot.

Children can receive a flu shot for FREE without an appointment at their local Pinal County Public Health clinic.

Adult 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.

The viruses in the vaccine change from year to year based on international surveillance and scientists' estimations about which types and strains of viruses will circulate in a given year. For the 2011-2012 flu vaccine, it will protect against 2009 H1N1, and two other influenza viruses (an H3N2 virus and an influenza B virus).

In order to reduce the 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.

To schedule an appointment for your flu shot or for more information on influenza and vaccinations, please call the Pinal County Citizen Contact Center toll free 1-888-431-1311.

Pinal County Recognizes National Preparedness Month with New Website

System Account — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:24:23 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/20/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Trucking is big business here in Arizona and all across the country. Huge eighteen-wheel trailers are continually rolling down our roads, delivering their cargo from Maine to California.

Have you ever wondered what exactly are in those containers? Pinal County’s Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) can help you find out through this website: http://goo.gl/g8Jve (Shortened URL).

The Pinal County LEPC is one of 15 local emergency planning groups in Arizona. They are a group of county employees and community volunteers who work together to identify potential risks that residents face from hazardous chemicals stored in, or transported through Pinal County.

After months of planning and designing, the Pinal County LEPC has developed a helpful website that will provide support to facilities that store and use hazardous chemicals. This site also offers information to the public about their “Right to Know” regarding chemicals within their community. By providing this information, residents will be better prepared to understand, manage, and respond to these potential hazards.

You can find out more about chemical information and your “Right to Know” by clicking on the following link: http://goo.gl/g8Jve (shortened URL).

The launch of this website coincides with National Preparedness Month. Everyone has the “Right to Know” about the potential risks of hazardous chemicals and be prepared to respond to emergencies in the home, at a place of business, and in the community.

Residents are encouraged to visit Pinal County’s LEPC website for information on how to be ready if disaster strikes.

Pinal County Local Emergency Planning Committee: http://goo.gl/NJ4Dz (shortened URL).

Be Ready: http://www.ready.gov/index.html

Roads in Hidden Valley and North of Casa Grande will benefit from Pavement Preservation Projects Beginning Next Week

System Account — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:45:58 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/15/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Pinal County Public Works crews will be placing a final Asphalt Dust Rock Palliative (ADRP) layer on roads in Hidden Valley and north of Casa Grande beginning Monday, September 19. Crews should finish up their work by the end of the week, weather permitting.

The ADRP will lengthen the life of the road and cut down on dust.

The roads to be affected by the pavement preservation project:

Hidden Valley:

Desert Park Lane from Meadowview Road to Carefree Place
Cherry Lane from Meadowview Road to Carefree Place
Primrose Lane from Meadowview Road to Carefree Place
Pepper Place from Meadowview Road to Carefree Place

North Casa Grande Area:

Blanco Road from Val Vista Road to Hopi Drive

Town Hall Schedule Results in Afternoon Start for October 12 Board Meeting

System Account — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:18:55 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/15/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – The October 12 Board of Supervisors’ meeting will begin at 1:00 PM instead of the usual 9:30 AM start. The change in schedule will allow the Supervisors to attend morning sessions at the 24th Annual Pinal County Town Hall on Economic Development.

The Francisco Grande Golf Resort in Casa Grande is the host location for Pinal County’s Annual Town Hall event on October 12 and 13. The theme is “Reactivating the Regional Economy” with keynote speakers including Barry Broome from the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, Don Cardon with the Arizona Commerce Authority and Robert Atkinson from the Information and Technology Foundation based in Washington, DC. Registration is underway now.

Be a part of a dynamic group of business leaders, elected or appointed officials and entrepreneurs who are attending the 24th Pinal County Town Hall. Become a Delegate today and join leaders from across the region who are working to position Pinal County and its businesses to rebound from the economic slump.

For more information, visit www.PinalCountyTownHall.com. You can register online or by mail. Simply click on the registration information on the right side of the Town Hall web page. If you have questions about Town Hall, please contact Pinal County Town Hall’s Executive Director, Brian Tapp at (800)782-1445 or 480-474-9300.

Hidden Valley Community Meeting on Tuesday, September 20th

System Account — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:00:44 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/15/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Pinal County’s Public Works Department is reminding residents that the Hidden Valley community meeting will take place Tuesday, September 20th, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm.

The meeting will be held at the Hidden Valley Public Works Maintenance Facility, 43910 West Meadowview Drive. It is free of charge and open to all Pinal County residents.

The purpose of this community meeting is to give residents a chance to learn more about county services by interacting with staff from Public Works, Planning and Development, and the Sheriff’s Office.

County staff will be on hand to address questions regarding county services and programs; such as, who decides which roads get paved; why there are code requirements for private property; and how you can help make your community safer.

The gathering will be an open house format so residents can arrive any time during the designated hours to visit with county staff.

County residents will be given the opportunity to tour the maintenance facility so they may learn more about the work road crews perform on a daily basis. There will be giveaways along with light refreshments.

More meetings will be scheduled later in the year throughout Pinal County.

For more information contact: Kathy Borquez at (520) 866-6406 or email at kathy.borquez@pinalcountyaz.gov.

####

Would you like to learn more about Pinal County Government? Channel Pinal, the county’s Public, Education and Government channel is on YouTube. Supervisor interviews, video press releases, news maker interviews and more at: http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov. Subscribe and you will be alerted anytime a new video is downloaded onto the YouTube site from Channel Pinal.

Builders, Contractors, Remodelers Invited to Asbestos & Dust Control Seminar

System Account — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 22:55:20 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/14/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Valued for its flame retardancy, structural integrity and insulation properties, asbestos was widely used in construction until the 1980s. It can still be used today in certain applications. The United States has not banned the use of asbestos but its use is limited and special consideration is necessary when working around asbestos. Pinal County will present a seminar on October 14 from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM to explain the federal rules and requirements for working around asbestos.

“People would be surprised at the wide variety of products and materials that contain asbestos,” said Kale Walch from Pinal County’s Air Quality program. “The federal regulations on asbestos presume that any commercial structure may contain the substance. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules require testing to prove that asbestos is not present.”

The EPA rules are administered by Pinal County’s Air Quality program. Prior to remodeling, additions, construction or renovations to existing commercial structures, the structure must be tested for asbestos.

“We’re holding this seminar on October 14 to help educate and inform the contractor, builder, remodeler and building management community,” Walch explained. “We will also cover dust control requirements for a variety of commercial construction projects.”

The October 14 seminar would be ideal for professionals such as:

Facility Managers
Building Owners
Developers
Contractors & Remodelers
Fire Departments
Permitting Agencies

In addition to the local requirements, the seminar will cover the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Registration IS required but attendance is free. The program will be held in the Emergency Operations Center, which is to the right of the main entrance to Building F at 31 North Pinal Avenue. The registration deadline is the Monday prior to the October 14 workshop.

For more information, contact Kale Walch at kale.walch@pinalcountyaz.gov or 520-866-6960.

Pinal County to Hold Meetings for Public Input on Redistricting

System Account — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 20:35:56 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/14/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – On Wednesday, September 7, the Board of Supervisors accepted three proposed redistricting maps for Pinal County to be presented for public comment.

The 2010 Census found that Pinal County’s population is at 375,770. By law, Pinal County will now have to add two new supervisors. The proposed redistricting maps reflect the change by containing five supervisorial districts.

Pinal County Elections department encourages the public’s attendance and involvement during the upcoming redistricting meetings. People who attend the meetings will have an opportunity to provide their input on the proposed district boundaries and ask questions of the elections department.

More information on redistricting and the proposed district maps can be found on Pinal County’s website (shortened url) at: http://goo.gl/623wi. Residents who cannot attend any the meetings can also offer their comments online as well at the same url address.

The redistricting meetings will be:

Casa Grande – Friday, September 16, 6:00 pm at the Casa Grande City Council Chambers, 510 East Florence Boulevard
Apache Junction – Saturday, September 17, 12 noon at the Apache Junction City Council Chambers, 300 East Superstition Boulevard
Maricopa – Monday, September 19, 6:00 pm at the Maricopa Unified School District Office, 44150 West Maricopa/Casa Grande Highway
Florence – Tuesday, September 20, 5:00 pm at the Pinal County Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room, 31 North Pinal Street, Building A
San Tan Valley – Friday, September 23, 6:00 pm at Walker Butte Elementary School, 29697 North Desert Willow Boulevard
Superior – Monday, September 26, 6:00 pm at the Pinal County Justice Court, 60 East Main Street
Eloy – Tuesday, September 27, 6:00 pm at the Eloy City Council Chambers, 628 North Main Street
Saddlebrooke – Thursday, September 29, 2:00 pm at the HOA #1 Club House Coyote Room, 64500 East Saddlebrooke Drive
San Manuel – Thursday, September 29, 6:00 pm at the Pinal County Administration Building, 28230 South Veterans Memorial Boulevard

The public may attend any of these meetings and offer their input on the new redistricting maps. For more information, please call the Pinal County Citizens Help Center at (520) 509-3555.

End of Summer but Not End of Pool Safety Season

System Account — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 17:16:28 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/14/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – The Labor Day holiday typically signals the end of summer, a time to get ready for football, a new television season, report cards and pre-planning for the fall and winter holidays. Summer may be over but swimming pool safety is a year-round priority in Arizona. Longer swimming seasons and the high number of homes with pools are two reasons why the state has a dismally high rate of childhood drownings or near-drownings.

Arizona had 21 child drowning deaths in 2010. So far this year there have been 15 child drowning deaths in the state.

When Pinal County adopted its first building code in 1986, pool safety was not addressed – it was left to state regulations. That changed in 1988 when the first pool safety ordinance was adopted by the Board of Supervisors. Just recently there were two tragic drowning incidents in Pinal County. In the City of Coolidge two children died within six weeks of each other.

“Owning a home or living in a community with a pool or spa means that you should have a heightened level of safety awareness if young children are around,” said Steve Brown, Pinal County Building Safety Director. “Many people are not aware that a perimeter barrier is required for any body of water that is 18 inches or more in depth at any point and intended for recreational swimming or bathing. This means barriers are required for above ground pools, too.”

With the recent increase of above ground pools in unincorporated Pinal County, Brown is reminding residents that pool safety barriers are required.

“Due to the affordability and simple installation of above ground pools, they tend to be the typical pool installed without safety barriers,” Brown said. “Many people are just not aware of the regulations applicable to above ground pools. In order to provide for the safety of our children, the building department will begin taking an aggressive approach to eliminate these safety hazards.”

The good news, Brown said, is that the County requirements allow a variety of barriers. A document explaining the barriers and options is available on the county website. This shortened URL will take you to the document: http://goo.gl/QLdSR.

Pinal County Building Safety is the authority having jurisdiction for all unincorporated areas of Pinal County. The Board of Supervisors has approved intergovernmental agreements with the many of Pinal County’s incorporated communities regarding building safety. The towns of Kearny and Mammoth have adopted the county’s pool barrier requirements.

“We want residents to understand that we are here to help them and provide a service for them, Brown said. “My staff is ready to come out and give an in-home assessment to a homeowner who has a pool or is building one. We’ll do it free of charge. If we can save one life – that would make it well worth our time and effort.”

Incorporated cities and towns have their own permitting and barrier requirements. Before installing or setting up a pool, spa or water feature, be sure to contact the city in which you live or Pinal County’s Building Safety department at 520-866-6405. You can also call that number to schedule a time to have a building safety official come out to your home and assess your pool or spa for safety.

County to Allow Open Burning in Areas with Reduced Wildfire Risk

System Account — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 21:08:15 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/8/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Pinal County Air Quality will resume issuing open burning permits in portions of Pinal County on September 15, 2011. The ban originally went into effect in late April to mitigate the risk of wildfire. Recent rains and higher humidity levels have reduced the fire risk in many areas.

The ban on open burning will remain in effect where local fire departments still regard open fires as a threat, including the Oracle and Dudleyville Fire Districts.

State law prohibits open burning in the portion of north central Pinal County that includes Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Gold Canyon and San Tan Valley. This region, referred to as Area A, is affected by more stringent air quality regulations that prohibit open burning until October 1.

On October 3, 2011 Pinal County Air Quality will also resume holding satellite office hours at the Casa Grande County Complex located at 820 E. Cottonwood Lane, Building A, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:00 AM to noon.

For additional information on open burning or for an application for a burn permit, see the Air Quality Division’s website at http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/AirQuality/Pages/BurnPermits.aspx or call the Pinal County Air Quality Division at 520-866-6929.

650 Fire’s Visible Smoke & What You Should Know

System Account — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 22:08:59 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/2/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Pinal County Emergency Management has been monitoring the lightning-caused 650 Fire burning in the Tonto National Forest. The fire is burning entirely on federal lands and the Tonto National Forest is in charge of fire operations. To date, federal officials have not requested support or aid from Pinal County.

“A few Pinal County residents have called the county to find out more information the fire,” said Lou Miranda with Pinal County Emergency Management. “We continue to monitor the fire and stand ready to assist if needed.”

“Increased particulate matter from the fire and visible smoke will affect air quality,” said Don Gabrielson. “In most cases it is a nuisance but for people with respiratory illness it can be quite serious.”

Gabrielson advises certain steps to prevent outdoor air quality problems from causing problems inside, such as:

Remain indoors as much as possible and reduce outdoor activities, especially activities that require physical exertion such as bike riding, lawn mowing, jogging, etc.,
Reduce any other sources of indoor air pollution by not smoking indoors,
Replacing air filters with a medium- or high-efficiency particle filter, or
Using an electronic air filter or running a humidifier.
Air purifiers that release ozone (ozone generators) should not be used. Ozone is a known lung irritant and can trigger asthma.

Residents who suffer from respiratory conditions affecting lung-function are advised to leave the area and stay with friends or relatives if their condition is aggravated by the fire.

“Any obvious signs of respiratory distress require immediate medical attention,” said Tom Schryer, Pinal County Public Health Director. “Please do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 if emergency help is needed.”

Different Look for Tax Bills in 2011

System Account — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 21:45:09 GMT

Press Release Date: 9/2/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – It’s not everyone’s favorite correspondence to arrive in the mail, but Pinal County’s property tax bill will have a new look to it when it arrives in mid-September.

Instead of the somewhat bulky property tax bill that had been sent out for the last several years, the new notice will be letter sized and have blue highlights.

“The new tax notice is much skinnier,” said Treasurer Dodie Doolittle. “It will come in a regular envelope that will have the words: ‘Real Property Tax Notice Enclosed’ printed on the front.”

The reason for the change was simple – the equipment used to print the larger sized tax bills is no longer operational. Treasurer Doolittle and her staff worked with the printer to come up with a letter-sized document that would include the same information as the older bill.

“We’re pretty happy with the new design,” Doolittle said. “The only real changes the property owner will see are the school primary and secondary tax rates will be further explained on the back page of the notice. The bill will now only have two coupons for payment instead of three. The first coupon can be used for the first half payment or full year payment”

The new bills will be printed and mailed out September 8 and 9. The notice should arrive the following week.

Treasurer Doolittle advised that property owners could receive their tax notices by email if they desire.

“It would save them time and save us money,” Doolittle said. “It’s a very simple thing to do.”

To receive your property tax notice by email, submit a change of address on the Treasurer website www.pinalcountyaz.gov/treasurer or provide an email address on the back of the payment coupon.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How much does Pinal County get out of my tax bill?
A: Did you know that Pinal County taxes make up only 25 to 30 percent of your tax bill? The remainder of your tax bill is made up of taxes assessed by schools districts, Central Arizona College, fire districts and other special taxing districts.

Q: Did the Supervisors raise our tax rate?
A: The Pinal County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to keep the tax rate steady at $3.99 per $100.00 of assessed valuation.

Q: I heard the Assessor will include an affidavit asking if this home is owner occupied or vacant land. Is that true?
A: Not this time. Per a new law passed by the Arizona Legislature, the Assessor’s Office will be sending out an affidavit with assessed valuation notices starting in March 2012. The affidavit will ask if properties are owner occupied. The new law seeks to ensure that all class 3 properties are owner occupied or rented to a qualified family member, as defined by A.R.S. § 42-12053(2. This law goes into effect in 2013.

Q: How can I pay my tax bill?
A: Tax Payments will be accepted in the form of cash, check, money order, cashier's check, e-mail, or electronic wire transfers. Please contact the Pinal County Treasurer at (520) 866-6425 for wire instructions.

Q: How much of my tax bill goes to state cost shifts?
A: Out of the $3.99 tax rate, nearly .24 cents goes to fund those cost shifts.

As East Battens Down for Hurricane Irene, Pinal Plans Flood Elevation Certificate Workshop

System Account — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 23:34:12 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/26/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – In the coming days, homeowners are likely to learn the limits of their property insurance protection. The only protection from flood-related water damage is a flood insurance policy. Flooding risk is significant in portions of Pinal County but even properties that are not in a designated flood zone are only protected if they have flood insurance.

On September 7, 2011 from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, the Arizona Department of Water Resources and Pinal County will host a workshop on FEMA Elevation Certificates. The workshop’s content is geared to:

Private and public engineers
Floodplain administrators
Land surveyors
Building, planning and public works staff
Builders and developers or
Government workers who deal with development

Registration IS required but attendance is free. The program will be held in the Emergency Operations Center, which is to the right of the main entrance to Building F at 31 North Pinal Avenue. The registration deadline is Friday, September 2, 2011.

For more information, contact Brian Cosson at ADWR at 602-771-8657 or btcossan@azwater.gov or Chris Wanamaker at Pinal County’s Flood Control Section at 520-866-6010 or Christopher.wanamaker@pinalcountyaz.gov.

Pertussis on the Rise, Booster Vaccine Needed for People in Contact with Youth

System Account — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 23:28:34 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/26/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – So far for this calendar year, Pinal County health officials have investigated 66 reports of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough. The infection is on the rise nationwide, prompting new guidance from state and federal health officials.

For all of 2010, Pinal County investigated 48 reports of pertussis. In 2009, there were just 12 reports countywide. Highly contagious, pertussis is a serious illness for children causing chronic coughing that leads some to gasp for air with a ‘whooping’ sound, hence the name ‘whooping cough.’

“Adults get a milder form of infection than young children. Adults typically have a lingering, persistent cough that is often mistaken for a common cold or flu,” said Pinal County’s Epidemiologist Graham Briggs. “Because they don’t realize that they have a highly contagious disease, they can pass it to young family members or other children they encounter. Pertussis can be fatal, particularly in infants.”

One of the common immunizations for children is the TDaP (also DTaP) injection, which gets its name from protecting against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. Over time the protection against pertussis starts to diminish. Health experts recommend that all adults in contact with young children receive the booster shot.

The Pinal County Board of Supervisors recently approved making the booster shot available to adults at Pinal County’s Public Health Clinics. The charge for the adult booster shot is $40. Compared with the cost of medication, possible hospitalization and lost days at work, the fee is a small price to pay to protect public health and young family members.

Symptoms begin like a cold with coughing and a runny nose. Over time, severe coughing spasms develop that can last for months. Some patients with pertussis experience vomiting after violent coughing spasms.

Briggs and his counterparts in Pinal County’s Public Health District track infectious disease, making contact with each person exposed to the infected party to contain the spread. One case of pertussis can result in numerous phone calls and follow ups to determine if exposed individuals develop symptoms of disease. Health care providers are required to notify Pinal County Public Health when pertussis, measles, mumps, meningitis and other diseases are suspected.

“A pertussis case in a school or daycare environment can be especially troubling,” Briggs said. “Arizona’s Administrative Code mandates that a child with pertussis be excluded from school for 21 days following the onset of the cough or for five days after starting antibiotic treatment.” (AAC R9-6-356)

Statewide data shows that the number of pertussis reports is almost twice the number investigated last year – 454 versus 233. The last major statewide pertussis outbreak was in 2005 when nearly 1,000 were reported.

###

Resources for more information:

Arizona Department of Health Services
 Statistics on Infectious Disease http://www.azdhs.gov/phs/oids/data/current.htm
 Pertussis Information http://www.azdhs.gov/phs/oids/epi/disease/pert/index.htm

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is an excellent resource for additional information about pertussis and its complications. http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/

Supervisor David Snider will be in Maricopa on September 6

System Account — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 22:15:45 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/23/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Supervisor David Snider will be holding his monthly office hours in Maricopa on Tuesday, September 6.

“There are some very exciting prospects for developments with the prospect for job growth in Pinal County,” Supervisor Snider said. “The recent announcement of an innovative project called ‘Phoenix Mart’ will provide thousands jobs for our area. If we are to get out of this recession we will do it by job growth.”

Supervisor Snider will be at the Interim Maricopa City Hall, 45145 West Madison Avenue, from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm. To set a specific appointment with Supervisor Snider during his office hours in Maricopa, please contact his executive assistant, Wanda Kartchner, at 520-866-7401 or 520-836-0003 – otherwise it is first come, first served.

“I, along with my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors, had a chance to sit down and discuss several issues with District 1 Congressman Paul Gosar,” Supervisor Snider added. “The recent meeting was productive as well as informative. I think we were able to convey many of the issues that need attention for the people of Pinal County.”

Supervisor Snider also invites residents to an upcoming community meeting at the Pinal County Public Works Maintenance Facility in Hidden Valley. The meeting will give citizens the chance to ask questions of Planning and Zoning Department along with the Public Works Department and the Sheriff’s Office. The community meeting will be on Tuesday, September 20, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The meeting is an open house format so residents can show up any time during the designated hours.

The event will take place at the Hidden Valley Public Works Maintenance Facility,
43910 West Meadowview Road.

“I invite anyone in this area who has questions on items like the Phoenix Mart project, our meeting with Congressman Gosar or anything to do with county operations to meet with me during my Maricopa office hours,” Supervisor Snider said. “I also encourage people to take part in our community meeting in Hidden Valley. It will give people the chance to learn more about Pinal County Government and the services we provide.”

Mosquito Fogging set for Coolidge and Casa Grande

System Account — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 22:02:13 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/23/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Pinal County Environmental Health Services announced today that adult mosquito fogging will be conducted west of Coolidge and south of Casa Grande, beginning Thursday, August 25 through Friday, August 26. Mosquitoes trapped during routine surveillance for West Nile virus tested positive, resulting in the need to fog the area to reduce transmission of the disease to humans.

So far this year, there have been no reported human cases of West Nile virus in Pinal County.

08/25/2011 - 08/26/2011 in the CITY OF COOLIDGE - Area encompasses Woodruff Road to the north, Toltec Buttes Road to the east, Randolph Road to the south and Overfield Road to the west between the hours of 1:00AM and 5:00AM.

08/25/2011 - 08/26/2011 in the CITY OF CASA GRANDE - Area encompasses Earley Road to the north, Henness Road alignment to the east, Highway 84/Jimmie Kerr Boulevard to the south, and Peart Road to the west between the hours of 1:00AM and 5:00AM.

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 US Environmental Protection Agency and is effective against the 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.

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-tighting 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.

What Are the Symptoms of West Nile?
No Symptoms in Most People. Approximately, 80 percent of people (about 4 out of 5) who are infected with West Nile will not show any symptoms at all.

Milder Symptoms in Some People. Up to 20 percent of the people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for as short as a few days, though even healthy people have become sick for several weeks.

Serious Symptoms in a Few People. About one in 150 people infected with West Nile will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

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.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/EnvironmentalHealth/Pages/Home.aspx.

###

Would you like to learn more about Pinal County Government? Channel Pinal, the county’s Public, Education and Government channel is on YouTube. Supervisor interviews, video press releases, news maker interviews and more at: http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov. Subscribe and you will be alerted anytime a new video is downloaded onto the YouTube site from Channel Pinal.

Storm Damage Assessments, Road Closures & Recovery Efforts Underway (Aug 22)

System Account — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 21:39:19 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/22/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Recovery from last Thursday’s monsoon storms is underway throughout Pinal County. We are working to ensure that updated information is made available as soon as possible.

If you see crews working to clear roadways, please slow down and pass with caution.

Closures as of 9 AM, Monday, August 22:

San Manuel Area
River Road is closed at the San Pedro River crossing

Mammoth Area
Copper Creek Road is closed at the San Pedro River crossing

Red Rock Area
Sasco Road from Hollis Road west to the Pima County line is closed due to wash out at the Santa Cruz River crossing.

Openings as of 9:00 AM Monday, August 22

Arizona City
Sunland Gin Road from Harmon Road to Pretzer Road
Harmon Road from Toltec Highway to Estrella Road

Eloy Area
Houser Road from Highway 87 to La Palma Road
Shedd Road from Highway 87 to La Palma Road
La Palma Road from Shedd Road north to Arica Road

San Tan Valley
Hunt Highway from Thistle Trail to Johnson Ranch Boulevard reopened over the weekend

How you can help your Public Works staff
Pinal County Public Works is asking residents to contact us at (520) 866-6411 or email us at pcroadmaintenance@pinalcountyaz.gov if there is any debris on county roads or if road repairs are needed.

NOTE: For neighborhood roads within master planned communities, please contact your homeowner’s association. If you live in a municipality, please contact your city to report street and road problems.

Please provide the following information:

Name of road
Between what cross streets (example: Thistle Road to Johnson Ranch Boulevard)
Specifics about the problem (debris in road, tree limbs in road, road flooded or washed out, signs down, traffic signal not functioning, etc.)
Your name
A phone number to contact you if we need further information

We appreciate your assistance in alerting us to road hazards that would affect the traveling public.

Website Enhancement: Visual Maps Show Road Projects & Closures

System Account — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 16:47:41 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/22/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – The Pinal County Public Works Department has added a new feature to its the Transportation Construction projects page. Transportation projects and road closures can now be viewed on a Google Map.

“Transportation Improvements” noted on the map are projects that are planned or currently under construction in the Board of Supervisors approved Transportation Improvement and Maintenance Program (TIMP).

“Road/Lane Closures” on Pinal County maintained roads are posted on the current year map. Pinal County Public Works also provides updates on these road closures on the Road Closure Hot Line, Nixle, and through online News Releases.

The details of each posted project or road closure can be viewed by clicking on the project icon on the map. Updates are made as the project status changes and roads are closed or re-opened.

Nixle is an online community information service that helps you stay connected to current information from your local police department, schools, community agencies and organizations, and important information from other relevant locations. There are four types of messages: Alerts (emergency type alerts), Advisories (less urgent need-to-know information), Community information (day-to-day community-level information) and Traffic (very localized traffic information). This information can be sent to your phone or via email. For more information on how to sign up for Nixle updates, go to: http://local.nixle.com/county/az/pinal/

Pinal County Public Works encourages you to use the valuable resources on the website to stay informed of changes within the county that could affect you or your travel plans.

Pinal County Public Works Road Closure Hot Line (520) 866-6078

15 Years in a Row: County Finance Department gets International Accolades for Excellence in Financial Reporting

System Account — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 18:21:04 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/19/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Demonstrating a ‘spirit of full disclosure,’ the Government Finance Officers Association once again awarded Pinal County with its Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.

This is the 15th year in a row that the Pinal County Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) has achieved this high honor. An electronic version of the report is posted on the county’s website each year at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/Finance/Pages/CAFR.aspx.

The Government Finance Officers Association, a non-profit professional association of government finance professionals, awards the certificate to recognize excellence in government accounting and financial reporting.

“Being recognized nationally for our annual financial report for 15 straight years is amazing,” said Board of Supervisors’ Chairman Pete Rios. “Our dedicated, professional staff of our finance department work hard day-in and day-out to make sure our accounting, purchasing and reporting processes meet or exceed standards for government accounting. I salute our Finance Director, Victoria Prins, and her staff for this recognition.”

Arizona City Community Meeting on Tuesday, August 30th

System Account — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 18:16:20 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/19/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Pinal County’s Public Works Department would like to remind residents that the Arizona City community meeting will take place Tuesday, August 30th, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm.

The meeting will be held at the Arizona City Public Works Maintenance Facility, 7945 West Battaglia Drive. It is free of charge and open to all Pinal County residents.

The purpose of this community meeting is to give residents a chance to learn more about county services by interacting with staff from Public Works, Planning and Development, and the Sheriff’s Office.

County staff will be on hand to address questions regarding county services and programs; such as, who decides which roads get paved; why there are code requirements for private property; and how you can help make your community safer.

The gathering will be an open house format so residents can arrive any time during the designated hours to visit with county staff.

County residents will be given the opportunity to tour the maintenance facility so they may learn more about the work road crews perform on a daily basis. There will be giveaways along with light refreshments.

The next community meeting will take place in Hidden Valley on Tuesday, September 20th. More meetings will be scheduled later in the year throughout Pinal County.

For more information contact: Kathy Borquez at (520) 866-6406 or email at kathy.borquez@pinalcountyaz.gov.

####

Would you like to learn more about Pinal County Government? Channel Pinal, the county’s Public, Education and Government channel is on YouTube. Supervisor interviews, video press releases, news maker interviews and more at: http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov. Subscribe and you will be alerted anytime a new video is downloaded onto the YouTube site from Channel Pinal.

ROAD CLOSURE ALERT! Downed Power Lines Force Closure of Sunland Gin Road

System Account — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 01:51:33 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/18/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Pinal County Public Works has closed Sunland Gin Road from Harmon Road south to Pretzer Road due to downed power lines from a monsoon storm.

This road closure is south of the town of Arizona City and west of Interstate 10.

Public Works crews speculate that the road will be closed overnight until SRP crews can take care of the downed power lines.

The public is asked to avoid the area and drive with caution.

West Nile Positives Sharply Down from Prior Years, Threat Still Exists

System Account — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:45:46 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/12/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – We swat, put on repellant, wear long-sleeved clothing and yet we still seem to get bitten. Its monsoon season in Arizona and yes, that means mosquitoes are included in the deal.

“Actually, we have mosquitoes throughout the entire year,” said Tami Schuler, Pinal County Environmental Health Specialist. “But it seems that mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus are more active during the monsoon season.”

In an attempt to control West Nile, Schuler and her co-worker Garry Bouquot set up traps in many ‘hot spots’ where mosquitoes seem congregate. The pair collects the traps, bring the captured mosquitoes into a small lab at the county complex in Florence and test for the dreaded virus. If a site does come back with mosquitoes carrying West Nile, a fogging is scheduled.

“Fogging is only done in an effort to decrease the chance of West Nile virus in humans,” Schuler said. “It is our goal not to rely on fogging as an answer to controlling mosquitoes. The real work is done when residents help us reduce the places where mosquitoes breed.”

“I think the county has done a good job of informing people how to look for trouble areas like green pools, birdbaths, pet water dishes and water in old tires. The residents have taken those suggestions to heart.”

As of July this year the drop in West Nile virus positives is staggering.

“At the end of the first half of 2010, we had 28 positives,” Schuler pointed out. “In that same period this year we’ve only seen four.”

That is a 90 percent drop from 2010. Schuler said the extremely dry conditions could play a factor in the low positive count.

The type of mosquito most likely to carry West Nile virus is one that favors breeding in ‘permanent water.’ Actually, these mosquitoes are here throughout the year and are mostly active from March to November. They are usually found around ponds, green swimming pools and other areas that hold water for a long period of time.

There are also the garden variety ‘nuisance’ mosquitoes (aren’t all of them a nuisance?). These are mosquitoes that appear a couple of days after a significant rainfall. This type of mosquito is rarely infected with West Nile, thus not considered a public health threat. They are active during the daytime, while the permanent water mosquito is active from dusk to dawn.

The best bet to protect yourself from contracting West Nile is to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants while outside. Limit outdoor activities from dusk to dawn while the permanent water mosquitoes are most active. When you do go outside properly apply a mosquito repellant containing 23 to 30 percent DEET or any percentage of Picaridin. Oil of lemon eucalyptus, PMD and IR 3535 are effective as well.

“Vigilance is the key,” Schuler said. “If you take a little extra time to protect yourself, then you lower the odds of getting bitten. That’s time well-spent.”

Chairman Rios Orders Pinal County Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff Following Afghanistan Helicopter Crash

System Account — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:07:36 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/9/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Board of Supervisors Chairman Pete Rios has ordered all Pinal County office flags to be flown at half-staff following Saturday’s downing of a U.S. Military helicopter in Afghanistan.

“I know this was the right thing to do,” Chairman Rios said. “We lost 30 of our military members at the hands of Afghan insurgents and it’s only proper that we honor their sacrifice. Our condolences go out to the families affected by this tragedy.”

County flags will be flown at half-staff beginning on Tuesday and will continue for the rest of the week.

First Global Product Sourcing Center Chooses Casa Grande, Pinal County

System Account — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 20:58:58 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/8/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – AzSourcing and its affiliates have selected Casa Grande in Pinal County to build the nation’s first global product sourcing center.

“In the very near future, people seeking to stock gift stores, select merchandise for resale or furnish hotels and restaurants will be able to do so with one stop to the Phoenix Mart in Casa Grande,” said Pinal County Supervisor David Snider who has worked with project participants for two years to bring the project to Arizona.

“The Phoenix Mart will participate in the U.S. Customs & Immigration Service’s EB-5 program which offers incentives for job creation and investment in areas of high unemployment,” Snider explained. “Phoenix must generate at least 3,000 permanent full-time jobs for U.S. citizens.”

The 1.5 million square foot project will enable small and mid-sized businesses to wholesale their products globally with e-commerce and catalog support. They will also welcome retail shoppers to the project. Phoenix Mart will feature six product areas, with vendors categorized by merchandise type: Women’s, Men’s, Youth, Auto, Home & Hotel and Food.

A convention center is also envisioned for the site, which is two miles east of I-10 and 1.5 miles from the Promenade Mall.

“This project will not only generate thousands of new jobs in Casa Grande, but will also provide international exposure to our city and county,” Casa Grande Mayor Bob Jackson said.

A study by Evans, Carroll & Associates shows that Phoenix Mart is expected to create more than 7,000 direct and indirect jobs and more than $150 million in capital investment. Neither the city nor the county provided incentives to lure the project.

Pinal County Board Chairman Pete Rios said that the project will bring benefits to Pinal County in terms of global tourism and commerce. “People don’t realize some of Pinal County’s strategic assets – this project will take advantage of the Union Pacific Railroad, as well as two major Interstates – 10 and 8,” Rios said.

“Pinal County is serious about economic development and global opportunities,” Supervisor Bryan Martyn said. “There are many exciting things on the horizon for Pinal County and this project will be a first for America and a first for Arizona, putting Pinal County front and center in people’s minds. Pinal County will be the heart of the Sun Corridor where the majority of the state’s growth will occur.”

“Pinal County has fertile ground to stage an economic recovery and I am pleased to see that Az Sourcing and Phoenix Mart will play a role in that recovery,” Supervisor Snider said.

To learn more about Phoenix Mart, watch the videos at:

Press Conference at Casa Grande City Hall (video courtesy of the City of Casa Grande)
http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov#p/a/u/1/wdZvlajmKdg
Interview with Supervisor David Snider
http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov#p/a/u/0/wuiAllSewec
Additional details about AZ Sourcing and Phoenix Mart can be found at www.azsourcing.com and www.phoenixmart.com.

Mosquito Fogging set for Maricopa and San Tan Valley

System Account — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 22:45:18 GMT

Press Release Date: 8/2/2011

Body:

So far this year, there has not been a reported human case of West Nile virus in Pinal County.

08/02/2011 – 08/03/2011 in SAN TAN VALLEY – Area encompasses Bella Vista to the north, Union Pacific Railroad Tracks to the east, Omega Drive to the south and Gantzel Road to the west between the hours of 11:00 pm to Midnight.

08/03/2011 – 08/04/2011 in the CITY OF MARICOPA – Area encompasses: John Wayne Parkway to the east, Sage Brush Drive to the south, Green Road to the west and McDavid Road to the north between the hours of 1:00 am to 5:00 am.

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 US Environmental Protection Agency and is effective against the 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.

• 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-tighting 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.

What Are the Symptoms of West Nile?
No Symptoms in Most People. Approximately, 80 percent of people (about 4 out of 5) who are infected with West Nile will not show any symptoms at all.

Milder Symptoms in Some People. Up to 20 percent of the people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for as short as a few days, though even healthy people have become sick for several weeks.

Serious Symptoms in a Few People. About one in 150 people infected with West Nile will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

###

County Public Health Earns National Emergency Preparedness Recognition

System Account — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 21:59:17 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/28/2011

Body:

Pinal County Public Health is Honored as "Public Health Ready"

FLORENCE, AZ – Local health departments nationwide strive to protect the public from new and infectious diseases, bioterrorism, natural disasters and other public health threats. The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) just recognized the Pinal County Public Health Services District for its ability to respond to public health emergencies.

Pinal County Public Health met the comprehensive preparedness benchmarks required by Project Public Health Ready, a unique partnership between NACCHO and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“This recognition puts Pinal County Public Health among the top public health departments in the nation,” Pinal County Public Health Director Tom Schryer said. “Out of 2001 health departments, only 198 have the Project Public Health Ready designation. The Board of Supervisors is to be commended for supporting a robust readiness program and allowing us to attract and retain a well-trained workforce that is prepared to respond to emergencies.”

“NACCHO commends Pinal County Public Health for being a model of public health emergency preparedness,” said Robert Pestronk, Executive Director of NACCHO. “The public health system is making great strides thanks to the good work of leaders in local public health preparedness such as Pinal County Public Health.”

Local health departments recognized by Project Public Health Ready undergo a thorough peer-review evaluation process. Project Public Health Ready required Pinal County Public Health to meet expectations in public health preparedness in three key areas: preparedness planning; workforce competency; and demonstration of all-hazards readiness through exercises or a response to a real event.

The recognition confirms that Pinal County Public Health has an emergency response plan in place, the plan is connected to other jurisdictional emergency response plans, agency staff members are trained and the plan is exercised and used during public health emergencies. The peer-review also examines the interconnected relationships between Pinal County Public Health and Emergency Management, the Sheriff’s Office, Environmental Health, hospitals, medical care providers, schools and other entities that may activate in an emergency.

Board Chairman Pete Rios and Supervisors David Snider and Bryan Martyn congratulated the staff at the July 27 board meeting. They also commended Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu and Lou Miranda, Pinal County’s Emergency Manager, for the teamwork that made it possible to achieve national recognition.

For more information on all Project Public Health Ready recognized sites, visit http://www.naccho.org/topics/emergency/pphr.cfm.

Pinal County Public Health clinics offer: reproductive health exams, PAP/well-woman health examinations (including cervical cancer screening and breast exams), free childhood immunizations, nutritional counseling and other services geared toward healthy living. To learn more, go to http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/PublicHealth. Public Health also conducts disease surveillance and investigation of outbreaks of communicable disease, including sexually transmitted diseases.

Free Back-to-School Immunizations

System Account — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 21:53:58 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/28/2011

Body:

FLORENCE, AZ – Each year, thousands of children become ill from diseases that could have been prevented by basic childhood immunizations. Countless more miss time from day care and school because they are under-immunized or inappropriately immunized.

Pinal County Public Health Services District will be hosting Free Back-to-School Immunization walk-in Clinics on the following days in July and August:

Kearny – 355 Alden Road – Wednesdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Oracle – 1870 West American Avenue – Wednesday, August 10th and 2nd Friday of the month 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Mammoth – 110 Main Street – Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Superior – 60 East Main Street – 3rd Thursday of the month 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Apache Junction - 575 North Idaho Street, Suite 301 – Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Coolidge – 119 West Central – Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Casa Grande – 820 East Cottonwood Lane, Building E – Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Stanfield – 36711 West Papago Drive – The 2nd Wednesday of the month 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Maricopa – Mobile Health Clinic at 44625 West Garvey Avenue – Wednesdays 9:00 am to 3:30 pm

Required school immunizations are provided at no cost to you. We ask that you bring your child or childrens’ immunization records with you. There will be no questions regarding residency status as proof of residency is not required. The goal is to vaccinate every child to prevent childhood diseases.

Please do not miss this opportunity to have your children vaccinated before school starts!

“A fully vaccinated child is protected against 14 serious and sometimes deadly diseases,” said Tom Schryer, Pinal County Public Health Director. “These are diseases that are completely preventable with immunizations. We are urging all Pinal County families to ensure that their children are up-to-date on immunizations. Shots are free for children 18 and under.”

If you are unable to attend any of these events, please call 1-866-960-0633 to find a public health clinic near you to ensure that your child receives the proper immunizations before school begins.

(Proposed Sidebar)

Facts about childhood immunizations:

• Pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes - Title 15 Education - Section 15-872, a child shall not be allowed to attend school without submitting documentary proof of immunizations to the school administrator unless the child is exempted from immunization.

• Infants are the most vulnerable population when it comes to infectious diseases. It is critical to protect them through proper immunization.

• Vaccinations are cost effective. Did you know that for every dollar spent on vaccinating a child, there will be a direct savings of $6.30 in medical costs? If you factor in the indirect savings (time lost from work due to sickness or disability) that figure jumps to $18.49 per every dollar spent on vaccinations.

• A high vaccination rate among children reduces the chance of an epidemic, thus playing a critical role in safeguarding public health not only on a local level but globally as well.

• In a study presented to the Pediatric Academic Societies Conference, immunizations prevent 10.5 million cases of infectious illness and 33,000 deaths in the United States.

• Childhood immunizations have wiped out Small Pox, Diphtheria and Polio in the United States. There have been dramatic decreases in measles, mumps and rubella. It is important that parents have their children immunized to prevent a resurgence of wiped out diseases.

• Pinal County Public Health and other healthcare providers are an excellent source for understanding what immunizations a child needs for school entry.

• Vaccine safety is at an all-time high. Vaccines are rigorously tested before placed on the open market. Several agencies, including the CDC and Pinal County Public Health monitor the safety of vaccines.

• It is important that healthcare providers and parents share the responsibility for making sure a child is fully immunized by the age of two.

Learn More about County Services at Community Meetings

System Account — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 17:37:12 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/20/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Who decides which roads get paved? Why are there codes for private property? How can I help make my community safer?

Those questions and more will be answered at three Pinal County community meetings being held in each supervisorial district. The purpose of these community meetings is to give residents a chance to learn more about county services by interacting with staff from Public Works, Planning and Development and the Sheriff’s Office.

The meetings will be held between the hours of 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm. Each gathering will be an open house format so residents can arrive any time during the designated hours to meet with county staff.

All three meetings will be held in the district’s public works maintenance facility. This will allow residents to tour the building so they may learn more about the work road crews perform on a daily basis.

The community meetings will take place at the following locations:

• Tuesday, July 26, San Tan Valley Public Works Maintenance Facility
   3535 East Hunt Highway from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
• Tuesday, August 30, Arizona City Public Works Maintenance Facility
   7945 West Battaglia Road from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
• Tuesday, September 20, Hidden Valley Public Works Maintenance Facility
   43910 West Meadowview Road from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm

There will be giveaways along with light refreshments. For more information contact: Kathy Borquez at (520) 866-6406 or email at: kathy.borquez@pinalcountyaz.gov.

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Would you like to learn more about Pinal County Government? Channel Pinal, the county’s Public, Education and Government channel is on YouTube. Supervisor interviews, video press releases, news maker interviews and more at: http://www.youtube.com/user/PinalCountyAzGov. Subscribe and you will be alerted anytime a new video is downloaded onto the YouTube site from Channel Pinal.

Travelers to Benefit from Roadway Improvements on Sunland Gin Road

System Account — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:26:34 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/6/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Public Works Department has contracted with Cactus Asphalt to make roadway improvements to Sunland Gin Road from Baumgartner Road to Greene Reservoir Wash Bridge in the Eloy area over the summer months. Improvements will include widening and a new structural section of the road as well as guardrail installation. Work will begin July 7, 2011 and should be completed by September 30, 2011, weather permitting. Construction will take place Monday through Friday from the early hours of the morning to about 5 p.m.

This project is funded by the half-cent sales tax.

Local detours and traffic controls will be in place. There will not be any complete closures but drivers should expect traffic delays. Drivers are urged to obey the speed limit and all posted signs and barricades while traveling through this construction zone.

Pinal County and Cactus Asphalt appreciate your patience and understanding as they work to improve this section of Sunland Gin Road.

For more information, please contact:

Pinal County Public Works
(520) 866-6411
Or email: PCRoadMaintenance@pinalcountyaz.gov

Pinal County’s website features a host of information pertaining to county services, tourism, road projects, public health and much more. Explore www.pinalcountyaz.gov and discover Pinal County’s wide open opportunity.

Dudleyville Area Youth Summer Reading Program Ends with a Blast

System Account — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:25:27 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/1/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – The Dudleyville Volunteer Fire Department came out to celebrate the summer reading program’s success on the closing day. Firefighters showed the group of eastern Pinal County residents their shiny fire apparatus, answered questions and then the real fun began with a splash and blast from the fire hose. About 13 young readers ages 4 to 13 participated in this summer’s free reading program.

“We are so grateful to the Dudleyville Volunteer Fire Department for celebrating with us. Studies show that enthusiasm for reading leads to academic and professional success. We appreciate how the firefighters contributed to the fun celebration at the end of the program,” said Shirley Condit from the Pinal County Library District.

“Olivia Morales is another person who has contributed her enthusiasm and commitment to this program,” Condit said. “Olivia has been co-hosting this program for more than a decade. She’s been so valuable and such an important part of these young peoples’ lives.”

The theme this year was “One World, Many Stories.” Condit said that the participating children got a flavor for global cultures and creatures and enjoyed an introduction to geography through the reading program. Featured selections included:

Knuffle Bunny Free: An Unexpected Diversion by Mo Willems
Altoona Baboona by Janie Bynum
Everywhere the Cow Says ‘Moo’ by Ellen Slusky Weinstein
Elephants Cannot Dance by Mo Willems

“The children were especially enchanted with the selections this year. When we had story time with the Mo Willems books, everybody joined in with the ‘elephant stomp,’” Condit said. “These were enthusiastic kids who loved to take part in the storytelling.”

Participants met on consecutive Wednesdays at the Dudleyville Multi-Generational Center at Lionel D. Ruiz Park.

Road Closures River Road, Copper Creek Road

System Account — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 17:45:10 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/5/2011

Body:

As of July 4th 11:00 PM, the following road closures are in effect:

River Road
Closed at the San Pedro river crossing.

Copper Creek Road
Closed at the San Pedro river crossing.

Chairman Pete Rios Gets Update on Copper Creek and Aravaipa Fires

System Account — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 16:02:55 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/5/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Pinal County Board of Supervisors Chairman Pete Rios paid a visit to San Manuel Airport to meet with forest service crews fighting the Copper Creek and Aravaipa fires.

The Chairman arrived at the airport on Thursday afternoon since it is used as the staging area to shuttle crews in and out of the fire lines.

“I’m pleased that our airport can offer the forest service the amenities they need to battle these blazes,” Chairman Rios said. “The crews gave me a full update on the status of the Copper Creek and Aravaipa fires. They are confident both have been fully contained. Considering where the fires are located, that is very good news.”

Pinal County owns and administers the San Manuel Airport.

According to Ted Risch, the Supervisor of the National Forest Service Helicopter Crew, San Manuel Airport is a good place to use as a base when a fire breaks out in the Galiuro Mountains or the north side of the Catalina Mountains.

“We have used this airport as a base of operations quite a bit in the past few years,” Risch said. “It helped out in our fight against the Aspen Fire in 2003 and other blazes that have broken out in the area. We like it because it there is no dust to be stirred up when we take off and land.”

Risch said that the crew stationed in San Manuel has been on numerous fires in the past month.

“We just got off the Monument Fire in Sierra Vista,” Risch said. “We’ve also been called into fight the Horseshoe 2 and Murphy Fires as well. We’ve been busy.”

Due to the rugged terrain and lack of accessibility to the site of the fires, the National Forest Service is using a Eurostar helicopter to shuttle crews in and out of the site.

The Eurostar helicopter that is based at the airport is on temporary assignment to the National Forest Service in Southern Arizona. The helicopter and crews move around the western United States depending on where they are needed.

“We have this helicopter in the area from April 22 until July 10 and then it will move to another location for their fire season,” Risch said. “We’re just like a little army – we’ll go where we are needed.”

Chairman Rios thanked the crews for their hard work and efforts over the past week to help battle the Copper Creek and Aravaipa fires.

“I have offered this crew any assistance Pinal County can provide,” Chairman Rios said. “This is a hard job for everyone. The crews battle the fire and the Arizona heat. That is the definition of a tough job.”

Chairman Rios talks with Ted Risch of the National Forest Service on the status of the Copper Creek fire.

Chairman Rios shakes the hand of Chuck Turner after a tour of the Eurostar helicopter being used by fire crews battling the Copper Creek fire.

Animal Care and Control Seize 17 Pit Bulls from Arizona City Home

System Account — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 22:46:09 GMT

Press Release Date: 7/1/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – On Thursday evening, Pinal County Animal Care and Control officers seized 17 pit bulls from an Arizona City home.

Pinal County Sheriff Deputies responded to a call of neglected and abandoned animals in a home on South Laredo Road. Upon arriving on the scene, deputies found two pit bulls tied to very short chains and tangled together in the front yard of the home. There was no water available for the dogs.

Animal Control officers were called to the scene. While preparing a search warrant for the home, the owner of animals arrived to the residence and gave consent for officers to search the property. Officers found 15 more pit bulls behind the home; some appeared to be in poor health. The animals were removed from the property and taken the Pinal County Animal Care and Control kennel at Eleven Mile Corner.

At the present time, the dogs will be held as evidence in an investigation led by Animal Care and Control, since the owner has refused to surrender the dogs to Animal Care and Control staff. The case will be submitted to the County Attorney’s Office once the investigation is completed.

In the past two weeks Animal Care and Control officers have confiscated nearly 90 animals due to hoarding or poor living conditions.

Animal Care & Control Director Kaye Dickson said her department will welcome all monetary donations to help offset the costs of caring for the animals from the recent hoarding cases. Donations can be mailed to:

Pinal County Animal Care & Control
P.O. Box 3061 RS
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Note: To adopt a cat or dog from the shelter, you can go to the main kennel site located at 1150 South Eleven Mile Corner Road (just south of the Pinal County Fairgrounds) from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.

Board Adopts 2011-12 Budget of $357 Million, Streamlines Operations

System Account — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:28:51 GMT

Press Release Date: 6/30/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Board of Supervisors has approved the final budget for fiscal year 2011-12, adopting a spending ceiling of $357 million. This is 17 percent lower than the authorized budget ceiling of $429.8 million for the fiscal year ending today.

The reduction came as a result of budget cuts from each of Pinal County’s elected officials and county departments, County Manager Fritz Behring said. A large portion of the reduction is the result of the state privatizing the long-term care program. Behring said that all departments and elected officials shared in making strategic business decisions to reduce spending, eliminate certain programs and streamline operations.

The Board of Supervisors began the budget process with a bipartisan agreement that they would not increase the property tax rate. The average property valuation in Pinal is decreasing by about 16 percent, which means that nearly all county residents will experience a decrease in the amount of tax they pay to support county services. Only about 28 to 31 cents of each tax dollar is used for county services. The remaining portion goes to schools, special districts and municipalities.

“I would like to go back to one of my original statements when we started this process,” Chairman Pete Rios said. “If the State Legislature left us alone we would be doing pretty well. They didn't. The cost shifts, revenue cuts and the assumption of additional costs meant we were impacted by eight million dollars,” Chairman Rios explained. “What matters now, is that we are striving to achieve a balanced budget.”

“We clearly demonstrated we can cross party lines for the good of Pinal County,” Supervisor Bryan Martyn said. “This is going to be an ongoing process. Tomorrow we begin to look at next year's budget. We are moving forward.”

“The annual budget is the most important document for any government organization,” Supervisor David Snider said. “There are a lot of moving pieces to Arizona's economy and Pinal County's economy. Basically, it is tough all over. I'm convinced the way we find our way out of these economic doldrums is by finding new manufacturing jobs for Pinal County. We need to find companies that will export our goods and bring in new jobs. I am convinced our Board of Supervisors is committed to that goal.”

More detailed information, including presentations and summaries can be found on Pinal County’s website at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/BudgetOffice/Pages/Home.aspx.

Intersection of Sunland Gin Road & Arica Road to be Repaired

System Account — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:08:33 GMT

Press Release Date: 6/30/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – The Pinal County Public Works Department will be performing maintenance on the Sunland Gin Road and Arica Road intersection in the Eloy area on July 12, 2011 between the hours of 4:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Roadway maintenance will consist of the removal of a failed culvert and the examination of an existing water line, with repairs as necessary.

The road crew will also examine and replace the base material as needed while repairing the failed structural section. This work will be done through the cooperative efforts of Pinal County and the City of Eloy.

Local detours and traffic controls will be in place. Drivers should expect traffic delays and are encouraged to avoid the area by choosing an alternate route. Drivers are urged to obey the speed limit and all posted signs and barricades while traveling through this construction zone.

Pinal County and the City of Eloy appreciate your patience and understanding as they work to improve this intersection.

For more information, please contact:

   Pinal County Public Works
   (520) 866-6411
   Or email: PCRoadMaintenance@pinalcountyaz.gov

Busy Weekend for Animal Care and Control

System Account — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:35:19 GMT

Press Release Date: 6/30/2011

Body:

Officers Investigate Hoarding Case in Maricopa and Pick Up Nine Puppies Dumped at Sheriff’s Substation

FLORENCE – Animal Care & Control officers are used to working unusual hours but Pinal’s team worked straight through the weekend. Animal Care & Control officers responded to an animal hoarding case Friday night in Maricopa, the second hoarding case for the week. On Sunday, someone dropped off nine mixed-breed puppies at the Sheriff’s Substation in Arizona City.

Friday night’s hoarding case resulted from a call to Maricopa’s Fire Department regarding an 83-year-old male paraplegic who was in distress at a home in the city of Maricopa. Once firefighters arrived on scene, they noticed the man lying on a floor that was covered with debris and fecal matter. Numerous animals were present in the home. A call was immediately placed to the Maricopa Police Department, which immediately notified Animal Care and Control.

A woman at the scene claimed to be a caregiver of the 83-year-old, but then changed her story to say she was the man’s girlfriend. The man was taken out of the home and taken to the hospital for treatment. His condition is unknown at this time.

“This seems to be a person who is a hoarder of possessions and animals,” said Animal Care and Control Director Kaye Dickson. “It was tough to capture the animals due to the amount of debris inside the home. Because of the conditions, I don’t know if we were able to capture all the animals that were in there.”

Dickson said by night’s end the officers rounded up nine dogs and seven cats. Some of the animals were being kept in crates.

The owner claims many of the animals are neutered or spayed and she can produce vet records. So far, she is unwilling to surrender the animals.

“The owner has been told to contact our office on Monday so we can talk about the state of the animals,” Dickson said. “We simply cannot return her animals to those conditions. She will have to thoroughly clean her home and apply for a kennel permit in order to keep these animals.”

On Sunday, Animal Care and Control took possession of nine puppies that were dropped off in a box outside of a Pinal County Sheriff’s Office substation in Arizona City.

The mixed-breed puppies are very young and not yet weaned from their mother.

“You have to wonder about someone who would do such a thing to these puppies,” Dickson said. “One of our officers is keeping them at her home until we can take them to the vet for a check-up. We are going to need to find a foster situation for these puppies they will need round-the-clock care in the absence of their mother.”

Dickson praised the work of Animal Control officers for their efforts to handle the massive influx of animals with two hoarding cases in one week.

“The dedication of our staff is amazing,” Dickson stated. “We have over sixty cats from two cases that we are overseeing and our people have worked around the clock making sure these pets receive the care they need. While it is heartbreaking to see these animals in this condition, the officers and our kennel staff’s professionalism never wanes.”

Dickson said Animal Care & Control will welcome all monetary donations to help offset the costs of caring for the animals from the recent hoarding cases. Donations can be mailed to:

Pinal County Animal Care & Control

P.O. Box 3061 RS
Casa Grande, AZ 85122

To adopt a cat or dog from the shelter, you can go to the main kennel site located at 1150 South Eleven Mile Corner Road (just south of the Pinal County Fairgrounds) from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.

Mosquitoes are Biting, Protect Yourself from West Nile Virus

System Account — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 16:32:50 GMT

Press Release Date: 6/30/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – We’re positive and that’s not exactly a good thing! The first positive West Nile virus mosquito sample of the 2011 season was trapped in the City of Maricopa on Friday. Pinal County performs routine surveillance to detect the presence of West Nile virus in the mosquito population.

Substantial West Nile virus activity was reported last year and it is unknown how serious this year will be. To date, state health officials report a total of 15 mosquitoes were positive for West Nile in Arizona. Public Health officials at the state and local level urge people to take protective measures to avoid mosquito bites and reduce the places mosquitoes live and breed.

Here are some ways to “Fight the Bite” by taking proactive steps 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 a mosquito repellent containing an EPA registered active ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, PMD or IR 3535. 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.

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 who is infected will develop symptoms. All ages can be affected; however, people over age 50 and those with weakened immune systems have the highest risk for serious illness.

There were 15 human cases of West Nile virus in 2010, several involving serious complications. In all of 2009, Pinal County had no reported cases of West Nile virus in humans and little of the disease found in the mosquito population.

Pinal County Environmental Health collects and tests mosquitoes from more than 125 trapping locations around the county to identify areas where mosquitoes are carrying West Nile virus.

What Are the Symptoms of West Nile?
No Symptoms in Most People. Approximately 80 percent of people (about 4 out of 5) who are infected with West Nile will not show any symptoms at all.

Milder Symptoms in Some People. Up to 20 percent of the people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for as short as a few days, though even healthy people have become sick for several weeks.

Serious Symptoms in a Few People. About one in 150 people infected with West Nile will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

Use of Fireworks Banned in Unincorporated Pinal County, Most Public Lands

System Account — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 17:18:51 GMT

Press Release Date: 6/22/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Due to the extreme fire risk and the fact that nearly one million acres have already burned in parts of Arizona, the Pinal County Board of Supervisors today enacted a ban on the use of consumer fireworks. While Arizona Revised Statutes 36-1606 made it possible for people to purchase consumer fireworks, the statute also allows counties to ban the use of fireworks if a “reasonable risk of wildfires” exists.

While it is not against the law to purchase fireworks, discharging them in unincorporated Pinal County is against the law while the ban is in effect. The Board can lift the ban in the future when the risk has subsided due to increased rains.

This ban pertains to consumer fireworks in all of unincorporated Pinal County. Residents within Pinal County’s incorporated communities should check with their local city or town before including fireworks in their celebrations.

Similar bans are in effect in other jurisdictions including Maricopa County, Pima County, Coconino County, Cochise County, State Trust Lands and the Bureau of Land Management.

The ban does not affect or cancel commercial fireworks displays. Community fireworks shows are likely to still take place, albeit with heightened care.

According to data tracked by the National Interagency Fire Center, wildfires have claimed more than 3.1 million acres in the United States since the start of the year. A total of 3.2 million acres were lost to wildfires last year – for the whole year. A CNN report indicates that the number of acres burned thus far in 2011 is three times the 10-year average.

“We have dispatched Pinal County employees to assist with the Wallow Fire and Monument Fires,” Supervisor David Snider said. “We have been fortunate to have no loss of life but the property loss is incredible. We cannot afford to take the chance and add to the strain on our firefighting resources.”

“I support this action due to the tremendous risk our state is facing. Some of the most beautiful terrain in Arizona has burned. Extreme fire risk coupled with no rain is already a recipe for disaster. We cannot add fireworks to the mix,” Vice Chairman Bryan Martyn said.

“These fires are making a bad situation worse. The cost to fight wildland fires is phenomenal and we’re under intense financial strain as it is. When the rains come and the risk subsides, we can look at lifting the ban,” Chairman Pete Rios said after the meeting.

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View the statute cited in this release at http://azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/ars/36/01606.htm&Title=36&DocType=ARS.

Animal Hoarding, Neglect Case in Gold Canyon, Animals Seized

System Account — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 19:57:41 GMT

Press Release Date: 6/21/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – Pinal County Animal Care & Control today seized a number of animals at a Gold Canyon, Arizona home. The animals were held in filthy conditions and several of the animals are barely clinging to life. Thus far, 49 cats, a hen with a broken leg, three birds and three dogs have been removed from the home. Some of the cats are believed to be feral.

A woman had been renting the modest home for a few years. She had been living without air conditioning for an unknown period of time. An air conditioning repair technician was called to the home and discovered the deplorable conditions. The technician notified the property owner who promptly called Animal Care & Control.

Members of the Apache Junction Fire Department assisted Pinal County Animal Control Officers with filtered masks to enable them to capture the animals in the home. The home contained layers of pet urine and fecal matter in multiple rooms.

Several of the cats were in distress. It is unknown if the distress was caused by heat exhaustion, illness or disease.

The hen and feral cats were held in a pen outside the home. Also in the pen were the skeletal remains of two dead cats.

Due to the ongoing investigation, the woman’s name and location of the home are not being disclosed at this time.

Pending the outcome of the investigation, the woman responsible for the animals could face cruelty and neglect charges.

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Vice Chairman Martyn Testifies in Congress to Bring Jobs to Arizona:Rep. Paul Gosar’s Southeast Arizona Land Exchange & Conservation Act of 2011

System Account — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:46:45 GMT

Press Release Date: 6/14/2011

Body:

FLORENCE – This morning, Pinal County Board of Supervisors’ Vice Chairman Bryan Martyn testified in Washington in support of House Resolution 1904, the Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act of 2011. Passage of the bill would create an estimated 1,000 direct jobs and 5,000 indirect jobs in Arizona resulting from the Resolution Copper project, according to House Representative Dr. Paul Gosar’s office.

The federal legislation was introduced in May, sponsored by Representative Gosar with support of Congressmen Trent Franks, Jeff Flake, Ben Quayle and David Schweikert.

Pinal County Supervisor Bryan Martyn spoke on behalf of the Pinal County Board of Supervisors and was joined by Superior Mayor Michael Hing and John Cherry of Resolution Copper. All three Pinal County board members support the bill.

“This project alone will yield more than $8 billion in new revenue to the federal treasury and another $2 billion to state, county and local governments,” Martyn testified. “The average annual projected pay is slated to be approximately $70,000 per year for a county that has double digit unemployment and an average wage that is less than half of what Resolution Copper will provide its employees.”

“This land exchange and conservation deal is the essential next step for this project to move forward,” Supervisor Martyn said after his testimony. “Our Congressional delegation overwhelmingly supports this, our bipartisan Board of Supervisors supports it, the state needs this and I pledge to do everything I can to see Representative Gosar’s bill pass.”

The testimony today was in the U.S. House of Representatives’ Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands.

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Link to testimony: Testimony