The Queen Creek Town Council convened on December 18, 2024, to discuss several key community issues, including a successful local event and a contentious proposed annexation that has sparked significant public concern.

The meeting opened with a celebration of the first QC Hometown Christmas event, which was well-received and marked a successful addition to the town's holiday festivities. Council members expressed gratitude to the staff for their efforts in organizing the two-day event, highlighting the importance of community engagement during the busy holiday season.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Mayor's Teen Advisory Committee, represented by Vice Chair Charlie Gonzalez. The committee recently established a vision and mission statement aimed at fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for local youth. The committee's values, centered around empowerment and engagement, reflect a commitment to creating safe spaces and fun activities for teenagers in Queen Creek. The committee plans to finalize specific bylaws in their upcoming meeting on January 14, 2025.

Public comment featured prominently, with resident Jessica DiDabo voicing strong opposition to a proposed annexation and rezoning of a two-acre parcel at the northwest corner of Ellsworth and Happy Road. DiDabo argued that the proposed commercial development contradicts the area's low-density residential zoning, which is designed to preserve the rural character of the community. She raised concerns about increased traffic, safety hazards for families and equestrians, and the potential disruption of long-standing equestrian paths. DiDabo urged the council to reject the proposal, emphasizing the need to prioritize developments that align with the community's established zoning and values.

The discussions from this meeting underscore the council's ongoing efforts to balance community celebrations with the need for careful consideration of development proposals that could impact the town's character and safety. As Queen Creek continues to grow, the council's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the community.