Cynthia Wenstrom urges council to support McDowell Sonoran Preserve funding

The Scottsdale City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, highlighted significant community concerns regarding the preservation of local wildlife and the ongoing support for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Community members voiced their strong support for the construction of the Dynamite Road overpass, which is seen as crucial for connecting different areas of the preserve and facilitating wildlife movement into the Tonto National Forest.

Cynthia Wenstrom, a resident and advocate for the overpass, emphasized the importance of maintaining the tax funding that supports the preserve. She urged council members not to consider sunsetting the tax early, warning that such a move could jeopardize the health of the wildlife and the preserve itself. Wenstrom expressed confidence in the intelligence of the voters, asserting that they understand the implications of funding decisions on the preserve's future.

Steve Coluccio, chair of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve Commission, also addressed the council, noting that the commission had unanimously approved a recommendation to support the overpass project. His remarks underscored the collective commitment to preserving the natural habitat and ensuring the longevity of the preserve.

The discussions reflect a community deeply invested in environmental conservation and the responsible management of local resources. As the council considers these recommendations, the outcome will likely have lasting implications for both the wildlife and the residents who cherish the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.