Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation raises concerns over Goldhawk development water impacts

The Maricopa County Planning and Zoning Commission convened on May 8, 2025, to discuss a significant downzoning request that has raised concerns among local tribes and community members regarding water resources and public safety. The meeting began with a presentation from the applicant, who outlined their commitment to collaborating with the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation on grading and drainage plans to address sedimentation concerns. They emphasized their dedication to preserving natural desert open space while subdividing the property into lots ranging from 1 to 5 acres.

The applicant also highlighted their efforts to ensure an assured water supply and compliance with fire protection, septic systems, and roadway infrastructure regulations. They expressed gratitude for the tribes' cooperation in creating additional stipulations to safeguard these commitments.

Following the applicant's presentation, several representatives from the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation voiced their concerns. Vice President Paul Russell articulated the tribe's deep connection to the Verde River, emphasizing that water is not merely a resource but a vital part of their culture and survival. He warned that the proposed development could strain their protected water supply, risking contamination and threatening their economic future.

Calvin Pilcher, the tribe's general manager, raised alarms about public safety, particularly regarding fire protection and emergency medical response times. He noted that the proposed development could significantly increase demands on local fire services, which currently lack adequate infrastructure. Pilcher stressed the importance of establishing a fully staffed fire station within the development to ensure timely emergency responses.

Susan Montgomery, representing the tribe on water matters, expressed concerns about the potential impact of individual septic systems on groundwater and the Verde River. She highlighted the risks associated with the proposed shift from a centralized wastewater treatment system to individual septic tanks, which could lead to contamination of local water supplies.

Larry Lazarus, a land use attorney, echoed these concerns, arguing that the proposed reduction in housing units does not mitigate the potential for water contamination and public safety issues. He emphasized the need for effective oversight and infrastructure to prevent long-term damage to the environment and community.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussions and a commitment to address the concerns raised by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and other stakeholders. The commission acknowledged the importance of balancing development with the protection of vital resources and public safety, setting the stage for ongoing negotiations and potential adjustments to the proposed development plan.