Residents urge more speed enforcement on Tom Darlington corridor; council directs staff to coordinate with county sheriff

During the Oct. 7 call to the public, multiple residents raised concerns about speeding and aggressive driving on the roadway from Tom Darlington down to Carefree Highway, including incidents of vehicles passing dangerously on a single‑lane stretch and one report of a driver forcing another motorist off the road.

Mary Tua, representing neighbors at Rancho Mignogna, said the problem has been recurring and that intermittent sheriff presence “isn’t enough.” She asked about electronic signage with cameras; councilmembers and staff noted cost concerns and that some solutions had been previously discussed but not funded.

Town staff said public‑safety and speed‑enforcement follow‑ups are typically scheduled quarterly; the next dedicated presentation is expected in December. Interim steps include staff coordination with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) to request stepped‑up patrols and incorporation of the concern into contract enforcement coordination. Vice Mayor Catherine Royer and staff (Adam and the town manager) committed to follow‑up contact with the MCSO captain and said staff would report back to the resident who spoke.

Speakers described safety‑sensitive seasonal impacts — “snowbirds” returning — and multiple near‑miss incidents; a council member urged quick action given the potential for injury. No formal enforcement change or ordinance was adopted at the meeting; council directed staff to coordinate with MCSO and to include the topic in the December public‑safety briefing.