Town says wash maintenance is 'about two decades behind' as crews clear Ashbrook Wash

Director Weldy told the Fountain Hills Town Council on May 7 that the townis "probably about at least two decades behind in wash maintenance" and showed before-and-after photos of recent work in Ashbrook Wash.

Weldy said crews have reached Saguaro Boulevard and removed ladder fuels and invasive species in sections where the town has responsibility. He warned that unauthorized dumping including appliances, backyard grills and construction debrishas created "tons and tons" of material that pushes projects beyond normal clearing and restoration tasks. "That takes a considerable amount of time and money," he said.

Weldy described the towns approach: prioritize removing ladder fuels and invasive species, use targeted contractor work, and coordinate with outside partners. He told council members the town uses cameras at several high-risk entry points for unauthorized dumping and has worked with the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office to reduce incidents where culprits have been identified. "We have had the support of the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office and have been able to address that and really reduce that to the best of our ability," he said.

Council members asked about funding for ongoing wash maintenance and enforcement. Weldy said current funding will cover work through the end of the fiscal year but that staff expect to be "very, very close to using the entire allotted amount by the end of the fiscal year." The town manager added that outreach (press releases and newsletters) and follow-up with the department that issues permits were planned to reduce dumping and educate residents.

Several council members asked whether notice language tied to construction permits could be strengthened to discourage builders and homeowners from using washes as disposal sites. Weldy said the town has historically accepted some material by permit for authorized slope stabilization work, and that staff would consult with Director Wesley about permit and enforcement processes and report back.

Weldy urged residents to visit recently cleared segments near Hampstead and Saguaro Boulevard to see the difference, and staff said they will provide additional before/after photos at a future meeting. The council directed staff to continue enforcement coordination and public outreach; no new funding appropriation was approved at the meeting.

Next steps: staff will follow up with Director Wesley on permit enforcement, continue MCSO coordination, and return with updated photos and a status report once cooler weather allows more field work.