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Dear Carefree Residents:
As we approach the 40th anniversary of the Town of Carefree, we are excited to share an update of major 2023 projects undertaken and provide information about continuing 2024 efforts to enrich our community. The Town will continue to make significant reinvestments in our aging infrastructure. We will allocate over $7 million—representing more than 50% of the Town’s annual budget—towards various crucial projects aimed at improving the quality of life for our residents.
Key areas of investment include:
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Street Maintenance ($3 million): A comprehensive cape seal project for public residential streets surrounding Black Mountain and those within and south of the Town Center. A cape seal is a roadway surface treatment designed to extend the life of pavement. It consists of a chip seal treatment covered by a slurry seal. This treatment will result in a more uniform appearance, obscuring crack seals, utility trenches, and asphalt patching. Continuous street maintenance not only preserves the aesthetic appeal of our town but minimizes the future need for more expensive street reconstruction. (Estimated Completion: May 2024)
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Drainage Culvert Replacement ($700,000): Replacement of an aging drainage culvert which predates the Town. This critical upgrade on Carefree Drive is designed to mitigate structural flooding and protect a public street and structures during flood events. (Estimated Completion: May 2024)
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Town Gardens/Park Refresh ($200,000): A thorough refresh of the Town Gardens and Park, including re-stuccoing and repainting of walled surfaces, repainting of metal structures including the Sundial, replenishment of decomposed granite, lighting repairs, and additional landscaping. These enhancements contribute to the overall pride and enjoyment of our community. (Completed)
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Fire Pumper Truck ($935,000): Investment in a new Pierce Fire Truck, replacing the old, obsolete truck whose manufacturer is no longer in business. The state-of-the-art truck is designed to navigate the unique terrain of Carefree. It will provide increased pumping capacity for enhanced emergency response. (Dedication in late January 2024)
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Brush Truck ($253,000): Acquisition of a fully equipped Brush Truck, generously supported by a grant of $177,000 from the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. This truck will improve access to difficult desert locations, allowing for a more rapid response to wildland fires. (Dedication in late January 2024)
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Fire Suppression System ($2 million): Investment in the installation of fire hydrants in neighborhoods on the east side of Black Mountain and the north side of the community. This not only helps protect homes and desert areas but also contributes to improved ISO ratings, reducing homeowner insurance rates. (Construction to begin in the spring of 2024.)
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As a final note, Town Recognized for excellence on Pavement Maintenance by the Arizona General Contractor’s Association. Last spring, VSS International performed the cape seal pavement maintenance project in the northern portions of our Town. Recently this past project was recognized by the Arizona General Contractor’s Association for its quality specifications, execution, and fiscal management. Kudos go out to both the contractor and our Town Administrator, Gary Neiss, for another job well done!
These significant investments are a testament to the commitment of past and present Town Councils to responsible, conservative financial management. The capital reserve fund, similar to a homeowner's association reserve account, has played a crucial role in making these projects possible. We will follow the ‘Pay as you Go” model on these projects, saving money to address our needs, rather than borrowing.
As we move into 2024, we recognize the importance of continued investment in our infrastructure to ensure a vibrant and thriving community. Together, we can build on the legacy of Carefree and create a town that meets the needs and expectations of its residents.
Happy healthy New Year to all!
Mayor John Crane
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