Home rule works for Cave Creek

On May 15, the voters of Cave Creek will be asked whether home rule should be extended.  This is a very important issue for our future.

The state passed expenditure limitations because many municipalities were operating irresponsibly by spending more than the tax revenue they generated. The state imposed what the towns could not; discipline, fiscal restraint, and responsible management of their tax revenues. It gave the towns several options for operating with varying degrees of limitations and restrictions. The best option for Cave Creek right now is home rule, which allows the town to spend what it needs to operate as long as it does not exceed the tax revenue it generates.

We have operated under home rule for the last eight years. During that time, the town has demonstrated the ability to live within its means, balance the budget, and manage itself with fiscal responsibility. The town has seen its cash reserves rise to almost $5 million. It demonstrated sound fiscal management by refinancing the loan for the purchase of Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, which will allow the town to pay off the bond early, eliminate the property tax imposed by the bond, and save the town and its citizens $1 million in interest. It implemented an effective system of budgeting, fiscal reporting, and cash management that is verified annually by independent audit.

Home rule allows responsible towns like Cave Creek to operate without restrictions and limitations imposed by the state. Without home rule, Cave Creek would be forced to borrow money to pay for its basic operating expenses, incurring the additional cost of  interest, which makes no sense at all.

Vote yes on Proposition 400 so fiscally responsible towns like Cave Creek can continue to control their own economic destiny.

Gabe Royer
Cave Creek