Where’s the love?

Last year as a new resident of Anthem, I was saddened to observe all the letters between Anthem and Desert Hills residents railing about perceived grievances, real or imagined. I am pleased to say that it has been many months since I have observed any letters of a similar nature. Not wanting to open old wounds, it is with some hesitancy that I write this note. But I feel I must.

I had purchased our home unaware that the residents of New River and Desert Hills had fought the development and building of Anthem, and of the great animosity that resulted between the two communities over an access road. So great was the rancor that I couldn’t help wonder what my wife and I had gotten ourselves into by moving here.

When the plans for Anthem were approved, even with conditions, it appeared the worst nightmares of Anthem’s opponents were realized.

As Anthem developed, it promptly began its assault on them with such facilities and services as schools, hospital and medical facilities, healthier services, and even a library.

Recently we learned that the Desert Hills Water company failed, that its residents were out of water, and discussing with Cave Creek the possibility of getting water from that community. But it was Anthem’s water company which built a temporary water line from Anthem into Desert Hills to supply necessary water to helprelieve those desperate residents. Afterward, I observed not a single letter of disparagement in any newspaper over this–Anthem’s most recent assault on Desert Hills.

Now I learn that Anthem’s water company will build a permanent underground pipeline fromAnthem into Desert Hills to supply its residents with life‑sustaining water. Where are the letters of outrage over Anthem’s newest planned incursion into the Desert Hills lifestyle? Or, is it perhaps thanks that should be promulgated?

So, what is the lesson to be gained from all of this? Is it that it is fine for Desert Hills to be the beneficiaries and users of the great infrastructure resultant from its proximity to Anthem, but never to provide us access? In this time of thanksgiving and good will to all, I would trust the answer is no. That the awareness of our shared experiences as neighbors, helping and growing together, will createa greater bond and friendship between our communities.

Respectfully,

Douglas Perez, Anthem