In a move to blend innovation with sustainability, the Pinal County Board of Supervisors, in their regular meeting held on April 24, greenlit the development of an Eco-Resort that promises to be a boon for eco-tourism in the region. Situated east of U.S. Highway 60 off Peralta Road, the resort will nestle at the end of Gold Rush Road in Gold Canyon, granted the nod of approval alongside three other planning and zoning items, subject to stipulations. According to the report, these stipulations, as recommended by the Planning Commission, ensure that the resort's developmental footprint treads lightly upon the natural canvas of Gold Canyon.
An eye towards the future was also evident in the Board's consent of another environmentally conscious project: a photovoltaic (PV) solar endeavor intended to cast a net of renewable energy over the desert landscape south of E Pinal Air Park Road. Interest in sustainable growth does not stop with leisure and energy; the Board of Supervisors took strides in transparency and service, with Recorder Dana Lewis delivering a comprehensive 2024 Primary and General Elections Report on Election Preparations and the Election Infrastructure Update, accessible via video owing to her out-of-state status. Additionally, a year-end summary from the School Superintendent's Office was endorsed, encompassing the Pinal County Data Processing Consortium and the Pinal County Professional Development Department's achievements.
Commemorations and honorifics were not in short supply, with the Board declaring "National Crime Victims’ Rights Week" from April 21-27, a tribute rooted in over 30 years of advocacy. The week serves as a reverent remembrance of those affected by criminal acts and underscores the community's ongoing commitment to victims' rights, as underscored by Sharon Woodard of the County Attorney's Office, who imparted the reading of the Proclamation prior to her retirement. In a gesture of solemn respect, the Board also set aside May 12-18 as "Peace Officers Memorial Week," with May 2 marked for "Peace Officers Memorial Day," honoring the guardians of peace and order in the county. Sheriff Lamb, alongside the Supervisors, underscored the weight of the commendation in a ceremonial photo op.
Meanwhile, local history and broadcasting made a crossroad at the Supervisors' District Updates, where District 1 Supervisor Kevin Cavanaugh highlighted Randolph's commendable listing in the National Register of Historic Places, a milestone for the oldest predominantly African American community in Arizona, as detailed in an article by Constant Contact. Broadcasting concerns also took center stage, with both Cavanaugh and Supervisor Jeffrey McClure addressing the FCC's agreement to a request to split satellite provider signals, ensuring receipt of more relevant local news in case of emergencies. Supervisor Mike Goodman shone a light on water resources, sharing insights from an aerial examination of the state's reservoirs, which stand at a reassuring 90% capacity.
Volunteerism was celebrated as the Board proclaimed "National Volunteer Week," recognizing community members who dedicate their time across a spectrum of Boards and Commissions. The acknowledgment came to fruition at a Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon, held post-meeting, as a salute to the unsung heroes of Pinal County's civic enterprise. Discover more about the Boards and Commissions, and see photos from the luncheon, by clicking here.
