Councilmember Invites Community Feedback on City General Plan Revamp

Councilmember Bob Marsh engaged with community members during a meeting with Arizona State University’s Decision Theater at the ASU Tempe Campus on August 1, 2024. The meeting focused on gathering public input regarding the future of Maricopa.

As Maricopa prepares for a 10-year update to its general plan, Marsh is actively seeking feedback from residents, with a deadline set for December 1. He underscored the importance of citizen input, stating, “We want to hear what residents think.”

Arizona law mandates that cities create and implement a general plan, which outlines community goals and long-range development strategies. The existing plan for Maricopa extends to 2040 and encompasses a vast area, from the southern borders of the Gila River Indian Community to a few miles south of Interstate 8.

The upcoming update necessitates input from the public. “There are ways to successfully hit those goals—economically, scientifically, and sensibly,” Marsh remarked, emphasizing the desire for comprehensive feedback.

While he has already received some insights from the city’s senior citizens, Marsh aims to broaden the scope to include diverse opinions from all demographics. “Our city comprises residents from almost every state and several foreign countries. They all have unique ideas about what Maricopa should become,” he noted.

The survey addresses various topics, including Maricopa’s accomplishments and the challenges the city may face in the future. Residents can submit their responses by returning a printed survey to Marlene Pearce at City Hall or via email to bob.marsh@maricopa-az.gov.

Community engagement is crucial to shaping a successful future for Maricopa, and Marsh urges all residents to participate in this important dialogue.