Province: The Town Burdened by Maricopa’s Steepest HOA Fees

In the gated Province Community Association of Maricopa, HOA fees are set to increase again, a decision announced during a recent meeting with homeowners. Board members informed residents that the quarterly fee will rise to $856, effective January 1, 2023, reflecting a 3.5 percent increase.

This hike brings the annual total to $3,424, which includes taxes and a $57 charge for Orbitel cable TV service. Homeowners should be mindful that payments received after the month’s end will incur a late fee of $23.50.

For context, Maricopa’s newest subdivision, Amarillo Creek, enjoys a significantly lower cost, with total dues and fees amounting to just $90 a month. The Orbitel fee applied in Province is only temporary, expiring on August 31 when the current contract concludes.

In a letter to homeowners dated November 15, PCA Executive Director Carl Rygg justified the increase by citing rising operating expenses and inflation. A budget presentation for 2025 is scheduled for December 5 at 3 p.m. at the community’s Town Hall.

Some residents, like Patrick McCobb, a retired veteran, expressed a stoic acceptance of the fee hike, noting it’s expected annually due to inflation. However, he raised concerns about whether residents receive adequate value for their investment. “The grass is still not green,” he commented, pointing out visible issues like algae-laden lakes and persistent cormorant problems.

Despite these challenges, McCobb and others appreciate the community’s lifestyle but demand better maintenance of visible concerns. Province boasts various amenities, including 50 miles of walking trails, a community center with multiple sports facilities, and both indoor and outdoor pools.

The cost of living in Province is notably higher, with properties adjacent to its ponds typically priced around $100,000 more than those with less desirable views. Maintenance services include routine landscaping and the removal of debris from common areas, albeit with some complaints about insufficient upkeep. For comparison, Cobblestone Farms, another Maricopa community, charges a significantly lower HOA fee at $326 per quarter.