4th of July fun at BlueWater Resort & Casino

Red, White & BlueWater - July 4th!


PARKER, AZ – The Red, White & BlueWater Resort & Casino will be Poppin’ and Rockin’ this July Fourth weekend! Rock! Saturday night July Third when “TNT” The Ultimate AC/DC Tribute Band takes the outdoor stage and shakes you all night long. Tickets are only $10 for advance sales and $15 day of the show. Gates open at 8pm and the concerts starts at 9pm. BlueWater annual fireworks show will take place immediately following the concert.

The “Spirit Girls” will be in the Dig Lounge waving those flags of glory for UFC 116 on July Third. Tagged as “The Biggest Battle in History” of cage fighting Brock Lesner will take on Shane Carwin in UFC 116, televised live on the big screen in the Dig Lounge at 7pm. The “Spirit Girls” will again be in the Dig Lounge on July Fourth.

The VIPclub will be promoting the Fourth of July Popper’s “Hot Seat” Drawing. Play your favorite slot machine from noon to ten pm with your VIPclub card inserted and you could win up to $250.00 of Free Slot Play! BlueWater Bingo will also be having a special program of Fourth of July Bingo. Bingo on the number four or any number with a four in it and win some special BlueWater Bingo schwag.

The beach at BlueWater Resort & Casino will be filled with the sounds of “Old School” as The River’s Edge Cantina will be hosting a DJ on Saturday and Sunday (July 3 & 4) from 1 to 5 pm, along with adult beverage promotions.

Visit BlueWater today to join the VIPclub and learn how you can get your share of “FREE SLOT PLAY!” and be a part of the Fourth of July Popper’s promotion. See a VIPclub representative for all the details.

For information on future promotions or events at the BlueWater Resort & Casino, call toll free 888-243-3360 or visit us on the web at www.bluewaterfun.com.

4th of July Prevention Reminders

BLM announces July 4th Fire Prevention Reminders


Yuma, Ariz. – As the 4th of July holiday approaches, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) wants to remind the public that the following fire restrictions are still in effect for public lands administered within the BLM Yuma and Lake Havasu Field Office jurisdiction.

• No fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.

• No open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires. Campfires and charcoal grills are permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices is allowed provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.

• No smoking. Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within a vehicle and on a paved or surface road, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

• No welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.

The restrictions are necessary due to extreme fire danger from prolonged hot and dry weather conditions. The restrictions will continue until conditions warrant rescinding.

Violations of these restrictions are punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 12 months.
For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:

Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985

Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenews
The BLM manages more land – more than 245 million acres – than any other Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The Bureau, with a budget of about $1 billion, also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's multiple-use mission is to sustain the health and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. The Bureau accomplishes this by managing such activities as outdoor recreation, livestock grazing, mineral development, and energy production, and by conserving natural, historical, cultural, and other resources on public lands.

Precinct committee elections cancelled

La Paz County Supervisors cancelled the precinct committee elections for August 24, 2010. All members are Republican. Precinct #58 for Quartzsite:

Russel Sias, Pat Workman, Elvin Holum, Timothy Keefer, Michael Roth and Lawrence Stawkey.

See full article here:
http://www.parkerpioneer.net/articles/2010/06/22/news/parker06.txt

Council meeting: too many headlines to pick one!

2010-2011 Budget Approved

Sparks and Accusations Fly during

2.5 hour Council Meeting

Calls for Mayor's Resignation,

Election Corruption in Quartzsite,

Mayor Distrusts Town Manager,

Conflicts Rise Between Mayor and Council,

Women Use No-Bullying Signs to Express Themselves, 

Water Issue Finally Addressed,

New Subdivison Approved,

and more!

At the regular meeting of the Quartzsite Town Council on June 22, 2010, Mayor Ed Foster called the meeting to order at 7:00pm and asked for the roll call. Foster then said, “Oh, I have to do the invocation” and proceeded with the Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, and then the Roll Call. Historically, Reports and Announcements are held to those who have something to announce or report. Citizen’s comments are to be held until the end of the agenda. Keeping with his campaign promise of allowing citizens to speak freely, Mayor Foster allowed over an hour of public comments, reports and announcements. [Editor’s note: the order in which people spoke may not be exact. This is an overview.]


Hal Davidson was the first person to the podium announcing the progress of the recall efforts of the newly elected council members.

Starr BearCat announced that October is National Bullying Awareness Month and to save the date of Oct. 20, 2010 for a project to raise awareness of bullying in communities. “I am addressing the elephant in the room. This elephant uses offensive conduct and behaviors (including nonverbal) which are threatening, humiliating or intimidating. Bantering, personal attacks, spreading rumors, aggressive behavior, teasing, screaming, blaming others, harassment, manipulation, micro managing, cyber attacks, sabotage, blackmail, violence, and criminal assault. The elephant repeats the behavior, is deliberate and disrespectful.” The crowd held their breath as she stated, “Now, this elephant has a Name and that Name is ……….BULLY.” BearCat continued to describe the behaviors of a bully and the effects of the targets and witnesses of bullying. She asked the council to declare October as National Bullying Awareness Month.

Mary Huntley thanked the organizers, Cub Scouts and attendees of the Flag Retirement Ceremony held on June 12, 2010.

Anita Carlson of Operation Hero Comfort presented a plaque to the Town of Quartzsite for their support of the 2nd Annual Flag Retirement. Town Manager, Alex Taft, also received a grommet from one of the retired flags. Carlson reported that grommets will be presented to the two Quartzsite Firemen who participated and the remaining grommets will be sent oversees to the troops serving our country. Carlson explained that receiving a grommet is an honor and will bring good luck to the bearer.

PJ Bettmann, from the Senior Center, explained the progress of the kitchen remodel. Carol Kelley also asked for signatures in support of a grant for a new generator. This would allow air conditioning at the center during emergencies when power is disrupted. The council approved, allowing a signatures to be gathered at that time.

Pastor Jeff Jones, of the Alliance Church announced that “I support Foster, Council, and Police 100%”, spoke about how divisive our community has become, asking Christians in the audience “to show some integrity” while up at the microphone, and “act like it when you are up here!”

Shanana Rain Golden-Bear reported on the Arizona Centennial Committee of Quartzsite, announcing, “As of midnight tonight, we stand at 600 days from the Arizona Centennial Celebration.” After reading a statement from the State of Arizona on why the Centennial is important, she invited the community to the next board meeting of Wed. June 23, 2010 @ 10am.

Council member Jerry Lukkasson explained he had written three letters to Mayor Foster, “trying to bring him [Foster] to order and to follow the rules” and provided copies for the public to view for themselves.

Council member Patricia Anderson made a statement regarding discussions about a possible prison near town with James Parkey, of Corplan Corrections in March, 2010. Anderson said, “The issue was never put on the council agenda, there was no further action on it. There will not be a prison built in the Quartzsite town limits.”

Dean Taylor spoke calling Lukkasson “being untruthful” to which many members of the audience held up no bullying signs. At one point Taylor said, “I’m wish I was big enough to be a bully, but I’m not.”

Council member Joe Winslow apologized to the audience for having to read his long letter stating that there were at least 14 violations of state statutes, town code, during the last council meeting of June 8, 2010. Winslow asked for the resignation of Mayor Ed Foster, for “continuing to align himself with the Reform Coalition group, whose members are engaged in ongoing conspiracy to commit sedition”. The crowd responded loudly. Winslow continued to explain that members of this group and the mayor have brought lawsuits, “costing the town many of thousands of dollars.”

Mayor Foster responded, with “These are outright lies! I have a stack of papers that were part of a part of a criminal investigation to discredit the reform slate candidates, I did not sue this town; I took the town to court to ask them to obey the law!” He continued to tell the public that an investigation had began on Friday, June 18, 2010 against Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert with the Attorney General’s office, public corruption division. I have no intentions of resigning!”

Longtime resident, Joyce Snider, asked the people to “hold your piece until I’m finished!” She reminded the audience that when she first arrived everyone got along, and residents held a party when the winter visitors left town to say, “Hey, we done a dang good job, didn’t we!” She continued, “These are our elected officials…we elected them! Recall them… why? Stop these stupid recalls!” “It’s time we all start getting along!” She told the council, “Get along!”

Police Chief Gilbert, spoke to the audience, saying he was aware of the investigation and will speak truthfully when questioned. “I was hired to protect and serve each and every one of you and I will continue to do that!” Gilbert said the mayor misrepresented the facts and that the county has many concerns about voter fraud in the recent elections. Gilbert stated, “I truly believe our election was corrupt.” “When I’m accused of criminal acts, as a chief of police, I will challenge them.” Gilbert announced that Foster “attempted to supersede a separate investigation that was ongoing”. “I cannot bow down to political pressure!” He also asked the public to “seek out your own answers,” and to “seek the truth.”

Jerry Wilcox explained he tried to open a swap meet years ago, told the council if you spend just a little bit of time building up what you don’t have instead of tearing down what you have, it would be better for the community. “Mr. Winslow, you’re wrong.”

The consent agenda was finally addressed at 8:15pm.

Council member Jerry Lukkasson combined the consent agenda and New Business Item 1. into one motion. Foster expressed his disagreement, discussion pursued between Foster and Town Attorney Stadler. Foster wanted Taft to explain “4 checks who seem to be the largest wage earners in our community and I want to know who they are.” Taft told the mayor, “we can get those tomorrow”, and the council voted to approve the motion, with Foster being the only to say, “Nay”. Foster did not announce, “Motion carried” or “Motion Passed” as required by Robert’s Rules of Order.

Item 2 on the agenda pertained to the corrected canvass the vote of the Town of Quartzsite General Election. Foster did not ask for discussion after the motion was made and seconded, but moved directly for the vote. Foster also did not announce, “Motion carried”.

Item 3 was the possible approval of Tentative Budget for the Town of Quartzsite fiscal year 2010/2011. Foster announced he scheduled a meeting for Tuesday afternoon, but was “forced to quickly have a meeting to discuss this budget.” I have several questions, but they are obviously not going to be answered and the council going to approve Ms. Taft’s budget.” Winslow called for point of order saying, “Sir, that is not Ms. Taft’s budget, it is the town’s budget, it is our budget”. Motion carried, with Foster saying “nay”, but Foster again did not announce “motion carried”.

Item 4 pertained to direct Vice Mayor Cowell to sign Ordinance NO. 10-07 as passed at the Regular Council Meeting of May 25, 2010. During the discussion, Foster said, “I want people to know why I did not sign this law into order. In between the time I was elected, and the time I was sworn in as mayor, Al Johnson was observed removing boxes of documents from town hall”. Winslow called for point of order, saying this is not on the agenda. Foster continued arguing this is why he would not sign the order. Foster said, “I do not trust Alex Taft to be the supervisor of people [inaudible] as the crowd responded loudly and Winslow called point of order saying, “She is a member of the staff. We have a council administrative government.” Foster continued, “Ms. Taft was guilty of removing documents from this town hall.” Foster would not recognize Winslow. Kelley explained that a previous mayor changed the law, and “all we are doing is going back to what was originally the town code”. The motion carried, with Foster saying, “no”, but again Foster did not follow procedure by announcing motion carried.

Item 5 was the possible approval of Ordinance No. 10-09, regarding a subdivision and rezone for Jim McGovern. There was much discussion, and it came to light that two complaints had just been received after hours that day. Al Johnson, explained the complaints. After much discussion, the council approved the motion with stipulations that other areas of the land be cleaned up and an old septic be taken care of. Kelley voted nay.

Item 6 was possible approval of Ordinance No. 10-10 regarding a conditional use permit for Tracy Phoenix, of American Custom Tire. After much discussion, the motion carried. Foster did announce, “Motion passed.”

Item 7 was discussion only regarding water report given by Mayor during the last council meeting on June 8, 2010. Council member Barbara Cowell read a report detailing her personal experience on April 16 – 17, 2010. Debra Ireland was at the podium before Cowell finished her statement and said that Cowell misrepresented her comments. She contacted Ms. Cowell “and advised her to cease and dissest” As she left the podium she said, “you’ll be hearing from my attorneys.”

Violet Kiss explained her conversation with Steve Bennett about how he opened up the roof and there was metal shavings in the pool. Kiss announced that she and her husband attended the meeting of the Citizens’ Coalition meeting on June 7, 2010, and advised the mayor not to bring the baby bottle and this item to the council. She also said, “…he was still the director of the coalition….”

Dean Taylor announced he had copies of the water analysis report available for the public. He argued that ADEQ did not test the water.

Chief Gilbert announced there is a police report on file on the matter of the water at the police department.

Council member Bob Kelley spoke as a representative of Q Mountain Estates subdivision, explaining how the subdivision pays “$220 every month to have the city water to be tested again because we are considered a separate water company by the Arizona Corporation Commission and the ADEQ”, even though the water comes from the town. He continued they “back up what the city does” with their testing process. Cowell said the sodium content is high because “this whole area was an ocean at one time, and you can still find fossilized shells in the desert”.

Mayor Foster explained he had over 50 photos of the second filling of Bennett’s pool. Kiss responded with clarification, saying the photos of pool, it was not full, but was a shallow puddle, in reaction to sediments and metal shavings.

Starr BearCat explained her discussions with Debra Ireland, then candidate, Ed Foster, then Mayor Wes Huntley. She produced two samples of water taken from Bennett’s pool intake and one directly across the street. BearCat asked, “when does personal responsibility come into play? If you can afford your cigarettes and your booze, then you can afford a filter!” Applause and laughter from the audience….

Communications/petitions & citizen comments: …….

The meeting finally adjourned at 9:27pm.

Letter to the editor

What is the matter with this guy?


I attended the special council meeting regarding the budget [June 18, 2010]. Everyone should attend. If for no other reason than seeing who you voted for and watch how they perform.

The new member to the council is the mayor. He does not know how to turn his phone off or to silent operation. His phone rang three times during the meeting. Anyone whose phone rings twice should be removed from the building for interrupting the meeting.

The agenda called for a ‘Roll Call’, but the ‘new guy’ did not do that and later said, “I didn’t think we did that”. Why was it on the agenda? Did the ‘new guy’ not look at the agenda before and approve it or ask questions?

Instead of announcing a ‘Call to the Public’ the ‘new guy’ just asked if anyone had any more questions. Was he referring to the council or the public?

Does he know anything about running a meeting?

The ‘new guy’ also asked the financial people to create a ‘new form’ that would show the revenue source and how much has been spent to date. He was informed that this document was placed in the mail box of all council members three days before this meeting. He again asked that it be created (does he have a hearing problem) and attached to the council package. He never understood that the document already existed and all he had to do was look in his mail box. Does he need to be handed everything and have it explained to him?

I am happy we have six members on the council and a great town manager who know what is going on and will be able to guide the town until the next election.

Concerned taxpayer, Skip Gallup

Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge update on closure

BORDER REFUGE NOT CLOSED

Several media outlets have been inaccurately reporting that a massive stretch of the US border at Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was recently closed. Buenos Aires NWR in southern Arizona has not been closed to the public. Nearly 5-years ago, a very small portion of the Refuge closed to public access due to public safety concerns. However, the remainder (97%) of the refuge's 118,000 acres is open to the public for recreational activities such as hiking, camping, bird-watching, and seasonal hunting.

Recent news items further falsely stated that the closure extends from the border 80-miles to the north. This distance is far from accurate. On October 6, 2006 roughly 3500 acres, or 3% of the Refuge, was closed to public access due to human safety concerns. At that time there was a marked increase in violence along the border due to human and drug trafficking. The closed area extends north from the international border roughly ¾ of a mile. A notice of the closure, including a map has been on the Refuge website since 2006.

At this time there are no plans to reopen this southernmost 3/4-mile wide portion of the Refuge. However, since 2006 the Refuge has experienced a significant decline in violent activity in the area thanks to ongoing cooperation between the US Fish and Wildlife Service and US Customs and Border Protection. The Refuge will reopen the area at such time that it is determined to be safe for visitors.

Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge’s placement along the international border with Mexico within the Altar Valley of southern Arizona provides a unique opportunity to protect remnants of a fragile desert ecosystem and to provide refuge for some of the region’s most imperiled species of plants and wildlife. Since its establishment, refuge staff have diligently worked to protect species such as the masked bobwhite quail and the Sonoran pronghorn, as well as to offer meaningful public recreation opportunities.
________________________________________________________________________

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov/.
www.fws.gov/southwest/

Quartzsite Council Meeting Agenda June 22, 2010

CLICK HERE for the agenda for the regular council meeting on Tueday, June 22, 2010 at 7pm, Quartzsite Town Hall, 465 N. Plymouth, Quartzsite, Arizona.

Quartzsite Budget Meeting

Quartzsite Town Council members discussed the proposed Budget for 2010-2011 during a Work Session on Friday, June 18, 2010. For the first time in many council sessions, the meeting was uneventful with no outbursts from the public.

There were questions raised about tracking RV sales tax license, how money was being used to offset water/sewer expenses. Barbara Cowell arrived late, and announced power had been out to 97 homes, but power has been been restored. Mayor Ed Foster asked for explanation of the codes used in the financial statements. Finance Director, Heidi Turner explained the process. Other questions raised were about the Gateway signage project grant matching funds and the Hi Jolly signage expenses. Vendor license fees were also questioned. Turner explained vendor license fees are still $50, but are only $25 for the Q.I.A Pow Wow.  Town Manager, Alex Taft, reported that attorney fees have doubled over the past year. She explained that the increase was not due to increase of their hourly rate, but the increase of hours used.

Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert said he wanted to clear up some misunderstanding about the new police car, "It was not purchased for $50,000....A grant purchased the vehicle and equipment for (approx.) $39,000." Gilbert explained revenues for impounded vehicles declined over the past year, as changes were made by former Mayor Steve Bennett. He suggested the council revisit that policy. There is a new law that may require a 30 impound on some infractions, so revenues may increase. Questions were raised about overtime exceeding the budget by $7,000, however Council Member Jose Lizarraga said he is used to seeing much higher figures in his job of being a fire fighter.

Gilbert announced Officer Jim Shultz is back in town and expects to return to duty Mid July. Major James Schultz was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army on Nov. 9.  Schultz was serving a tour in the United States Army in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a Space Operations Officer for the 3rd Army at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. LTC James "Jim" Schultz has been a police officer for the Quartzsite Police Department for the past 14 years.

Magistrate Terry Frausto reported only about 40% of the funds from citations are kept locally, with each infraction having a base line. She reported criminal charges and expenses have increased by 50% over last year. She went on to say that officers spend more time processing criminal offenses than simple traffic citations. More time spent by officers, clerks, pretrial paperwork, etc.

Editor's note: I was personally glad to see the Quartzsite Town Council work as a team, and speaking with respect. However, Mayor Foster did not follow the agenda: there was no Roll Call nor Reports & Announcements. The Communications/Petitions & Citizens Comments were not officially called for either. Town Attorney, Pam Walsma is on vacation and attorney Stephen Shadle was present, but was not introduced to the public.

I urge all attendees to turn off their cell phones during all public meetings, as Mayor Foster's phone rang at least twice, disrupting the speakers. As one blogger states, Cell phones users need their own rules of etiquette, or we'll descend into social barbarism. For more information visit:  http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-cell-phone-etiquette.htm

Quartzsite Mayor sends letter to 3 council members

The following is a letter from Quartzsite Mayor Ed Foster delivered to three Council members' boxes on June 16, 2010. The Desert Messenger received a copy on June 17, 2010, from Quartzsite Town Hall, after filing the proper Public Record Request paperwork.

"To: Council members
Patricia Anderson, Joe Winslow, Jose Lizarraga
Subject:
Respect

If you can't respect me as Mayor you must respect the office of Mayor.

The Mayor calls meetings and if you have a problem with the schedule I propose then you can contact me by letter or phone and I will give consideration to you reasons. I am going to recognize the change you have made this time, but this will not be acceptable in the future.

No meetings of the common council of Quartzsite will be called in the future with out the consent of the Mayor.

The common council of Quartzsite was organize[d] under parliamentary rules and will be run in the future under those rules. The agenda will be set by the Mayor and nothing will be placed on the agenda unless the Mayor approves.

Ed Foster
Mayor"

With so much confusing information on the Internet and some articles/websites written as fact, but are more opinion/editorial in nature, I thought it would be good for the citizens to have more clarification regarding Town Council Procedures.

Here is the exact text from the town's policy procedure manual, which is an approved ordinance :

Quartzsite Town Council Procedure Policy
(also received after filling out the proper paperwork with Town of Quartziste)

Ord. No. 09-29:

Section II. General Rules
13 - Rules of Order:
" 'Robert's Rules of Order Revised' shall govern the proceeding of the Council. The Town Attorney shall serve as the parliamentarian."

Section III. Types of Meetings
3. Work Sessions

"The Council may meet informally in work sessions at the call of the Mayor or any three (3) Members of the Council. Work sessions are open to the public, with public participation. No official action can be taken at a work session."

Section V - Order of Business & Agenda
2. Agenda-Determination of Specific Items to be included:

"Requests for items to be placed on the agenda should be submitted to the Town Manager or Town Clerk in writing no later than 11:00 am on the Wednesday of the week proceding the scheduled Council meeting. The public shall request items to be placed on the agenda through a Council Member.
"The Town Manager shall prepare a proposed agenda and meet with the Mayor, and Town Attorney to discuss and prioritize the agenda itmes and decide their placement on the agenda. A finalized copy of the agenda along with all available information pertaining thereto will be placed in the Council Members' boxes by Friday afternoon."

Quartzsite Town Budget worksession Friday, June 18, 10am

Solar Farm Meeting, Bouse, Arizona, June 22, Solar Farm

La Paz County Department of Community Development


1112 Joshua, Suite 202, Parker, Arizona 85344

(928) 669-6138 - Fax (928) 669-5503 - TDD (928) 669-8400

http://co.la-paz.az.us/

BOUSE COMMUNITY MEETING

June 22, 2010 ~  6-7 pm

Bouse Elementary School

44936 Joshua Dr ,  Bouse, AZ. 85325

Information Distribution- Major Comprehensive Plan Amendments

1. CP2010-001 – Major Comprehensive Plan Amendments- La Paz County- Security Capital, LLC. Security Capital, LLC (applicant) seeks to develop up to 1,157 acres of major manufacturing and associated industrial uses. The proposed Future Land Use Plan and text amendment will provide an appropriate land use designation for future development, construction and operation of major manufacturing and associated industrial uses within an identified Employment Center land use designation. The proposed major amendment will change the Future Land Use Map designation from Medium Density and Rural Residential to Employment Center on approximately 1,157 acres.
2. CP2010-002 – Major Comprehensive Plan Amendments- La Paz County-Next Light Renewable Power, LLC. Next Light Renewable Power, LLC (applicant) seeks to develop up to 400 acres solar farm. The proposed Future Land Use Map Amendment will clarify that a solar energy generation facility is consistent with the existing Comprehensive Plan Rural Community planning area designation. This designation will allow for consideration of a solar and wind energy production facility by the Board of Supervisors as either a future planned development or through standard zoning practices, including a potential future special use permit.

3. CP2010-003 – Major Comprehensive Plan Amendments- La Paz County Centennial Employment Center. La Paz County (applicant) seeks to allow potential solar development within the Centennial Employment Center as defined on the Future Land Use Map. The proposed text amendment will clarify that a solar energy generation facilities are consistent within the existing Comprehensive Plan Employment Center located at County Road 75E and I-10, known as the Centennial Employment Center. This designation will allow for consideration of a solar energy production facility by the Board of Supervisors as either a future planned development or through standard zoning practices, including potential future special use permits.

4. CP2010-004 – Major Comprehensive Plan Text Amendments- La Paz County. La Paz County is proposing a major amendment to add Comprehensive Plan text clarifying the process for Major and Minor text amendments, including density and intensity limits and associated thresholds used to determine the type of application required.
If you need further information, please contact the Department of Community Development at 1112 Joshua Avenue, Suite 202, Parker, AZ 85344. The telephone number is (928) 669-6138.

Solar Farm Open House June 29, 7pm Brenda, Arizona

OPEN HOUSE  ~  June 29, 2010 ~ 6-7 pm

Desert Gold RV Resort

46628 E. Highway 60 ~ Brenda, AZ

La Paz County Department of Community Development
1112 Joshua, Suite 202, Parker, Arizona 85344
(928) 669-6138 - Fax (928) 669-5503 - TDD (928) 669-8400

http://co.la-paz.az.us/

Information Distribution- Major Comprehensive Plan Amendments

1. CP2010-001 – Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment La Paz County- Security Capital, LLC. Security Capital, LLC (applicant) seeks to develop up to 1,157 acres of major manufacturing and associated industrial uses. The proposed Future Land Use Plan and text amendment will provide an appropriate land use designation for future development, construction and operation of major manufacturing and associated industrial uses within an identified Employment Center land use designation. The proposed major amendment will change the Future Land Use Map designation from Medium Density and Rural Residential to Employment Center on approximately 1,157 acres.


2. CP2010-002 – Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment La Paz County- Next Light Renewable Power, LLC. Next Light Renewable Power, LLC (applicant) seeks to develop up to 400 acres solar farm. The proposed Future Land Use Map Amendment will clarify that a solar energy generation facility is consistent with the existing Comprehensive Plan Rural Community planning area designation. This designation will allow for consideration of a solar and wind energy production facility by the Board of Supervisors as either a future planned development or through standard zoning practices, including a potential future special use permit.

3. CP2010-003 – Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment La Paz County Centennial Employment Center. La Paz County (applicant) seeks to allow potential solar development within the Centennial Employment Center as defined on the Future Land Use Map. The proposed text amendment will clarify that a solar energy generation facilities are consistent within the existing Comprehensive Plan Employment Center located at County Road 75E and I-10, known as the Centennial Employment Center. This designation will allow for consideration of a solar energy production facility by the Board of Supervisors as either a future planned development or through standard zoning practices, including potential future special use permits.

4. CP2010-004 – Major Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment La Paz County. La Paz County is proposing a major amendment to add Comprehensive Plan text clarifying the process for Major and Minor text amendments, including density and intensity limits and associated thresholds used to determine the type of application required.


If you need further information, please contact the Department of Community Development at 1112 Joshua Avenue, Suite 202, Parker, AZ 85344. The telephone number is (928) 669-6138.

Flag Retirement Ceremony, Cub Scouts and Operation Hero Comfort

Locals gathered at Quartzsite Town Park last evening for another beautiful ceremony to retire torn or tattered U.S. flags in a dignified manner.

Operation Hero Comfort and local Cub Scouts joined together to create a patriotic ceremony with songs and words shared by the youth.

Anita Carlso, of Operation Hero Comfort, said she saw someone toss a flag in the trash last year, and decided to take it upon herself to give the respect deserved of those flags and our troops who fight our country. Last year over 500 flags were burned, mostly because this ceremony had been performed in many years. The local VFW gathers torn and tattered flags from locals and replaces worn out ones around town.

The flags were burned in two barrels by Joe Wilson, and members of Quartzsite Fire Department.

Harry Luge concert in Quartzsite! Oct. 2nd

Fundraiser for

Quartzsite Activity Center (QAC)

Saturday, October 2nd

Quartzsite Country Bash

with Harry Luge!

Harry Luge is the ever-consummate singer/songwriter with deep and proud roots in the Arizona desert. He's a well-known performer from the "Country Thunder" Festival circuit from Southwest to Midwest. He's experienced beyond his 32 years and his non-stop creative personality translates to high energy live performances on some of the largest stages in the Country Music industry.

Bring the whole family for a great show and lots of fun!

For more information visit http://www.quartzsitecountrybash.com/

Scholars' Academy Class of 2010 Graduation, Quartzsite

18 Scholars' Academy students graduated Saturday night, June 5, 2010 in Quartzsite, Arizona. The ceremony was held at the Church of Christ, Latter Day Saints. The hall was packed with proud family, friends, and locals just wanting to support this strong group of young people, as they celebrate their completion of this phase of their life.

A slide show started the evening, sharing moments of the lives of the Class of 2010. Many scholarships were awarded by local businesses and organizations. The students presented roses to important people in their lives, sharing hugs and tears. It was a very moving evening.

Parker 33rd Annual Tube Float

Saturday, June 5, 2010 was a very hot day in southern Arizona and brought a thousand plus sun seeking young people to the Colorado River!

The 33rd Annual Tube Float, sponsored by the Parker Chamber of Commerce and the Blue Water Casino and Resort, was a huge success.

The floats ranged from single inner tubes, fancy rafts, to homemade decks, filled with sodas, food and beer for the 8 mile ride down the river. Participants that registered received T-shirts. The float ended at the Blue Water Casino and Resort with a fun party for all.


This was my first time to witness this colorful event, and the timing was perfect. Starr took these pics as folks were launching their floats.

Quartzsite has new mayor!

Ed Foster won the election by only 27 votes. However, the agenda for Tuesday night's council meeting puts in question this statement. Item number 2 under new business: "Discussion and possible approval of Resolution No. 10-12; certifying the facts requiring a recount of the vote for the Town of Quartzsite held on May 18, 2010, and authorizing the Town Attorney to file a petition in Superior Court for a recount of the votes and declaring an emergency to exist."

Many local folks have expressed their outrage to me. Anyone who knows me, is aware that I am just a human being trying to help others in a positive way. I can understand their concerns and frustrations. I strongly believe that our society thrives when there are many different opinions. It is how we express ourselves that concerns me. Yelling at me won't get you very far....sharing your opinion in a clear, calm way is a good way of communicating with respect.

Papers have been drawn to recall our newly elected council members, less than 24 hours after the swearing in ceremony on Tuesday, May 25, 2010. People were upset that the sitting council voted to change the mayor's duties. I heard many times, that the council is not listening to the people. Well, the people put them all there! The people actually voted who they want to serve on that council. This is the first time since October, 2008 (when then Mayor Chuck Busby died in office) that there is a fully elected council.

Every decision made by the council will most likely upset someone! They have a job to do and it is my personal opinion to just let them do it. It's very difficult to work at your peak performance when there are constant threats and unrest surrounding you. Every person working at Town Hall is a human being, just doing the best they can. Every council member is a human being also. They all have families, friends, passions, hobbies, hopes and goals.

Let us be supportive of each other, expressing ourselves with respect and compassion.

Arizona Centennial plans going strong

The Arizona Centennial Committee of Quartzsite is planning a year long celebration of Arizona's 100th year of statehood. Quartzsite's political scene has been very intense these past few months. This is the perfect time for folks to come together and help Quartzsite shine again!

The Quartzsite Centennial group was originally started by the GFWC Woman’s club and now has become a Town of Quartzsite Event. The magnitude of this event needs the complete support of our community, so the Woman’s Club asked the Council to reinstate the Town’s Committee. The newly formed Centennial Committee met for the first time on Wed. April 28, 2010 and have been very busy since.

The statewide year-long celebration is from February 14, 2011 through February 14, 2012. Many local events will coordinate with already established events. The kickoff event will begin with the ATV Parade on Feb. 12, 2011 in cooperation of Willpower, Inc. Every organization, business and individual can participate in small or large ways, however when we join forces together, the program as a whole, will be phenomenal.

Quartzsite will get a head start with fundraising beginning this summer into the fall. On October 23, Proud Neighbors of Quartzsite (PNQ) in cooperation with other organizations will host their 2nd Annual Rockin' in Quartzsite - A Celebration of the Arts! Centennial Souvenirs will be available for purchase at this event and others during the season.

Proud Neighbors of Quartzsite (PNQ) recently joined forces with Funding Factory to provide recycling services for ink jet cartridges and cell phones. Just drop off your ink jet or laser cartridges, and old cell phones in the boxes and we'll take care of the details. For the first year of the project, the funds raised will support the Centennial Committee. Stay tuned for locations in Quartzsite. If your business is interested in being a drop off location, please contact Rain at 541-218-2560.