On Wednesday, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors rejected a request by some residents of a small, unincorporated community to form its own body of water.

In the face of next year’s supply outage, about 550 people in the Rio Verde foothills have proposed managing a Domestic Water Improvement District (DWID) to keep water flowing to the area.

But Thomas Galvin, a supervisor representing the area, says the majority of residents were against the idea, calling it a big undertaking.

“I am concerned about the long-term viability of DWID and its board. Galvin said, “The new government agency will destroy rural independent lifestyles and the spirit of community.”

Phil Lutzman/KJZZ

Rio Verde Foothills homeowner Meredith DeAngelis points to her water tank. Rio Verde Foothills has proposed managing Domestic Water Improvement Districts (DWIDs) to keep the area hydrated.

Due to the ongoing drought, Scottsdale has notified residents of the Rio Verde foothills that they will no longer be able to sell water starting in 2023. Galvin hopes the city can extend the deadline until a more permanent solution is found to bring water to the community.

Utilities Epcor has submitted a proposal to serve the area.

On Monday, Foothills residents argued for and against the proposed district.

Attorney Jeff Crockett represented the pros, saying that under Arizona law, residents have the right to do so.

“DWID is working well throughout Arizona,” said Crockett. No one is forced to participate in DWID. There are no alternatives at this time before the oversight board and time run out. “

However, many residents disagree with the idea, including Christy Jackman, who thought it was a violation of property rights.

“They are trying to monopolize the water in our area, where there are 2,200 households that use it all the time, and they have to charge extra. ,” said Jackman.

→ These Arizona residents are in danger of losing their water supply