1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

I urge you to oppose House Bill 2946, scheduled for consideration in the House Rural Economic Development Committee this Thursday. This legislation would severely restrict the ability of Arizona municipalities and counties to plan for growth and ensure that new development pays its fair share for necessary public services. Representative Powell's bill eliminates development fees for library facilities entirely and prohibits cities and counties from assessing park facility fees when developers are required to set aside open space. These restrictions remove critical funding mechanisms for community amenities that enhance quality of life and property values. Libraries serve as essential community hubs, providing internet access, educational programming, and resources to residents of all ages. Parks offer recreational opportunities and green space that make neighborhoods livable and attractive. The bill also prohibits municipalities from distinguishing residential development fees based on dwelling unit size or number of bedrooms. This one-size-fits-all approach ignores the reality that larger homes with more bedrooms typically house more residents who place greater demands on schools, roads, water systems, and emergency services. A four-bedroom home generates substantially different infrastructure needs than a one-bedroom unit, yet HB2946 would force communities to charge identical fees. By allowing developers to defer payment of development fees until 15 days after certificates of occupancy are issued, the bill shifts financial risk to municipalities. While developers must provide security, this delay complicates infrastructure planning and financing when communities need upfront capital to build roads, water lines, and other facilities that must be in place before homes are occupied. Arizona communities need flexibility to craft development fee structures that reflect local conditions and ensure adequate infrastructure for growth. HB2946 would handcuff local governments, forcing existing residents to subsidize new development through higher taxes or degraded services. I ask you to vote no on this bill and preserve local authority to manage growth responsibly.