It looks like the effort is back on, and that is a good thing.
Arden Arcade cityhood backers' new goal: Vote in 2010
By Ramon Coronado - rcoronado@sacbee.com
Published 12:00 am PDT Thursday, May 1, 2008
The failure to put Arden Arcade cityhood on the ballot this year may in the long run help the incorporation effort, according to advocates.
"This might be a blessing in disguise," said Joel Archer, who is leading the charge to turn 13 square miles of unincorporated area into a city.
The plan to put the issue to voters on the November ballot fizzled last month after it was announced that a study needed before this year's election could not be completed in time. The timing was thought to have been critical in order to tap into millions of dollars in state vehicle license fees for the new city should voters pass the measure by 2009. Assembly Bill 1602, if passed, would restore those funds.
A new consulting firm is being recommended to finish the needed study. The first consulting firm resigned from the project after it was paid only $10,000 of a $130,000 contract.
If the study is completed and if there are no other surprises, residents could cast their votes in June 2010.
The study will be cheaper for the cash-strapped cityhood advocates, who now may have more time to raise money and support for their cause.
"Ultimately, we get more time to educate the community, and we get charged less. Chances of that bill being signed by the governor are very good, so we wouldn't lose the vehicle license fees," Archer said.
Peter Brundage, executive director of the Sacramento Local Agency Formation Commission, which oversees political boundary changes, is recommending that a new consulting firm be hired to finish the study of the fiscal viability of cityhood.
