Two years ago state lawmakers saw the wisdom in that approach, authorizing the district's creation. As this year's legislative session nears an end, still on the table is a commitment to fund the 17,000-acre district. How much is a big question, and if it will be enough. That seems a trifle low. The preserve is a state priority.
Seed money is important.
Without it, the property owners won't join the district. Without them, there's no reason for the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to officially declare the district. And without the district and protected open space there may not be legitimate arguments to counter base closure, should Congress go down that path. Earlier in the session, legislators and the governor teamed up to require that municipal general plans include consideration of base operations and that land uses be compatible with the base. That was a good first step.