The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Lil Jones at 7:p.m..
Pledge of allegiance was led by Carol Yokum.
Roll was taken by Deb Morrow. All members of the council present. Quorum attained.
The minutes of the last meeting , October 1, 2009, were approved by the council and are available at the Library and on our website at www.WPCCC.info.
Treasurer Report was given by Ken Freese. $1,668.80 present bank balance. A motion to pay all outstanding bills was made by Ken Freese and seconded by Carol Yokum. Motion passed.
OLD BUSINESS:
NEW BUISNESS:
SPEAKERS:
Casey McGinley, Deputy County Attorney, Pima County Attorney’s Office, introduced by Jimmie Lou Guzman, reported at present the Ajo Court is being manned by a rotating group of deputy attorneys until a permanent replacement can be found. It is possible, due to the state and county financial crises, it may become necessary to have the Ajo court manned only one day a week rather than all week days. It might be possible to install a video-linked court system, but due to many difficulties, most improbable.
Hop David, Copper News Publisher, was introduced by Lil Jones, who in turn introduced local Cartographer Mike McCoy. Jointly they introduced their effort in creating a new and a far more accurate map of Penasco/Rocky Point and surrounding areas. The map is a means to an end. The reverse side will be an accurate map of Ajo. It would list all local points of interest, a yearly calendar of events and advertisements for dinning, lodging, and services. It is proposed as a means of encouraging visitors and to show Ajo is a destination with values, not just a place you pass through on the way to Rocky Point.
Dr. Joen Painter, Principal of the Ajo School District, was introduced by Ernie Green. Painter noted rules were noticeably more strict, with focus on volunteerism and community. Day of Peace was noted as an illustration. A goal is to increase school spirit as in athletic games, pep rallies and formation of a Parent-Teacher-Student organization.
The resource officer is gone but thanks to the volunteering of law enforcement, Lions Club readers, coaches, tutors, and Arizona Youth Partnerships programs and learning continues. It was noted that if you wish to volunteer you must be finger printed. See Sheriffs office.
Lt. Bill Clements, Commander, Ajo District Sheriffs Station was introduced by Arlene Dreste. The Sheriff noted that in spite of budget cutbacks state wide he continues to increase his staff, most recently with two new corrections officers. Deputies are more often in Why and on the road to Lukeville and Operation Stonegarden is strengthening the co-operation with the Border Patrol. There are nine new SAV candidates in process. If all complete training there will be a force of twenty-five in Ajo.
Devin Reno, Public Relations Officer, Ajo Station, was introduced by Ernie Green. Reno gave an update of border activities. Cooling temperatures bring increased traffic. The added fencing, infrastructure and technology around Lukeville is helping to deter traffic. The surveillance tower project continues and are adding jobs for the area. Reno noted the traffic going south and stopped at the Port of Entry are being scanned for weapons and large undeclared sums of money. Amounts over $10,000. must be declared.
Reno noted that if you feel you are being unfairly mistreated at the border first note the color of the uniform, if dark blue, pull over and seek the supervisor. As the border is augmented by several agencies, get the color, match the agency. Lt. Clements noted at times the officer at the border may be a sheriff. If you have a problem, call him. If you have a question about what you can or can’t cross the border with, check the posted signs before you attempt to cross. Regards disposal of the tons of confiscated marijuana, all drugs are turned over to Drug Enforcement Administration for incineration at extreme temperatures. No, due to the temperature there is no chance to get a high from the fumes as rumored. Regarding a window sticker for Ajo residence passing through the checkpoint. It would be quickly counterfeited and used by traffickers. Noted: you must stop, be questioned and wait to be waved on. Reno noted checkpoints are a part of the defense-in-depth strategy to enforce immigration violations. About one third of all contraband is seized at checkpoints. No southbound inspections ever occur at a checkpoint and there are no plans at this time.
FROM THE FLOOR:
John Peck, chief operating officer, ISDA, discussed local support for a self supporting sustainable food production effort. Focus on connection of community, home gardens, producers, and entrepreneurial persons to form a not for profit food related group. The object is to develop a commercial garden to raise, harvest, preserve, and market product wither they be fresh, canned, frozen or otherwise saleable. The effort is to include a kitchen and classrooms for instruction. A rainwater harvesting system is also being investigated. A questionnaire was given out seeking community input.
Cheryl Langer of Why-Ajo-Lukeville Development reported on a community event calendar. The plan is to co-ordinate functions, festivities, event, etc. to minimize conflicts of interest and to be an instrument to publicize and merchandise actives to the county and state for economical return.
As there was no further business from the floor, the Chairperson Lil Jones adjourned the meeting at 8:30 p..m..
Submitted:
Ernest Green
Secretary
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