Lawsuit against Florence challenges annexations
A lawsuit was filed September 24th, against the Town of Florence, challenging their recent annexation attempts of Magic Ranch, Crestfield Manor, Wild Horse Estates and surrounding areas.
The annexation that was recently approved, added 4,300 residents and six square miles into the town’s boundaries. The annexation was to go into effect October 1st, however many residents have voiced their concerns with the entire process.
Local resident Phil Hollins, and several other residents have come together to form a group called HALO – Homeowners Against Legislative Omissions. Working together with neighbors, they believe that they have discovered “fatal defects” in the process initiated by the Town of Florence.
The new suit alleges “that the TOF disregarded the requirements of A.R.S. § 9-471, which governs the annexation process in the state of Arizona, and attempted to trample on the rights of the citizens of Pinal county, Arizona.”
John Dantico, a member of HALO, said “It is my sincere hope that the Superior Court looks at the facts of the events that have transpired in relations to these annexation attempts, and look at the laws of the State of Arizona, and make a ruling that does substantial justice. I hope that TOF (Town of Florence) admits that they failed to comply with the requirements of A.R.S. § 9-471 and that they withdraw their annexation petitions.”
Mayor Tom Rankin & the Town Clerk were both served September 26th. All town council members are listed on the suit.
