Spook Hill Neighborhood Action Assoc.

Spook Hill Neighborhood Action Assoc.

Association Formed in mid 1980's

Several residents of the area joined forces to fight the developer of Falcon Ridge, now Las Sendas, when they proposed to build over 6000 homes and a golf course on 1800 acres that was zoned for one home per acre. The association was successful in reducing the number of homes to 3800, but the developer then went bankrupt in the late 1980's.

A Voice for the Residents

However, we became known as a knowledgeable and tenacious voice for the current residents, most of whom preferred to maintain low densities and to preserve the desert character of the area. We try to influence development in this direction although with limited success since several large developments were conceptually zoned in the mid 1980's under Development Master Plans and it is difficult to modify them.

Increased Awareness

By appearing at every significant zoning hearing concerning the Desert Uplands over the past fifteen years, we have increased the awareness of the city council and county board of the need to protect this area as it develops. The city now requires all developers to review their plans with us before they are presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council. We hold periodic meetings and mail newsletters to keep the residents and property owners informed on development in the area.

About our association

Who Are We?

We are residents and property owners in the Desert Uplands area of northeast Mesa that is designated by the city for special attention due to its unique location, vegetation and wildlife. The Desert Uplands contains the only native undisturbed upper Sonoran Desert in northeast Mesa. Some of the Desert Uplands lies within Mesa and some of it remains in Maricopa County.
The association elects a Board of governors who manages it's business. We are a volunteer association, NOT an HOA.

Area of Interest

From the CAP canal on the east to Ellsworth Road and from McKellips Road on the south to the Tonto National Forest boundary at the Indian School Road alignment - a total of approximately nine square miles.
We represent those residents and property owners who are not members of a regular homeowners association. The association board meets monthly on the third Tuesday. Residents are welcome to atend. Contact bill.puffer@att.net for details.

Association Goals

1. Maintain the desert character of the area as it develops
2. Represent the residents' interests with the city, the county and with developers
3. Encourage low density development and preservation of the natural desert whenever possible