Wittmann citizens interested in annexation issues, in particular, may want to join monthly meetings facilitated by the Northwest Citizens Group (NCG), along with Surprise staffers. Items discussed impact the Surprise planning area. Included in the planning area are unincorporated sections of Circle City, Morristown, Nadaburg, Surprise, Wittmann and the northwest area of Maricopa County between Wickenburg and Surprise.

August meeting issues discussed were proposed enhancements to communications with area residents. The effort was to begin with a local press release, a locally distributed newsletter and an e-mail distribution to inform those who want to be included on updates.

September meeting agenda items included a Surprise presentation of the updated annexation policy. The summary of the meeting’s discussions will be published this month. Transportation, traffic and BNSF Railroad issues will be on future meeting agendas.

The Northwest Citizens Group consists of 13 members from Circle City, Morristown and Wittmann areas. Facilitating monthly meetings, along with Surprise staff, the group’s mission is as follows:

• Act as a liaison between city officials and area citizens.

• Provide input to City of Surprise.

• Represent the interests of citizens living in applicable unincorporated areas, and provide input to Surprise planning efforts that impact these citizens.

• Provide regular reporting on planning efforts in the applicable areas in order to gain a consensus of planning activities.

• Report public feedback to city staffers.

The public is invited to attend the NCG monthly meetings, which are held in the Saguaro Jane’s Community Center at 21802 W. Wilson Avenue right here in Wittmann.

In regards to what is being discussed, all the issues presented will impact you if you are a homeowner. Annexation would typically increase your property tax. Traffic and BNSF Railroad issues have the potential to increase or decrease your property values, depending on the specific changes.

If you are a resident or homeowner in the area, you won’t want to miss out on your chance to provide input and make a difference.

To contact the NCG, you may either e-mail them at Deborah.Perry@SurpriseAZ.com or call (623) 222-3154.