TOAV can pay its way, study says (March 17, 1988)

Revisions in revenue and expenditure estimates during the past week leave almost no doubt that cityhood for Apple Valley is financially feasible, the Local Agency Formation Commission was told by its staff chief Wednesday. The commission, however, delayed a decision to send the incorporation plan to a November election. It called for further hearing April 20 on a boundary dispute and on whether the proposed city should take over operation of the Apple Valley Water District.

Two of the commission’s seven members supported arguments by district officials that water and sewer problems can best be handled by their separate, elected board. But LAFC Executive Officer James Roddy recommended city operation of the district as a way to cut costs and to enable city officials to make more intelligent land-use decisions. Incorporation committee members said a city takeover of the district would reduce potential conflicts in the community.

The commission is expected to decide on the water question April 20. when it also will consider whether the proposed city boundaries should include about half a square mile on the east side of the Mojave River where subdivisions have been developed for horse owners north of Bear Valley Road and west of Apple Valley Road. The development is associated with the Spring Valley Lake community on the other side of the river and its inclusion in the proposed city would require its removal from Victorville’s sphere of influence. Incorporation proponents argued the area is more a part of Apple Valley.

Meanwhile, Roddy disclosed that corrections in property tax estimates for the proposed city now show its revenues would exceed its likely spending in its first full year and would make cityhood financially feasible, if only by a small margin. The LAFC staff chief estimated revenues at $5,869,000 and costs at $5,780,000, leaving a surplus of $89,000. The commission staff released a report last week showing a $112,000 deficit, but it noted that estimate was subject to adjustments. Roddy said the expenditure estimates include a law enforcement contract with the sheriff that would almost triple the community’s present level of police protection.

Source: Bill Rogers, San Bernardino County Sun, March 17, 1988