This week, Arizonans commemorate an important milestone as the Town of Cave Creek turns 37. As I reflect on the journey that led to the establishment of this vibrant municipality, I can’t help but appreciate the challenges and rewards that came with it.
Having served on numerous non-profit boards and committees, I can confidently say that the creation of a municipal government in Maricopa County, the fastest-growing county in the nation, presented the most formidable task. With a population of 4.5 million and an area the size of New Jersey, Maricopa County is truly an expansive and dynamic region.
Our dedicated committee faced fierce headwinds as the City of Phoenix and the City of Scottsdale vied to annex the unincorporated areas of Cave Creek and Carefree. To safeguard our local control and autonomy, it was imperative to establish a new municipality. However, two major hurdles stood in our way: securing a majority vote from the residents and obtaining permission from the neighboring cities.
Being part of the self-appointed Cave Creek Incorporating Committee, I swiftly realized the need for a diverse skill set encompassing government, legal, political, and marketing expertise. Situated in the mountainous northern part of the county, our fight for incorporation was fueled by a shared vision to preserve the essence of our unique “wild west” town.
After intense negotiations on boundaries and a hard-fought victory at the polls, the Town of Cave Creek emerged as one of only ten communities to successfully incorporate in Arizona over the past four decades.
Since then, we have witnessed significant economic development, including the arrival of well-known establishments like Walmart, Tractor Supply, AutoZone, Sprouts, Starbucks, and an array of delightful restaurants. Additionally, our community has thrived through substantial residential growth and the annual Cave Creek PRCA Rodeo Days.
Covering more than 40 square miles of pristine Sonoran Desert, Cave Creek is a treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting dense vegetation and diverse wildlife, ranging from families of quail and eagles to coyotes and mountain lions.
Looking back on the two years of attending countless meetings and working tirelessly to establish Cave Creek as a community, I can unequivocally say that every moment was worth it. The sense of accomplishment and pride that emanates from witnessing the growth and success of our town is immeasurable.
As we celebrate Cave Creek’s 37th birthday, let us remember the collective efforts and unwavering dedication that made this thriving community possible. Here’s to many more years of progress, unity, and shared prosperity!
John Hoeppner
1985-86 Cave Creek Incorporating Committee
