• Agreed that “fin flags,” although not specifically named in the sign ordinance, most closely function as that of a banner and were comfortable with staff’s interpretation to classify them as a banner until such time that the sign code may be updated.
• Asked the City to utilize
  its business advocate, Janine Solley, as a resource to assist and educate businesses regarding signage as a business development function and offer signage solution ideas prior to any code violation notice being issued.
• Told the City to continue to proactively enforce the sign code but with a priority being given to life safety matters, trash, weeds, and graffiti.
• Agreed to look comprehensively at signage needs for the downtown and include recommendations as part of the final Downtown Revitalization and Implementation Strategy delivered by G & G Consulting.

“The short-term goal is to enhance local business success during this holiday and winter visitor season,” said Pat Brenner, the City's public information officer.

See A-1 and see City Signs, A-6

Linda Shank Named To AJ Fire Board
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
The News
The Apache Junction Fire District Governing Board voted unanimously Wednesday, November 18, to appoint Gold Canyon real estate broker Linda Shank to the board position left vacant by the death of Clerk Mike Cooney.
   Board member Mike Weaver made the motion to consider Shank for the position and fellow board member Justin Jackson seconded it. Shank previously served on the fire district board from December 1996 to December 2004.
   After Shank was approved, Chairman Todd House said he was impressed by all four candidates, which also included James Geil and Joe Weaver, both of Apache Junction, and Keith Meland of Gold Canyon. During the interview process at the November 18 meeting, each candidate was asked five questions:

• Describe your understanding of the role of the AJFD governing board members and also share your perspective on the proper level of involvement and/or interaction with district employees.
• What personal characteristics do you possess that will enhance the AJFD Board of Directors?
• What personal experience and involvement do you have in decision-making that affects a community or community group, governing board, council, or other such governing body?
• What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing the AJFD in the near-future, and describe your opinions regarding your responsibility to support the fire district employees and board, as well as the fire district taxpayers, regarding future growth?
• Labor currently has what they refer to as a “great labor/ management process, which includes regularly scheduled meetings, a meet and confer agreement, and open dialogue between labor, management and the fire board.” Describe your perspective regarding labor union involvement in relation to the operation of the fire district, as well as with the fire board.

See A-1 and see Fire Board, A-6

Snow In The Forecast
Holiday party is Saturday, Dec. 4
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
The News
Notoriously known for its green Christmases, Arizona will see snow this year, specifically in Apache Junction.
   The Apache Junction Parks and Recreation will not only have Santa, but snow at the gazebo for the entire family to enjoy during the City’s free holiday party from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, December 4.
   Santa will visit with the children and hand out candy canes. There will be musical entertainment provided by the Thunder Mountain Jazz Lab, as well as arts and crafts. Hot cocoa will be available for a small donation to the Apache Junction Police Explorers. The Veterans Memorial Gazebo is located at 1001 N. Idaho Road on the northeast corner of Idaho Road and Superstition Boulevard. For more information on this event, contact the Apache Junction Parks and Recreation office at (480) 983-2181.

McCarthy: Elks Soccer Shoot State Champion
Mia Richardson 3rd in girls 7-and-under division