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Biggs: Update on keeping SSA building in Apache Junction

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Yesterday, Rep. Paul Gosar, his team, City of Apache Junction Mayor Chip Wilson and I had a telephonic conference call with the Social Security Administration officials looking at closing the Social Security office in Apache Junction.

Some good news and some bad news:

  • Good news — They advised us that they have extended the lease agreement on the building for two to four years pending further review. So, while this is to be celebrated, we are not out of the woods yet.

  • Bad news — We are not out of the woods yet. They advised us that they do not anticipate having a decision made until late 2021 at the earliest on the future of the Apache Junction office but are reviewing everything and conversations will continue.

Now, we did get some information as to why they are looking at closing our office. It essentially boils down to population growth not keeping up with projected trends.

They moved the office from Scottsdale to Apache Junction in 2003 (it opened in 2005) due to data suggesting Apache Junction was “booming.” The Social Security folks say the growth of the Queen Creek area warrants a move closer to the population shift.

We explained the various factors that come into play and they took note of them. The bottom line is we will have to continue to fight to keep the office in Apache Junction.

A reminder that if you have not signed the online petition already, please do so at this time, at ipetitions.com/petition/keep-social-security-administration-in-apache.

Editor’s note: Braden Biggs is on the Apache Junction City Council.

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