Schroeder: Looking toward the RCSC future in Sun City

Let’s take a moment and think about all we have that’s good and look ahead to when everything gets back to normal.

This has been a rocky road for everybody — one way or another. Lots of people have expressed their concerns and disappointments, approvals and appreciation for what has happened over the last six months. I’m sure there will be plenty more exchanges as we head into the future.

I would like to ask you one simple question. Did you move to Sun City because it was a great value? For many, the answer is yes. The recreational facilities and activities offered to cardholders here can’t be beat at the price we pay. Every other Sun City community in the nation and similar age-restricted developments, no matter where they are located throughout the country, cost far more. Things here will get back to the way they were — I promise.

Another reason some people mention for locating here is the cleanliness and safety of the community. Do you realize that’s the result of volunteers who join the PRIDES and the Posse to make it so? Other issues of concern for residents may be addressed by various community organizations, but ultimately, many of these issues must be taken up with the proper governmental agencies who oversee this area of unincorporated Maricopa County. 

Though the Posse does a great job in providing services to the community, such as Vacation Watch and the RUOK program, the ultimate policing authority for the area is the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. Face it, crime is everywhere. We all have a responsibility to live by the golden rule, watch out for our neighbors and report any suspicious activities and incidents that may occur to the agency responsible.

The Sun City PRIDES work tirelessly to pick up trash and keep much of the roadside vegetation on the major arterials throughout the community neat and trimmed. However, the streets, signs and traffic controls are overseen by the Maricopa County Department of Transportation. Through the Sun City Home Owners Association’s Road and Safety Committee, acting as a liaison to relay resident’s concerns, the bottom line is that decisions on these matters happen elsewhere.

Complaints and concerns about bars and rehab facilities and vacant storefronts fall under Maricopa County zoning, permitting and licensing agencies. Neither RCSC nor SCHOA have any influence over what happens with commercial properties. Some feel there have been too many restrictions over the last few months. Others who want it all but seem unwilling to listen, consider the consequences or pony up the additional costs that would be required. But the past is the past.

So how do we start looking toward the future and make sure things happen for the good of all? Some might suggest that if you think you can do better, why not run for the board? Well, if you’ve not committed yourself by now it is too late for this year.

While being on the board might not be everyone’s cup of tea, learning, understanding and participating in all aspects of Sun City life is something everyone in the community ought to consider. Start by getting involved; be a part of the solution by becoming a volunteer if you’re willing and able.

Another way to improve what lies ahead might be to research and find the answers to your questions. While RCSC provides cardholders with a wealth of information in a variety of ways, some wish to be spoon-fed only the details for which they are concerned — unwilling or unable to help themselves, consider the full picture or how their issues and wishes might affect everyone else.

Now is the time to get prepared for the future. In the words of Fleetwood Mac, “Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow, Don’t stop, it’ll soon be here; It’ll be here, better than before; Yesterday’s gone, yesterday’s gone!”

Editor’s Note: Dan Schroeder is RCSC board president for 2020.