In November 2022, a group of Sun City West residents initiated a recall vote against three Recreation Centers of Sun City West board members, President Tim Hurley, Treasurer Dick Rhodes and Director Jack Leary. It was alleged that Hurley and Rhodes failed to exercise oversight of the management operation, and that Leary functioned in a dictatorial manner.
RCSCW management cast an inaccurate portrayal of at least one of the allegations raised. The recall effort failed.
Subsequent to the outcome of the recall effort, the board heard an appeal of a disciplinary matter involving the husband of a member of the recall committee. President Hurley disregarded pertinent facts that should have impacted the ultimate decision. The appeal failed. In presiding over board meetings, he misstated Arizona statutes, and spoke in a condescending manner to residents.
In the March 2024 board election, President Hurley was found to be inappropriately involved with a candidate “grade card” circulated in the community. The grade card showed favor to at least one candidate who opposed the recall, and gave poor grades to candidates who were part of the recall effort. He later was replaced as board president by Leary.
President Leary has failed to address some residents in a courteous manner as the rules require. One can view his interaction with a resident at the Nov. 5, 2024, Chartered Clubs Committee meeting by going to https://www.youtube.com/live/8r58wCc5CbI?si=uD61tN4PyhhzYaTC and fast-forwarding to 2:17:16.
Leary has also disrespected board members Dennis Horvath and Jolene Piatkowski by not allowing them to serve on a committee for a full year. Both participated in the recall. The development of these two members would certainly have enhanced their ability in their remaining years on the board. It appears other board members did not push back on the limited roles granted to these two board members.
The terms of Leary, Rhodes and Hurley end June 30, 2025. Maybe the next board will have real leadership, and there will be collegiality among board members.
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