What's Happening?
The Town of Queen Creek is advancing its water self-sufficiency strategy by securing a $90 million loan from the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (WIFA) to fund new water sources. In 2025, Queen Creek purchased 500,000-acre feet of water from Harquahala
Valley, with an additional 1.2 million-acre feet approved later that year. This brings the town's water portfolio to 90% drought-proof. The WIFA loan will replace part of the $244.4 million in Certificates of Participation (COPs) used to finance these purchases. The town aims to reduce reliance on local groundwater and manage costs through a new water resource fee, replacing the existing Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District (CAGRD) fee.
Why It's Important?
Queen Creek's efforts to secure a reliable water supply are crucial in the context of increasing water scarcity and drought conditions in Arizona. By diversifying its water sources and reducing dependence on local groundwater, the town is positioning itself to better manage water resources and costs. This strategy not only ensures a sustainable water supply for residents but also sets a precedent for other municipalities facing similar challenges. The move towards self-sufficiency could lead to long-term economic and environmental benefits for the community.
What's Next?
Queen Creek plans to implement a water resource fee to fund the new water sources, with a public fee-setting process anticipated for fall 2026. The town is also working towards becoming a designated water provider, which will allow it to manage water resources more effectively. This transition is part of a broader strategy to enhance local control over essential services, similar to previous efforts in establishing local fire and police departments. The town's continued focus on water sustainability will likely involve further investments in infrastructure and technology to support its long-term goals.
