By Philip Haldiman, The Republic | azcentral.com
The Cave Creek Council denied the request of a property owner to have the first gated community in town.
Owner Lou Spelts requested the council amend the final plat of the 13-parcel Continental Mountain Estates, in the northern part of town, to allow for an automated gate and convert a public right of way to a private tract.
Spelts said the gate would provide protection against crime. Officials said there have been reports of vandalism in the past, but none in recent months.
The council denied the request 2-5 on April 6. Mayor Vincent Francia and Councilman Ernie Bunch voted to approve.