Via City of Coolidge
By Michael Maresh | Pinal Central
COOLIDGE — Mayor Jon Thompson gave a snapshot of where the city is and hopes for the future in Coolidge’s April 19 State of the City address.
During a luncheon sponsored by the Coolidge Chamber of Commerce, he talked about the growth of housing permits, miles of repaired roadways, having the Fire Department move to a 24/7 operation, reducing odors at the wastewater plant, businesses at the airport increasing and the closing of the landfill.
On property taxes the mayor pointed out that of every $100 collected the city only receives $12. In the last seven years the tax rate has dropped by 22%.
Thompson said the city, unlike most, pays off its debts as early as possible, so the savings in interest fees can be used for other things.
The total calls for service from the Fire Department for 2022 was 2,257, with most being medical calls. Going to a 24/7 service could likely drop the city’s ISO rating from a 4 to 3, which would lower insurance rates for residents.
In the two months since the department moved to a full-time all-around service, calls have increased by 15%.
