CPA2024006 BOS REPORT_11-5-25PART-3.PDF

FEMA rolls out new rules on building in flood-prone
areas, with climate change in mind
WHRO | By Katherine Hafner
Published September 18, 2024 at 11:15 AM EDT
LISTEN •  0:57
Sam Turken / WHRO
A home in Hampton Roads elevated to protect against floods. This elevation of a building's lowest floor is known as freeboard.
The new flood risk standard, which is about a decade in the
making, is designed to ensure federally-funded projects can
withstand future climate conditions.
Officials using federal money in Hampton Roads will now have to follow stricter standards
when building in flood-prone areas.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency last week enacted a Federal Flood Risk
Management Standard meant to lessen the physical and financial impacts of climate
change.
The goal is to “make sure that projects using federal funding are thinking about the
future,” said Tessa Nolan, acting deputy director of mitigation with FEMA’s Region 3,
which includes Virginia.
“If the federal government funds a project, we want to ensure that that project is able to
withstand climate change and continue to serve its purpose. It is holding development to a
higher standard.”
The new flood standard is nearly a decade in the making.
President Barack Obama signed an executive order to mandate such a rule before he left
office, but President Donald Trump rescinded the order before agencies could implement
it. The Biden administration then re-issued the document.
Each federal department is now adopting its own version of the standard. FEMA’s is the
latest to be finalized.
Ben McFarlane, chief resilience officer with the Hampton Roads Planning District
Commission, said the federal government’s previous guidance for construction in flood-
prone areas was essentially, “don't build there unless you have to.”
“And if you have to, then make sure you build it high enough up to avoid impacting the
floodplain or being vulnerable to flood damage.”
The new standard goes further, meant to reflect growing science about threats posed by
sea level rise.
It does not apply to private development or influence flood zones under the National Flood
Insurance Program.
If officials receive a federal grant to build or modify something such as a housing
development, they have a few options for how to approach flood risk.
Overall, more properties will fall under the new standard. That’s because it applies to spots
that data shows could easily flood in the future, even if they are outside of a designated
Donate

FEMA floodplain.
Nolan said if a house is elevated in one of these areas, it may need to be raised higher than
under previous guidelines, for example.
For facilities considered critical to the community, such as hospitals, “there’s an even
greater safety factor built in,” she said.
The agency will also require that when possible, federally-funded projects use nature-
based solutions, like living plants to protect a shoreline instead of rip rap.
A new online support tool from FEMA — currently in beta form — is meant to help state
and local officials figure out the best ways to incorporate climate science, based on a
project’s location and how long it’s meant to last.
The new rules are highly technical, and will mostly fall to local officials to handle, rather
than residents.
The bottom line, McFarlane said, is that the federal government is catching up with what
coastal communities like Hampton Roads know all too well: risks from climate change are
mounting and have a direct impact on residents’ lives, including the buildings where they
live, work and play.
Many localities, including Norfolk and Hampton, already have building standards that go
beyond the new federal ones. Others will have a steeper learning curve.
FEMA acknowledges the changes could increase the cost of some work.
But Nolan said in the long-term, each dollar invested can save tenfold by minimizing future
flood damage.
“While incorporating flood resilience measures into a project design may, in some cases,
increase the upfront cost of the projects, the small cost is expected to result in far greater
savings over time,” she said.
Meanwhile, Hampton Roads officials have been weighing how to best adapt local
infrastructure to account for true climate risk.

The world changes fast.
Keep up with daily local news from WHRO. Get local news every weekday in your inbox.
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The HRPDC is working to update guidance on building things like storm drains, to better
reflect the expected rise in rainfall and sea levels. Local governments haven’t yet agreed
on what those standards should be.
Tags
Environment & Sea Level Rise
 
Local government
Business & Growth
Katherine Hafner
Katherine is WHRO’s climate and environment reporter. She came to WHRO from the
Virginian-Pilot in 2022. Katherine is a California native who now lives in Norfolk and
welcomes book recommendations, fun science facts and of course interesting
environmental news.
See stories by Katherine Hafner
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This Message Is From an External Sender
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Letter to Maricopa County Planning & Development
Friends of Circle City <friendsofcirclecity@yahoo.com>
Mon 7/1/2024 12:58 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
1 attachments (125 KB)
BNSF letter to Maricopa County P&Z.pdf;
Please see attached letter opposing BNSF wanting to rezone their property near Circle City Arizona.
Thank you,
The Friends of Circle City Association

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BNSF request for land use change
Gene Surber <gvsurber4@gmail.com>
Tue 7/23/2024 3:59 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
To: Joe Landis, Maricopa County Planning
FR: Gene Surber, 21136 West Restin Rd, Wittmann, AZ   85361
RE: Oppose BNFS Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA2024006) and Zone Change
 
I am writing in Opposition to BNFS proposed Plan Amendment and Zone Change as a homeowner on Restin Road
where if the change is allowed it will greatly reduce the value of mine and my neighbors property as well as have
the potential to create noise and light pollution for all the landowners on the west side of 211th Avenue as well as
creating a huge increase in traffic on an already over used 211th , 74th , and US-60/Grand Avenue.  The land use
change cannot be allowed without requiring BNSF to do the following:
1.  Build Sound Barriers (at least a 20-foot earthen berm) around the entire property.
2.  All lights must be below the sound barrier berm and the installation of lights that shine directly down
and are designed to reduce light pollution,
3.  Pay for traffic improvements along  US-60 from 303 to Wickenburg, improvements  on 211 from Dove
Valley to 74/Morristown New River HWY, improvements on 74 form I-17 to Us-60.
4. Should have limited or no access to the property in discussion through existing dirt roads to residential
and  agricultural properties as access for construction or future corridors for operational traffic.  They should be
required to off current paved roads or improved paved roads for construction and future operation. 
 
Joe, thank you, your staff and the planning board for consideration of these requested items. 
I am still opposed to the whole zone and land use change.
Gene
Gene & Vickie Surber
"Manage It or It will Manage You!"
"Be Happy, It is Contagious!"

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Oppose
Hessville@netins.net <Hessville@netins.net>
Mon 7/1/2024 7:22 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
This letter is in reference to the proposal to rezone White Tank Grand ave from Single -family Rural to
Mix use industrial.  I am a Morristown/Circle City resident . I oppose this rezoning plan.   This proposal
will put people at risk , it will be a safety hazard for all who use this heavily traveled highway. 
Please keep Morristown Rural and keep  Arizona's beautiful natural  scenery untouched.
Deb and John Hess Williams

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Opposition to BNSF proposal
Jeanette Hochstatter <jeanettehochstatter@gmail.com>
Wed 9/4/2024 1:45 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Good afternoon, Joel,
I am a local Sun City West resident and realtor in the area.  I frequently travel Grand Ave,(Hwy 60)
North and South and am especially familiar with the intersection of Grand and the 303 Freeway. The
traffic there is very impacted and not running efficiently for locals or visitors. 
The proposed BNSF site would have an incredible impact on that area and would only worsen the
safety for residents and increase commute times that currently crawl. 
I would like to ask that you NOT  ratify/accept/approve the BNSF proposal. 
It will not serve the community in a positive way. 
Thank you in advance for your consideration of my concerns. 
Warm regards,
Direct/text : 925-588-8481
IMPORTANT re Wiring:  Never trust wiring instructions sent via email. Cyber criminals are hacking email accounts and
sending convincing, sophisticated emails with fake wiring instructions.  Always independently confirm wiring instructions
in person or via a telephone call to a trusted, verified phone number. 
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail message & any attachments, are for the sole use of the intended recipient(s)
and may contain information protected by law. Any unauthorized review, use or distribution is prohibited. If you are not
the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.

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Opposition to Case #'s CPA2024006 & Z2024072
Jeremy Jacobs <jnj_jacobs@hotmail.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 2:29 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Dear Maricopa County Planning and Zoning Department,
I am writing this to you because we, and many others Maricopa County residents that live in the vicinity
of the proposed BNSF Intermodal Facility, STRONGLY oppose this facility and the impact to our rural
residential area.
FACTS ABOUT BNSF:
BNSF has lied repeatedly about their intentions for this land purchased to the public at their meetings
with the community and to the City of Surprise.
One week after the purchase of this land was made public, representatives for BNSF gave interviews
with numerous publications with their intention of building the largest Intermodal Facility to date. Even
when confronted with this information, BNSF refused to be forthcoming.
BNSF has one of the worst records when it comes to safety, derailments, most occurring in their own
Intermodal Facilities. Hazmat materials aren't disclosed on their trains running through our towns, cities
and states, yet first responders and the cities are told to use an app if they want to know.
Numerous environmental agencies have reported the health dangers as well as dangers to the
environment that these facilities pose. These Class 1 railroads have found loopholes in the clean air
regulations for locomotives, using the older, non-clean air, carbon spewing locomotive IN the intermodal
facilities, such as this one, because they can no longer be used for long-haul activities.
The public and the City of Surprise has asked them numerous times as to the studies we have requested
before any zoning changes were requested and approved, and again, BNSF has failed to be that "Good
Neighbor" and answer any of the questions as to their plans for security and fire protection.
Every time any of this has been brought up to them, BNSF has danced around the subject, stating they
don't know what they will be doing, so they don't have the studies, so nothing has been done. Yet,
workers are there EVERY DAY, with their trucks going in and out, working on that land.
BNSF has a LONG history of ignoring laws regarding safety, a history of poor maintenance on the tracks
and trains, breaking agreements with cities and tribes, shown a lack of respect and pure dishonesty and
just pays their fines that are imposed on them and goes on their merry way to continue doing what they
do, because revenue is more important than people's lives.
BNSF and UP have led the fight against the Federal Government for stricter safety regulations of trains
and their length. Recent studies have shown that the longer the train, the chances of derailments
increase.

Research shows that BNSF utilizes local fire and police for their emergencies and security. We don't have
that kind of resource for them to cover their facility PLUS maintain the safety and security of the public
outside the BNSF footprint. We are lucky if there is an officer within 20 minutes of where we need them
to be when we do need them.
NEGATIVE IMPACT TO THE COMMUNITY:
Studies show higher cancers rates, higher rates of congestive heart failure, higher rates of asthma,
adverse effects such as lower grades, missed days due to health and breathing issues on students whose
schools and homes that are in the vicinity of these types of facilities. (We have 3 that will be in the
vicinity), property values decrease significantly around these areas.
Arizona is in a drought. Studies show that these facilities, with their DAILY dust control, storage tanks for
water, daily washing of their locomotives and cleaning out of their Hazmat tanks use an obscene amount
of water. A few years ago, this same property had an application submitted to the county to build a
residential development of 5000 home but was denied due to the water feasibility study that showed it
could not hold up to the 100-year water requirements. Why is that denied but an industrial facility that
will use even more water being considered?
We have requested the reports from the Army Corps of Engineers for the washes that run through the
6.5 miles of land that they purchased. (Some parcels require FEMA required studies for 100-year flood
studies).
We have asked for the ADOT traffic studies since the current roads cannot handle the current amount of
traffic let alone the influx of hundreds of tractor trailers daily.
We have asked for the dust control plans, since, well, we do live in the desert and well, we have dust,
what are their plans to keep the dust down at this facility- again, going back to the water issue, how
much water will it take daily, to keep the dust under control, studies from the EPA on the Air Quality
(currently Maricopa County has an "F" rating and has for the last number of years)
We have asked for the water feasibility studies since this sits on top of the aquifer that provides water to
the communities of Morristown, Circle City, Wittmann and Surprise.
We have asked for the study form AZ Fish and Game for the wildlife study and to see if there are any
protected and endangered species on this land.
We have asked for the projected numbers of the increase of trains and trucks that will be going through
the area.
Maricopa County for the last 8 years has received an F when it comes to air quality. Studies show that
these Intermodal Facilities, with their idling trains and trucks will only increase the pollutants, carbon
particulates and other toxic pollutants into our already horrible air quality.
The quantity of jobs at their facilities isn't great enough to warrant the destruction of
endangered/protected wildlife, the quality and quantity of water, the air quality and health and safety of
your residents. Studies show that most of these facilities employ under 500 employees, most under 100
as they are all mostly automated and specialized jobs such as locomotive mechanic.
The increased truck traffic on Grand Avenue, the 303, the 93 and 74 will be out of control.
The intersection of Grand/303/163rd Avenue already cannot handle the number of vehicles that it
already has. Imagine adding an additional 800 semi-trucks daily. Currently, there is a minimum of 1

major accident at the intersection a week, sometimes multiple times a day in that intersection. The
trucks have no regard for the lower speed limits at Center Street and Grand Avenue and the one at the
intersection of Grand and the 74. Daily they run the lights and stop signs at those intersections, with
little regard for human life as they blow through them at approximately 60-80 MPH. Currently the speed
limit in Wittmann is 45 MPH.
Two of the major hospitals in the area (Banner Del Webb and Banner Boswell) can only be accessed
from Grand Avenue by crossing the railroad tracks.
The Rose fire outside Wickenburg, which is still under investigation, was possibly caused by BNSF
employees welding on the track where the fire started and with no safety measures taken.
This project, which research shows has been in the works for years, maybe a plus for BNSF, for big
businesses locating to Arizona, but it is not a good fit or a beneficial plan for these communities, the
county residents, the environment, the wildlife, the public and visitors traveling on our roads, our first
responders, our air or our water.
We strongly request that you seriously consider and weigh the pros and cons of your decision and make
the right choice for your residents, the environment and your natural resources and not be swayed by
the bullying tactics that BNSF is frequently known for to get their way.
Respectfully,
Concerned Maricopa County Residents

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BNSF
Jerry Merten <jcm0251@aol.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 4:13 AM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
  Good morning , My name is Jerry C. Merten . I am a resident of Circle City , Morristown . I
have been a resident here for over 25 years now. I have seen the massive growth and traffic
problems that have developed along Rte. 60 ,Grand Ave. , This area can not handle any more
major growth . That is why I am against the Proposal: BNSF Intermodal Facility, Logistics Park
and Logistics Center being located in this area. I have major concerns of the environmental
impact and the the water usage due to the fact that everyone in this area is on a well system to
get their water, and the massive traffic problems due to the amount of semi trucks that would be
used to maintain this facility.
         Thank you
         Jerry C. Merten
         251 Gompers Circle
         Morristown , Az . 85342

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Oppose BNSF
Jessica Alexander <jessgage23@hotmail.com>
Wed 7/31/2024 6:10 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Mr. Landis,
I recently purchased a piece of property off of the 211th area north of Wittmann with plans to build our dream 
home. We have spent the past several years renting in this area. We bought in this area for the peace and 
quiet of rural living based on past county development requirements.
 It has been brought to my attention that the Burlington railroad has applied to change the zoning and 
develop an Intermodal Facility, Logistics Park and Center. I would like to formally oppose this project. Rumor 
is there will be no or little restrictions on this project regarding sound and light pollution and traffic issues. 
If this project goes through, it must not ruin the peacefulness of this unique area. It also must not diminish the 
property values. This is one of the most sought out areas in Wittmann with one of if not the highest property 
values.
Please require Burlington northern to excavate so their tallest light, structure, and sound generating operation 
is below existing grade. Please also require them to build an earthen sound and light attenuation berm 20’ 
above any light, structure, or sound producing device or equipment. This earthen berm should surround the 
entire property boundary with no gaps for sound and light pollution. Also please require them to pay for traffic 
improvements along the 60 from the 303 through Wickenburg, along 211th, and the 74 from I17 to the 60. 
Also limit BNSF from using any existing dirt roads to residential and agricultural properties as access for 
construction or future corridors for operational  traffic. They must be required to access off current paved 
roads for construction and operations.
Sincerely,
Jessica Alexander 
541-508-8058

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NO BNSF
Josh Baca <boomshakabaca217@gmail.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 7:01 AM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
My name is Joshua Baca and I live in wittmann az and if it's not to late I'd like to say no to the BNSF THAN YOU

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Oppose BNSF in wittman
Josh Jones <joshjonesdmd@gmail.com>
Wed 7/10/2024 12:01 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
I would like to know what can be done in order to roll back the ability of BNSF to move into wittman?
Sent from my iPhone

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Re: FUCK BNSF
Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Tue 7/2/2024 8:53 AM
To:​Justin Smith <nachoandsarha@gmail.com>​
Hello,
Thank you, received. This email will be added to the public record for this case.
Joel Landis
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
301. W Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planner
O:   602-506-8358    
MARICOPA.GOV
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube 
From: Justin Smith <nachoandsarha@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 2, 2024 5:59 AM
To: Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Subject: FUCK BNSF
 
You guys can go somewhere else, Noone want you in this town. You are a corrupt company that only cares about profits. Let me catch you
driving around town, it's gunna be an unwelcome party. 
Ohh and FUCK YOUR MOM!

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Concerns
Karen Goemmer <kl.goemmer@gmail.com>
Sun 7/14/2024 8:13 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Hello Joe Landis, 
I live off of the 211th area north of Wittmann. We bought in this area for the peace and quiet of rural living based on past county 
development requirements. Please require Burlington northern to excavate so their tallest light, structure, and sound generating operation is 
below existing grade. Please also require them to build an earthen sound and light attenuation berm 20’ above any light, structure, or sound 
producing device or equipment. This earthen berm should surround the entire property boundary with no gaps for sound and light pollution. 
Also please require them to pay for traffic improvements along the 60 from the 303 through Wickenburg, along 211th, and the 74 from I17 to 
the 60. Also limit BNSF from using any existing dirt roads to residential and agricultural properties as access for construction or future 
corridors for operational  traffic. They must be required to access off current paved roads for construction and operations
Thank you, 
Karen Goemmer
DBA Triangle K cattle company

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BNSF in Wittmann
Karen Kuchler <karen.murray2018@yahoo.com>
Wed 7/10/2024 7:28 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
We oppose to BNSF in our area.
I live off of the 211th area north of Wittmann. We bought in this area for the peace and quiet of rural living based on past county
development requirements. Please require Burlington northern to excavate so their tallest light, structure, and sound generating
operation is below existing grade. Please also require them to build an earthen sound and light attenuation berm 20' above any
light, structure, or sound producing device or equipment. This earthen berm should surround the entire property boundary with
no gaps for sound and light pollution. Also please require them to pay for traffic improvements along the 60 from the 303
through Wickenburg, along 211th, and the 74 from 117 to the 60.
 Also limit BNSF from using any existing dirt roads to residential and agricultural properties as access for construction or future
corridors for operational traffic. They must be required to access off current paved roads for construction and operations
Thanks for your time.
Karen Murray
22100 West Restin Rd
Sent from my iPhone

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No to Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Kathleen Loepker <uniongal4@hotmail.com>
Mon 7/1/2024 10:20 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
To whom it may concern:
We DO NOT want the Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment that will change the land use from Single-Family Rural to Mixed-Used
Employment and Zone Change!! 
Thank you,
Kathleen Loepker
Get Outlook for Android

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Stop BNSF
Kayla Freitag <kdfreitag89@gmail.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 12:33 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Hi Joel, 
I i’m writing in regards to the BNSF situation that is going on here along to 211th. I am sure you’ve received numerous amounts of emails 
with people voicing their concerns. I would like to add to that list. I live right on the corner of 211 and Caravaggio. This whole structure that 
they are putting up is one block away from my road. I am highly concerned with all of the damage, traffic, noise, home values, 
contamination, and everything else that is going to be coming along with this new structure being built. Everyone in this neighborhood has 
livestock, the machinery, the building, and the constant noise that is going to be coming from this is going to affect everybody’s livestock in 
this neighborhood. Horses will be spooked, and I’m not sure if you own any horses, but trust me, it is not enjoyable to have horses that are 
scared out of their minds. Everybody in this neighborhood is on a well, where exactly are they going to find enough water to suit this new 
structure that is going to be going in? I am also highly concerned with the floodplain. Our property is in a floodplain. Any heavy storms that 
we ever get run north to south. So if we get a heavy storm all of the debris, trash, chemicals will run directly through everybody’s properties 
to the south. How will that affect all of our properties, and our water? The amount of traffic that this is about to bring to our two-lane road is 
going to cause numerous problems. This road is already highly traveled by dump trucks, ADOT is usually out at least once a month, fixing 
the potholes in the road. Our roads cannot sustain heavy traffic that is going to be coming up and down these roads. Not to mention, the 
speed limits on these roads are already not followed. It is just asking for more accidents to happen. I am also very concerned about the 
value of our homes in this neighborhood once the structure is put up. Right now some of these homes are upwards of $1 million, once the 
structure is put up, Nobody will want to live in an area that is overran by trucks/semis and railroads.  Which is going to drive our home 
values drastically down. I am highly against this going up in my front yard, as I’m sure you have heard from numerous people. I am just 
hoping that you will do your due diligence and help us fight against this.
Thank you, 
Kayla Freitag 
Sent from my iPhone

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BNSF in Wittmann
Kaylea Stuart <kaylea.stuart@yahoo.com>
Mon 7/1/2024 9:46 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Good Evening, 
First, sorry for the long email I know you’re probably like oh just another BNSF one, your inbox is probably (hopefully) full of them. 
We are property owners out here in Wittmann off of 211th and the 74 where they have proposed the BNSF railroad park. I have grown up
out here (27 years) and we have stayed out here because we like to enjoy being away from town and have been able to start a family in a
small town with amazing people. We like a slower pace of life, we get to enjoy no street lights, getting to ride horses off into the desert
from our back door, our kids out riding bikes, playing in the dirt and being kids. I work in Tempe and drive home out here because this is
our home, away from everything, peace. I know and understand things are “going to get built up” as most of Arizona has, but when you
look at where we live the roadways, the water, etc it doesn’t make sense to have a BNSF railroad park in this area. We are already all on wells
for our water, store water and struggle just getting down the 60 to get home let alone all of the accidents and many fatalities that already
occur on the roadways out here. Put in a rail park, commercial buildings it’s only going to cause more problems not only for the area
around us, but literally in our backyard. It’s taking away our way of life out here. I am honestly scared to raise our family next to it, with the
traffic, the people coming in and out, it’s really putting us at risk, I wouldn’t want to be out and about by myself around this nor have my
kids being kids playing with the area having the proposed plans it does. At this point you’re probably like well you can just move and
problem solved, that’s easier said than done especially considering this rail park, I guarantee our housing prices drop on our 6 little dirt road
community, because honestly who would buy next to it…The vast size of what they are wanting to do, is a detriment to where we live. It’s
not only impeding on our neighborhood (it would be right out our back door), but impeding on what we have all tried to build for so many
years which is our community. I get places change, things grow, but there’s other ways to grow this area. 163rd has gotten built up with
commercial space that benefits not only you guys but also the community. If this happens our way of life drastically changes, our commutes
quadruple, we’re not safe in any way, our water could then be taken away from us, and pretty much our whole community will be
destroyed. I know this has been talked about and but I think our community really needs to be heard and have an opportunity to truly be
heard during this process.
Have a good night! 
Kaylea Zeigler 
602-803-8981
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BNSF Intermodal Terminal Proposal
Kendra Jean Frantzve <frantzve@gmail.com>
Thu 9/5/2024 12:55 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Dear Joel,
As a Surprise resident and active West Valley REALTOR, I have grave concerns
regarding the continued process going forward with the BNSF plan because of the
following reasons:
The traffic situation on Grand Avenue at the 303 and Bell and 163rd Ave. is already a
nightmare. Adding additional traffic created from this site is completely unimaginable.
Accidents are weekly while the winter visitors are not here, it will be worse once they
are here.
If this over 4,000 acre facility with all its warehouses, etc. goes through it will affect
the quality of life of the entire West Valley.  Estimated truck traffic may exceed 10,000
per day up and down Grand and the 303. 
 According to the state land department, they didn’t have an application when in fact,
BNSF had applied to have the property set - for six weeks prior. 
Why did they initially start working with the city of Surprise and then switch to working
with Maricopa County? Because the county has less regulations? 
This BNSF plan is not suitable for our area and therefore,  oppose the plan!
Kendra Frantzve
Surprise resident and 
West Valley REALTOR 
frantzve@gmail.com
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No to NBSF
Kirby Anderson <kanderson@mgccontractors.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 12:57 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Joe,
Please vote NO and get others to vote no to BNSF. We have 15 acres that will border BNSF. We bought this property and zoned it as 
agricultural boarding, breeding, and training facility.  Have you visited the housing area along 211th and Cloud and 211th and Galvin. 
I have asked BNSF and city of Surprise to survey residents that live next to existing intermodal facilities. Neither party will do it. I think this 
says something about what negative impact it has on the area.
I ask you to require BNSF facilities that their highest structure, light, and sound making equipment is no higher than existing grade. Yes this 
means major excavation and digging not burying. They should be required to install sound and light attenuation next to existing property 
that is zoned agricultural and residential. This would mean the entire property would have light and sound attenuation walls.  Walls could be 
earthen berms that they excavate to lower roof heights on their structures and landscaped like Scottsdale. 
Please people moved into the country with trust in our state and local governments to protect the area and keep it what it was intentionally 
zoned for. This major zoning change is a negative impact to residents and the local school zone in Wittmann. If you have not visited the 
area I ask that you delay the vote contact me and I will give all of you a tour of the area and how this would impact you in your backyard. 
Kirby Anderson 
MGC Contractors
(480) 201-0704

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BNSF
Krisee Jacobsen <kriseegunder@gmail.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 1:24 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
NO NO NO NO DO NOT PUT MORE AND MORE SEMI'S ON THE /GRAND AVE

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Oppose BNSF
Kristy Every <kristyevery@gmail.com>
Wed 7/17/2024 8:57 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Joe,
I am writing to you as a concerned neighbor of the new Burlington Northern Railroad project that is to take place in Wittmann. We live off
of 211th and Florentine Road, which will be the road that is most affected by this project. We bought here nine years ago with the thought
that we would always have a quiet rural community  with nothing of the city life affecting us. If this project gets approved, it will be such a
burden to our small quiet  community, which has an array of older people, children, and animals.
 
If this project does get approved please require BN to excavate so their tallest light, structure and sound generating operation is below
existing grade. Please also require them to build a sound and light attenuation berm 20' above any light, structure, or sound producing
device equipment. This should have to surround the entire property with no gaps for sound or light pollution in our rural area. With time
restraints that they will be able to conduct business.
I also feel like BN should also have to pay for all traffic improvements along the 60 from the 303  through Wickenburg, along the 211th, and
also from the 74 from I-17 and  60.
There are a lot of areas that BN could put this project from Surprise to Wickenburg that would not affect any residential areas. Please know
that we love our community and the peace that it brings for us to be there. Best case scenario they move on and buy  property elsewhere
where families in the rural area will not be affected. If this is not an option please hold BN to the highest standard to make this transition
from a rural community to an industrial community.
Kristy Every
Very Concerned HomeOwner

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BNSF facility-Wittmann AZ
Lacey Wheatley <laceywheatley@yahoo.com>
Wed 7/10/2024 4:11 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Hello Joel,
We own property in the Wittmann neighborhood off of 211th Ave.  Like most of our neighbors,
we have many concerns about this facility.  We are very concerned about traffic, noise and light
pollution, and water runoff.  But, we also have major concerns about our water supply, as we
see they plan to drill multiple wells.  There is also concern about the impending traffic and its
effect on the school and school bus pickup/drop off. There is also the matter of property value
and zoning changes, and how this will affect us. 
As per the BNSF Facebook page, at a facility less that have the size of this proposed facility,
they perform more that 2,000 container lifts and more than 1,700 trucks entering and exiting
each day!  I believe most of these facilities operate 24/7.  This is very alarming for our
neighborhood and the surrounding highway infrastructure.  And it should be a major concern for
Maricopa County and ADOT. The traffic from the loop 303, along the 60, through Wickenburg is
already overwhelming. 
Everyone in this small community takes great pride in the beautiful desert land. 
Understandably, we are not thrilled about the land being turned into warehouses and the
overwhelming increase of traffic.  We understand the need for growth and revenue for our state,
but feel other location options could be explored.
 
Kind regards
Lacey Wheatley

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BNSF rail terminal
lttomala@gmail.com <lttomala@gmail.com>
Mon 7/1/2024 5:47 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
I’m writing to request that this land use is NOT approved. I live at 163rd and Grand and fear this terminal will create a traffic nightmare in 
addition to environmental considerations with increased train traffic.
Thank you.  
Leanne Tomala
17144 W Fallen Leaf Lane
Surprise, AZ. 85387
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No Property Rezone
Lori Petersen <Lori.Petersen@albertsons.com>
Mon 7/1/2024 4:26 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Hello Joel,
Please do not rezone the BNSF, Logistic land from rural. It will hurt the community and property values.
 
Thanks,
Lori Petersen
Manager, Real Estate Processing
P-(623) 869-3823 – working remotely please contact 623-670-9610
F-(623) 869-1905
 
 
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Oppose BNSF
Lori Shearer <spearu2@icloud.com>
Thu 7/11/2024 7:58 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
To whom this may concern: Burlington Northern is building in our area starting next year. Currently they are using maricopa county planning 
and zoning for design and permitting. The county has no requirements for them. Meaning they could build an intermodal facility handling 
3,000 trucks a day with no sound barriers or light restrictions. This will be a 24/7 operation. Larger than the facility in Edgerton Kansas. 
Largest in USA. 
We are asking for restrictions on sound, light, and traffic. We would all benefit from an earthen berm landscaped like Scottsdale road 
completely around their existing facility to not disrupt our home values and sleep.
  We live off of the 211th area north of Wittmann. We bought in this area for the peace and quiet of rural living based on past county 
development requirements. Please require Burlington northern to excavate so their tallest light, structure, and sound generating operation is 
below existing grade. Please also require them to build an earthen sound and light attenuation berm 20’ above any light, structure, or sound 
producing device or equipment. This earthen berm should surround the entire property boundary with no gaps for sound and light pollution. 
Also please require them to pay for traffic improvements along the 60 from the 303 through Wickenburg, along 211th, and the 74 from I17 to 
the 60. Also limit BNSF from using any existing dirt roads to residential and agricultural properties as access for construction or future 
corridors for operational  traffic. They must be required to access off current paved roads for construction and operations. Sincerely, Greg 
and Lori Shearer 21220 W Leisure Lane Wittmann, AZ 85361. 605 441 9350

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Outlook
BNSF INDUSTRIAL FACILITY
From Lorilyn Donnelly <lorilyn33@outlook.com>
Date Mon 9/23/2024 12:06 PM
To
Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Dear Joel Landis, 
Burlington Northern is planning to build a heavy industrial facility in our Wittmann,  neighborhood
next year.  Currently there are no requirements in place, which means they can build a facility
handling 3000 trucks a day with no sound barriers or light restrictions. It is planned to be a 24/7
operation —largest in the US. 
I’m emailing to ask for restrictions around sound, light, and traffic. We bought in this area for the
peace and quiet of rural living.
Please require Burlington Northern to excavate so their tallest light, structure, and sound generating
operation is below existing grade. 
Please also require them to build an earthen sound and light attenuation berm 20’ above any light,
structure, or sound producing device or equipment. This earthen berm should surround the entire
property boundary with no gaps for sound and light pollution. 
Also please require them to pay for traffic improvements along the 60 from the 303 through
Wickenburg, along 211th, and the 74 from I17 to the 60. 
Please, also limit BNSF from using any existing dirt roads to residential and agricultural properties
as access for construction or future corridors for —requiring them to access off current paved roads
for construction and operations. 
Please help. 
Thank you, 
Lori Donnelly

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Re:
Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Tue 7/2/2024 8:58 AM
To:​Lynda Jones <lyndaj52@me.com>​
Hello,
Thank you, received.
Joel Landis
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
301. W Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planner
O:   602-506-8358    
MARICOPA.GOV
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From: Lynda Jones <lyndaj52@me.com>
Sent: Monday, July 1, 2024 5:28 PM
To: Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Subject:
 
Zoning we don’t want this re zoned we live on 211 and it is already terrible with all the big dump trucks that race by our place every day. We 
built her to live in the country and u are forcing us out. Please stop this. Thank you Dee and Lynda Jones

Sent from my iPhone

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BNSF Proposal must be stopped
Margaret Popp <mpopp7@gmail.com>
Wed 9/4/2024 1:42 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Dear Joel
The impact on the entire West Valley is going to be such a chaotic mess in addition to the severe
traffic which is already occurring. Housing Communities are mostly working families, how will
they ever navigate this mess to have ready access to medical care, making it to work on time? Do
the people who impose this on communities even use their heads when making plans? Please this
must not happen. Land developers must be stopped, too many are getting away with ruining our
way of life.
This is not a good thing...
Respectfully
Margi Popp
Sun City West AZ 
This is at our back door...shameful
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MARGI POPP
e-Pro/Realtor®
Seller and Buyer Agent
By the way, I am never to busy for you or your referral
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HOME REALTY WEST VALLEY
13551 W Camino Del Sol
Sun City West, AZ 85375
Cell (623) 696-6628
Fax (623) 209-3201
Website:  http://margip.homerealtywestvalley.com/
Email:      mpopp7@gmail.com
http://suncitywestradio.com/
Support our local Radio Station, Great Music!

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Oppose BNSF
Maria Dode Dugger <dodesteve@gmail.com>
Thu 7/11/2024 9:45 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Joel Landis
Maricopa County
joel.landis@maricopa.gov (mailto:joel.landis@maricopa.gov)
Oppose BNSF
 
Mr. Landis:
 
We are writing on behalf of not only ourselves, but the residents of the tiny Community of Wittmann, Arizona.  BNSF sent out their plans of 
development on the 4,000+acres which has raised many concerns as residents and homeowners, and the negative impact these plans will 
have on the community and environment.  We are imploring upon Maricopa County and our Representatives to take action to intervene on 
the monstrosity that BNSF wishes to build. We reside directly off of 211th Avenue on W Galvin Street, between the 74 & 60.  Concerns are 
as follows:
1. Creating an Island with our neighborhood: With BNSF's plans to use this land for commercial purposes will literally turn our neighborhood 
into a tiny island, surrounded on all four sides by commercial property, as we already have the proving ground property on the east-side of 
211th.  BNSF will completely surround our neighborhood on the West, North, & South sides of our neighborhood which, I understand that 
there are laws pertaining to real estate that are supposed to prohibit this type of building.
2. Waterways & floodplains: some over 100 years old which are not supposed to be touched will be tampered, intercepted, and re-routed:  
We have attached the flood plains map currently on file which clearly shows they run North-South through the 4,000+ acreage that BNSF's 
intermodal and logistics park plans to sit directly on top of.  They actually course around and/or between homes in the monsoons season.  
With their limitless pockets, BNSF clearly does not view waterways as an issue.   BNSF's building plans will significantly alter these 
waterways & floodplains, forcing them to shift and create new paths which will ultimately force them to carve out paths through our 
properties, wash away landscaping, fill, erode structures, and other damage. Additionally, our hazard insurance is approved based on this 
map, that our home is not in a floodplain.  Altering these waterways will increase our home insurance costs, cause severe damage to our 
properties and create a financial burden to us. 
3. Endangered/Protected Species: BNSF's 4,000 acres disrupts the habitats and threatens species that are protected and/or endangered. 
The Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (a small bird in our community) and the Sonoran Desert Tortoise both are seen in this neighborhood. 
Additionally, there are a myriad of other animal wildlife that reside here whose habitats are being threatened by BNSF's plans - pollutants 
from their railroad trains, machinery, oil, noise pollution, spills, leaks, road construction, and the thousands of semi trucks will invade this 
quiet community and the natural habitats for the wildlife. (I have included paragraphs from the Arizona Conservation Wildlife Strategy that 
note this) 
4. Saguaro Cactus:  When we moved to Wittmann, we were told that the saguaro cactus is a protected plant and that we cannot cut them 
down. I can only move them on my property.  My question is:  what is BNSF going to do with the thousands of saguaro cacti inhabiting that 
land and will they be held to the same the regulations and laws?
5. Damage to existing roads and the ongoing expense to the City/County: There is already a heavy flow of construction trucks, semi's that 
travel up and down 211th Avenue as they make their way to the various construction sites.  Potholes continually form from the weight of 
these vehicles as they tear up the roads.  Crews are sent out regularly to patch the damage only to have the same trucks chew up the 
same potholes.  The 60 was just re-paved I'm sure at an extreme expense and yet BNSF is being allowed to flood the roads with even 
more traffic, semi's and construction trucks.  The cost to the County/City will be exponential which trickles down to the residents who will 
then be required to pay taxes to support this spike in necessary spending on infrastructure.  I can assure you that taxpayers do not wish to 
have increased taxes on a project that is already not welcome. 
6. Contaminating our Water wells: We are all on personal or shared wells in this remote area and with trains, depots, intermodal and 
logistics parks comes oil spills, toxins, and other pollutants that will be absorbed in the land and then contaminate the water flows 
underground and get into our wells.  This leads to illnesses (some terminal) and subsequent lawsuits. Not to mention, the multiple residents 
here with livestock and horses who are often used to generate income for their families, rely on their livestock to stay healthy.  Sick horses 
and cattle are not cheap. Again with BNSF's deep pockets, are they really going to pay heed to these standard problems and ensure that 
our environment, water, and the wildlife habitats are not harmed?  And given that Maricopa County has approved for BNSF to move in and 
appears to care more about the money and doing little to protect the residents of these neighborhoods, I can foresee lawsuits brought 
against BNSF and Maricopa County for negligence.
7. Killing home values:  Our home values will drop significantly.  People who live in Wittmann came here for the rural lifestyle, the views of 
the mountains, the peaceful surroundings, and lack of industrial and commercial operations.  They have horses, livestock, go roping, and 
farming.  Faced with well contamination, floodplains damaging properties & increasing insurance costs and/or jeopardizing one's ability to 
obtain insurance, compounded with the eye-sore of BNSF's industrial plans to put in warehouses, distribution centers, waste water plant & 
intermodal center in our backyard will absolutely kill our home value.  
8. Tax Increases to the Community:  With BNSF's plans to move in, how do the expenses of needing to maintain infrastructure, roads, 
lights, impact the residents?  Is Maricopa County planning on putting this expense on the residents through taxation, fees, increase of cost-
of-living, to support the BNSF destruction?  Or is BNSF expected to absorb these costs?  What is BNSF's plan to obtain their own water?  
Will the County or City of Surprise be required to tap into city water for BNSF or does BNSF plan to tap into our water? And who plans on 
covering all of those expenses?  The City or County? Further,  Our well cannot support more than 6-7 residential homes and considering 
that BNSF will literally be building in my backyard, I can anticipate that my well be severely compromised, both in having sufficient water as 
well as the first water to be poisoned.  
It appears Maricopa County has done nothing to address these matters with BNSF. Otherwise, we would be looking at different plans from 
BNSF. BNSF is trying to disguise their plans by requesting a mixed employment zone and changing from Residential Housing to 
Commercial Zoning.  Maricopa County has already allowed this mis-labeling on most of the acreage. But we all know that these are

industrial plans with high risk and potentially life-threatening harm to the residents of Wittmann.  It is negligent on the part of Maricopa 
County to turn a blind eye and not challenge BNSF's plans to contaminate the land. Further, to allow BNSF to slide plans through as 
"employment" rather than the truth and to call it what it is misleading and far from transparent. 
 
We are very concerned residents and Community, and are imploring for the County to step in, and do what's right: to protect residents of 
Wittmann, Surprise, Morristown and other surrounding cities, protect the habitats & wildlife of our neighborhood.  I am imploring that 
Berkshire Hathaway (who owns BNSF) to consider alternatives with their plans that will actually support the community rather than destroy 
it.
 
Steve Dugger
Maria Dugger
21244 W Galvin st
Wittmann, Az  85361
 
*According to the Arizona Conservation Wildlife Strategy Website: "While human and wildlife safety concerns are of highest priority, 
construction and modification of transportation corridors present additional ecological challenges. Ground disturbance associated with 
roadway construction, and vehicles traveling on the roadways once operational, can introduce or spread invasive plant species across 
right-of-ways and onto adjacent lands. Pollution by toxins, nutrients, and noise from the transportation corridor can create edge effects on 
adjacent hydrology and microclimate, reducing the suitability of the remaining habitats (Murcia 1995; Reijnen et al. 1995; Boarman and 
Sazaki 2006; Eigenbrod et al. 2009; Parris and Schneider 2009). These effects spread into the surrounding landscape and contribute to the 
loss and degradation of natural habitat several times larger than the area of the road footprint itself. The effects are influenced by road and 
traffic characteristics, landscape topography and hydrology, wind, and vegetation. In addition, the resulting impacts on wildlife also depend 
on the sensitivity of the species in the vicinity.
Road and bridge construction can also directly influence stream characteristics, such as channel and floodplain configuration, substrate 
embeddedness, riparian condition, relative prevalence of woody debris, stream flow rate, and temperature regime (Furniss et al. 1991). The 
timing, quantity, quality and location of surface water runoff can change as roadways and related drainage structures act to intercept, 
collect, and/or divert water. These factors can accelerate water delivery and surface flow, thereby increasing the potential for higher 
magnitude of runoff in watersheds having roadway developments as compared to those not having such 
developments (Wemple et al. 1996)
Maria-Dode Dugger

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Say NO toBNSF
Maria Rochelle <sjotcisps@yahoo.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 8:01 AM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Dear Joel, 
I am writing to you this morning with deep concerns about the new BNSF location under
discussion in Wittmann AZ. 
Please respect the neighborhoods, the families there and the the conservation efforts of the
wildlife and refuse their claim to that area. 
I vote NO. 
Warm Regards,
Maria Rochelle (sjotcisps@yahoo.com)

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Train
Maria Uhing <mariauhing@gmail.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 1:09 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
The residents of Whitman said they do not want your rail road going through there please say no to BNSF

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CPA2024006
Mary Cox <marycox1989@live.com>
Mon 7/1/2024 6:19 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Please do not rezone. Wickenburg has issues to take care of for example the sewers and water and not to mention the housing situation is
terrible.
Thank you.
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BNSF
Mayra Garcia <mgarcia2611@gmail.com>
Mon 7/1/2024 10:13 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
NO TO BNFS!!!..
I just purchased my first home 7 months ago here in Wittmann AZ. Having the BNFS literally across from my house will devalue my home! 
Nevertheless, will take away the peace and quiet that I chose over moving away from the city..
Sent from my iPhone

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Re: We just got this house we have put a lot of money in this.We have horses they don’t
like all a lot of noise I don’t either.thats going to put a big lost on our place please don’t
do this!!!!
Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Thu 9/5/2024 3:09 PM
To:​memecunningham90@gmail.com <memecunningham90@gmail.com>​
Hello,
Thank you, received. You may direct further questions or comments to myself or to the applicant,
Gammage & Burnham, who you can reach at sdemmitt@gblaw.com or at nsobraske@gblaw.com.
Joel Landis
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
301. W Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planner
O:   602-506-8358    
MARICOPA.GOV
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From: memecunningham90@gmail.com <memecunningham90@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, September 5, 2024 3:01 PM
To: Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Subject: We just got this house we have put a lot of money in this.We have horses they don’t like all a lot of noise I
don’t either.thats going to put a big lost on our place please don’t do this!!!!
 
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BNSF
michael demarco <mynameis_miked@yahoo.com>
Mon 7/1/2024 4:22 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Not in our backyard!! 
The existing highways already can not handle the traffic as is. Where will the railroad get water for these facilities? Railroad facilities are
proven to be a liability to the surrounding areas in which they exist.

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Zoning Request
Michele Painter <mishaarlene@yahoo.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 9:14 AM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
No change in zoning on US 60!!
Michele Painter
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BNSF project in Wittmann
Michelle Bradshaw <mbradshaw949@gmail.com>
Tue 7/9/2024 4:17 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
2 attachments (8 MB)
A New Climate Rule Could Change the Face of America’s Railways - In These Times.pdf; Tracking Harm - Impact of Rail yards.pdf;
Good afternoon,
I live on W Caravaggio Ln in Wittmann.  If you're not familiar with the area, that road is one street back from the edge of the BNSF land
along 211th and Cloud Rd.
While we recognize that there is no turning back from BNSFs plans for our area, we ask that our lives and livelihood be given consideration
when approving BNSF plans.
First and foremost is the wrecking of the peace and solitude we all enjoy, which is the reason we all bought out here in the first
place.  With operations running 24/7 that peace and solitude will be destroyed.  We ask that the County require BNSF to excavate
so that their tallest light/structure/sound generating operation is below the existing grade and that they build, not just a fence
around the property, but an earthen berm high enough to block any light, structure or sound produced by their operations. 
Second, I would like BNSF to show emission reports and age of equipment for the locomotives.  Pollutants are going to be
unavoidable, and requiring them to adhere to the highest level of EPA regulations is a must.  Unfortunately I think that's about the
best we can do on this topic because they already sued, and overturned, a California decision that had previously required them to
adhere to California emission standards.  While I don't think that's right, they've already won in one state.  However, regular
inspections of their access gates and facility access needs to be regularly monitored for effectiveness to reduce idling cars
Third, the traffic that this facility will create will be absurd.  Reports from other intermodal facilities across the country - that aren't
as large as this one - show upwards of 3,500-4,000 semi trucks per day entering and exiting the facility.  Without specific and
accountable plans for ingress and egress on the 60 the area around Nadaburg school and the surrounding homes will be overrun
with trucks.  This presents a huge safety issue not only for the school, but for the residents trying to enter and exit our homes via
211th or Dove Valley.
I invite you to come out to our neighborhood.  Walk around, get to know us, and see just how incredibly close our homes are to the BNSF
proposed plan so that you can better understand our requests for BNSF plan requirements. 
Thank you
--
Michelle Bradshaw
949.903.2653
mbradshaw949@gmail.com

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Proposed BNSF Railyard and Transfer Site
Mike Wegener <mrwegen1@gmail.com>
Thu 9/5/2024 8:14 AM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Dear Sir:
I am writing to express my concern with the proposed BNSF Railyard and Transfer Site plans. While I
don't oppose the plans per se, I would  like to see a comprehensive plan to address the additional
traffic this would bring to the Hwy 60/303 interchange. Traffic at that location is often a severe
bottleneck and implementation of the planned BNSF Railyard and Transfer Site would very likely make
this situation worse unless there is a solid plan to address it. Without such a plan to address the
increased traffic, I am against  implementing the BNSF site.
Thank you for you consideration in this matter
--
Mike Wegener
Sun City West Resident

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We oppose BNSF in our area
mitch murray <swmoose@yahoo.com>
Wed 7/10/2024 1:15 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
We oppose BNSF in our area. We vote no to allowing them in our area. Burlington Northern is building in our area starting next year.
Currently they are using maricopa county planning and zoning for design and permitting. The county has no requirements for them.
Meaning they could build an intermodal facility handling 3,000 trucks a day with no sound barriers or light restrictions. This will be a 24/7
operation. Larger than the facility in Edgerton Kansas. Largest in USA. Please email Joel.landis@maricopa.gov
Ask for restrictions on sound, light, and traffic. We would all benefit from an earthen berm landscaped like Scottsdale road completely
around their existing facility to not disrupt our home values and sleep. An email draft could be. 
“Joe, I live off of the 211th area north of Wittmann. We bought in this area for the peace and quiet of rural living based on past county
development requirements. Please require Burlington northern to excavate so their tallest light, structure, and sound generating operation
is below existing grade. Please also require them to build an earthen sound and light attenuation berm 20’ above any light, structure, or
sound producing device or equipment. This earthen berm should surround the entire property boundary with no gaps for sound and light
pollution. Also please require them to pay for traffic improvements along the 60 from the 303 through Wickenburg, along 211th, and the 74
from I17 to the 60. Also limit BNSF from using any existing dirt roads to residential and agricultural properties as access for construction or
future corridors for operational  traffic. They must be required to access off current paved roads for construction and operations”
Thanks for your time.                                   Mitch&Karen 
22100 West Restin Rd

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No to BNSF
Mitch Murray <swmoose737@icloud.com>
Tue 7/2/2024 12:31 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Joel Landis and whom it may concern,
We would like to say no to BNSF. We share a fence line with them and believe they will be a detriment to us and our livestocks’ health as 
there are countless articles regarding diminished life from living in close proximity to a rail yard. 
Mitch Murray 
22100 W Restin Rd
Lot #s: 503-17-463, 464 and 66.
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BNSF Development
Mosa Hamidzadeh-Wilson <mosa.hamidzadeh-wilson@dmail.dixie.edu>
Tue 7/2/2024 4:03 AM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
1 attachments (125 KB)
BNSF letter to Maricopa County P&Z-1.pdf;
Hi Joel,
I attached a letter giving several reasons a BNSF train station is a poor addition to the Wittmann and surrounding communities.
In short, the traffic is already overloaded on the 60, the station would create a negative impact on the surrounding environment, health of
people in the area, and eliminate the rural surroundings we live in out here. 
Please consider these concerns.
Best Regards,
Mosa Wilson

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OPPOSE BNSF
Pat Spratt <pspratt@wbaccess.net>
Wed 7/10/2024 1:59 PM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
We oppose BNSF and vote NO to allowing them in this area!     
Bill and Pat Spratt
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BNSF
Patricia Van Eck <Patriciavaneck@outlook.com>
Wed 7/3/2024 10:27 AM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
Good morning! This email comes to you from a very concerned resident & home owner located near/in the area where the proposed BNSF 
rail yard is slated to be built in Wittmann. It may be too late at this point, but those who live in the community that will literally be 
encapsulated by this rail yard, are completely destroyed by these future plans & development! This may fall on deaf ears, but going forward 
with this will cause so many unwanted issues for our community. Our (meaning our property, grazing land, livestock, way of living, etc) is 
going to be impacted beyond belief & does not seem to be a concern at all?! Please tell us if there is any recourse or anything that can be 
done to preserve our community, our way of living, & the destruction of our small rural community?! NO TO BNSF!
Patricia Van Eck
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The potential rezoning of 4320 acres in the Wittmann area of Maricopa county for
BNSF.
peter weinelt <vitalpaw@yahoo.com>
Wed 7/3/2024 12:48 AM
To:​Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>​
  Hello Joel,
     Please accept and read the following letter about the rezoning of 4320 acres in the Wittmann
area of Maricopa county for BNSF.
     Also I'd like to add that the potential noise pollution, particularly if BNSF were to add an
access road across the tracks from Grand ave to their property, would be outrageous and totally
destroy the peace of the residents of Circle City if trains are required to whistle at ALL HOURS
OF DAY crossing that road.
    Finally - just to emphasize - the water situation alone should be enough to stop any further
development, rezoning, etc.
  I've been to a number of the 'public' meetings BNSF has had about this property. Every
question ever asked of them about ANY of their plans - were answered with them basically
saying - the meeting was just for a single particular step [mostly zoning] and they have not
developed any particular plans - so ZERO info was ever shared - again at the "'public meetings'
about the particulars of 'goings on' on that property.
   Thank you, Peter Weinelt - Resident and homeowner in Circle City, AZ 85342
 
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