CPA2024006 BOS REPORT_11-5-25PART-52.PDF

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Wed 5/28/2025 7:19 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Joye Mendes
Email
mendes.joye@gmail.com
Phone
209-259-7665
Address / City / State / Zip
40809 N 255th Ave Morristown AZ, 85342
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am writing to urge you to deny the zoning changes requested
by BNSF for the proposed 4,400-acre intermodal hub in the
West Valley (Wittmann AZ). As a concerned resident, I believe
this project poses significant risks to our community across
several critical areas:
1. Public Health and Safety:
Large-scale industrial operations bring increased noise, air
pollution, and potential hazardous material risks. The 24/7
nature of the facility raises concerns about constant exposure,
which could negatively impact the health and well-being of
nearby residents27.
2. Traffic Overload:
The influx of semi-trucks ( 7 a second) and rail traffic will
overload our local roads, creating congestion (on already
congested highways) and safety hazards. Current residents
already express that the anticipated volume would make daily
life “unbearable,” especially with round-the-clock operations.
3. Environmental Impact:

A project of this magnitude threatens our desert environment,
straining water resources (potentially depleting them in a year)
and disrupting local ecosystems. The cumulative effects of
noise, light, and pollution have not been adequately addressed.
4. Community and Lifestyle Degradation:
Our area is home to established ranches and residential
neighborhoods. The industrialization of this space would
irreversibly alter our rural character and diminish the quality of
life for families and individuals who chose this area for its
tranquility.
5. School and Child Safety:
Increased heavy traffic near schools and residential zones puts
children at greater risk. The projected truck routes and rail
crossings present new dangers for students walking, biking, or
being driven to school.
6. Economic Resources:
While BNSF touts job creation, the costs to existing residents,
small businesses, and property values may outweigh the
benefits. Many feel boxed in by the project and fear for the
future of their homes and livelihoods7.
For these reasons, I respectfully request that you listen to the
voices of your constituents and deny the requested zoning
changes for the BNSF intermodal hub. Our community’s health,
safety, and way of life must come first.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Joye Mendes
40809 N 255th Ave
Morristown, AZ 85342
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Opposition to BNSF Intermodal Hub Zoning Changes – Protect West Valley
From Joye Mendes <mendes.joye@gmail.com>
Date Wed 5/28/2025 7:29 AM
To
bpingerelli@azleg.gov <bpingerelli@azleg.gov>; dlivingston@azleg.gov <dlivingston@azleg.gov>;
fcarroll@azleg.gov <fcarroll@azleg.gov>; engage@az.gov <engage@az.gov>; District 1
<District1@maricopa.gov>; District 2 <District2@maricopa.gov>; District 3 <District3@maricopa.gov>;
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>; distrcit5@maricopa.gov <distrcit5@maricopa.gov>
Dear Fellow Arizonans,
I am writing to urge you to deny the zoning changes requested by BNSF for the proposed 4,400-acre intermodal
hub in the West Valley (Wittmann AZ). As a concerned resident, I believe this project poses significant risks to
our community across several critical areas:
1. Public Health and Safety:
Large-scale industrial operations bring increased noise, air pollution, and potential hazardous
material risks. The 24/7 nature of the facility raises concerns about constant exposure, which
could negatively impact the health and well-being of nearby residents.
2. Traffic Overload:
The influx of semi-trucks (7 every second) and rail traffic will overload our local roads, creating
congestion (on already congested highways) and safety hazards. Current residents already
express that the anticipated volume would make daily life “unbearable,” especially with round-
the-clock operations.
3. Environmental Impact:
A project of this magnitude threatens our desert environment, straining water resources
(potentially depleting them in a year) and disrupting local ecosystems. The cumulative effects of
noise, light, and pollution have not been adequately addressed.
4. Community and Lifestyle Degradation:
Our area is home to established ranches and residential neighborhoods. The industrialization of
this space would irreversibly alter our rural character and diminish the quality of life for families
and individuals who chose this area for its tranquility.
5. School and Child Safety:
Increased heavy traffic near schools and residential zones puts children at greater risk. The projected truck routes
and rail crossings present new dangers for students walking, biking, or being driven to school.
6. Economic Resources:

While BNSF touts job creation, the costs to existing residents, small businesses, and property
values may outweigh the benefits. Many feel boxed in by the project and fear for the future of
their homes and livelihoods.
For these reasons, I respectfully request that you listen to the voices of your constituents and deny the requested
zoning changes for the BNSF intermodal hub. Our community’s health, safety, and way of life must come first.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Joye Mendes
40809 N 255th Ave
Morristown, AZ 85342

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Tue 8/12/2025 3:49 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Juanita Kram
Email
Jkkram@cox.net
Phone
7018664382
Address / City / State / Zip
13514 W. Prospect Dr., Sun City West, AZ. 85375
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am very opposed to the BNSF project in Wittman. It will create
traffic problems on Hwy. 60, add air pollution, light pollution,
24/7 noise. Hwy 60 is already a rough road in need of repairs in
some areas. The extra traffic, truck traffic, will only make things
worse. And BNSF won’t be paying for road repairs. Traffic will
be even more congested than it already is. This massive
railroad project absolutely does not belong so close to
residential areas.
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Mon 8/11/2025 10:06 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Judith Jarred
Email
jarentl@gmail.com
Phone
623-289-7258
Address / City / State / Zip
8401 N 67th Ave Lot 222 Glendale, AZ 85302
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
Will BNSF be paying for any and all infrastructure changes,
such as the ones needed to handle the increased traffic on the
roadways?
I will be voting no for any increase in my taxes to support this or
any other project. Nor, do I support giving any similar project a
'tax break'.
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Thu 8/14/2025 11:44 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Judy Manell
Email
judymanell@yahoo.com
Phone
6239209700
Address / City / State / Zip
14018 W Aleppo Dr, Sun City West, AZ 85375
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am opposed to the BNSF railway build-up in Wittman, AZ. Up
until I began traveling US 60 (Grand Ave) into Phoenix, I had
no thoughts on this, however driving through the railway areas
in Glendale through Phoenix has opened my eyes. That area is
blighted, weeds, graffiti, homeless, closed businesses,
hundreds of standing railway cars...its awful and a preview of
what will happen to the Wittman area if the railway build-up is
allowed. I understand the important role railways play in the
supply chain, but in this case I'm a NIMBY. Build it in the area
past Wickenburg, not rural Wittman (which due to the amount
of new building is hardly rural any longer!)
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Thu 5/29/2025 1:47 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Juli Lawrence
Email
bakacha13@yahoo.com
Phone
928-231-3388
Address / City / State / Zip
22543 W Laura St/Wittmann/AZ/85361
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
REJECTION OF BNSF CONSTRUCTION OF AN
INTERMODAL RAIL HUB IN THE WEST VALLEY
LINK TO PETITION: https://chng.it/SsRVpNFjrw
LINK TO FACEBOOK PAGE:
www.facebook.com/groups/westvalleybnsfrailhub/
SAMPLE LETTER TO ELECTED OFFICIALS
Your Name: Juli Lawrence
Your City: Wittmann, AZ 85361
Your Contact Information: 22543 W Laura St.
928-231-3388
Date: 05/29/2025
To: Ms. Lesko,
I am writing as a concerned resident of Wittmann, AZ, to
strongly urge you to oppose the proposed BNSF Intermodal

Hub near the community of Wittmann. If approved, this project
would become the largest of its kind in the nation and pose
serious, long-term threats to the health, safety, environment,
and overall quality of life for residents across the West Valley—
including Wittmann, Sun City West, Sun City, Surprise, El
Mirage, The Grand, Corte Bella, Peoria, Wickenburg,
Morristown, and surrounding communities … as well as to the
entirety of the Valley of the Sun.
BNSF has purchased 4,400 acres of Arizona State Trust land
around Wittmann, currently zoned RU-43 (rural residential), not
industrial. In order for construction to proceed, Maricopa
County must approve a significant zoning change that would
directly conflict with existing land use plans and protections.
The scale and scope of this project—estimated to cost over $3
billion and cover more than 4,300 acres with 18 million square
feet of concrete (just for the structures … roads and parking
lots will require additional concrete)—require a more
comprehensive and transparent review.
Key Concerns
1. Infrastructure and Traffic Overload
The hub is projected to generate over 7,200 additional vehicle
trips per day by 2028, rising to 22,000 by 2038. These figures
represent a dramatic increase in traffic on rural and suburban
roads not designed for heavy freight and constant commercial
use.
Local roads such as US Route 60, SR 74, and 211th Avenue
are already in poor condition, with ongoing damage from
current construction traffic and minimal county maintenance.
RH Johnson Blvd in Sun City West will likely become a bypass
for congested roads, creating serious risks for our senior
residents, pedestrians, bicyclists, and golf cart users.
2. Public Health and Safety Risks
Many area residents rely on well water, which is at risk from
diesel fuel and hazardous chemical spills. Yet, BNSF has no
known plan to manage environmental disasters in the West
Valley.
The 2023 East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment remains a stark
reminder of the consequences of industrial rail activity in
residential areas.
The Rose Fire in June 2024, caused by BNSF maintenance,
destroyed 15 structures and burned 266 acres, damaging
homes and air quality. This project would significantly increase
such risks.
3. Environmental Impact

18 million square feet of concrete will disrupt natural drainage
toward the Hassayampa River, increasing flood risk during
Arizona’s monsoon season.
Nowhere does BNSF address the “HEAT ISLAND” effect of this
project
The Valley’s Air Quality Index continues to deteriorate, and this
facility will exacerbate the problem with increased emissions
from diesel trains and heavy trucks.
Constant industrial lighting will compromise our dark skies,
impacting residents, wildlife, natural vegetation and migratory
birds.
4. Community and Lifestyle Degradation
The proposed 90-foot warehouses will block views of our
natural landscape, permanently altering the rural character of
the area.
Noise, vibration, and light pollution will reduce the quality of life
for thousands of nearby residents and may negatively affect
livestock and native wildlife. I am a horse owner, and currently
appreciate the rural nature of our town.
Increased traffic and air pollution threaten the health of
Wittmann’s elderly population, many of whom suffer from
compromised respiratory systems.
5. School and Child Safety Concerns
The hub's proximity to Nadaburg Elementary School raises
serious concerns about noise, air quality, and traffic safety.
Children should not be exposed to industrial pollution and
dangerous truck traffic near their schools.
6. Economic Concerns
Approval of this rezoning will, in all likelihood, lead to declining
property values and may impact all outside activities (due to
worsening air pollution) especially in the nearby retirement
communities, a major source of economic exchange. It is also
conceivable that increased air pollution will lead to professional
baseball training camps and golf events to be relocated to
other, healthier parts of the country.
A Call for Responsible Planning
BNSF is the “COST CAUSER” for this project, NOT the
surrounding communities. BNSF should bear all of the financial
burden of this creation, NOT THE TAXPAYER.
Although Maricopa County does not require an
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT in matters of Zoning,
it is inconceivable that one not be completed due to the gravity
of this development and its negative impact on the surrounding
communities.
There are alternative locations better suited for a project of this

scale—areas that are zoned for industrial use and located near
existing interstate infrastructure. It is negligent and
irresponsible to force such a development into a rural
residential zone surrounded by established, vulnerable,
residential and urban communities with literally millions of
residents.
I respectfully urge you to:
Deny any zoning changes requested by BNSF;
Commission a full environmental and infrastructure impact
assessment before any decisions are made;
Seek community input through public hearings to ensure
transparency and accountability.
Please stand with the residents of the West Valley and Valley of
the Sun to protect our land, water, air, and way of life. This is a
matter of long-term public health, environmental preservation,
and responsible governance.
Sincerely,
Juli Lawrence
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Tue 5/6/2025 5:15 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Juli
Email
Lawrence
Phone
928-231-3388
Address / City / State / Zip
22543 W Laura St/Wittmann/AZ/85361
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am writing to ask you to vote no on the BSNF Intermodal
facility being proposed in Wittmann Arizona It will severely
impact our way of life and the town of Wittmann it will also
negatively impact the infrastructure of Grand Avenue I have so
much more to say but i just want to ask you to consider the
people of wittmann while voting no on this project. thank you
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Sun 8/24/2025 10:45 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
julianne Deck
Email
julie.deck@yahoo.com
Phone
6027690022
Address / City / State / Zip
10621 W. Sequoia Drive
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am opposed to the railroad being planned in the Wittmann
area.
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Warren Buffett railway
From Julie Comaduran <julie.comaduran@gmail.com>
Date Wed 5/7/2025 11:27 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Good morning,
We are writing to you for help with this horrible new railway being proposed in Wittman.
We live in Surprise and moved here because the west valley had a slower pace. My husband is
disabled and this is our retirement home.  We can’t afford to move. 
Our slower pace is quickly being destroyed as it is, but this new proposed railway? This would bring a
level of crime and congestion we do not want here.
There are a lot of liberals that believe this is a good thing.  Please help us and the good people of
Wittman to fight against this.
The saying is money talks, and some people say why fight it because it’s a done deal.
I don’t believe it - I think that there are enough of us that don’t want this mess. Just because there are
open spaces and desert doesn’t mean that there needs to be building and growth.
Arizona - specifically Maricopa county and the surrounding cities - is growing way too fast.
Please help.
Thank you.
Giulia Comaduran

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Mon 8/11/2025 8:58 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
KIRBY SPEVACEK
Email
kirbyspevacek@gmail.co
Phone
623-910-2462
Address / City / State / Zip
13627 W, Ttara Lane, Surprise
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
Dear Mrs Lesko,
I OPPOSE THE INDUSTRIAL GROWTH OF THE RAILWAY
FACILITY IN WITTMAN. WE ALREADY HAVETOO MUCH
GROWTH WEST OF THE 303 IN SURPRISE . DUE TO
NEEDS FOR WATER ETC. THE VALLEY OF THE SUN HAS
ENOUGH.
K. SPEVACEK (my mother was born in Sheboygan, WI.)
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Fw: Opposition of BNSF Intermodal Project CPA20244006
From Debra Lesko <Debbie.Lesko@maricopa.gov>
Date Fri 5/30/2025 10:56 AM
To
Bill Leal (DOT) <Bill.Leal@Maricopa.Gov>
Please send my BNSF response, forward to P&D, add to newsleƩer.
Debbie
From: Kailey Jones Gay
Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 8:47 PM
To: Debra Lesko
Subject: OpposiƟon of BNSF Intermodal Project CPA20244006
Good Evening,
I am writing to you in opposition of the BNSF Intermodal Project CPA2024006. I am a second
generation of the Morristown area and a fifth generation Arizona native. I live and operate my
business approximately five miles from the location of the BNSF project. I have serious concerns about
how this will impact my property value as well as our water. I love Morristown and want to preserve
the town and the quiet way of life I was fortunate to grow up in. I want to avoid the multitude of issues
that will come along with the BNSF project at all cost. I kindly ask you to consider the negative impact
this will have on the citizens of Morristown and Wittmann.
Respectfully,
Kailey Jones Gay
928.231.9689
41224 N 250th Ave
Morristown, AZ 85342

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Re: Please VOTE NO on the BNSF Intermodal Hub Rezoning
From Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Date Wed 7/16/2025 12:42 PM
To
Karen Benson <karenbenson19@yahoo.com>; District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>; District 1
<District1@maricopa.gov>; District 2 <District2@maricopa.gov>; District 3 <District3@maricopa.gov>; District
5 <District5@maricopa.gov>; bpinderelli@azleg.gov <bpinderelli@azleg.gov>; dlivingston@azleg.gov
<dlivingston@azleg.gov>; smontenegro@azleg.gov <smontenegro@azleg.gov>; jtaylor@azleg.gov
<jtaylor@azleg.gov>; fcarroll@azleg.gov <fcarroll@azleg.gov>
Hello,
Thank you, received.
Joel Landis
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
301. W Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planner
O: 602-506-8358
MARICOPA.GOV
Facebook£| Instagram£| Twitter£| YouTube
Maricopa County is developing the Framework 2040 Comprehensive Plan – a document which guides growth and development for the next
decade and beyond. Visit Framework 2040 to learn how to participate, attend meetings and be heard!
Additionally, the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance is being updated. Visit MCZO Update to learn more and comment on changes to the
ordinance.
From: Karen Benson <karenbenson19@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 16, 2025 12:30 PM
To: District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>; District 1 <District1@maricopa.gov>; District 2
<District2@maricopa.gov>; District 3 <District3@maricopa.gov>; District 5 <District5@maricopa.gov>; Joel Landis
(PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>; bpinderelli@azleg.gov <bpinderelli@azleg.gov>; dlivingston@azleg.gov
<dlivingston@azleg.gov>; smontenegro@azleg.gov <smontenegro@azleg.gov>; jtaylor@azleg.gov
<jtaylor@azleg.gov>; fcarroll@azleg.gov <fcarroll@azleg.gov>
Subject: Please VOTE NO on the BNSF Intermodal Hub Rezoning
Dear Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, County Planner and Arizona Congressional Delegation:

I am a resident of Sun City West.  I moved here 3.2 years ago for the peaceful and quiet lifestyle it provides.  I am
writing today to respectfully request that each of you vote NO on the proposed zoning change that would allow the
BNSF Railway to construct an intermodal jug in Whitmann, Arizona (Oppose CPA24006).
While I understand the need for intermodal transportation infrastructure in Arizona, this proposed location is entirely
inappropriate for such a large-scale industrial development.  Whitmann is a small, rural community with a population
of 606 residents.  In stark contrast, BNSF plans to bring in thousands of individuals to construct this facility.  This influx
would completely change the quiet rural character that families have cherished for generations.  And who will be
paying for the outlying infrastructure?  Us, the taxpayers!!!
Beyond the large scale of the project, the hub will bring increased truck traffic (Grand Avenue CANNOT tolerate
anymore traffic), air pollution, light pollution, and a host of environmental and safety concerns.  These impacts will
affect not only Whitmann, but all the neighboring communities: Morristown, Wickenburg, Surprise, El Mirage, The
Grand, Sun City West and Sun City.  
The residents of these communities are also upset about the way we found out about this large scale project, only
AFTER it seems to be a done deal; the local paper didn't report on any of this until a week or so ago.   There was no
Environmental Impact Statements done and should be required for a project of this scale.  
Please consider the long-term effects this project would have on our way of life, our property values, our health, our
environment, our wildlife and our finances! 
AGAIN, PLEASE VOTE NO on the zoning change!
Sincerely,
Karen Benson
13522 W Bolero Dr
Sun City West, Arizona 85375
602-332-0399

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Sat 5/24/2025 11:36 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Karen Ward
Email
M Ward
Phone
8053586001
Address / City / State / Zip
racemut@aol.com
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
Please cast a no vote to OPPOSE ZONING CHANGE “CPA
2024006 and Case Z2024072.
THIS IS WHAT BNSF is trying to get approve.
This is not the time without further due diligence for BNSF to
build in Wittman.
The economic disaster that will come from this with
homeowners unloading their homes at under market prices, no
thought out plans for which way cargo will leave Maricopa
County and what jobs are they really promising to locals?
Long-haul carriers usually live in more affordable areas, drive
in, puck up and leave
Please consider a NO to BNSF in August.
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Please vote no on BNSF
From K.WARD <racemut@aol.com>
Date Sat 6/7/2025 8:05 AM
To
District 1 <District1@maricopa.gov>
Cc
District 2 <District2@maricopa.gov>
Please vote NO on both BNSF Applications that will go to you on August 20.
The financial burden on the county to maintain this facility from roads to waste management should
not fall upon the taxpayers.
This facility in these tough economic times will cause more financial harm to those who already
purchase homes or even rent here along Grand, the 163rd all the way to Wickenburg.
To those Supervisors who say, not my district, not my problem...all major roads in one way or
another...is your problem.
Take control now, before BNSF controls Maricopa County.
Karen Ward
Surprise AZ 85387
Sent from AOL on Android

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Wed 8/20/2025 4:00 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Karin Roff
Email
kdroff1@gmail.com
Phone
623-262-4408
Address / City / State / Zip
15618 W Ballad Dr., Sun City West, AZ 85375
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
My husband & myself are in direct opposition to BNSF Railroad
Project to be built in the Wittmann area. Traffic along Highway
60 is already terribly congested. The Hwy 60/303 exit has
experienced long traffic wait times with auto/truck traffic
heading NW causing backups to the Sunrise/RH Johnson Blvd
exit. This project will also mean more train traffic which blocks
the RH Johnson Blvd exit to Hwy 60 for Sun City West
residents, more smog from train traffic along with BNSF
employee's vehicles who drive to Wittmann. Safety is another
concern with more vehicle traffic. Please consider these
concerns from your district citizens.
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Mon 8/11/2025 8:16 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Kathleen Kitterman
Email
kkitterman51@gmail.com
Phone
480 433-1241
Address / City / State / Zip
14235 W. Yosemite Dr. Sun City West, AZ 85375
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
Objections and concerns regarding the BNSF project.
The increase in trains and trucks on U.S. 60 would affect the
quality of life experience here in Sun City West. We live close
to RH Johnson Blvd and the train noise as it is can be
annoying. The intersections on U.S. 60 and Meeker is
inadequate to allow a free flow of traffic. My husband sat at that
light for over 30 minutes yesterday due to train traffic trying for
a quick trip to Walmart. The train track signal breaks regularly
at that same intersection leaving people lined up and sitting in
cars for long periods of time, when winter residence arrive
these situations as well as traffic get worse. Additionally, the
project would require more large truck traffic on Grand Avenue
and this would increase safety concerns with senior drivers.
Thank you for your attention in this matter, Debbie.
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Re: Oppose Zoning Change CPA2024006& Case Z2024072
From Kathleen Ortman <kattmandu@comcast.net>
Date Wed 7/23/2025 6:48 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Thank you for your prompt response.£
20778 N Canyon Whisper Dr
Surprise, Az 85387
Kat£
On Jul 22, 2025, at 8:38 PM, District4 <District4@maricopa.gov> wrote:
Dear Kathleen,
Thank you for contacting me!  I appreciate your email.
Please see my attached response. Also, if you don’t mind, could you please provide
your address.  It’s helpful knowing the location of all those impacted.
Sincerely,
<image001.png>
Maricopa County Logo
Supervisor Debbie Lesko
District 4
Board of Supervisors
O: 602-506-7642
[ Maricopa.Gov£]
Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube | LinkedIn
Subscribe to Newsletter: Maricopa.Gov/SubscribeD4

From: Kathleen Ortman <kaƩmandu@comcast.net>
Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:26 PM
To: District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Cc: Kat <kaƩmandu@comcast.net>
Subject: Oppose Zoning Change CPA2024006& Case Z2024072
 
Ms Debbie Lasko, We live in the Grand, and are against the BNSF proposed building plan in our area. Please vote NO. Thank you! Kathleen Ortman                                                                                                  
Ms Debbie Lasko,
We live in the Grand, and are against the BNSF proposed building plan in our area.  
Please vote NO.  Thank you!
 
Kathleen Ortman
 
 
 
 
<BNSF Response.pdf>

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Mon 8/11/2025 9:42 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Kathy McGill
Email
Kmcgill0455@gmail.com
Phone
860-967-9552
Address / City / State / Zip
17820 N Estrella Vista Dr Surprise Az
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I do NOT want the railroad to be built in Whitman !!! We don’t
need MORE traffic, air pollution and noise!! I believe it will drive
down the price of my house, and affect my health.
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Fw: Railroad
From Debra Lesko <Debbie.Lesko@maricopa.gov>
Date Fri 5/30/2025 10:51 AM
To
Bill Leal (DOT) <Bill.Leal@Maricopa.Gov>
Please send my BNSF response, forward to P&D, add to newsleƩer.
Debbie
From: Sheri HasƟngs
Sent: Wednesday, May 28, 2025 11:53 AM
To: Debra Lesko
Subject: Railroad
We are writing to you to let you know just how vehemently we object to the railroad putting a hub in
Wittman. I’m calling on you to put a stop to this to help save our community from all the ugly traffic,
possible water contamination and crime just to name a few things that could go wrong if this is not
stopped.
Sincerely 
Keith and Shari Hastings 
15449 N 161st Ave 
Surprise, AZ 85374.

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BNSF
From Kellie Hunt <rodeogrl96@hotmail.com>
Date Sun 6/22/2025 10:14 AM
To
Debra Lesko <Debbie.Lesko@maricopa.gov>; Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>; Thomas Galvin
(BOS) <Thomas.Galvin@maricopa.gov>
“ I oppose the BNSF project CPA2024006”
Kellie Worthen
40805 N 254th Ave
Morristown, AZ 85342

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Sun 5/11/2025 2:08 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Kelly Pettinger
Email
Petvetkp@yahoo.com
Phone
5419443618
Address / City / State / Zip
21419 w caravaggio ln / wittmann / AZ / 85361
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am writing in regards to the BNSF proposed project in
Wittmann and the rezoning proposal to make this possible. As
a resident of the specific neighborhood in Wittmann that will be
completely enveloped by the new rail yard and severely
impacted by the influx of heavy vehicle traffic, I am very much
opposed to this project. We purchased property in this area to
enjoy a rural lifestyle with livestock, open land and wild desert
landscapes. The BNSF project promises to destroy everything
we love about living in Wittmann and will negatively impact our
lives in countless ways. I strongly encourage you to vote
against the rezoning and help keep Wittmann as the beautiful,
clean, rural desert oasis that we love!
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Thu 8/28/2025 12:29 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Ken Anderson
Email
Andersonkm923@gmail.com
Phone
3129148524
Address / City / State / Zip
17027 N. 123rd Drive SCW 85375
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
August 27, 2025
Via Email: Maricopa.govcontactLesko
Ms. Debbie Lesko
Maricopa County
District 4 Supervisor
Dear Supervisor Lesko,
Greetings. My wife and I are homeowners in Sun City West
since 2014. Twenty-five years before that my parents bought
the home. Thus, we are very proud homeowners and the
Anderson family has made an investment in Sun City West and
Maricopa County for 36 years.
I write you to express concern over the Intermodal Facility
which BNSF is attempting to force upon the area residents.
After reading your Hearing Update furnished via PORA I
wanted to share my thoughts.
While disturbing that preemptive rights from the 1800’s are

referred to, which specific Law was cited. A quick google
search shows that the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887 in part
bans discriminatory practices. It appears the Railroads are
discriminating against the interests of small-town America.
From the characterization you presented it appears the BNSF
is basically saying too bad we are moving ahead. My question
is two-fold 1) does the Surface Transportation Board have any
say on this project and 2) is it possible to seek injunctive relief
and explore legal remedies?
Provided the deck continues to be stacked against all the stake
holders opposed to this project I would suggest that BNSF be
held to account to be a good corporate citizen. Regarding the
size and scope of the project can it be scaled back? Can
Maricopa County negotiate traffic strategies: i.e. eliminate truck
traffic during peak commuting times; stagger work schedules to
reduce congestion upon area roads, levy a special tax on
BNSF for road improvements & maintenance; install noise
reducing equipment along heavily trafficked roads & rails?
I appreciate your taking time to read my question and
suggestions.
Ken Anderson
17027 N. 123rd drive
Sun City West AZ 85375
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BNSF Wittman Rail Yard
From Kenny Jalet <kenny.jalet216@gmail.com>
Date Wed 5/7/2025 1:45 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Good Afternoon Mrs. Lesko,
My name is Kenny Jalet and I live in Surprise off of 173rd ave and Jomax.
While I am aware that the new rail yard project isn’t exactly my next door neighbor, it is close enough
to raise concerns. I have spent a lot of time near the rail yard off of grand down in Glendale and that
entire area is just horrible. It’s loud, it stinks, the homeless population is huge, the traffic is terrible, etc.
I noticed that you’re from Sheboygan, as a former midwesterner myself I absolutely love the fact that I
live in a nice neighborhood that is affordable, on the edge of town and isn’t loaded with garbage and
industrial crap which tends to be a magnet for crime and drugs. Talk about plummeting property
values and getting people stuck in a situation that they are completely unable to get out of.
Please fight back on this plan, we have such a beautiful community out here. Yes it’s busy, yes it’s
growing, but a 4,300 acre train depot will absolutely destroy this beautiful area and turn it into the
same trash that we have 15 miles down the road in Glendale. I have signed the petition and will
sign/attend whatever is needed to make sure this doesn’t go through. Please don’t let this happen.
Please consider the residents out here and the real issues we would actually face here that are way
beyond the money that the state or county would make from this deal.
Thank you for your time
Kenny Jalet

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Thu 6/5/2025 8:56 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Kent F Lowry, Sr
Email
kflowry7@gmail.com
Phone
623-466-4289
Address / City / State / Zip
15746 W Star View Ln Surprise AZ 85374
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
BNSF Spokesperson made comment other day that Wittman
rail facility was going thru and couldn't be stopped. Does that
mean that all the politicians have been bought and paid for?
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Mon 8/11/2025 7:13 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Kent Lowry
Email
kflowry7@gmail.com
Phone
623-466-4289
Address / City / State / Zip
15746 W Star View Ln Surprise AZ 85374
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
No on BNSF rail project.
I hate to be so cynical. but I imagine the politicians have
already been bought and paid to approve this project.
I actually intend to move from area because of this.
Kent Lowry
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Tue 8/12/2025 1:30 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Kevin Gray
Email
Kevin-mediate@live.com
Phone
3102944908
Address / City / State / Zip
18035 N Conquistador Dr Sun City West AZ 85375
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
Please DO NOT allow the BNSF railway project to proceed. It
will cause more traffic 22,000 more trips a day. The trains will
cause diesel pollution noise and block traffic. This is a NO WIN
project for us local residents. Please make sure it is stopped!
Thank you.
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BNSF Intermodal Facility in Wittmann, Arizona
From Kim Berg <kimberl07@hotmail.com>
Date Sat 5/17/2025 9:44 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Dear Supervisor Lesko,
Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding Proposed BNSF Intermodal Facility in WiƩmann, Arizona
I am wriƟng to formally express my deep concern regarding BNSF Railway’s recent acquisiƟon of 4,400
acres of land surrounding the community of WiƩmann, Arizona, and its intenƟon to construct the largest
Intermodal Rail Hub in the United States on approximately 4,312 of those acres.
This proposed facility raises serious concerns for the residents of WiƩmann and neighboring West Valley
communiƟes due to its wide-ranging and potenƟally irreversible impact on our quality of life, public
safety, environmental health, and infrastructure. I respecƞully urge you to take these issues into account
and advocate for a thorough and transparent review process with full community input.
1. Zoning and Land Use: The land in quesƟon is currently zoned as ResidenƟal. Allowing industrial
development of this scale in a residenƟally zoned area sets a troubling precedent and is
incompaƟble with the character and intended use of the surrounding community. This zoning
should remain unchanged.
2. Inadequate TransportaƟon Infrastructure: U.S. Highway 60, the primary artery servicing
WiƩmann and nearby towns, narrows to two lanes aŌer passing Sun City West. It is already
heavily trafficked and was never designed to support the projected increase of 7,200+ vehicles per
day by 2028—and an astonishing 22,000+ by 2038—as a result of 24/7 operaƟons at the proposed
hub.
3. Traffic and Safety Risks: With such an enormous influx of freight trucks and employee vehicles,
traffic congesƟon will likely overwhelm not only U.S. 60 but also the broader West Valley road
network. This poses a significant safety risk to residents and emergency responders.
4. Environmental Threats: The potenƟal for diesel and chemical spills poses a serious risk to
groundwater, especially in a community like WiƩmann that relies on wells. It is parƟcularly
alarming that BNSF appears to lack a comprehensive plan to manage environmental catastrophes
specific to this area.
5. UƟlity Demands and Strain on Infrastructure: The construcƟon of an electrical grid, wastewater
treatment systems, and flood control measures will require significant investment and oversight.

Pouring over 18 million square feet of concrete will dramaƟcally alter water runoff paƩerns—
especially during monsoon season—endangering the Hassayampa River watershed.
6. Air Quality DegradaƟon: The enƟre Phoenix Valley already struggles with air polluƟon. The smog
and emissions from thousands of trucks and locomoƟves will exacerbate this issue, contribuƟng to
worsening health condiƟons for vulnerable populaƟons.
7. Emergency Preparedness: In the event of a hazardous materials spill, the inadequacy of the
current road system makes a coordinated mass evacuaƟon from WiƩmann and surrounding
communiƟes nearly impossible. Public safety should be a non-negoƟable priority.
Given the magnitude of this project and its potenƟal to irrevocably alter the fabric of our community, I
strongly urge you to oppose any rezoning or fast-tracking of the BNSF proposal. I request that you ensure
a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is conducted and that the public is granted ample
opportunity for input before any further acƟon is taken.
Thank you for your aƩenƟon to this maƩer. I trust that you will act in the best interest of your
consƟtuents and work to preserve the safety, health, and character of our community.
Sincerely,
Kimberly Berg
kimberlyaberg@hotmail.com
402-215-6762
14412 W SenƟnel Drive
Sun City West, AZ 85375

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FW: BNSF Railway
From District 1 <District1@maricopa.gov>
Date Wed 7/9/2025 11:04 AM
To
Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Kristy Dohnel
Executive Communications & Outreach Manager
Board of Supervisors - District 1
301 W. Jefferson St. 10th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85003
O: 602-506-1776
E: [Andres.Martin@Maricopa.gov]kristy.dohnel@maricopa.gov
Subscribe to District 1 Newsletter!
[ Maricopa.Gov ]
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | LinkedIn
From: Kimberly Rasmussen <kimberly.rasmussen3@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 2:28 AM
To: District 1 <District1@maricopa.gov>
Subject: BNSF Railway
Please do not allow this railroad way project to proceed. We live in the Grand because we have chosen to live in a quiet area. Not only will this impact the residents in Wittmann, it will add to truck traffic in our area! Sent from my iPhone
ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerStart
ZjQcmQRYFpfptBannerEnd
Please do not allow this railroad way project to proceed. We live in the Grand because we have
chosen to live in a quiet area. Not only will this impact the residents in Wittmann, it will add to
truck traffic in our area!
Sent from my iPhone

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Sun 5/11/2025 10:23 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Kirsten
Email
Froelich
Phone
2062004578
Address / City / State / Zip
kirsten.froelich@gmail.com
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
HI Debbie -
I am a relatively new homeowner in Wittmann (bought and
moved in Jan 2024) and didn't learn about the BNSF plan until
AFTER I purchased my home. The seller's realtor said it was
state land. Anyways, I am on W Smokehouse Trail, and BNSF
land is literally across the drive from me. I am ~300' from N
English Wells Rd (wash) - which is where BNSF was last
planning to put their Waste Water/Water treatment facility. I
missed the May 6th meeting at Nadaburg, however i was told it
was pretty much a BNSF dictated gathering and questions
weren't allowed, nor really answered.
I have a few questions -
1)WHY would the county allow such a facility to built so closely
to a grade school? With the increase in traffic, and people ( 76k
jobs? really?), doesn't that create a rather large safety risk for
children?
2) WHO is going to pay to upgrade the infrastructure? The local
roads can barely accommodate today's traffic, let alone who

many add'l trucks/day increase?
3) WHERE is the environmental impact statement? As a
property owner who is literally on the other side of a 20' dirt
road, don't I have the right to know how this is going to impact
my property? What happens to the desert wildlife? The snakes,
the rodents, the rabbits, the coyotes?
4) HOW is this going to affect my water? Being on the
northside of Nadaburg, I am not on "city water', I am on a
shared well with 4 other homes.
5) WHAT, if any, recourse is available to us homeowners?
Thank you ,
Kirsten Froelich
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Proposed BNSF Intermodal Facility at Wittmann, AZ
From Kit Carter <kitcarter57@gmail.com>
Date Mon 6/16/2025 7:12 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>; District 1 <District1@maricopa.gov>; District 2
<District2@maricopa.gov>; District 3 <District3@maricopa.gov>; District 5 <District5@maricopa.gov>;
editor@porascw.org <editor@porascw.org>
Maricopa Board of Supervisors
Via email
June 16, 2025
Subject: BNSF Request for Zone Change
Re: Pleadings to Deny Subject Request
District 4 Supervisor Debbie Lesko
 District 1 Supervisor Mark Stewart
 District 2
Chairman Thomas Galvin
District4@maricopa.gov
District1@maricopa.gov
District2@maricopa.gov
District 3 Vice Chair Kate Brophy McGee
 District 5 Supervisor Steve Gallard
District3@maricopa.gov
District5@maricopa.gov
Dear Supervisors,
With respect to the subject request, scheduled by your Board to be heard this August, please do
the right thing by all of us living in the Valley of the Sun, and deny this request. The following is
offered for your consideration, along with links and footnotes.
The Project: Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF) proposes a multi-billion-dollar
intermodal terminal with a build out over the next 25-years, meaning hundreds of trains and
thousands of semi-trucks operating 24/7/365 days/year.
The Location: this project is located next to the unincorporated town of Wittmann, a rural
community with a small population whose lives are entwined in mostly an equestrian theme,
very much echoing Arizona’s past. BNSF reportedly sought locations closer to Phoenix, nearer
the end of their railway, but. . .enter an “arrangement” of state-owned land, with boundaries
arranged to accommodate the scale of this project & “auctioned off” to BNSF (the lone bidder),
looking for a place from which to transfer thousands of containers annually to be delivered by
semis all over southern Arizona.
The Issues:

TRAFFIC: Hwy 60/Grand Ave., already a nightmare along this reach, is the only connection to
Hwy 303, thence to Interstates 10 & 17, ergo the only logical route for those thousands of semis
as well as traffic generated by facility employees. Clearly, there would be need for road
expansions to Hwy 303. Who would bear the cost for this: BNSF or the taxpayers?
Compounding this matter are significant residential & commercial developments, both current
and future, along Hwy 60 between Wittmann & Hwy 60, now exacerbated by recent
annexations by the City of Surprise (whose own Council voted against this project to be within
their city limits!) out to the project site. Moreover, because there are multiple jurisdictions with
power over roads associated with the BNSF project site (ADOT, MCDOT, and City of Surprise),
ADOT is therefore coordinating efforts with these agencies re traffic design so that Hwy 60 and
AZ74, a connecting road to Interstate 17 (1).
On the MARICOPACOUNTYAZ-ENERGOVWEB.TYLERHOST.NET citizen self-service public
website, a number of BNSF Reports are posted. Many of them are not available and/or not
downloaded. . .but the one entitled “Traffic Impact Statement (TIA), dated September 2024”, is
arbitrarily very limited based on the traffic generated by this project. . .no intersections south of
Hwy 60 were analyzed even though, according to the Report, an additional 2500 trips/day
would be added to Grand south of Hwy 60 (2). Bottom line, this TIA, paid for by BNSF to
support their position toward MC approval for rezoning (and beyond) is suspect. . .exposing MC
to potential costs in the millions to cure, not to mention the traffic burden upon locals who
regularly use these roads.
AIR POLLUTION: Since this will be the largest facility of its kind in the U.S.A, pollution of the
air from diesel engines, both trucks & trains, will be unprecedented for a such a single-site
source! Credible reports and findings (3) for like facilities tell us that particulate matter,
nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, volatile organic compounds, and carbon monoxide will be carried
by our prevailing west-southwest winds to the Valley of the Sun which already has the
reputation for being the fourth worst air pollution in the country! Put bluntly, according to these
reports, the mortality rate will increase, both in Wittmann and beyond as a direct result of both
locomotive and truck exhaust, both from the facility and increased semitruck traffic to and from
the facility!
Studies conducted by the California Air Resource Board and the University of Southern
California have found people living near rail lines and rail yards have lowered life spans,
increased asthma, heart and lung disease rates, and a risk of cancer because of the exposure to
particulate matter that comes from train emissions. This would be of particular concern with the
large population of elderly in retirement communities downwind.
WITTMANN IS GROUND ZERO: with a population of fewer than 1,000 in an area less than
one square mile in size, Wittmann is a rural community, rich in agriculture and equestrian
pursuits. The BNSF facility would be almost three times the size of Wittmann proper. At a City
of Surprise Hearing, BNSF representative LaTonya Finch (former Community Development
Director for the City of Surprise!) stated that there would be a “200-acre automotive facility,
385-acre layer of warehouses, likely will aƩract big-box retail distribuƟon centers that may only choose
to build one facility in the enƟre southwestern United States, and to up to 6,000 jobs” (5).
Notwithstanding, all of the residential communities east of Wittmann, whose development and
population were based on a pleasing environment would see their lifestyle impacted as a result
of those polluted westerly winds. Property values would certainly be diminished, while taxes
remain unchanged, plus home resales would be a challenge.
With the noise, air pollution, lights, constant ground vibrations, potential for hazardous
material threats, and vehicular traffic (semitrucks, commuting facility employees, etc.),
Wittmann would clearly be overwhelmed, if not outright crushed.

PLEASE DO NOT APPROVE THE REZONING REQUEST BY BNSF!
Thank you for your aƩenƟon to this maƩer,
Kit Carter
14201 Parada Dr
Sun City West, AZ 85275
805-345-6726
 
(1)  Joel Landis, PND, MC, 5-14-25 email CPA2024006
(2)  V.J. Geglia, FB post, 6-12-25
(3)  Report: BalƟmore-Washington Rail Intermodal Facility Health Impact Assessment:
Final Report | NCHH
TransportaƟon | American Lung AssociaƟon
Long-idling trains create health, environmental concerns naƟonwide
Phoenix air quality ranks among worst in the US
(4)  WiƩmann, Arizona - Wikipedia
(5)  Tempers flare at Ariz. public hearing on BNSF proposal - Brotherhood of
LocomoƟve Engineers and Trainmen
CC: Board of Directors, Property Owners & Residents AssociaƟon (Sun City West, The
Grand, Corta Bella)
      Governing Board, The RecreaƟon Centers of Sun City West, Inc.

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Sat 5/10/2025 6:50 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Kit Carter
Email
kitcarter57@gmail.com
Phone
8053456726
Address / City / State / Zip
14201 W. Parada Dr., Sun City West, AZ 85375
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
While the physical location of the BSNF Project is not
particularly close to Sun City West, clearly there are still issues
with respect to air quality and especially vehicular impacts for
Whittman, Asanti, SCW, The Grand and all the rural areas
along this corridor! At the May 6 BNSF Presentation, CivTech,
(a Traffic Consulting Firm out of Scottsdale) stated that there
will be "about 22,000 vehicle trips per day and about 6,600
truck trips. . .entering and exiting on U.S. 60". We know that 60
has already been overburdened for years. . .and with this
professional input, consideration must be made for the this
additional impact. Hwy 60 is already a very serious bottleneck
what with the Traffic Index, exacerbated by multiple traffic lights
on both sides of SR 303. Hopefully, the requisite rezoning will
not be approved. If there is consideration for such approval, an
EIS/EIR is needed. . .and ideally imposing the condition that
improvements be made on Hwy 60 to mitigate said impacts,
said conditions to be completed BEFORE BSNF operations are
allowed to begin.
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Mon 5/12/2025 8:54 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
KRISEE
Email
KRISEEGUNDER@GMAIL.COM
Phone
6233125718
Address / City / State / Zip
85361
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
We do not want BNSF out here as the traffic is horrible enough
and we don't need the additional cars to cause more accidents
on the US 60. This is dangerous for the health and safety of
people and children for miles. Question should be the impact
on the environment and the danger level it will bring. This is
right across the street from an elementary school which is
obsurd.
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Maricopa County Board of Supervisors
301 W. Je
erson Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Dear Members of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors,
I am writing today to respectfully request that each of you vote NO on the proposed zoning
change that would allow BNSF Railway to construct an intermodal hub in Wittmann,
Arizona.
While I understand and acknowledge the need for intermodal transportation infrastructure
in Arizona, this proposed location is entirely inappropriate for such a large-scale industrial
development. Wittmann is a small rural community with a population of just 606 residents.
In stark contrast, BNSF plans to bring in approximately 76,000 individuals to construct this
facility—an inux that would completely overwhelm the area and forever change the quiet
rural character that families have cherished for generations.
Beyond the scale of the project, the hub will bring increased diesel truck tra
ic, air and
noise pollution, excessive lighting, and a host of environmental and safety concerns. These
impacts will not only a
ect the residents of Wittmann but also neighboring communities
such as Morristown, Wickenburg, Surprise, El Mirage, and Sun City West.
Please consider the long-term e
ects this development would have on our way of life, our
property values, our health, and our environment. I urge you to stand with the residents and
families of this region and vote NO on the zoning change for this location.
Thank you for your service and for considering the voices of the people most a
ected by
this decision.
Sincerely,
Signature
Print
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Phone
Email
Oppose CPA2024006
Debbie Lesko – Debbie.lesko@maricopa.gov
Tom Galvin – Thomas.galvin@maricopa.gov
Joel Landis - Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov
Lani Farmer
23737 W. Bunker Peak Road    Wittmann, AZ 85361
209-564-6218
lani.farmer@gmail.com

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Thu 8/14/2025 1:06 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Larry Laux
Email
splishh@aol.com
Phone
4027704668
Address / City / State / Zip
16032 W Kino Dr, Surprise, AZ 85374
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am opposed to the BNSF railroad project that is scheduled to
be build near Whitman, AZ. Traffic already a nightmare on
Grand/Hwy 60.
Thank you!
Larry Laux
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BNSF Whittman Facility
From Larry McGough <larry.mcgough@yahoo.com>
Date Mon 5/19/2025 5:13 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>; District 1 <District1@maricopa.gov>; District 2
<District2@maricopa.gov>; District 3 <District3@maricopa.gov>; District 5 <District5@maricopa.gov>;
engage@az.gov <engage@az.gov>; azgovernor@az.gov <azgovernor@az.gov>; bpingerlli@azleg.gov
<bpingerlli@azleg.gov>; dlivingston@azleg.gov <dlivingston@azleg.gov>; fcarroll@azleg.gov
<fcarroll@azleg.gov>
I am a resident of Sun City West who has become alarmed by the information now being provided about the proposed
BNSF facility in Whittman. Sun City West has only three real entrances, via R.H. Johnson to Bell or Grand and via
Meeker to Grand. The increased train traffic could make SCW inaccessible during many hours per day which would
undoubtedly impact property values. There would be no practical method of providing an overpass for vehicle traffic at
either of those locations. This combined with significant concerns about pollution, energy usage, traffic on Hwy 60,
and potential national security concerns associated with making this a point of entry for shipments from California
ports make this an issue that demands the attention of concerned citizens and our governmental leadership. We ask
for your support.
Larry McGough
21609 N 149th Drive, SCW
larry.mcgough@yahoo.com
830-832-7090

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Re: BNSF railroad
From Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Date Thu 6/5/2025 7:57 AM
To
Scott Isham <Scott.Isham@Maricopa.Gov>
Cc
Bill Leal (DOT) <Bill.Leal@Maricopa.Gov>
Hello,
Received.
Joel Landis
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
301. W Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planner
O: 602-506-8358
MARICOPA.GOV
Facebook£| Instagram£| Twitter£| YouTube
Maricopa County is developing the Framework 2040 Comprehensive Plan – a document which guides growth and development for the next
decade and beyond. Visit Framework 2040 to learn how to participate, attend meetings and be heard!
Additionally, the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance is being updated. Visit MCZO Update to learn more and comment on changes to the
ordinance.
From: ScoƩ Isham <ScoƩ.Isham@Maricopa.Gov>
Sent: Thursday, June 5, 2025 7:00 AM
To: Joel Landis (PND) <Joel.Landis@maricopa.gov>
Cc: Bill Leal (DOT) <Bill.Leal@Maricopa.Gov>
Subject: FW: BNSF railroad
FYI
From: lynne plaxton <lynniec1229@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, June 4, 2025 6:15 PM
To: ScoƩ Isham <ScoƩ.Isham@Maricopa.Gov>
Subject: BNSF railroad
Dear Scott: I received your name from Kirsten Morgan. I am writing to you regarding the BNSF RR proposed to go in in Wittman. (I did write Debbie Lesko all ready as well,,,) My understanding is, she is one of several who will be voting on
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Dear Scott:
I received your name from Kirsten Morgan.  I am writing to you regarding the BNSF RR
proposed to go in  in Wittman.  (I did write Debbie Lesko all ready as well,,,)  My understanding
is, she is one of several who will be voting on this in August.  I am vehemently opposed to this. 
It will no doubt cause more pollution, noise, and definitely more traffic.  It will negatively affect
the cities of Surprise, Sun City and Peoria. We ALL READY have more traffic than we know
what to do with. I really feel for the residents of Wittman, as well.  I can only imagine having a
ranch next to this industry. 
My hope is that Debbie Lesko will vote no on this.  It would be in all our best interest, so far as
I"m concerned.  Thank you for reading this, Scott.
 
Sincerely,
Lynne Plaxton/  Surprise resident

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Urgent Opposition to BNSF Project in Wittmann – Immediate Action Required
From Len Morales Jr <len@lenmorales.com>
Date Mon 5/12/2025 3:19 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Cc
District 2 <District2@maricopa.gov>; utilities@azcc.gov <utilities@azcc.gov>; planning.dev@maricopa.gov
<planning.dev@maricopa.gov>
Dear Debbie Lesko and Board of Supervisors,
I am writing to express my profound concern regarding the proposed BNSF project and its detrimental impact
on Wittmann and surrounding areas. As a recent resident, having rented a home less than a mile from the
proposed site with my wife, this issue is deeply personal. We relocated to Wittmann from a polluted urban
environment to embrace the tranquility, open spaces, and unindustrialized character of this community. The
quiet, low-light, and clean environment here is vital to our quality of life and health, particularly for my wife,
who has faced challenges from urban pollution.
The BNSF project threatens the very attributes that make Wittmann unique. Furthermore, the already
overburdened U.S. Route 60 cannot sustain additional strain from this development. The highway struggles
to accommodate existing traffic from the expanding city of Surprise, particularly with new residential
developments along 163rd Avenue. This project risks exacerbating congestion and compromising safety,
directly affecting residents’ daily lives and our plans to purchase property in Wittmann.
To protect our community, I urgently request the following actions:
1. Suspend all permits and approvals for the BNSF project until a comprehensive public hearing is
conducted to address resident concerns.
2. Mandate an independent, thorough environmental impact study to evaluate the project’s effects on air
quality, noise, and traffic.
3. Engage transparently with the community, presenting viable alternatives that preserve Wittmann’s rural
character.
The well-being of Wittmann’s residents hangs in the balance. I expect a prompt, detailed response outlining
your plan to address these critical issues and safeguard our community.
Sincerely,
Wittmann Resident
Len Morales Jr

602-428-8066 ext. 3 [o]
Confidentiality Statement. The information contained in this email and any attachments is legally privileged and confidential. If you have received this
email in error, please notify the sender immediately. Thank you.

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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Tue 8/12/2025 7:14 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Leslie Friedman
Email
lesliebo2@me.com
Phone
5413594163
Address / City / State / Zip
19600 N. Desert Garden Dr, Surprise, AZ 85374
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am opposed to the BSNF Railway. Please don’t allow it to
come to yew West Valley and disrupt our lives. Thank you.
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Tue 8/12/2025 5:11 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Linda Huss Gackle
Email
lhussgackle51@gmail.com
Phone
218-779-4283
Address / City / State / Zip
14412 West Heritage Dr Sun City West AZ 85375
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
Thank you for reaching out for input. I am adamantly opposed
to the proposed BNSF project because of increased traffic
along all the nearby corridors, pollution, disruption of wildlife
habitats, noise etc. I have trouble with such an old law giving
license to BNSF to do as they please. This outdated law needs
to be changed. Who the heck do they think they are anyway!?
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Online Form Submittal: Contact Us - District 4
From noreply@civicplus.com <noreply@civicplus.com>
Date Fri 6/27/2025 1:32 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Contact Us - District 4
Your Information
Please provide contact information in case we have any questions or need
additional information from you regarding your inquiry.
First and Last Name
Linda Musser
Email
piggytoo0627@gmail.com
Phone
954-204-6135
Address / City / State / Zip
18223 N 130th Ave Sun City West AZ 85365
Please leave your comments
or questions below:
I am writing to ask you to please help us to not allow the BNSF
project to continue. It is already so difficult to commute in the
Meeker/ Grand Ave intersection (near a hospital) due to train
traffic. The trucks that commute on Grand out towards
Wittmann already drive incredibly dangerously running red
lights and speeding. To add the additional traffic will have a
catastrophic effect to the area. Not to mention that the quality of
life in the Sun City West area will be greatly affected. Already in
the past two years train traffic has picked up considerably due
to the BSNF intermodal site built on Grand Ave and Thompson
Ranch Rd. We don’t need even a larger one in Wittman. In
2018 when we moved here we never heard trains noise levels.
Now we hear them all day and all night. It is a real problem!
Please protect our quality of life!!
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Wittmann
From Linda Myrick <getfitinfive@yahoo.com>
Date Thu 3/6/2025 1:59 PM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>
Save our horses and our homes!
I am opposed, along with every other resident of Wittmann in  having that massive railroad depot in
Wittmann. Why? 
1. It is next to an elementary school. This train depot is going to be killing these children with all the
hazardous materials going by this school, much less the traffic. 
2. The displacement of natural wildlife, it is their home. Due to all the HOAs and this massive train
depot being built the wildlife has no place to go. Y’all are killing our beautiful state. 
3. Where is the water going to come from to sustain this massive railroad depot system?
4. Where are the roads going to come from to sustain the massive employee transportation and 18
wheeler trucks coming in and out?
5. What are all the people in Wittmann going to do? The railroad has already said they will repaint all
the houses every 5 years due to the hazardous materials damage. What will happen to our physical
health from these hazardous chemicals? 
You weigh the health and welfare of the wildlife, live stock and people against the money you are
going to get is it really worth it? Do you really want to do this? Then if you care about the legal citizens
of this state then stop this railroad depot coming to Wittmann. PLEASE!
Sent from my iPhone

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Please Vote NO on BNSF Zoning Change – West Valley’s Future Depends on It
From Lisa Everett <lisaeverettaz@gmail.com>
Date Tue 5/20/2025 8:31 AM
To
District4 <District4@maricopa.gov>; District 2 <District2@maricopa.gov>; District 3
<District3@maricopa.gov>; District 5 <District5@maricopa.gov>; District 1 <District1@maricopa.gov>
Dear Supervisors,
In August, you will be voting on an issue that could change the West Valley forever. I am urging you to
vote NO on the requested zoning change for the proposed BNSF Intermodal Hub in Wittmann.
This project poses serious long-term consequences for our rural communities — including traffic
congestion, air and noise pollution, and irreversible harm to our way of life. It threatens the character
of the West Valley and undermines the vision so many families have invested in for generations.
I’ve included two brief videos below — each about 15 minutes long — that explain the scope and
impact of the project. If you can only watch one, please prioritize Episode 2.
Thank you for your time and your service to Maricopa County. I hope you’ll stand with the residents of
this region and protect our future by voting NO.
Sincerely,
Lisa Everett
Chair, LD29
469-877-8644
lisaeverettaz@gmail.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAYQ1F7c7RI&t=9s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxDzssjcpF8