The surrounding mountains, hillsides, and open desert landscape contribute to Cave Creek's unique beauty and outstanding quality of life for residents. Since its incorporation in 1986, the Town of Cave Creek has had a long history of preserving open space. With the Valley's population boom anticipated due to the microchip plant under construction in north Phoenix, a huge corresponding housing and commercial development boom is projected to occur east and west of the I-17 corridor in the very near future. Residents have expressed concerns about the impact this growth will have on the quality of life for Cave Creek residents.
In the 2026 Town Budget, approximately $18 million was included as a placeholder if needed for the acquisition of 4,005 acres of Open Space zoned Arizona State Trust Land within the town’s boundaries.
The Council directed the Town Manager to form an Open Space Ad Hoc Committee to examine the future use and potential acquisition of this State Trust land. The Committee, consisting of Town residents finalized its report and presented to Town Council at a Special Town Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The Town Council unanimously accepted the Citizens Ad Hoc Committee's recommendation to acquire 4,005 acres of State Trust Land.
Read the Ad Hoc Committee's Executive Summary and Report.