For years, developers in the area have told stories about how they had to hire certain “consultants” if they had a hope of getting the permits they needed to begin their projects.
In his memo, that some perceive to be an attmept to quell complaints, Huckelberry claims that Miller alleged on the radio and through the Facebook post that Pima County extorts developers by forcing them to use county-approved consultants. However, Miller never made that accusation.
On her Facebook page she wrote, “Tonight we talked about the fact I have been hearing a lot of complaints over the past few years from developers and real estate folks who allege they are being required to hire certain “consultants” for high fees to get their development plans approved in Pima County. If I heard it once, twice or maybe even 10 times I wouldn’t think much of it….but folks I am hearing this from everyone and the roar is getting louder…I will tell you these so called lobbyists and “consultants” are now being closely watched……If this is happening to YOU-I need to hear about it and pass on the information. Several people are coming forward and it is time to investigate to determine if these allegations have merit.”
Appearing on a local radio show, Miller discussed the stories both had heard from people in the local real estate market. Harris said something to the effect that if the claims were true they might amount to extortion.
Despite that, Huckelberry claimed in his memo to Miller, dated Oct. 22, “These are criminal allegations.” Huckelberry demanded that she turn over whatever extortion evidence she has to the Pima County Attorney’s Office for review.
“The county attorney is a separately elected official in Pima County and is not subject to the authority of either the county administrator or the Board of Supervisors,” Huckelberry wrote. “My past experience … is that the office exercises excellent, independent prosecutorial discretion, and I am sure they would do so in the future.”
Huckelberry said complaints would likely come from “disgruntled developers” who resent the “enforcement of county codes.” To which one most County residents would ask why there are so many disgruntled developers.
It is likely that her fellow supervisors Ray Carroll or Ramon Valadez will be enlisted to join in Huckelberry’s attack, however their commitment to the County’s status quo is legendary and will likely fall on deaf ears.