As many of us celebrated Independence Day with family, friends and loved ones, it was hard not to think about the dedicated service workers and front-line employees who went to work instead. Those employees, and the companies that employ them, need our support, not only on July 4, but every day, especially during the summer months.
My family owns a small business, which means I know first-hand how important community support can be. The service and retail industries get hit the hardest during the off-season, which is why it is so important to shop and eat local now. I’d like to invite you to explore all Chandler has to offer this summer, from unique cuisine to shopping to a variety of local entertainment venues. Keeping your dollars here in Chandler helps ensure that all those businesses will still be around for next year’s celebrations.
Just as small businesses are the lifeblood of the local economy, so are neighborhoods to our community. We must invest in them. My family has been in Chandler for decades and it is these roots – the connection among neighbors – that that make our city so special. But it doesn’t happen magically – residents need to come together to bring this type of community to life.
There are so many tools and resources available through the City of Chandler that can help residents make those connections in their neighborhoods. I’d like to encourage you to explore them. First, stay informed of all city offerings by making sure your neighborhood is registered as part of Chandler’s Neighborhood Registration program. All you have to do is fill out a form.
Another good way to bring neighbors together is through the Neighborhood Grant Program, which will open soon for Fiscal Year 2023-24. Every year the city awards thousands of dollars in grant funding for a variety of neighborhood and HOA projects that promote things like neighborhood safety, clean-ups or beautification (to name just a few).
And of course, I’d like to see every neighborhood in Chandler host a G.A.I.N. event this September. G.A.I.N. brings Chandler police officers and other city resources right to your neighborhood parties to help strengthen a sense of community. G.A.I.N. has all the info you need to get started.
As a member of the City Council, I am always eager to hear from residents, HOA representatives and local businesses. In fact, we need to hear from you in order to help your neighborhoods. There is always an open line of communication available and it’s as easy as an email to Mayor and Council. Your feedback, suggestions and insights are so important to the work we do as your elected officials. Have a great summer.