At this year’s State of the City event, I had the honor of highlighting Chandler’s accomplishments from the past year and illustrating the courage, brains and heart that make our community an extraordinary place.
In the past year, Chandler has been recognized as Arizona’s most innovative city and among America’s most caring cities, happiest and healthiest places to live and one of the best places in the nation to find a job and start a business.
Courage
2024 was a powerful reminder of our community’s resolve and strength. Teen violence across the East Valley and the death of Preston Lord demanded a firm response.
The Chandler City Council and our residents condemned these senseless acts and stood in solidarity with the victims of these crimes. We passed an ordinance addressing unruly gatherings and banned the sale and possession of brass knuckles by minors.
We support state legislators, Queen Creek and County Attorney Rachel Mitchell as they work to pass “Preston’s Law” and make our communities safer. We recognized the courageous actions of residents and first responders, including advocacy by Connor Jarnagan to seek a statewide ban on minors possessing brass knuckles.
Brains
Investments by Intel and many technology innovators and suppliers has solidified our region as a central figure in fulfilling our nation’s vision to produce the most advanced microchips in the world. We offer the infrastructure, resources and talent for companies contributing to America’s innovation in this vital industry.
Collaboration among educational and business partners has led to the development of programs and pathways for in-demand careers in local industries. Chandler’s educational excellence creates a labor force that businesses know they can tap into a steady flow of skilled workers.
This month’s Chandler Innovation Fair showcases the shared connection and passion among students and professionals to explore and apply the concepts of science, technology, engineering and math in their studies and careers.
Heart
Serving Chandler is a passion, a quality our residents possess in abundance. For Our City Day brings together volunteers from nonprofits, businesses and city staff for neighborhood cleanup and home improvement projects in a targeted area. The next event will be held on March 29. Please join me at this year’s event!
We’ve also seen incredible acts of compassion and community building. Enhancing our parks and recreation centers and participation in cultural programs and events create moments that bring people together. Modernizing 50-year public housing and addressing homelessness ensures every resident has a place to call home.
Celebrating and harnessing our community’s diverse backgrounds and unique needs is one of our strengths. We’re focused on making information and services accessible, recognizing people’s diverse cultures, languages, physical abilities and access to technology.
Chandler truly is a special place. Our city is safe, prospering and bursting with talented people. What happens here matters.
Our heritage gives us roots and wings. Let’s use them to find the courage to dream big. Use our collective brainpower to innovate and display our heart by supporting each other.
There’s no place like Chandler!