Councilman John Williams » Uncategorized

surprisewebmaster — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:47:52 +0000

Good Afternoon Folks,
This is your update on a few relevant issues in Surprise and District 3.
#1, Loop 303 construction:
ALERT: Night time Loop 303 closure planned Monday for intersection improvements
Current Restrictions
Loop 303 will be closed overnight Monday and continued lane restrictions are planned on Bell Road at Loop 303 for intersection improvements to enhance safety and traffic flow, and to prepare the roadway for future construction of the Loop 303 underpass at this location. Please see below for information about restriction dates and times.
Loop 303 between Greenway and Bell roads
Monday, Aug. 31 – Tuesday, Sept. 1, 8 p.m. – 5 a.m.
Loop 303 will be CLOSED in both directions overnight between Greenway and Bell roads from Monday night, Aug. 31 at 8 p.m. until Tuesday morning, Sept. 1 at 5 a.m. for work on the intersection improvement projects. Detour: Traffic may use Reems Road as an alternate route.
Bell Road between 165th and 168th avenues REVISED
Tuesday, Sept. 1 at 5 a.m. – late October
Bell Road will be restricted from three lanes to two lanes in each direction between 165th and 168th avenues starting Tuesday, Sept. 1 at 5 a.m. until late October for work on intersection improvements. This will also require closing the left turn lane on eastbound and westbound Bell Road at Loop 303. During the left lane closure, eastbound drivers may take Reems Road to Grand Avenue then northwest to access Loop 303. Westbound drivers may take Reems south to Greenway then west to access Loop 303.
ONGOING RESTRICTIONS AND CLOSURES
Bell Road between Sarival Road and Cotton Lane
Through late October
The sidewalk on the south side of Bell Road will be closed through late October for Bell Road intersection improvements. Pedestrians may use the sidewalk on the north side of Bell Road and cross at Sarival Road or Cotton Lane to access the south side of Bell Road.
Loop 303 at Bell Road
Through late October
The shoulder of southbound Loop 303 just south of Bell Road will be closed for approximately three months for work on intersection improvements. Temporary concrete barriers will be placed on the shoulder to protect the work area.

#2: The Communiversity @ Surprise is open!!!
You’ve wanted Higher Ed, here it is! The Communiversity @ Surprise will allow students of all ages to retain Associates degrees through PhD programs. Their open house is tomorrow, join me in welcoming these Educational Institution into our city, certainly a much needed resource for all Surprise residents. Check out the official Website for more info: http://www.azcommuniversity.com/Pages/default.aspx

#3: Parcel 14 in Sierra Montana:
For those keeping tabs on this issue, please know we have not reached our goal to keep the streetlights energized in Parcel 14. At this point we are sitting at roughly 100, leaving us about 50 signed petitions short. If you know of anyone that lives in this area please urge them to sign the petition. I’ve, along with many City staff members as well as the HOA, have exhausted all routes. We’ve knocked on doors, put out flyers, made phone calls, mailed letters to all homeowners (including those that live out of state), and even sat outside the entrance ways waving residents down and urging them to sign the petition. At this point it is likely that the lights will go off soon if we cannot immediately meet the minimum required petitions to begin the SLID. For those that are unaware, a SLID, or Street Light Improvement District, is the mechanism for which you and I pay for our streetlights. It cost each of us roughly $3 per month and it comes out of our property taxes. This particular community of about 60+ streetlights has yet to make such payments because there was a failure to form the SLID some 6 years ago when the community was being built. The developer picked up the tab for a while, but is no longer making payments. APS will no longer pay for these lights without the appropriate SLID in place. Any help in communicating with these residents is greatly appreciated!

#4: Surprise Farms Park is open:
The grass is green and the fence is down. After much anticipation Surprise Farms Park is now open to the public. I realize that this is not exactly what many in the community where sold on, but it is certainly a vast improvement from the previous dust bowl. Amenities will come as budget allows.

#5: Coffee Talk, Sept 12, Over Coffee 9AM-?????:
Last turnout was great, dozens of folks with a number of issues! This is how things get done, we communicate and address community needs. Thanks so much to all that continue to stay engaged.

#6: Neighborhood Watch Programs continue to grow
The City of Surprise Crime Prevention unit, along with some very active residents, continue to help support the Neighborhood Watch Program. Remember this is not about spying on your neighbors, but about maintaining the safest community in Arizona. As we move forward as a city, through the good and bad times, crime is inevitable. However to act as a reliable tool to our Police Department will only make our city more economically viable as a safe community to live and do business in. Please contact Surprise police or myself, if you are interested in beginning a Neighborhood Watch program in your community. Here are my Top Ten reasons to start, or join, a Neighborhood Watch Program:
10 – Get to know your neighbors
9 – Become more aware of what is occurring within your community
8 – Put a Neighborhood Watch sign in your yard as a crime deterrent tool
7 – Learn strategies on how to prevent crime in your home and on your street
6 – Educate your children on how to stay out of trouble, and how to spot trouble
5 – Develop a closer relationship with your local police officers (maintain that small town relationship)
4 – Have a party, or 2, or 3 (The Surprise Block Party Trailer is free, and will come out to help support your neighborhood)
3 – Earn a Block Watch Membership Card
2 – Earn a discount to local participating businesses with your Block Watch Membership Card
1 – Keep your streets crime free

surprisewebmaster — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:28:53 +0000

The council recently approved taking the GO Bond to voters. I wanted to take a moment with residents to explain my position and my vote to move forward.

First, and foremost, I did not want to take this very important issue out of the hands of the residents. In gathering feedback many of you responded in favor, while many were passionately opposed. At the end of the day, I feel the democratic process should ultimately decide the fate of this issue.

Secondly, the ultimate litmus test for me to vote “yes” for a bond is whether or not this takes us forward. Does this bond provide further opportunity for economic growth? Does this bond address important transportation needs? Does this bond allow Surprise to continue to move forward in these very troubling economic times? After much scrutiny, my answer to all of these was yes. The proposed projects lack luster but rather are roadway improvements that need to be addressed in an area of the city that has sustained the most growth over the last 10 years.

Next to consider was the real dollar value, and the impact this would have on residents. In a time when so many folks are undergoing economic strife, when we are asked to take pay cuts, when folks are losing their jobs and their homes, it seems unreasonable and impractical to burden folks with additional costs. What are the real costs for residents, and at the end of the day, what do they get out of it? Again, for me it came down to “does this move us forward?” If these improvements cost me an additional $5 per month and will result in meeting transportation needs which would equate to economic growth in our city, more jobs, and an improved quality of life for residents, then put it to a vote of the people.

Finally, the economics of going to bond are ideal for the city. We have an AA bond rating, and interest rates are at an all time low. We currently have no debt, and we would not be going to bond for the full amount we would qualify for. The Bond Committee carefully considered all of these factors. The final question is whether or not the timing is right. Should we wait a year or two? Certainly an argument can be had for holding off any type of secondary tax increase till the economy is on the rise. However, an argument can also be had that now is the best time to bond with lower interest rates and lower costs for construction. Tough times, and tough questions, but collectively we all will make this decision.

You have the opportunity to speak either for or against on November 3rd. Ultimately this is not about me, City Staff, Mayor, or the rest of Council. Surprise residents will make the final decision. Make it an informed vote, ensure you understand all the issues. As a trusted friend and Surprise resident told me, ensure you are confident in the “truth in packaging” of this bond. At that point we can all make an educated and informed yes or no vote.

Thanks, and I look forward to your feedback.

surprisewebmaster — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:55:49 +0000

Thanks to all that came out for Saturdays “Coffee Talk” meeting. Some good conversation took place regarding an array of community concerns. I will continue these meetings throughout my term of office. They will always be held on the 2nd Saturday of each month at “Over Coffee” just east of the 303 on Greenway.

One of the more pressing issues discussed was in regards to voting for a General Obligation Bond. On July 2nd I will be phoning in to a proposed Special Council Meeting at our new city hall (due to family obligations I will not be in town). This meeting, as are all meetings, is open to the public and would allow for public comment. The topic of this meeting will be to discuss the potential for the city to go out for a vote on a Bond that will help finance some of our capital improvements.
While I will not be present, I will still participate via phone as I recognize the importance of this issue. It is important that this process is transparent and all your voices are heard. Please call or email me between now and then so that I can addresses the items most important to you within this public forum. This is an opportunity to educate the community on the generalities and specifics of the proposed GO Bond.
I want to thank the entire bond committee for their time and efforts. A few weeks ago they had presented their recommendations to the Mayor and City Council, and it is now our job as stewards to the community to make a decision as to whether we will proceed with this process, or perhaps delay these recommendations to a later date. There are pro’s and con’s for both sides, but the Bond Committee put a lot of time and effort into the process and I appreciate their diligence.
The following will provide some more detail, this was an email blast I sent out to my District 3 distribution list about a week ago (If you wish to get on the list, get me your email!):

Hello Folks,

A Citizen’s Committee appointed by the council has created a $185 million General Obligation Bond package of proposed civic improvements in Transportation, Public Safety, Park and Recreation and Economic Development, with a recommendation that the issue be placed on the ballot for Surprise voters to decide. Shortly, the city council will be voting on whether to move ahead with the committee’s recommendation and call for an election. I would like to know your thoughts on this important council action, and I invite you respond to me with your opinions.

I know that most people don’t have the chance to study up on what bonds are or how they might be used, so I have included two useful links. One is to the Committee report recommending the bonds, and another is to a presentation prepared by city staff that was delivered at the committee’s public hearings. The presentation is a good orientation on city finances, what bonds are and how they work.

http://www.surpriseaz.com/files/presentations/citizenbondcommitteemeeting_email/player.html

http://www.surpriseaz.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=4212

Please reply to me with your thoughts. I look forward to hearing from you.

Latest ADOT News: Loop 303, Interstate 10 to Interstate 17 – Progress Update

surprisewebmaster — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:26:33 +0000

Loop 303 in the West Valley is an important component of the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) – a blueprint for Valleywide transportation improvements for the next 20 years.

The current RTP identifies funding in Phase II (2011-2015) to expand Loop 303 to a six-lane freeway between Interstate 10 and Interstate 17.

Loop 303 between I-10 and I-17 has been divided into three segments for the purpose of studying, designing and constructing the planned improvements:

I-10 to US 60 (Grand Avenue)

US 60 to Happy Valley Parkway

Happy Valley Parkway to I-17

These segments are each in different stages of the freeway development process. Progress has been made in recent months on each of these segments.

Loop 303 – Happy Valley Parkway to Interstate 17 segment
Status: under construction

Construction began in late January to construct a brand new section of Loop 303 north of Happy Valley to Lake Pleasant Parkway. Already, visible progress has been made, with support piers constructed for the new interchanges at Happy Valley and Lake Pleasant parkways, and grading completed for a new bridge over the Agua Fria River. A temporary detour at Loop 303 and Happy Valley Parkway, which diverts drivers just south of the construction zone to reduce construction-related traffic impacts, was completed in February and will be in place for approximately one year during the construction of this interchange. ADOT will continue to work with its partners at the city of Peoria and Maricopa County to monitor and address to the extent possible any construction-related traffic impacts at this location.

Later this month, work is scheduled to begin on the segment of Loop 303 between Lake Pleasant Parkway and I-17.

Once completed in 2012, the interim 14-mile section of Loop 303 between Happy Valley Parkway and Interstate 17 will feature two lanes in each direction and interchanges at Happy Valley, Lake Pleasant and Lone Mountain parkways.

The interchange at Lone Mountain Parkway, which is located on I-17 approximately two miles south of Carefree Highway, will serve as the temporary connection between Loop 303 and I-17.

Loop 303 – I-10 to US 60 (Grand Avenue) segment
Status: beginning engineering design phase; construction of temporary interchange improvements at Bell, Waddell and Cactus roads to begin this summer

In April, the Federal Highway Administration gave federal environmental clearance – known as a Finding of No Significant Impact – to the Arizona Department of Transportation to complete the 16-mile stretch of Loop 303 between I-10 and US 60 as a controlled access freeway.

The action allows ADOT to complete the design plans and contract specifications to initially construct a six-lane freeway along this section of Loop 303. The project will also include 15 traffic interchanges at major cross streets to provide freeway access, system interchanges at Interstate 10 and the proposed Northern Parkway, and drainage improvements.

Following design in 2010 and 2011, ADOT expects to begin construction of this segment in late 2011 or 2012, most likely starting with the interchange at Loop 303 and I-10. Construction of this 16-mile stretch of freeway is expected to take approximately four years to complete.

Construction of intersection improvements at Bell, Waddell and Cactus roads to minimize the impacts of future Loop 303 construction and improve safety and traffic flow are scheduled to begin this summer, with all improvements targeted for completion by the end of 2010. The project will establish the ultimate footprint of these intersections and allow for future construction of Loop 303 at these crossroad locations. Loop

Loop 303 – US 60 (Grand Avenue) to Happy Valley Parkway segment Status: under study

ADOT recently initiated a study to evaluate the proposed expansion of this segment of freeway, as identified in the RTP, which currently includes funding in Phase II (2011-2015) for Loop 303 to be expanded to a six-lane freeway between I-10 and I-17. The study will evaluate the engineering and environmental elements of feasible alternatives to potentially improve this section of Loop 303 to a 10-lane freeway (four travel lanes plus a high occupancy vehicle lane in each direction) to meet the projected traffic demand in 2030 – although no funding is identified in the RTP for a 10-lane configuration. A no-build alternative (in which no improvements would be made) will also be evaluated as part of this study.

ADOT will study potential noise impacts for the preferred build alternative. If the improvements are approved for implementation, noise would be studied in more detail during the engineering design phase, and if warranted, noise remediation measures —such as sound walls — would be implemented during the construction phase. Any approved freeway improvements would be paved with rubberized asphalt, which would also help minimize freeway noise. The outcome of the study and resulting recommendations will ultimately help determine what, if any, improvements are constructed. The study is scheduled to be completed in early 2010, at which time specific design and construction projects will be eligible for inclusion in the Maricopa Association of Government’s (MAG) 5-year improvement program. If this segment of Loop 303 is expanded according to current regional plans, construction would likely begin toward the end of Phase II (2011-2015) and take up to two years to complete.

Contact Us
For more information about Loop 303 improvements, call, email or visit us on the Web.

For information on construction activities, contact Lars Jacoby at 602.712.7176 or ljacoby@azdot.gov.

For traffic updates across Arizona, visit ADOT’s Travel Information Site at www.az511.gov or call 5-1-1.

Northwest Valley
Community Outreach Team
Email: projectupdate@lewin-associates.com
Hotline: 480.890.3055
Para Español, 480.529.3647
www.ValleyFreeways.com

Brock Barnhart
ADOT Community Relations
Project Manager
Email: bbarnhart@azdot.gov
Phone: 602.712.8147

Don’t Trash AZ!
Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up for our mailing list.

surprisewebmaster — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 15:18:08 +0000

Over the past year we’ve heard a lot about bailouts and recovery packages. We’ve seen leaders throw lifelines to help pull us out of this financial storm. We’ve watched neighbors lose homes, jobs and hope. Businesses and dreams hang on a thread. The bubble has burst, and we face the harsh realities of this global economic meltdown.

The City of Surprise has not been sitting on the sidelines. The work of the AdHoc Foreclosure Committee and the Surprise City Council has resulted in the Foreclosed and Abandoned Property Action Plan, Surprise Neighborhood Stabilization Plan, and the Home Preservation Forum. We continue to work to keep people in their homes and cultivate economic growth.

As a community we must bind together like links in a chain of service and compassion. Our community pride is a big part of getting us back on the right track. One of the best tool to energize our neighborhoods is the Neighborhood Watch Program.

Neighborhood Watch builds safety and security. But it does much more. Forging friendships, building traditions and sustaining homeownership are another common result, and we need all of those characteristics during these difficult days. A great way to organize a Neighborhood Watch is through the Surprise Block Party Trailer, where you get all the tools you need to organize a neighborhood event and get people talking to each other.

The Surprise Police Department says people who organize Neighborhood Watch programs see significantly less crime in their neighborhoods. Low crime rates are a major factor in building pride in Surprise and attracting new jobs to our city.

So let’s not wait. I invite you to join me and your neighbors April 18 at 9 a.m. at Surprise Stadium for our 2nd annual citywide Surprise Community Pride Day. Yes, we will be pulling weeds and sprucing up our city, but we will also build social connections and a community spirit that will lead to much greater things.

After all, building our community really starts with you and me. As leaders in Washington argue the importance of services and programs, we must forge ahead. The little things we do to build pride in our homes and on our streets will reverberate throughout the city, our own brand of economic stimulus.

For more info on the Block Party Trailer, Neighborhood Watch, Pride Day, or if you wish to get engaged in other ways, go to the City website at www.surpriseaz.com Share your ideas and questions. Help support our great city.

John Williams, Surprise City Council, District 3
623-222-1323 or john.williams@surpriseaz.com.

Planning Schedule for Pride Day:
Planning Meeting #1: Saturday March 7th, 8AM – Over Coffee
Planning Meeting #2: Thursday March 19th 6PM – Toshii’s Roast
Final Planning Meeting: Saturday April 4th Noon – Buffalo Wild Wings

surprisewebmaster — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 17:21:34 +0000

I apologize to many residents whom may have made plans to meet with me this Saturday at Ritters Frozen Custard. I will need to cancel this as I will be out of town for several days. This week, after 92 healthy years on this planet, my Grandmother Carmela Cresciullo passed away. It came sudden but she had a long fruitful life. I thank all those that have been so compassionate and understanding. I also want to let folks know I will not be in attendance at tonight’s (Thursday, December 11th) Council Meeting. I will be present for the next community meeting on December 15.

On a more positive note, I recieved an email from a resident who is looking for our help. He, and his business, are looking to help out some families this Christmas. Taken the tough economic times for so many, this Holiday season may bring more anxiety then joy this year. It is so refreshing to know that there are folks that want to help, looking for nothing in return.

The individual, and his co-workers, can help 4 families by providing funds to ensure the children have a magical Christmas that would not be possible otherwise. While they are requesting the families in need are from District 3, being a Surprise resident in need will suffice. Also, the money provided must be utilized for gifts.
If you have anyone in mind let me know.

surprisewebmaster — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:16:13 +0000

Hello Folks,
Thanks to all that have responded to the possibility of conducting a 2nd Community Clean-up on December 13. My feeling was, with the spirit of the season in mind, this would be a great time to do something that would better our community. Many of you have responded and agree. That said, with the hectic schedules around the holidays, coupled with the current economic climate (I’m having a tough time asking any business, nor using tax payers money through city services, to sponsor the event), and some logistical concerns, now may not be the best time.
After weighing all this, while I would love to get things looking good before the holidays, I think an event in February, or perhaps the spring time when the weeds begin to sprout, would better serve the community. I apologize to all those that have responded so enthusiastically, hopefully you can hold onto that enthusiasm for an event in early 2009.

That said I will be giving back in the way of supporting our local businesses. Times are tough, so get out and support the Mom and Pop’s in the community. Perhaps you can join me on the following dates:

Ritters (Bell Road west of the 303, next to Ace Hardware) December 13th from 12-2PM (Saturday)
Chick Fil’a (Bell Road, west of Grand Avenue) December 15th 5-7PM (Monday)
Toshi’s Roast (Bell Road, west of 303 next to Ace Hardware) December 20th 1-3P (Saturday)

Finally, the last council meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2008. That will mark 1 year of meetings for your “rookie” representative. I thank all of you that have been so supportive, and even more so to those that have been critical. I promise to do more of the same in the years to come…if you will continue to have me.
I also need to thank the city staff, whom has been open, honest, and diligent when I’ve requested their assistance on many community concerns. Many of you work so hard, and it often feels like a thankless job. Rest assure, it does not go unrecognized!
I wish you all the best, and I’m fired up for another year!
Have a great holiday and Happy New Year if I don’t see you,
John

Forming a Bond Committee

surprisewebmaster — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:58:11 +0000

Last night council decided on the formation of a citzens committee to discuss the timing of a possible bond election, and if appropriate what city needs should be addressed in that bond package.

I will need to appoint individuals from District 3 to be a part of this committee. I’m also looking to form subcommittees whom will provide feedback from our VERY large district to ensure we are getting a solid response from the entire community. In order to properly make a selection I want to ensure that all individuals that are interested can be heard. I’m asking interested residents to email me with their personal contact information and answers to the following:
Why do you want to be on the Citzens Bond Committee?
What are the most pressing issues for this city?
What is your vision for the city of Surprise?
Please respond via email by November 7th.
Look forward to speaking wity you.

Water Rates

surprisewebmaster — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 15:01:55 +0000

Thursday night we discussed the water rate increases for those residents whom are receiving water from the City of Surprise. You, as a community, will have an opportunity now to share your questions/concerns regarding this issue, with the city. The changes will not be voted on till November, and would not take effect until January 09’. This will not directly impact all Surprise residents as there are a number of water suppliers in our area including Arizona-American Water, El Mirage, and Beardsley Water Company. If you are unsure of whom your water provider is, I’d be happy to assist. For those impacted by these proposed changes, let me break this down so you have the facts, then we can address concerns as they arise.
Proposed Water Rate Adjustment

1. Why are rates going up: Operational and fuels costs have increased; growth that funds necessary improvements such as wastewater treatment has slowed (not as many roof tops sprouting up these days); regulatory changes have increased costs in providing water/sewer/sanitation services (one example of this is the federally mandated arsenic levels); and the groundwater replenishment and water storage costs have increased.

2. Ok, so if all of the above are true, then how much will this costs us:
a. As it is presented, for residential properties you will see about a $0.79 increase for 9,000 gallons of usage, and a total of $2.50 monthly increase if the city provides your water, sanitation and sewer service. This is based on a meter size of ¾”
b. For the HOA’s with a 2” meter size you would see about a $58.12 increase per 244,000 gallons
These increases would be seen as a 5.3% increase in water, 4.6% increase in wastewater(sewer), and 5.3% increase in sanitation. These rates are based on water usage and the size of the meter, no longer are there discrepancies in commercial versus residential.
Following the 09’ increases there will be another series of smaller increases spread out through the next few years, so not to burden homeowners, HOA’s, and businesses.

3. The actual Base Rates also vary based on meter size:
a. .625 – .75” = 18.78/month
b. 1” = 24.41
c. 1.5” = 61.97
d. 2” = 99.52
e. 3” = 200.92
f. 4” = 319.22
The above amount is essentially where the change comes into play.   I understand there are concerns in regards to meter size and usage, and I’m addressing those with staff. We all understand that rates, based on the information cited in section 1, will go up, however, it is in all our best interests to ensure there is equity in the process.
Another change, which is a positive for those that were opposed to the commercial rates, is the proposed tiered water rate structure changes based on usage. This will be the same for all parties, whether you are a private resident, HOA, or business owner. Everyone is paying the same scale, as follows:
                0 – 10,000 Gallons = 1.55/1,000 gallons per meter
                10,001 – 20,000 Gallons = 3.05
                Over 20,000 = 3.55
Those with non-potable rates will pay a set rate of 1.24

The STATE of ARIZONA (not the City of Surprise) requires developers to notify the state if an HOA irrigates more then 10 acres of turf using groundwater in one particular community. The state then sets a water-use allotment for the HOA’s to follow. Many developers in Surprise did not notify the state and as a result, the state is now notifying many HOA’s that they must reduce their watering, or face fines. An HOA can be fined $375/acre foot of water that they use per year over their set allocation.

There are likely still many questions or concerns that you may have. I’ve talked with many of you already, and will address all these questions with staff. Please send me any emails with questions/concerns on this issue.

Finally: I’ve still be unable to successfully get to ALL HOA meetings. If you have a schedule you can forward me for upcoming meetings it would be greatly appreciated. I’m here as a resource and wish to extend myself and staff to the community as needed.

Proposed Water Rate Adjustment

Community Update

surprisewebmaster — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 19:28:54 +0000

Good Afternoon Folks,
I have not updated my notebook in sometime, but wanted to take a minute from my lunch to shoot out a quick email on a few important items.

1. There will be a Foreclosure Prevention Workshop in Glendale on October 23rd. HOPE NOW will be on hand, see the links for additional information. This will continue to be a problem within our community, and there are many “little” things we can do to help folks out and mitigate the many issues that surround this down economy.

2. I attended the Veramonte Block Party this past Saturday and they were successful in having over 140 residents sign-up for a Neighborhood Block Watch. Community pride and involvement are so important during these tough times. It was great to see the community come together, and I hope many other communities continue to get involved and hold these types of events.

3. Speaking of, Sierra Montana HOA led by board member Mandie Anderson and company, have organized a Neighborhood Clean-up in-conjunction with a Block Party. A lot of man hours have been put in by many, and there is no doubt this will be a tremendous success. The goal here again is to raise the level of community pride, involvement, and to stimulate a Neighborhood Block Watch.

4. Special thanks to Lou and Eileen Provenzano, who have been tremendous resources to many community members planning these Neighborhood Block Party events.

5. I had an opportunity to speak with the 6th Grade class at Ashton Ranch Elementary, as well as a Boy Scout Troup last week. I also responded to several letters from Arizona Charter Academy High School students that inquired about the role of a council member and my priorities within the city. I was humbled by the experiences, and look forward to more like them. One of my priorities is to infuse more of our youth into community, and it was nice to see so many wanting to get involved.

6. Road construction around Surprise will continue over the next several years. To update you on this process I’m working on a District 3 Town Hall that will address everyone’s questions regarding areas, timelines, etc., This will likely take place sometime within the next 30 days. I will keep you updated.

7. Check out the wonderful work of Ken Lynch and the communication department at www.surpriseaz.com. The website has drastically changed and it is much more user friendly! Kudos to Ken and his staff for a job well done.

8. Walking to school! Encourage your kids to walk!

9. Support the Heard Museum. The Heard will be holding their annual “Run West with the Heard” event. November 22nd in Surprise! I’ve signed up, if anything as motivation to whip myself into better physical shape! I challenge all of you to take part and/or spread the word! For more information click on the link below
http://www.heard.org/Page.aspx?pid=357&cid=5&ceid=624&cerid=0&cdt=11/22/2008

10. Not only is your Council becoming more interactive with the public, but so is our City Manager. Check out the City Manager’s Report on the new and improved website, or click here http://www.surpriseaz.com/DocumentView.asp?DID=3703

11. Finally the new water rates will be presented tomorrow at the Council meeting. I urge you to tune into the meeting, or catch it streaming on the city website for more information. If you have specific questions or concerns, please let myself or city staff know (623)222-1300.

As always if you need anything please let me know. You’re the boss! Have a great week
John
623-249-9538