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  • 🌲 Gilbert is Collecting Christmas Trees for A Good Cause 🚧 Gilbert Police chief wants nearly $300M in projects 👐 New Year, New Ways to Get Involved and Give Back and more...

🌲 Gilbert is Collecting Christmas Trees for A Good Cause 🚧 Gilbert Police chief wants nearly $300M in projects 👐 New Year, New Ways to Get Involved and Give Back and more...

Gilbert Local Pulse | Issue #056

Author

Lloyd Heath
January 08, 2024

In this issue of Gilbert Local Pulse

🌤️ Gilbert, AZ Local Weather

📅 Gilbert, AZ and Surrounding Area Events

🔍 Gilbert Police Chief Michael Soelberg's Speaks Out

🌲 Gilbert is Collecting Christmas Trees for A Good Cause

🕊️ Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Gilbert Office Closure and Community Event

💡 Customer Open House on Proposed Utility Rate Increases

🚧 Gilbert Police chief wants nearly $300M in projects

🚑 Multi Car Crash at Germann and Higley Injures Five - One Seriously

🤔 CUSD pondering timing of a bond, override election

🥗 From Cold Busters to Moroccan Delights: Discover The Original ChopShop Co.

🏓 Center Court Pickleball Club Making Debut with Three Sites

👐 New Year, New Ways to Get Involved and Give Back in Gilbert

Upcoming

Gilbert Police Chief Michael Soelberg's Speaks Out

Chief Michael Soelberg has acknowledged the community's concern and distress following recent teen violence incidents. In response to the homicide of Preston Lord, the Queen Creek Police Department has forwarded seven individuals' names to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, and charges are pending. Concurrently, the Gilbert Police Department is conducting a comprehensive review of the past two years' teen-related cases, incidents, and calls to ascertain any connections to the current issues. This includes working closely with local law enforcement to share vital information and support Queen Creek’s ongoing efforts to achieve justice for Preston Lord.

Chief Soelberg emphasizes the community's zero tolerance for violence and assures that all resources are directed towards maintaining safety, particularly for the youth. Gilbert PD is intensifying patrols in teen-populated areas, including the mall and Downtown Heritage District. The community is urged to continue providing helpful tips, and those with relevant videos, photos, or information can report to Gilbert PD at 480-503-6500 or through their online tip platform at glbrt.is/GPDSubmitATip.

For more detailed information on the ongoing investigations and how you can help, please visit glbrt.is/TeenInvestigations.

Gilbert is Collecting Christmas Trees for A Good Cause

In Gilbert, Arizona, your old Christmas tree could soon be contributing to the aquatic ecosystem. Gilbert has collaborated with the Arizona Game and Fish Department to repurpose old Christmas trees as a new habitat for fish in Roosevelt Lake. The initiative aims to gather 600 live Christmas trees from the community to be anchored in the lake with cinder blocks, enhancing the local aquatic habitat.

This innovative donation program is part of the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Aquatic Habitat Program, aiming to bolster fish habitats and the overall health of local reservoirs.

Additionally, Gilbert is working with Goats With Horns Animal Sanctuary, aiming to convert 10 Christmas trees into feed for goats, further extending the sustainable impact of the program.

To ensure your tree is suitable for donation, it must be:

  • Real, not artificial

  • Unbagged

  • Completely free of decorations, including lights, hooks, or stands

Residents can drop off their old Christmas trees at the following locations until January 14:

Hetchler Park

  • 4260 S. Greenfield Road

  • December 25 – January 14

  • Open daily from 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Freestone Park - Overflow Parking Lot

  • 1045 E. Juniper Ave - West of Tennis Courts

  • December 25 – January 14

  • Open daily from 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM

The Environmental Protection Agency notes a 25% increase in waste generated by Americans during the holidays, amounting to an extra million tons per week. By participating in this Christmas tree donation, Gilbert residents can significantly reduce holiday waste.

For more information on reducing waste and sustainable practices during the holidays, please visit gilbertaz.gov/HolidayRecycling. Your contribution not only aids in waste reduction but also supports a thriving ecosystem for local wildlife.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Gilbert Office Closure and Community Event

Mesa's East Valley is gearing up to celebrate the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration 2024 Parade and Festival on January 15, starting at 11 AM in Downtown Mesa. For more details and to plan your visit, check out mesaaz.gov/MLKParade.

The celebration will commence with a dynamic parade at 11 AM, featuring the participation of the Gilbert Police and Gilbert Fire & Rescue Departments, showcasing a sense of unity and community spirit.

But the parade is just the beginning. The festival will also offer an assortment of live music, providing a festive atmosphere for all attendees. Additionally, engaging speakers will be present to inspire and reflect on the significance of the day. For those interested in the local scene, there will be ample opportunities to connect with retailers and local organizations that are at the forefront of community development and enrichment.

This event is a perfect blend of celebration and community engagement, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. while fostering the ongoing growth and unity of the local community.

Customer Open House on Proposed Utility Rate Increases

Residents and business owners in Gilbert are invited to attend a Customer Open House to gain insight into the proposed utility rate increases for water, and solid waste & recycling services.

For those unable to join in person, a live stream will be available at gilbertaz.gov/GilbertLive. No registration is necessary to participate.

The Gilbert Town Council has announced a Notice of Intent to raise utility rates and fees, with a decision to be made during the council meeting on February 6, 2024.

Customer Open House Details:

  • Date and Time: Wednesday, January 24 at 6:00 PM

  • Location: Gilbert Town Hall – Heritage Room, 50 E Civic Center Dr.

Recent inflation and rising costs have significantly affected essential infrastructure projects like the North Water Treatment Plant. Despite these challenges, Gilbert is dedicated to ensuring the continuous provision of clean, safe, and reliable drinking water.

The council is contemplating a rate increase for solid waste and recycling services, which would see most residential customers paying an additional $8.52 monthly. Commercial and non-residential customers, along with roll-off services, might experience an average rate hike of 25%.

Additionally, a phased increase in water service rates is under discussion. To alleviate the immediate burden, the proposal suggests raising the average monthly residential water bill by $17 in April 2024, followed by subsequent increases in the coming years. The actual impact will vary based on individual usage.

The Customer Open House provides an opportunity for attendees to inquire about the rate changes, understand Gilbert’s critical infrastructure projects, and learn about the council's forthcoming actions.

For further details on the proposed rate changes and to access the Utility Bill Calculator, please visit gilbertaz.gov/UtilityRates. Your participation and understanding are crucial as we navigate these necessary adjustments.

Gilbert, recognized as one of America's safest towns, may need to invest substantially in maintaining this status, according to Police Chief Michael Soelberg. He recently proposed six major capital projects totaling $289.4 million to the council. Despite a general decrease in crime, Soelberg highlighted a concerning rise in violent crimes over the past nine years.

Key Projects and Costs:

  1. Advocacy Center ($56.8 million): A multidisciplinary space for agencies to collaborate on cases like sexual assault and domestic violence. Soelberg emphasized its role in improving prosecution rates and aiding victims. The center, now expanded to include counseling services, is planned in three phases, with the first already funded.

  2. Crime Lab ($81 million): With the current reliance on Mesa Police for forensic services, Soelberg stressed the need for Gilbert's lab to prevent backlogs and ensure priority in case processing. He proposed a lab that could also serve Apache Junction and Queen Creek, with two potential locations identified.

  3. Public Safety Complex Expansion ($41.6 million): To accommodate the growing staff and improve response times, the central patrol and police administration require expansion. The proposed enhancements include more workstations, break rooms, and a real-time crime center.

  4. New San Tan Police Station ($92.4 million): Addressing the space constraints at the existing station, Soelberg suggested a new 45,000-square-foot facility with ample parking, potentially located on a nearby 15-acre town-owned lot.

  5. Heritage District Police Community Office ($18.6 million): To support an expanding bicycle patrol and offer a central location for community interactions, a new office is proposed in the Heritage District.

Funding Challenges and Council's Reaction:

Currently, none of the projects have identified funding sources. Options like general obligation bonds, municipal bonds, and a sales tax increase are under consideration. Council members expressed concerns over the high costs, particularly for the advocacy center's last phase and the new San Tan Police Station. Some suggested exploring alternative avenues, like repurposing existing commercial spaces or integrating projects with other developments.

Chief Soelberg emphasized the importance of these investments not just for current needs but for the town's future. He noted that delaying projects only increases costs and that an inadequately resourced police force leads to higher crime rates, accidents, and community dissatisfaction. The council is expected to further deliberate on the proposals, weighing the costs against the long-term benefits of maintaining Gilbert's safety and reputation.

Multi Car Crash at Germann and Higley Injures Five - One Seriously

A severe multi-vehicle accident occurred in Gilbert on Sunday afternoon, leaving five individuals injured and prompting a significant investigation by local police.

The incident unfolded around 12:15 p.m. at the intersection of Germann and Higley roads. Upon arrival, Gilbert police discovered multiple vehicles involved in the collision.

Out of the five people transported to the hospital, one is reportedly suffering from serious injuries. The extent of the injuries for the remaining four individuals remains unspecified.

As authorities delve into the details of the crash, they have announced that the intersection will remain closed for an extended period. Consequently, drivers in the area are being advised to find alternative routes to avoid delays and to allow emergency and investigative teams to work unimpeded.

CUSD pondering timing of a bond, override election

A severe multi-vehicle accident occurred in Gilbert on Sunday afternoon, leaving five individuals injured and prompting a significant investigation by local police.

The incident unfolded around 12:15 p.m. at the intersection of Germann and Higley roads. Upon arrival, Gilbert police discovered multiple vehicles involved in the collision.

Out of the five people transported to the hospital, one is reportedly suffering from serious injuries. The extent of the injuries for the remaining four individuals remains unspecified.

As authorities delve into the details of the crash, they have announced that the intersection will remain closed for an extended period. Consequently, drivers in the area are being advised to find alternative routes to avoid delays and to allow emergency and investigative teams to work unimpeded.

From Cold Busters to Moroccan Delights: Discover The Original ChopShop Co.

In 2024, small-business owners are grappling with significant challenges such as high interest rates on loans, increasing litigation costs, and inflation. However, there are numerous grants, loans, and assistance programs available to aid them. The Playbook has compiled a comprehensive list of these opportunities, including small-business grants that owners can apply for in 2024.

Center Court Pickleball Club Making Debut with Three Sites

Center Court Pickleball Club is gearing up to launch three new locations across Phoenix, introducing a unique blend of pickleball facilities and upscale amenities. The new clubs are set to open in Gilbert at 1433 E. Williamsfield Road, Glendale at 5960 West Bell Road, and Phoenix at 7000 E Mayo Boulevard, with the Gilbert location opening first in late spring. Each venue will feature 10 to 16 pickleball courts.

Wayne Morris, the CEO, emphasized the club's mission to offer pickleball enthusiasts a superior indoor facility and an exclusive community to enhance their gaming experience. The Phoenix location, taking over a former Bed Bath and Beyond site, is expected to open in late summer.

Patrons can look forward to an array of amenities, including quick food options, a tap wall for beverages, social spaces, a lounge for players, upscale locker rooms, and a wellness area with massage and cryotherapy options. Membership for adults starts at $139 plus a $50 initiation fee. Morris also hinted at future expansion plans both within the Phoenix metro area and nationally.

New Year, New Ways to Get Involved and Give Back in Gilbert

January 20 | Day of Service to Seniors

Gilbert is calling for volunteers to participate in its upcoming Day of Service to Seniors on Saturday, January 20. In collaboration with Weekly Collective, the initiative aims to provide assistance to local seniors by undertaking light yard work and maintenance projects. The community effort will take place between 7:30 AM and 11:30 AM, giving volunteers a chance to make a significant impact in just a few hours. Interested individuals are encouraged to register through the Gilbert Day of Service webpage by January 13 to be a part of this compassionate endeavor.

January 23 | Point-In-Time Homeless Count

The annual Point-in-Time Homelessness Count serves as a crucial measure to assess the number of individuals facing homelessness in Maricopa County at a specific moment each year.

In 2023, the count identified 9,642 people as experiencing homelessness, both in shelters and in unsheltered situations. For a detailed understanding, you can Read the report. This count is integral to a nationwide initiative aimed at comprehending the scale of homelessness and pinpointing the specific needs of those affected within local communities.

Gilbert residents are invited to contribute in two impactful ways:

Participate in the Count on January 23: The Town requires volunteers to engage with the unsheltered population in Gilbert as part of the annual Point-in-Time Homeless Count. This important task will take place from 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM on January 23. To ensure preparedness, all volunteers must complete a training session before the count day. To join this initiative, Register here.

Donate Items for the Homeless Community: Your donations can make a significant difference in the lives of those facing homelessness in the community. Essential items are being collected to provide much-needed aid. You can drop off your contributions at the Gilbert Town Hall (50 E. Civic Center Drive), from Monday through Thursday between 7 AM and 6 PM. Please look for the designated donation box in the lobby.

Items needed include:

  • Socks

  • Chapstick

  • Band-Aids

  • Hand warmers

  • Waterless shampoo

  • Combs

  • Kleenex

Each contribution, whether it's your time or essential goods, plays a vital role in supporting the vulnerable members of our community. Join hands with Gilbert in this compassionate endeavor.

January 27 | Volunteer Recruitment Fair 

Discover various local volunteer opportunities at Gilbert's upcoming Volunteer Recruitment Fair, scheduled to take place at the Southeast Regional Library. Join us on Saturday, January 27, from 10:00 AM to noon to explore how you can contribute to the community.

Numerous nonprofit organizations will be present, offering detailed information on how residents can engage and make a difference. This is an ideal chance to find a cause you're passionate about and learn how to get involved directly from the organizations themselves.

There's no need to register; just come along! We're looking forward to welcoming you and sharing the numerous ways you can contribute to our vibrant community.

If you're unable to attend the volunteer fair, don't worry. You can still discover a variety of volunteering opportunities by visiting our volunteer page for upcoming events and initiatives. Your participation is valuable, and there are plenty of ways to get involved at your convenience.

January 27 | Regional Unity Walk

Join Gilbert and its neighboring cities to “Walk in UNITY with our commUNITY" on January 27 at Tempe Beach Park.

The event begins at 4:30 PM and will feature entertainment and refreshments. T-shirts will also be available while supplies last.

The one-mile unity walk begins at 6 PM.

No registration is required. Learn more.

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We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "Gilbert Local Pulse" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Gilbert together!

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