Serving as Chandler’s mayor is a grand adventure that continues today. Our community is stronger than ever, and our treasure is in plain sight and on full display through people who make Chandler what it is: resilient, innovative, caring and full of promise.
From our early days as a farming town to our role today as a global technology hub, Chandler’s story has been one of transformation. Our fields to fabs journey have positioned us at the center of America’s semiconductor and innovation economy. Companies like Intel, Insight, Microchip Technology, Northrop Grumman and NXP anchor a network of high‑tech industries, bringing thousands of quality jobs while preserving the small‑town spirit that drew my family here more than 40 years ago.
This progress didn’t happen by accident. Chandler’s success is rooted in decades of careful planning and collaboration across government, business, education and faith communities. Residents consistently support thoughtful bond measures and long‑range plans that fund critical infrastructure, parks and public safety. Strong finances remain a hallmark of our city. We’ve maintained Triple‑A bond ratings, the lowest sales tax rate in Arizona and 11 consecutive years of property‑tax reductions.
We’ve invested in what matters most: water, sustainability, safety and people. Our diversified water resources and aquifer recharge parks, Veterans Oasis and Tumbleweed parks, demonstrate foresight and environmental balance. Chandler also ranks among the safest cities in the nation, thanks to the dedication of our police, firefighters and engaged neighbors.
But our greatest asset is our residents. Thousands volunteer through For Our City Chandler, helping neighborhoods thrive. Our talented schools from Chandler Unified to Chandler‑Gilbert Community College, Arizona State University and the University of Arizona are preparing the next generation of innovators who will shape our city’s future.
This year, Chandler joins the national America 250 celebration with a year‑long salute to our country’s history and spirit of service. It’s a chance for us to celebrate who we are and the values that connect us as Americans and as Chandler residents.
I have deep gratitude for the trust the community has shown me. Serving as Chandler’s mayor has been the pinnacle of a lifetime of service. Together, we’ve built a community that is safe, strong and ready for the next chapter. The real treasure of Chandler lives in our neighborhoods, our schools, our businesses and in every resident who calls this city home. There truly is no place like Chandler.
Mayor Kevin Hartke serves on the Chandler City Council, as President of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns, on the boards of the Arizona Commerce Authority and Greater Phoenix Economic Council and on the U.S. Conference of Mayors.