2025 Chandler State of the City

Well, I officially welcome you to Chandler’s 2025 State of the City.

We’ve been transported to a time and place where we will explore Chandler’s inspiring stories. Along our way, we will meet people whose actions and words embody courage, brains and heart.

Tonight, I’ll be your host on this journey through our incredible city. Before we begin, I’d like to introduce my colleagues and some guests who have joined us.

Vice Mayor Christine Ellis was recently elected to her second term on Council. She represents Chandler on the Maricopa Association of Governments Domestic Violence Council and serves on the National League of Cities University Communities Council and Human Development Committee.

Councilmember Matt Orlando is our Council historian, now serving his sixth term. He represents our city through the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association and Read On Chandler. He also serves on the National League of Cities board of directors.

Councilmember OD Harris was recently elected to his second term on Council. He represents Chandler on the Regional Public Transportation Authority and Metro Rail board of directors. He also serves on the National League of Cities transportation and infrastructure services committee. 

Councilmember Jane Poston is serving her first term on Council. She represents Chandler on the Maricopa Association of Governments Transportation Policy Committee. She also serves on the National League of Cities public safety and crime prevention committee. 

Councilmember Angel Encinas is serving his first term on Council. He represents Chandler on East Valley Partnership and the Chandler Chamber’s education and workforce development committee.

Councilmember Jennifer Hawkins is our newest councilmember and was sworn in last month for her first term on Council. She currently serves as the Teen Program Director for Miss Rodeo Arizona.

This is my 7th year serving as your Mayor and I previously served nine years on Council.

I represent Chandler as the Chair of the Maricopa Association of Governments Regional Council, President of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns and on tech committees with the U.S. Conference of Mayors. I also serve on the board of directors for the Arizona Commerce Authority and Greater Phoenix Economic Council.

I wouldn’t be able to fulfill these roles without the support of Council, city staff and the love and support of my wife, Lynne, my daughter Katelyn, and my son and daughter-in-law Zach and Sarah.

Regional collaboration and local partnerships are essential to our economy, infrastructure and quality of life. I have enjoyed attending swearing in ceremonies and annual addresses held around the Valley. Every community has their unique points of pride with residents who make our communities better.

Chandler Center for the Arts is an awesome venue for dance, music and theater. We just celebrated its 35^th anniversary with an outstanding season of talented acts and events that showcased performing arts through unique pop-up events and outdoor concerts.

There are some great performances to check out in the coming weeks, including the Wizard of Oz. In that story, Dorothy and her companions realize everything they needed was already within them.

Likewise, everything Chandler needs to thrive is already here within every one of us. Together, we have the courage, brains and heart that make our community an extraordinary place.

So my friends, let’s begin our journey into Chandler’s story. It’s one for the ages.

Chandler was recently named the best place to live in Arizona, the state’s most innovative city and among the nation’s foremost places for foreign direct investment.

We’re a top destination for families and young professionals. We’re among the best places in the country for first time homebuyers. And, once again, we’ve been named one of the best places in the nation to find a job and start a business.

This past year, Chandler was recognized among America’s most caring cities, happiest and healthiest places to live and one of best places in the U.S. for people with disabilities.

Council has lowered property taxes for nine consecutive years. Our sales tax rate is the lowest in Arizona. We offer the lowest combined costs of fees, taxes and utility rates in the Valley.

Let’s turn the page and dive deeper into Chandler’s story as we talk about courage.

This past year 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 Council and our residents condemned these senseless acts and stood in solidarity with the victims of these crimes. We listened to the community, heard their concerns and took decisive action.

We passed an ordinance addressing unruly gatherings and banned the sale and possession of brass knuckles by minors. We stand with state legislators, Queen Creek and County Attorney Rachel Mitchell as they work to pass “Preston’s Law” and make our communities safer.

Being present, building trust and devoting quality time together are an important part of supporting the well-being of our teens. We promoted teen resources available through nonprofits in the East Valley and held mental health events specifically for teens.

Our police presence in every Chandler public high school and middle school creates relationships and insights essential to keeping teens safe. We also launched an education and outreach program for Chandler 6^th graders. It offers knowledge to navigate today’s challenges and tools to promote responsible behaviors.

Our first responders are true forces of good. Chandler has taken a stand against human trafficking and put state funds to work to prevent and investigate Internet Crimes Against Children.

Chandler Police launched the real-time operations center, which integrates advanced mapping and police technology to offer vital information as officers arrive on scene. It also helps gather information and evidence to aid in the investigation of police incidents.

Chandler Police expanded the use of handheld narcotics analyzers, which can identify more than 530 narcotics, prescription meds and dangerous drugs in a single test. The devices scan directly through plastic or glass to reduce exposure and preserve evidence.

We’re also putting the city’s share of a national settlement with opioid manufacturers to good use. Council approved agreements with Recovery Café Arizona and EMPACT-Suicide Prevention Center to provide opioid treatment and prevention services.

Now, let’s look at fire and emergency response.

Chandler Fire earned reaccreditation for the fifth time, marking 25 years of exceptional service. Their newly accredited paramedic education program is only the second fire-based program in Arizona!

Our busiest fire station was expanded and is now equipped with resources to fulfill call demands in north Chandler. We’re taking steps to launch a municipal ambulance service in 2027 to enhance patient care.

The care of our first responders is a top priority. We’re providing them access to mental health clinicians as well as cancer and cardiac screenings for early detection of diseases.

We have witnessed incredibly brave actions by residents and first responders. These quick and courageous acts kept our community safe and helped people in need.

Finding courage enables people to face difficulty and danger, sometimes even beyond what they thought was possible. Let’s meet some people who found courage when it was needed most.

Courage is inside each one of us. The incredible people of Chandler remind us that together we can defy gravity and create a bright future for everyone.

Let’s enter a new chapter in Chandler’s story, one that illustrates the ambition and intellect fueling the brainpower in our community.

Investments by Intel and many technology innovators and suppliers has solidified our region as a leader in chip manufacturing and innovation.

Chandler and the broader region are central figures 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.

ASU Research Park was recently selected to house a national semiconductor facility that will equip researchers and industry leaders around the world with resources needed to test materials, devices and advanced packaging solutions.

The educational excellence at Chandler’s schools, colleges and universities is another key force. Businesses know they can tap into a steady flow of skilled workers in our community.

Events like the Chandler Innovation Fair explores innovation taught in our schools and inventions engineered in our backyard. Join us on Feb. 22 for our next Innovation Fair in Downtown Chandler.

The involvement of Chandler companies and schools connects students and professionals using science, technology, engineering and math. This exposure can become a lifelong passion.

This type of collaboration has led to the development of educational programs and pathways for in-demand careers in local industries. For example, students can progress from high school to a master’s degree in cybersecurity, all within the Chandler community.

University of Arizona and ASU have continued to expand degree programs to meet the unique needs of Chandler professionals and industries. 

Grand Canyon University’s accelerated nursing program addresses the critical need for nursing professions in the region.

Chandler-Gilbert Community College and Chandler Unified School District offer career and technical education programs. It creates foundational knowledge for skilled workers in areas such as culinary arts, graphic design and advanced manufacturing.

Chandler Unified will soon launch a career and technical education program in semiconductor manufacturing, the first of its kind in Arizona.

Our collective brainpower is evident in other areas of the city too.

Chandler received two national awards for the innovative use of technology to deliver city services and tackle challenges.

In partnership with Intel, we opened an advanced treatment facility that recharges Chandler’s underground aquifer storage and provides water for industrial cooling uses.

Our Public Works & Utilities Department earned national accreditation for the 6th time.

We secured nearly $9 million in transportation grants to expand the Chandler FLEX program and improve safety for motorists and cyclists.

We are the first Arizona city to receive Triple A ratings across the board for our general obligation and excise tax revenue bonds. That achievement is a direct result of years of wise financial decisions, which produces lower debt costs on major city projects.

Voter-approved bonds are the primary funding source used to improve city facilities, infrastructure, parks and streets.

Council has formed a resident committee to evaluate needs and make recommendations on future improvements. If any bond committee members are here tonight, please stand to be recognized. We are grateful for your work and recommendations.

This will help Council make decisions on how to fund critical projects for fire, police, parks and streets.

You see, vision and planning are part of our character. Residents have a key role in shaping Chandler’s future and approving those plans.

The process is beginning to update the General Plan and bring it to voters for approval in 2026. This is an important document that outlines future land use and development. It will reflect extensive community input, including guidance from a committee of residents. If any General Plan committee members are here tonight, please stand to be recognized.

We’re also conducting a comprehensive housing needs assessment as required by state law.

Water is a precious resource and an essential part of our long-range planning process. Decades of water investments and innovative policies are among the proactive measures we’ve taken to prepare for drought conditions.

Residents and businesses can be assured that Chandler’s water resources are secure and sustainable, meeting the needs of today and protecting our future. 

One of my favorite parts of Council meetings is recognizing the incredible people who work behind the scenes to serve our community. And, highlighting the amazing academic, artistic and athletic achievements of Chandler residents.

This past year, we’ve proudly recognized many people behind Chandler’s achievements and award-winning programs. We’ve congratulated national winners in chess, robotic and spelling competitions as well as recognized state and national champion athletes.

Let’s further explore the brains of Chandler. Education, innovation and opportunity, these are pillars that drive Chandler’s progress.

I’ve mentioned how collaboration sparks curiosity among business and educational partners to develop a workforce ready for the challenges of tomorrow. Let’s discover the incredible ways Chandler is cultivating a bright future through knowledge and innovation.

Our commitment to progress is powered by the ingenuity and collaboration of people. From inspiring young minds to equipping businesses with top talent, the brains of Chandler are shaping a city where innovation thrives, and opportunities abound. Together, we’re lighting a path for success today and for generations to come.

For tonight’s last segment, we arrive at our heart, a quality the people of Chandler possess in abundance. Every city has a pulse, and it's found in our businesses, recreation areas and neighborhoods. But what truly makes a city come alive are moments when people come together.

Serving Chandler is our passion. Shared values, teamwork and community engagement are essential to our mission. I’ll highlight an initiative that reflects the beating heart of our city, ensuring every resident has a place to call home.

Construction of Villas on McQueen is Chandler’s first affordable housing project being built through a Housing and Urban Development program. We’ve also signed an agreement for a second housing project, called Haven on Hamilton.

These developments provide seniors and low- and moderate-income renters with sustainable housing options, complete with on-site services. These projects are replacing 50-year-old public housing facilities with more than 400 modern multi-family housing units, all within a mile of Downtown Chandler.

We’re also working to prevent homelessness through temporary housing, rental assistance and programs that keep people housed, obtain jobs and address underlying issues. Our community resources team is tremendously successful connecting people with a network of services to receive treatment and resources that stabilize their lives.

I’ll turn the page and talk about places where people gather. It’s been a busy year of upgrades in our parks and recreation centers, highlighted by the opening of a state-of-the-art diamond sports complex at Tumbleweed Park.

Later this year, we’ll complete an expansion of the Tumbleweed Recreation Center to offer multi-generational programming space. We’re also building an incredible 18-court pickleball complex and adding three courts to the Chandler Tennis Center at Tumbleweed Park.

Large-scale improvements have begun at Brooks Crossing, Gazelle Meadows and Shawnee Dog Park and residents are engaged in planning our latest community park at Mesquite Groves. 

We completed an inventory of more than 15,000 trees across Chandler and developed long-term care and planting solutions. Our water resources are secure and sustainable, meeting needs of today and protecting our future.

We’ve seen incredible acts of compassion and community building again this year.

Join us at our next For Our City Day on March 29. This event will bring together volunteers from nonprofits, businesses and city staff to work together on neighborhood cleanup and home improvement projects in a targeted area.

Golden Neighbors is a new program that supplies seniors with essential household items and connections to resources they need.

Chandler Fire and our Parks and Recreation teams have earned Certified Autism Center designations. Their training and resources enable us to better serve residents with sensory sensitivity.

The Chandler Discovery Library will debut later this year, bringing programs and technology directly to residents through this mobile library.

Vision Gallery hosted over 1,000 people and 40 artists for the opening of Cruising: The Lowrider Art Exhibit and provided free visual arts classes to more than 800 youth.

Chandler Museum’s “Night at the Museum: Superhero Edition” celebrated the opening of “Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross” exhibit.

Thousands attended the Ballet Under the Stars performance last year and we’re working with Ballet Arizona to bring the event back this year.

Chandler is among Arizona’s most culturally diverse communities. And these days the phrase diversity, equity and inclusion has captured people’s attention.

But the definition and understanding of DEI varies widely across our nation. So, to address DEI in Chandler it may be best to begin by addressing what it isn’t.

In Chandler, DEI is not affirmative action 2.0. We interview, hire and promote people based on their merit and qualifications to do the job. We hire and promote the best. Period.

With that, I can now address our DEI program. Our DEI Strategic Plan was internationally honored by our peers in local government. 

Events celebrating and showcasing Chandler’s cultures are the most visible aspect of this plan in action. Nearly 20,000 people attended these events last year and we had outstanding participation at the 30^th annual Multicultural Festival last month.

Another key part of this effort is making information and services accessible, recognizing people’s diverse cultures, languages and physical abilities. We expanded the use of devices that enable real-time conversations in more than 200 languages and dialects. It’s also helped people with disabilities obtain services.

The Hive @ San Marcos is another welcoming space for people to access technology and obtain digital training. It was created through a partnership that ensures online accessibility for all residents.

We partnered with DAS Foundation to provide classes for small businesses in Spanish.

We co-hosted a neighborhood clean-up, school assembly and community cafecito with Andres Chavez, the foundation director and grandson of Cesar Chavez.

Clearly celebrating and harnessing diversity is one of our strengths.

My business cards have Mayor printed in English, Spanish, Mandarin and Korean. It’s one way that I acknowledge the cultures, languages and people who make Chandler an incredible place for all.

I witness stories of courage, brains and heart in our community every day. Let’s examine how connections are made, challenges are faced and bonds are formed in the most unexpected ways. We’ll explore the heart of Chandler and discover how it beats in the lives of those who call it home.

By doing the work to overcome homelessness and helping others do the same, our own Misty Gus-tough-son earned the Beth McDonald Woman of the Year award.

And, Dan Frank from Si Se Puede Foundation led Desert Wave, an all-female collegiate team, to victory at the 2024 international underwater robotics competition.

Chandler truly is a special place. I might even describe it as magical.

Our city is safe and prospering. Our city is bursting with talented people. What happens in Chandler matters.

Our heritage gives us roots and wings. Let’s use them.

Find the courage to dream big. Use our collective brainpower to innovate. Display our heart by supporting each other. I’ll close tonight with one final thought.

We are proud to serve you as Mayor and Councilmembers. As Mayor, I get exposed to cities throughout Arizona, across America and around the world.

I hear their challenges, see their victories and learn about their local cultures. Wherever I go and whatever I do, I always return home with one remarkable feeling. 

There’s no place like Chandler! Thank you for being here!