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The Government Affair Committee met this month with a special visit from City of Mesa Mayor John Giles and Gilbert Public Schools.

Mayor Giles provided the committee with information on the Mesa 2024 Ballot Questions.

Mesa 2024 Ballot Questions

Question 1 focuses on the Permanent Base Adjustment. This would aim at adjusting the current base limit to an amount that more closely aligns to current spending needs. This limit is set yearly by the state and has been calculated using a formula with a base limit that was set around 1979. Since then, our city has grown significantly, as have residents’ needs, and has therefore required a greater spending limit. Contrary to what some might initially assume, this adjustment will not raise taxes, impose additional taxes, or change balanced budget requirements.

Question 2 focuses on a public safety general obligation bond. This bond would aim to improve our community’s safety through potential projects to Fire and Medical substations, 911 Emergency Communications Center, and the replacement of fire equipment or machinery.

Similar to question 2, question 3 would introduce a Parks, Recreation and Culture General Obligation Bond, which would aim to provide improvements to residents’ life quality. Potential projects for this might include park water conservation efforts, park or playground improvements, and new aquatic centers in East Mesa, amongst other projects.

Question 4 focuses on the Mesa 2050 General Plan, which presents a plan for future growth and development of the area. This plan will not change current zoning districts or increase the taxpayer contribution in the form of taxes, fees, or cost.

Mayor Giles reminded the Government Affairs Committee of the importance of upcoming election dates, such as the voter registration cutoff on October 7, 2024, and election day on November 5, 2024.

Gilbert Public Schools

In continuation of important ballot questions, Gilbert Public Schools presented information on two ballot questions, some of their schools are located in Mesa.

The first question referred to the continuation of the 15% Budget Override. According to Gilbert Public Schools, the budget override would ensure the quality of our educators and the competitiveness of their salaries. It would also help preserve campus safety, class sizes, and student preparedness.

The second question refers to the sale of land parcels.

To conclude the meeting, Dorn Policy Group provided the group with a few legislative remarks.

Make sure to join this committee on September 20, at 7:30am with a presentation from special guest Mike Noble with Noble Predictive Insights.