Chandler neighborhood-watch groups that hosted a community Getting Arizona Involved in Neighborhoods event last year are encouraged to submit a nomination for the Mayor’s Neighborhood Excellence awards.

Nominations are now open through Sunday, Aug. 10, and may be completed online by clicking here.  

The annual awards recognize Chandler neighborhoods for their participation in GAIN and those neighborhood leaders who continuously work to improve their community and inspire others to be more active and involved.

Prizes for the winners will be applied towards their fall GAIN events and include a pick in the 2025 GAIN event lottery, which allows them first pick of police resources to have at their event.

Prizes also include a credit of as much as $1,000 toward a pre-approved vendor for the neighborhood’s GAIN event, plus a visit from Mayor Kevin Hartke. 

There are two award categories available: Mayor’s Choice and the People’s Choice. Mayor Hartke will select the winner for the Mayor’s Choice and online voting for the People’s Choice award will run Wednesday, Aug. 13 through 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at this link. 

The winners will be announced during the first hour (9 a.m.) at the GAIN kickoff event Saturday, Sept. 20. That will be at the Chandler Police headquarters community room, 250 E. Chicago St. 

For questions about the awards program, email neighborhood.programs@chandleraz.gov    or call 480-782-4348. For information or questions about the GAIN event on Saturday, Oct. 18, or the upcoming GAIN kickoff, email blanca.quezada@chandleraz.gov or call 480-782-4960.

We invite our readers to submit their civil comments on this topic. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.