A coalition of mayors sent out a statement of support on Propositions 403 and 406, two measures that seek to expand the Western Maricopa Education Center's career and technical education programs. 

Proposition 403 is a $415 million bond aimed at building new facilities, expanding current campuses, and purchasing land for additional schools, all while maintaining the existing tax rate. Proposition 406 would enable West-MEC to sell, lease, or exchange property near its administrative offices to fund further capital improvements.

Leaders Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Phoenix, Tolleson and Youngtown announced their support.

“These are wise and forward-looking investment in our region’s economic and educational future that come without raising taxes.”  said Goodyear Mayor Joe Pizzillo.

The proposed expansion under Proposition 403 would create new opportunities in the Northeast Valley, Peoria, and Northwest Valley, while also increasing capacity at existing campuses in Central and Southwest areas.

Litchfield Park Mayor Thomas Schoaf emphasized the importance of offering diverse educational pathways.

"Now more than ever, we must ensure our students have the education needed to compete in the local, national, and global economy," he said. "This means supporting diverse career paths for college-bound students and those pursuing career and technical training… Propositions 403 and 406 allow West-MEC to expand these programs, allow students more opportunities closer to home, and benefit our local economy - without raising the tax rate.”

West-MEC currently serves more than 48,000 students from 49 high schools in the Valley, offering programs in fields like health sciences, technology, and construction. The expansion would allow for additional certifications in areas such as cybersecurity, plumbing, and medical fields.

Both propositions aim to increase access to CTE programs while maintaining the current tax rate of $0.13 per $100 of limited assessed value, or $13 annually per $100,000 of home value.

Visit YesforWestmec.com for more information.