A new traffic signal is being installed at the intersection of Waddell Rd. and 145th Ave. As a result, drivers can expect intermittent lane restrictions while signal preparation work occurs. The signals are tentatively scheduled to be fully operational by the end of August 2021. https://bit.ly/3zErtxa
Council Conversation Show
Please take a moment to view my new Council Conversation Show, where I interview City of Surprise Water Resource Management Director, Lee Lambert. Learn about how Surprise supplies your tap water and what you can do to help conserve this precious resource! View the episode at: surprisetv.surpriseaz.gov/watch?v=rUMC2bYAdgM
Surprise Sanitation
Surprise sanitation customers will see a change on their city utility statement beginning July 1, 2021, as a rate increase determined by a structured schedule is implemented. Beginning July 1, single-family solid waste (trash) customers will pay a monthly base rate of $23.50. This is an increase of $0.10 per month. Please note, residential wastewater and water utility rates will remain unchanged.
Surprise Budget Approved
Surprise City Council approved the Fiscal Year 2022 City Budget. The budget is focused on maintaining our current level of service as the city continues to see steady growth and focuses on the Council’s commitment to maintaining quality public services and infrastructure. This budget includes 25.5 full-time positions in the General Fund and eight new employees in water, sewer, sanitation and sports and tourism to address the city's growth. Also included in the budget are operational costs for new capital projects such as Countryside Park and Fire Station 308; and services such as the Maricopa County Library contract. Additionally, the adopted budget includes $121.5 million for planned Capital Improvement Projects. Additional details and information on the City’s budget are always available on our website at surpriseaz.gov/budget.
Judges Reappointed
Congratulations to Surprise City court Presiding Judge Louis Frank Dominguez and Associate Judge Catherine A. Gaudreau. Council has reappointed them to new 4-year terms beginning July 1. Thanks to both judges for their continued service to the City of Surprise!
Surprise Citizen Patrol
On Saturday, June 19, 2021, I had the pleasure of attending the Surprise Citizen Patrol Annual Recognition Dinner at Briarwood Country Club. This event recognizes the individual efforts of all the highly dedicated City of Surprise citizen patrol members and congratulates those recipients with special awards. Surprise Citizen Patrol is a volunteer-based program comprised of 62 highly trained individuals who donate their time and skills to further the Police Department Mission. Thank you for all your efforts and support.
Surprise Heat Relief
The City of Surprise is a Heat Relief Network partner, providing hydration and refuge stations for those in need of a place to cool off during Arizona's hot summer months. Listed below are the Surprise Heat relief stations:
Surprise Resource Center: Refuge & hydration – 12425 W. Bell Rd., Building A, Suite 124
Surprise Fire-Medical Station #301: Hydration – 16750 N. Village Dr. East
The Salvation Army: Refuge & hydration – 17420 N. Avenue of the Arts Blvd.
You can help those in need of relief by donating water bottles, sunscreen, sunglasses and hats at either the Surprise Resource Center or Surprise Fire Medical Station #301.
Please also remember, Hot Cars Can Kill! Surprise Police want to remind you to:
Never leave a child alone in a car
Check for kids, pets and vulnerable persons before you lock your vehicle
Call 911 if you see a child alone in a vehicle
APS West Valley Central 230kV
APS is hosting a Public Information Virtual Open House, 24/7, from now until July 10, 2021, on the proposed West Valley Central 230kV Connection Project. To attend online, please visit apswestvalleycentral.com. Information regarding the proposed siting for new power lines is also online. If you would like a chance to comment or have questions, contact the APS public involvement team by clicking the comment form at apswestvalleycentral.com/contact-us/, by phone at 623.241.5935 or by email at contactus@apswestvalleycentral.com. Comments are requested by July 10, 2021, to ensure review and consideration in this process.
Connect with District 6
Please check out my new District 6 Facebook page, Councilmember Chris Judd! Be sure to click the "follow" button to get District 6 news and updates. Please also visit my District 6 webpage at d6.surpriseaz.gov, where you can subscribe to my Notify Me email list to receive important District 6 updates.
Council Meetings and Agenda
The next regularly scheduled City Council Meeting will take place on Tuesday, August 17 at 6 p.m. and will be open to the public for in-person attendance. You can also watch live at surpriseaz.gov/surprisetv, or the Surprise City Gov Facebook page, facebook.com/cityofsurprise. Cox channel 11 carries the meetings live as well. Agendas are always posted online at a minimum of two days prior.
If you see something on the agenda that concerns you, please reach out beforethe meeting, so I have time to address your concern. I may even ask your questions during the City Council presentation. The best way to reach me is chris.judd@surpriseaz.gov.
Meet and Greet
Please join me for my Monthly Meet and Greet on July 28 at 6 p.m. at Freddy's Frozen Custard, 14029 W. Waddell Rd. I look forward to discussing the latest City issues and answering any questions you might have.
Please check my webpage at d6.surpriseaz.gov for updates to my meeting schedule.
