The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce has urged voters to support the renewal of a 15% Maintenance & Operations Override for the Higley Unified School District. The organization stated that this measure is important for maintaining high-quality educational programs and opportunities in the community, which it says are closely tied to the strength of the local economy.
According to the Chamber, strong schools contribute to a well-prepared workforce, attract employers, and help maintain property values. The override would help preserve smaller class sizes, arts and enrichment programs, and competitive teacher salaries. The Chamber emphasized that these factors are essential for developing a talent pipeline that benefits local businesses.
The cost to homeowners is estimated at about $11.17 per month. The Chamber described this as a modest investment in comparison to what it sees as significant long-term advantages for schools, families, property values, and economic growth.
“By maintaining smaller class sizes, protecting arts and enrichment programs, and providing competitive salaries for teachers, Higley schools are building the talent pipeline that our businesses depend on,” the Chamber said in its statement.
The group encouraged residents to learn more at husd.org and reminded them of key election dates: voter registration ends October 6; ballots will be mailed and drop boxes open on October 8; October 28 is the last day to return ballots by mail; Election Day is November 4.
“A vote for the override is a vote for our students, our workforce, and the future competitiveness of our business community,” according to the Chamber.
