SE Valley Times

The Tempe City Council approved the establishment of a prevailing wage ordinance at its May 9 meeting. The new ordinance sets wage standards for workers on most City of Tempe public construction projects valued at more than $4 million, ensuring that workers are compensated fairly in line with prevailing industry standards in the geographical area. The wage for each position is determined by the US Department of Labor under the Davis-Bacon Act. The ordinance will become part of Chapter 26A of the Tempe City Code.

Over the weekend, Habitat for Humanity held a home dedication in Tempe, signifying an increase in affordable housing in the city. A mother and her two sons had their new home dedicated just in time for Mother's Day. Councilmembers and officials signed the site plans and offered well wishes. The new site is located on Don Carlos Avenue.

Council committees were established to create more involvement opportunities for the public, align with Tempe's strategic priorities and provide forums to tackle larger issues in more detail. All council committees are open to the public and can be attended virtually or in-person at the Tempe City Hall Council Chambers.

In an annual survey conducted by the City of Tempe, it was found that resident satisfaction was among the top 10% of all surveyed U.S. cities. Additionally, Tempe was one of five global cities to earn platinum certification from Bloomberg Philanthropies What Works Cities for its use of data.

Tempe Public Library’s Summer Reading Program runs from June 1 through Aug. 1, with registration now open. This year’s theme, “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” celebrates reading as a joyous adventure.

The Tempe Union High School District and Salvation Army have entered into a new agreement to provide more support to district families through Salvation Army's program Pathway of Hope.

Arts nonprofits, cultural groups and artist collectives can apply now for Tempe’s Community Art Grants Program until Monday, July 1 for projects that will take place in Tempe between Sept. 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.

The City of Tempe is exploring changes to speed limits on four roadways: Mill Avenue, College Avenue, First Street, and Southern Avenue. Public meetings are scheduled for input.

A new variant of COVID-19, nicknamed FLiRT, now makes up about 25% of COVID-19 cases in the US. Symptoms are similar to those seen with other variants.