SE Valley Times

A recent City Council work session in Chandler, Arizona, addressed the city's state and federal legislative priorities. The focus was on safeguarding local governance, promoting economic development, and ensuring fiscal sustainability.

Protecting local authority and preserving local revenue remain key concerns for Chandler. The city has faced challenging economic conditions due to its diverse tax base, which includes the lowest sales tax rate in Arizona and the lowest combined costs of municipal services in the Valley.

Mayor Kevin Hartke holds significant roles as the executive committee president of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns and chair of the Maricopa Association of Governments Regional Council. These positions offer him a broad perspective on how proposed legislation might impact cities and towns across the state.

With new legislative sessions beginning in January, Chandler's leaders plan to collaborate with state and federal policymakers to advance initiatives that benefit residents and businesses.

During the session, the City Council outlined several priorities for the upcoming legislative period. These include protecting local authority and revenues, fostering economic development, enhancing transportation and infrastructure, managing water and environmental resources, ensuring public safety, and improving neighborhood quality of life.

At the federal level, Chandler aims to secure funding for city projects. The city will also support CHIPS Act implementation while advocating for measures that promote housing initiatives, expand housing tax credits, and preserve municipal bond tax exemptions.