SE Valley Times

The Chandler City Council recently convened to deliberate on a resident committee’s recommendations concerning general obligation bond financing for the city's Capital Improvement Program.

The Resident Bond Exploratory Committee, consisting of 31 residents, put forward a bond authorization package totaling $475 million. This package encompasses funding for fire, police, streets, and parks and recreation projects. Notably, the proposal does not entail an increase in property tax rates, but would facilitate the continuation of Chandler's 10-year Capital Improvement Program. Bonds currently finance over 70 percent of capital projects in the city.

Committee recommendations prioritize maintenance of existing streets, parks, facilities, and equipment. The funding breakdown includes $183 million for street enhancements, $158 million for parks and recreation improvements, $88 million for fire-related infrastructure, and $46 million for police facilities and equipment.

A City Council vote is scheduled for April 24 to decide on holding a special election on November 4. This election would seek voter authorization for the proposed bond financing. Arizona law mandates voter approval before cities can issue general obligation bonds, as secondary property taxes fund the resulting interest and principal payments.

Should the City Council proceed with calling a bond election, it will mark the third such request for voter consideration in 20 years. Chandler voters previously approved bond packages of $451 million in 2007 and $272 million in 2021. Inflation impacts on capital expenses necessitate earlier voter authorization than anticipated.

Additionally, the City Council discussed the potential for future charter amendments, specifically related to updating zoning and leasing ordinance processes, although no changes will proceed this year.