Arizona Proposes Annual Fee for Electric Vehicles to Fund Road Maintenance

In response to the rising number of electric vehicles (EVs) on Arizona roads, state legislators are considering a new approach to fund road maintenance and construction.

The House Committee on Transportation and Technology has greenlit a proposal to introduce a $135 annual registration fee for vehicles unable to run on gasoline or diesel. This measure aims to ensure that EV owners contribute to the state road fund, balancing out the absence of gasoline tax payments from these vehicles.

The proposed fee is calculated based on the average fuel tax paid by gasoline vehicle owners, considering typical annual mileage and fuel efficiency. Despite clearing the committee, the proposal faces several obstacles, including the necessity of a supermajority vote due to its classification as a new tax.

Concurrently, legislators are looking to prevent mileage-based fees or taxes, with a ballot measure proposed to protect the freedom of movement. The initiative underscores the challenges of sustaining road funding through traditional fuel taxes amidst the shift to more fuel-efficient and electric vehicles, underscoring the search for fair and sustainable funding mechanisms.

Gilbert Visual Art League Showcases Local Talent in 21st Annual Exhibition

The Gilbert Visual Art League is celebrating its artistic diversity and community engagement with its 21st annual juried fine art show and sale, showcasing the work of local artists Heather Coen, Christina Rosepapa, Donna Finter, and many others.

The exhibition, hosted at Gallery 4 within HD South in Gilbert, features 99 pieces spanning various media, including painting, drawing, photography, and sculpture. The league, which has grown significantly since its inception in 2003, offers its members numerous benefits, such as free presentations, art show opportunities, and community teaching engagements.

Despite the success and growing membership, the league faces challenges like the need for additional board members and a larger gallery space. The town of Gilbert provides the league with gallery space but does not offer direct financial support, prompting a call for more resources to foster the local art scene.

The show, running from February 17 to March 23, not only allows artists to sell their work but also strengthens the community's cultural fabric by highlighting local talent and providing art education opportunities.

Details on Show: https://hdsouth.org/gallery-4/

All pieces can be viewed online at www.gval.org 

ADOT Announces Overnight Maintenance on Loop 202: What to Expect

Pavement maintenance on westbound Loop 202 from Val Vista Drive to Arizona Avenue is scheduled for February 18 to 20, during the hours of 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. The Arizona Department of Transportation warns of temporary ramp closures and lane reductions, advising drivers to expect delays and seek alternative routes.

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