Gilbert Seeks Voter Approval to Bypass State Spending Cap for Critical Projects

Gilbert is facing a fiscal challenge as it approaches the state's aggregate expenditure limit, which could restrict the town's ability to fund essential capital projects for parks, recreation, and public safety.

In response, the town plans to ask voters this fall for permission to establish a new spending threshold, ensuring the continuation of vital infrastructure developments as Gilbert nears its build-out phase within the next 7-10 years.

The initiative is a strategic move to secure the funds necessary for these projects without being hindered by the expenditure limit set in 1980 and adjusted annually based on population growth and inflation.

To navigate this limitation, Gilbert's council is exploring options such as a permanent base adjustment and a "capital projects accumulation fund," both requiring voter approval.

This proactive approach aims to safeguard the town's financial capability to meet the community's growing needs without resorting to an increased secondary property tax or risking the complexities of a one-time exemption or the "home rule option."

Triumph Over Tragedy: Gilbert Girl’s Journey from Severe Burns to Cheerleading Comeback

Over two years ago, Nathan Mazon encountered a terrifying scene at his Gilbert home: his 9-year-old daughter, Leah, drenched and distressed from accidentally tipping a bowl of hot water onto herself.

Initially believing it to be a minor mishap, Nathan and his wife, Lina, rushed Leah to the Arizona Burn Center–Valleywise Health, only to discover the severity of her injuries. Leah had sustained second and third-degree burns across 30% of her body, with the most severe damage on a joint, posing challenges for her mobility and requiring potential future surgeries as she grows.

Leah's journey through recovery was filled with multiple procedures, including skin grafting and surgery, resulting in an extended hospital stay. Despite the ordeal, the spirit of cheerleading, a passion of Leah's, played a pivotal role in her recovery.

Friends sent videos of encouragement, which helped Leah find the strength to overcome her pain and relearn how to walk. Remarkably, Leah maintained her bright and cheerful disposition throughout her recovery, impressing her parents and medical team alike.

Now 11 years old and a seventh-grader, Leah has made a full recovery and has even joined her middle school's cheerleading squad. The Mazon family is immensely grateful for the support and care provided by Valleywise Health, praising the doctors and child-life specialists who stood by Leah’s side.

The Arizona Burn Center, the largest of its kind in the West and the only nationally verified facility in Arizona, is set to expand significantly with the move to the new Valleywise Health Medical Center. This expansion will enhance its capabilities to treat burn victims like Leah, offering a comprehensive range of services from emergency care to rehabilitation.

Scald burns, like the one Leah experienced, are unfortunately common, with the American Burn Association noting that a significant majority occur at home. The Arizona Burn Center advises several precautionary measures to prevent such incidents, emphasizing the importance of kitchen safety, proper handling of cooking equipment, and regulating water heater temperatures to reduce the risk of burns.

Gilbert's KAPOW! Superhero Run: A Heroic Adventure Awaits at Freestone Park

The town of Gilbert is inviting families to unleash their inner superheroes at the annual KAPOW! Superhero Adventure Run on March 23, held at Freestone Park.

This event is not just a fun run but a family adventure that integrates more than 15 obstacles designed to challenge and entertain parents and their mini heroes. The fun extends beyond the race course, with "Gotham City" offering a host of activities at the finish line, ensuring the adventure continues even after the obstacles have been conquered.

The event is scheduled from 8 to 11 a.m., providing ample time for families to enjoy the activities. Tickets are available for $40.

More Info: https://www.gilbertaz.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/special-events-and-permits/ka-pow-superhero-run

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