April 2024
First Year In Office, Plus What's Ahead
Welcome to the first edition of my community newsletter. One of my top priorities has been to better communicate with and inform east Mesa constituents. This newsletter serves as a monthly update on what I’m working on and what’s happening around Mesa. You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
I’m thrilled to kick-off this edition by highlighting some of my efforts since taking office January 2023.
One of my top priorities is safety, whether on our roads or in our communities. I collaborated with Mesa Police to address concerns from residents in the Desert Sands community. We launched a community outreach project, conducting door-to-door visits and helping form the first official block watch group. This initiative, though reminiscent of past efforts, marks a significant first. Additionally, I played an instrumental role in aiding Code Compliance to clean up two neglected properties in the neighborhood.
I have been actively working to address speeding within our communities. Notably, I spearheaded initiatives for road enhancements in the Las Sendas community, championing safer streets and improved infrastructure. Plans are now underway for raised crosswalks, ensuring the safety and well-being of families in the neighborhood.
Moreover, my vision centers around placemaking and development that enhances the existing character of the surrounding community. By advocating for quality retail attractions and collaborating with stakeholders, I’m helping to create a vision for many areas in my district to bring forth vibrant economic growth and enhanced amenities in northeast Mesa.
My active voice in Mesa's 2050 General Plan underscores my commitment to shaping a prosperous future for our city. With the plan slated for the November ballot, I encourage every resident to engage and learn more about its implications for our community's trajectory. Visit tomorrowmesa.com to learn more and get involved. Please also scroll down for additional updates.
I look forward to continuing to work to improve the lives of the residents of Mesa. Please join me for a casual conversation at my upcoming Coffee with Your Councilmember event. Details below.
Councilmember Alicia Goforth
 Join Goforth for Coffee
2024 Mesa City Council Strategic Priorities
Mesa City Council Official Photo 2024
The Mesa City Council sets yearly priorities focusing on economic development, safety, infrastructure, community engagement, and sustainability. This ensures responsive governance and progress for Mesa. Here are this year's main themes.
Main Themes
1. Infill/Redevelopment Encourage development and investment in existing Redevelopment Areas (RDAs). Target specific areas needing revitalization with incentives and regulatory changes to attract developers, businesses, and residents.
2. Placemaking Create inviting public spaces that promote community and connectivity. Design environments to enhance social interaction, pedestrian movement, and diverse transportation options, linking activity hubs, parks, and key public areas.
3. Workforce Development Coordinate efforts to develop a skilled workforce for high-wage jobs. Implement strategies to provide necessary skills and education through collaboration between public and private sectors, creating pathways to employment.
4. Mesa Climate Action Plan (MCAP) Continue to support MCAP's goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency, promoting renewable energy, and encouraging environmentally responsible practices.
More information discussed at this year's Council Strategic Planning Session.
Public Safety
Public safety remains a central focus of Mesa's Strategic Priorities, evident in recent initiatives. Over the past year, Mesa has added 12 new sworn officers and expanded its fire department with 23 new positions. Investments include the Mesa Advocacy Center and the NE Public Safety Facility, enhancing emergency response capabilities. Park security has also been bolstered with four new Park Rangers. These efforts underscore Mesa's commitment to ensuring a safe and secure community for its residents. Public safety remains a top priority, driving strategic initiatives to safeguard residents and enhance emergency response capabilities.
Future Northeast Mesa Public Safety Facility
Mesa Officials Participate in the Groundbreaking, December 5th, 2022
The new facility spans approximately 50,000 square feet and features four pull-through apparatus bays tailored for Fire and Medical vehicles. These bays can accommodate up to two fire crews, one battalion crew, and one ambulance crew. On the law enforcement side, this marks the first substation to open in Mesa in nearly a decade. With the capacity to house up to 150 uniformed and civilian personnel, the public safety building will provide shared spaces including a lobby, a community/training room, a job/task conditioning room, and conference rooms. Construction is projected to conclude in early 2025.
Building Mesa's Future
Introducing the 2024 General Obligation Project Concepts! Explore potential projects aimed at enhancing our community's infrastructure and services. From upgrading transportation networks to enhancing public spaces, these ideas are designed to improve our quality of life. Proposals include but are not limited to the following items:
Share your feedback as we prioritize and develop these concepts to shape a brighter future for all!
Attend an Open House
Join us for a series of open houses designed to engage and inform the community about proposed project options. These open houses offer a unique opportunity for individuals to learn more about the various initiatives under consideration and provide valuable input. Whether you're curious about infrastructure developments or community programs, your voice matters. Mesa staff will be on hand to answer questions, gather feedback, and ensure your concerns are heard. Together, let's shape the future of our community.
NE Mesa Open House
Falcon Field Airport
Wednesday, April 10th
6pm- 7pm
Click below for a list of all other Open Houses
Learn about the 2050 General Plan
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