|
July 2025
Hello, Neighbors!
Summer is officially here, and July brings some of Mesa’s favorite traditions, including our city’s signature Arizona Celebration of Freedom. Join us in Downtown Mesa on July 4 for an evening packed with live music, patriotic festivities, family-friendly fun, and a spectacular fireworks finale. Speaking of fireworks—please remember to celebrate safely and responsibly. Certain fireworks are permitted only through July 6 and must be used exclusively on private property. To help keep everyone safe, Mesa’s Fire & Medical and Police Departments will be actively enforcing fireworks rules. See below for more details, safety tips, and information on how to report any issues.
Looking ahead, Mesa’s Parks & Recreation fall registration opens July 8, giving residents an early opportunity to sign up for youth sports, swim lessons, adult fitness programs, and a variety of great classes. Don’t miss the chance to secure your family’s spot and make the most of Mesa’s recreation programs!
Mesa continues to earn national recognition, thanks to your support and participation in making our community extraordinary. Recently, our city received national accolades highlighting our outstanding quality of life, economic growth, and community engagement—accomplishments we can all celebrate and build upon. In this newsletter, you will find two exciting announcements that are hot off the press!
Finally, please note that the Mesa City Council will be on summer break from July 9 to August 13. We may not have formal meetings during this time, but we’re still hard at work addressing community needs and moving important projects forward. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Councilmember Alicia Goforth
|
|
 Arizona Celebration of Freedom
Get ready for Mesa’s biggest Independence Day party! The Arizona Celebration of Freedom returns to Downtown Mesa on Thursday, July 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Mesa Convention Center and Amphitheatre. This free, family-friendly event includes live music, patriotic displays, a naturalization ceremony, and a spectacular fireworks finale
 Fireworks Safety & Enforcement
While July is a time for celebration, it’s important to stay informed about Mesa’s fireworks rules. Permissible consumer fireworks may only be used on private property with the owner’s permission, and only through July 6. Aerial, exploding, or projectile-type fireworks are prohibited at all times. Mesa Fire and Medical reminds everyone that fireworks are inherently dangerous—and the safest way to enjoy them is at a professional show. Police and Fire crews will be out enforcing the law to help keep our neighborhoods safe. Click below for fireworks rules, safety tips, and information on how to report illegal fireworks.
 Parks & Rec Fall Registration
Fall activity registration opens soon, and there's something for everyone in the family! From sports leagues and fitness classes to arts, crafts, and aquatic adventures, cool off this fall in style. Join us in making new friends, learning new skills, and enjoying all that Mesa has to offer. Registration opens at 8 AM on July 7 for Mesa residents and July 14 for non-residents.
 Mesa Ranks 9th Nationally in US News & World Report Best Large Cities to Live
US News & World Report has recognized Mesa as the 9th best large city to live in nationwide - making us the only Arizona city to earn a spot in this national ranking. We outperformed well-known major cities, including San Diego, Seattle, Houston and Dallas.
The publication praised our abundant outdoor recreation opportunities and noted our strong economic indicators. It recognized Mesa's healthy job market and our ranking in the top 20% nationally for net migration. This recognition validates what we already know - Mesa offers an exceptional quality of life that continues to attract new residents and businesses.
 Mesa Wins National Water Conservation Challenge
Mesa has been named a national winner in the 2025 Wyland Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation, placing first in its population category. Competing against cities like Minneapolis, Tucson, Santa Ana, and Atlanta, Mesa had the highest percentage of residents take the pledge – committing to save over 22 million gallons of water through simple, daily actions, along with efforts to reduce energy use, waste, and emissions. This recognition highlights Mesa’s strong culture of sustainability and community-wide commitment to conservation.
|
|
Arizona Celebration of Freedom
We are seeking volunteers for the Willmeng Arizona Celebration of Freedom, the coolest Independence Day festival in the state! There are multiple times and shifts available including splash zone, carnival games entertainment and info booths.
Volunteers will receive a commemorative T-shirt, free meal, snacks, cold drinks and are entered into a raffle for awesome prizes. Volunteers must be 16 years of age or 14 if accompanied by a parent or guardian.
|
Library Volunteer
If you love books as much as we do, join our team as a library volunteer! Volunteers provide a variety of valued services including: Shelving, program assistance, delivering books to homebound residents, book research, THINKspot patron assistance and more! Our volunteers help us provide great services and experiences for members of our community.
|
|
Police Department Headquarters Brickbreaking
I was thrilled to help break ground for the new Mesa Police Department Headquarters renovation project. This project represents a major step forward in public safety, ensuring our officers have the facilities and resources they need to keep Mesa safe for years to come.
|
Finding Nemo Jr., presented by Mesa Parks & Rec Adaptive Off-Broadway
What an amazing production! I loved cheering on the talented cast of Finding Nemo Jr. from Mesa Parks & Recreation’s Adaptive Off-Broadway theater program. This inclusive, sensory-friendly show was a beautiful reminder of Mesa's commitment to arts accessibility and community engagement.
|
Mesa Has Heart
It was wonderful to join the Mesa Chamber of Commerce at "Mesa Has Heart," a beautiful event dedicated to community service and compassion. I’m always inspired seeing neighbors helping neighbors—it’s what makes Mesa such a special place to live.
|
Touring Sunshine Acres
I had the pleasure of visiting Sunshine Acres, an incredible home dedicated to caring for children in need right here in Mesa. Touring the campus and seeing firsthand the love and support provided to our youth was both heartwarming and inspiring.
|
 |
|
Police Chief Ken Cost Retirement
It was bittersweet celebrating Police Chief Ken Cost at his retirement event. Chief Cost’s leadership, dedication, and genuine care for Mesa residents have made a lasting impact. We thank him for his years of service and wish him a wonderful next chapter! |
|
|
|
Mesa has projects in all stages of the development process from planning to construction. Our Active Development Map offers you the chance to take a look at the latest Mesa projects coming to a street near you. Each project overview includes the location, project acreage, and the planned use. Take a tour today by clicking the map below.
Development Pre-Submittals
Did you know every new development in Mesa starts with a pre-submittal application? This helps clarify important next steps in the development process and offers valuable insight for residents, too. You can learn more about the pre-submittal conference process, view recent applications below, or explore more detail through our publicly accessible DIMES portal.
|
|
|
July 1 – Helmet Pop Up
2:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m. • Dobson Ranch Library (2425 S Dobson Rd)
Families in District 5 can swing by and snag a free bike helmet (while supplies last), courtesy of Mesa’s Bicycle & Pedestrian Program. Don’t forget your signed waiver! A great stop to stay safe while exploring summer trails.
July 4 – Arizona Celebration of Freedom
6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. • Mesa Convention Center & Amp (263 N Center St)
Mesa’s signature Independence Day party is back! Expect food trucks, patriotic activities, live music, and a fireworks grand finale—all free, festive, and perfect for families.
July 7 – Fall Activity Registration Opens
Starting 8:00 a.m. • Online
District 5 parents can jumpstart fall plans—think swim lessons, fitness classes, art, and sports. Registration opens at 8 AM on July 7 for Mesa residents and July 14 for non-residents.
July 16 – 18 STEM Squad
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. • Red Mountain Library
Three days of fun challenges and exploration into the world of STEM. Presented by members of Red Mountain Library Teen Advisory Board. Ages 8-12. Registration required.
July 15 – Helmet Pop Up
(repeat session) 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. • THINKspot @ Dobson Ranch Library
Missed the July 1 event? Here’s your second chance to pick up a free helmet, get fitted properly, and feel confident riding around District 5.
July 23 - Oils and Vapes Presentation for Teens
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. @ Red Mountain Center (7550 E. Adobe St.) Join us for a fun and helpful workshop all about staying safe and healthy. Teens must register to attend. Parents are welcome to join their child. Presented in partnership with the Mesa Police Community Relations Department.
July 25 – Hang 10 Flowrider Competition
5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m. • Rhodes Aquatic Complex (1860 S. Longmore) Catch the wave at our FlowRider Competition! Think you’ve got what it takes to ride the wave like a pro? Join us for an epic surf and boogie board showdown on the FlowRider!
|
|
|
|
|
