April 2026

District 1, it’s a beautiful time of year! 🌼

As spring blooms and Easter approaches, it’s the perfect season to celebrate fresh starts, new growth, and the strong sense of community we share. District 1 continues to thrive because of the people who call it home. As we move into April, we’re excited to see continued interest and conversation around urban and community gardens. This vision highlights our community’s commitment to sustainability, local food access, and stronger neighborhood ties. Though still in the early stages, it reflects the passion residents have for shaping a healthier, more connected future. We’re excited to see these ideas continue to grow and take root.

As always, it is an honor to serve you. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas you would like to share, please do not hesitate to reach out at

district1@mesaaz.gov or 480-644-4002. My door is always open.

Thank you for being part of our District 1 family. We wish you a wonderful and refreshing spring season!

Warm regards,

-Councilmember Rich Adams

MESA NEWS

Mesa Leaders Named America’s 250 Public Service Champions

Mesa Vice Mayor Scott Somers and Fire and Medical Department Chief Mary Cameli have been recognized as two of America’s 250 Public Service Champions, an initiative honoring outstanding local government leaders as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Somers, representing District 6, and Cameli, who has led Mesa Fire & Medical since 2016, were selected from hundreds of nominations nationwide for their decades of dedication to public service and community leadership. The honorees will be celebrated at an event in Philadelphia on May 12.

Mesa Shines at Environmental Excellence Awards 🌱

This past weekend, the City of Mesa was honored with two awards at the 44th annual Arizona Forward Environmental Excellence Awards, celebrating efforts that enhance quality of life, economic vitality, and sustainability across Arizona.

• Mesa Youth Climate Action Fund (MYCAF) – First place, Crescordia Award for Curriculum-Based and Youth Environmental Education. This prestigious recognition highlights the city’s commitment to engaging youth in environmental leadership.
• Reed Park Greening Project – Runner-up, Award of Distinction for Heat Mitigation. In October 2025, the City partnered with The Nature Conservancy and local organizations to plant 94 native and desert-adapted trees, 35 native shrubs, and install three stormwater basins.

These achievements will be featured during the awards portion of the April 6 City Council Meeting, showcasing Mesa’s ongoing dedication to sustainability and community resilience.

It’s here! Valley Bike Month is rolling in!

MesaMoves is celebrating all month long by making biking safer, more fun, and more accessible for everyone in our community.

1. Free Helmet Pop-Up: Grab a FREE helmet. All ages, all riders, no catch. Because safety is for everyone.
   1. Can’t make it? Order online and pick up later at: Free Equipment Agreement and Waiver
2. Smart Cycling FUN-dentals Class: New to biking or want to boost your confidence? You have not one, but TWO chances to learn the basics, build skills, and ride smarter.
3. Bike to Work Day: Join us for a community bike ride to get breakfast, refreshments and a free t-shirts (while supplies last).

Whether you’re a daily rider or just getting started, this is your month to get moving, connect, and enjoy the ride. 

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

Lehi Days Rodeo

The Lehi Days Rodeo on March 7 brought together families, neighbors, and community members to celebrate one of Mesa’s long-standing traditions. It was a great turnout and a wonderful reminder of the strong sense of community that makes District 1 so special.

Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and participants who made this event a success. We look forward to many more opportunities to come together and celebrate our community in the months ahead.

Lehi Elementary Career Day It was a pleasure participating in Lehi Elementary’s Career Day, where students had the opportunity to learn about a variety of professions and explore future possibilities. Events like this inspire curiosity, encourage learning, and help students begin thinking about their goals and interests. Thank you to the staff and volunteers who made this event a success!

DISTRICT 1 SPOTLIGHT

Growing Against the Odds: The Urban Gertie

In District 1, a unique vision for urban agriculture is taking root. What began as an effort to transform underutilized land into a productive urban farm has grown into a story of persistence, innovation, and community potential. We are proud to share the journey of The Urban Gertie is an example of how determination and creativity can help shape a more sustainable future for Mesa.

SAFETY MESSAGE

It's Time to Celebrate Safe Digging Month!

April is a great time to start those outdoor projects—but before you pick up a shovel, make sure you’re digging safely! Always contact Arizona 811 at least two full working days before you dig to have underground utility lines marked. Utility lines can vary in depth, and several lines may be located in the same spot, so having them marked keeps everyone safe.

After you contact 811:

• Wait until you hear back from all the utility companies listed on your ticket.
• Hand-dig within two feet of the marked lines and protect any exposed lines.
• Keep all locate marks visible during your project, they’re valid for 15 days.

Digging safely helps prevent injuries, damage, and outages. Calling 811 is easy, free, and required by law.

ACTIVE DEVELOPMENTS IN MESA

 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 to edit this placeholder text.

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.

UPCOMING EVENTS!

April 4 – Mesa Police Easter Egg Hunt
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. • Reed Park, 1631 E. Broadway Rd.
Enjoy a spring morning with Mesa Police at this family event, with the egg hunt beginning at 9:30 a.m. 

April 4 – Mesa Feastival – Saturday in the Park
5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. • Pioneer Park, 526 E. Main St.
Spend the evening downtown with gourmet food trucks, live music and boutique vendors at this free community event. 

April 6 – City Council Meeting
5:45 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. • Mesa City Hall Council Chambers, 20 E. Main St.
Follow City updates, hear public discussion and stay connected to the decisions shaping Mesa. 

April 8 – The American Revolution Documentary
5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. • ASU MIX Center (Screening Room), 50 N. Centennial Way
Join Mesa Public Library and ASU MIX Center for a community screening of a PBS documentary. 

April 8 – Walk-In Wednesday Celebrates National Parks!
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. • Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Drop in for a kid-friendly craft program celebrating National Parks in honor of John Muir’s birthday. 

April 8 – Mesa Business Builder: Specialty Spaces
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. • Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Learn how Mesa’s business-focused spaces, technology and equipment can support entrepreneurs at every stage. 

April 9 – Classical Music Inside Out: Christian McBride and Edgar Meyer
7:30 p.m. • Mesa Arts Center (Piper Repertory Theater), 1 E. Main St.
Hear two acclaimed bass virtuosos blend jazz, classical and bluegrass influences in a one-of-a-kind performance. 

April 10 – Downtown Mesa Sunset Market
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. • Main & Macdonald streets, Downtown Mesa
Browse local vendors, visit downtown shops and enjoy dinner or drinks during this popular evening market. 

April 10–12 – Hadestown
Times vary • Mesa Arts Center (Ikeda Theater), 1 E. Main St.
Catch the Tony Award-winning musical during its downtown Mesa run. 

April 11 – Celebrate Mesa
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. • Pioneer Park, 526 E. Main St.
This free family festival includes rides, Earth Day activities, a petting zoo, face painting and more. 

April 14 – The Little Red Hen (Puppet Show)
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. • Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Enjoy a family-friendly puppet performance of the classic American fable. 

April 15 – Bike to Work Day

7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. • Lehi Sports Park to The Plaza at Mesa City Center, 56 E. Main St.
Join a group ride from Lehi and enjoy breakfast and a social hour downtown. 

April 16 – Game Night for Science

3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. • Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Participate in a guided citizen-science event and contribute to real research. No experience needed. 

April 16 – BLACK VIOLIN
7:30 p.m. • Mesa Arts Center (Ikeda Theater), 1 E. Main St.
Experience a dynamic performance blending classical music and hip-hop. 

April 17 – Chelsea Handler: The High and Mighty Tour
8:00 p.m. • Mesa Arts Center (Ikeda Theater), 1 E. Main St.
Enjoy a live comedy performance from Chelsea Handler. 

April 18 – Symphony of the Southwest: Rising
7:00 p.m. • Mesa Arts Center (Ikeda Theater), 1 E. Main St.
Enjoy an evening of live orchestral music. 

April 20 – City Council Meeting
5:45 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. • Mesa City Hall Council Chambers, 20 E. Main St.
Stay informed and engaged with City business. 

April 21 – Fly a WWII Fighter Plane in Virtual Reality!
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. • Aster Aging Downtown, 247 N. Macdonald
Experience a virtual World War II flight simulation. 

April 21 – Learn to Make Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. • THINKspot at Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Follow a step-by-step cooking program to make a vegetarian recipe. 

April 23 – State of the City 2026
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. • Watch live on Mesa 11
Hear the Mayor reflect on accomplishments and share a vision for the future. 

April 23–25 – America 250: In Concert
Times vary • Mesa Arts Center (Ikeda Theater), 1 E. Main St.
Celebrate America 250 with a multi-day concert production. 

UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS

Council Meetings
Monday, April 6 - 5:45 p.m.
Monday, April 20 - 5:45 p.m.

Study Sessions
Monday, April 6 - 4:45 p.m.
Thursday, April 9 - 7:30 a.m.

Thursday, April 16 - 7:30 a.m.
Monday, April 20 - 4:45 p.m.
Thursday, April 30 - 7:30 a.m.

*Meetings subject to start time changes

The Mesa City Council holds two Council meetings a month, in addition to weekly study sessions. Learn more about the process for public participation in meetings.

Mesa broadcasts its council and study session meetings live on Mesa Channel 11's YouTube page and Facebook.