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 May 2026
Hello District 1!
May is here and with it comes warmer days, new opportunities, and continued momentum across our community! 🌞
As we move deeper into spring, we’re seeing exciting progress in Economic Development efforts that are helping shape the future of District 1 and the broader Mesa community. This month, we’re especially excited to highlight Hayley Freestone, a young leader in the City of Mesa’s Office of Economic Development. Hayley brings a strong background in business development and community engagement, along with a passion for building meaningful partnerships that support long-term growth and opportunity.
Her work reflects the energy and innovation that continue to move Mesa forward, and we are proud to recognize emerging leaders like Hayley who are helping to strengthen our local economy and community connections.
As always, thank you for staying engaged and connected to all that’s happening in District 1. 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
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Mesa’s Momentum Highlighted in 2026 State of the City
Mayor Mark Freeman recently delivered the 2026 State of the City address, highlighting Mesa’s continued momentum and outlining a forward-looking vision centered on accountability, opportunity, and long-term stability. Framed by the themes of Built on Tradition, Built for Opportunity, Built Together, and Built to Last, the address showcased the strength of the community and the City’s commitment to continued growth and success.
Leadership That Matters: The Lasting Impact of the Mesa Leadership Program
Councilmember Adams, as a graduate of the Mesa Leadership Training & Development Program Class of 1989, reflects on the lasting impact of the program and its role in shaping engaged, informed community leaders. His article highlights how the program expands participants’ understanding of Mesa as an interconnected community, encouraging civic responsibility, collaboration, and meaningful participation in local decision-making. It also emphasizes the importance of supporting leadership development efforts that prepare individuals to thoughtfully navigate complex community challenges and contribute to the long-term strength of Mesa.
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Jaye O'Donnell Named Economic Developer of the Year by AAED
Mesa Economic Development Director Jaye O'Donnell has been named Economic Developer of the Year, Large Community, by the Arizona Association for Economic Development, recognizing her leadership, results and service to the profession in Arizona.
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Bike to Work Day
The City of Mesa’s Bike to Work Day was a great success! This annual event encourages community members to swap their usual commute for a bike ride, promoting healthier lifestyles, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting a cleaner environment. Participants enjoyed a refreshing start to their day while connecting with others who share a commitment to wellness and sustainability. Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make this event such a positive and impactful experience!
Scouting America Helps Develop Future Leaders
Scouting America offers youth a meaningful opportunity to build character, develop leadership skills, and gain confidence through hands-on learning and outdoor experiences. Participants learn valuable life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and problem-solving while forming friendships and contributing to their communities through service projects. With a strong emphasis on personal growth and citizenship, Scouting helps prepare young people for success in school, work, and life.
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Neighbors, Fun, and Tradition Come Together at Rock the Block
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Rock the Block last weekend! Now in its 26th year, this beloved community event once again brought neighbors together for a day full of fun, connection, and excitement. From delicious food including a crowd favorite mac and cheese contest along with snow cones and popcorn to interactive games, live singing, a kiddie train ride, the ever popular rock wall, a candy cannon, and more, it was a wonderful celebration of community spirit. We appreciate everyone who helped make this long standing tradition such a success!
 New South Canal Bridge Enhances Safety and Connectivity
For more than a century, the South Canal has played an important role in Mesa’s history, delivering water, supporting agriculture, and connecting communities across the Valley. Located just north of Brown Road and east of Horne Road, the South Canal Division Gates are a key point in the Salt River Project system where the Consolidated and Crosscut (Tempe) canals separate for irrigation and municipal use.
Constructed between 1907 and 1909, the South Canal remains a vital part of the region’s infrastructure, with SRP Zanjeros continuing to manage and maintain the canal system today. As Mesa continues to grow, projects like this help preserve the connection between the city’s historic infrastructure and the everyday experiences of residents who enjoy it.
The addition of the new bridge provides safer and easier access for pedestrians and bicyclists using the canal trails. More than improving connectivity, the bridge also honors the history and significance of a place that has served the community for generations.
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Building Mesa’s Future: Meet Hayley Freestone
Hayley Freestone is an Economic Development Project Manager in the City of Mesa’s Office of Economic Development. She brings a unique blend of private sector experience and community engagement to the team, with a strong background in business development and strategic relationship building across a variety of industries.
Originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, Hayley attended William Penn University in Iowa on a softball scholarship and earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Management. Her career began with an internship at Carollo Engineers, where she gained valuable experience in administration, marketing, and human resources. That experience led to her first role in the construction industry, where she helped a California-based general contractor expand into the Arizona market. From there, she joined A.R. Mays Construction, focusing on business development efforts across diverse markets including retail, commercial, and tribal communities.
Hayley is passionate about community involvement and currently serves as President of the Young Professionals Board for Treasure House, a nonprofit that provides supportive living for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In this role, she leads advocacy, fundraising, and volunteer initiatives in support of the organization’s mission.
Hayley can often be found playing in a recreational softball league, golfing, traveling with friends and family, or relaxing with a good book. She is excited to bring her energy, experience, and collaborative mindset to the City of Mesa and is always looking for new opportunities to learn and grow.
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Keep Your Family Safe: Easy Tips to Protect Your Natural Gas Meter
Keeping your natural gas meter in good condition is an essential part of home safety. Here are some simple tips to help keep your family safe:
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Keep it clear: Make sure the area around your meter is clean and free of clutter so it’s easy to reach. •
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Don’t stack items: Never place anything on top of the meter — it must stay uncovered and unobstructed.
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Protect it from vehicles: If your meter is near a driveway or parking spot, add protection to prevent bumps or collisions.
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Plant smart: Avoid planting trees, bushes, or shrubs within three feet of your meter. Their roots can grow and damage it over time.
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 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.
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May 7 – Puzzle Mixer
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. • THINKspot at Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Adults can enjoy a relaxed puzzle night designed to help neighbors connect, unwind and work together.
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May 8 – Downtown Mesa Sunset Market
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. • Main and Macdonald streets in Downtown Mesa
Shop local vendors, visit downtown businesses and enjoy dinner or drinks during this popular evening market.
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May 13 – Walk-In Wednesday Presents: Red, White and Blue Lanterns
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. • Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Kids can create red, white and blue lanterns in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Supplies are provided while they last.
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May 16 & 30 –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.
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May 23 – Mesa Pools Opening Day
Various times and locations
Beat the heat and kick off summer with public swim at Mesa pools. Regular public swim admission applies.
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May 23 – RPG at the Library – Adult
3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. • THINKspot at Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Adults can learn and play Dungeons & Dragons® with an experienced player, or use the space to lead their own campaign.
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Council Meetings
Monday, May 18 - 5:45 p.m.
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Study Sessions
Thursday, May 14 - 7:30 a.m.
Monday, May 18 - 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, May 24 - 7:30 a.m.
City Council Strategic Planning Session
Thursday, May 28 - 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.Â
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