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 Community Newsletter
Summer 2026
Happy Summer, Neighbors!
Summer is officially here, and with it comes plenty of opportunities to stay active, connected, and cool in Mesa. As temperatures rise, I encourage you to take advantage of Mesa's public pools, splash pads, and recreation programs that help make summer fun for residents of all ages.
I'm also excited to invite you and your family to the Willmeng Arizona Celebration of Freedom on July 4 at the Mesa Convention Center. More details about this family-friendly event can be found later in this newsletter.
In this edition, you'll find information on upcoming events, important community updates, election reminders, monsoon preparedness, and highlights from around District 4 and our city.
As always, thank you for being engaged and involved in our community. I wish you a safe, enjoyable, and memorable summer season.
If you ever have any questions, want to share about issues that are important to you, or if I can be of assistance, please reach out to me at district4@mesaaz.gov or 480-644-3004. My door is always open.
-Councilmember Jenn Duff
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Celebrate Independence Day in Mesa!
We hope you'll join us for the Willmeng Arizona Celebration of Freedom on July 4 at the Mesa Convention Center for one of Mesa's favorite family-friendly traditions!
This FREE community event offers something for everyone, including a Kids Zone packed with fun activities, live musical entertainment, interactive vehicle displays, delicious food vendors, and a spectacular drone show. The evening will conclude with an unforgettable fireworks display lighting up the Mesa sky in celebration of our nation's independence.
Gather your family, friends, and neighbors and come enjoy a day filled with fun, patriotism, and community spirit. We look forward to celebrating with you!
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Mesa Ranked as One of the Best Run Cities in America
Mesa has been recognized as one of the best-run cities in the nation, earning the #10 spot in WalletHub's latest ranking of the 148 largest U.S. cities and ranking #1 in Arizona.
The study evaluated cities based on how effectively they deliver services relative to spending, measuring key areas such as financial stability, education, health, safety, economy, and infrastructure. Mesa's strong financial management, growing economy, low poverty rate, and commitment to public safety helped secure its top ranking.
This recognition reflects the dedication of City employees who work every day to provide high-quality services and ensure Mesa remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. As our city continues to grow, we remain committed to delivering value, maintaining strong infrastructure, and investing in the services our residents rely on.
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July 21 Primary Election: Important Dates to Remember
The July 21 Primary Election is quickly approaching. If you live in Mesa City Council Districts 4, 5, or 6, be sure to mark these important election deadlines on your calendar:
July 10 – Last day to request a ballot by mail.
July 14 – Recommended last day to return your ballot by mail to ensure it arrives in time to be counted.
July 17 – Last day to vote early in person before Election Day.
July 21 – Election Day
Vote Centers will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. for voters casting their ballots in the Primary Election.
Whether you choose to vote by mail, vote early, or vote on Election Day, make a plan to participate and have your voice heard. For information on ballot requests, vote center locations, ballot drop-boxes, and election results, visit the elections website.
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Monsoon Season Is Here – Be Prepared
Monsoon season officially runs from June 15 through September 30. During this time, Mesa residents may experience severe weather conditions, including lightning, damaging winds, dust storms, flash flooding, and extreme heat.
Now is the perfect time to make sure you and your family are prepared. Check that your windshield wipers and tires are in good condition, test your flashlights, and ensure backup batteries and power banks are fully charged before a storm arrives.
It's also a good idea to keep important emergency phone numbers readily available should you need assistance during a storm event.
Visit the website for more information on monsoon preparedness, severe weather safety, and sandbag locations.
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Stay Safe: Energy Safety During Monsoon Season
Monsoon storms can damage electric and natural gas equipment, causing power outages and gas emergencies.
Here are some tips on how to “weather” the storm:
Before the Storm
- Review energy safety practices for your home and neighborhood.
- Keep these emergency numbers easy to find:
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Mesa Electric: 480-644-2262
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Mesa Gas: 480-644-4277
During the Storm
- Natural gas appliances are generally safe to use unless you smell gas or hear a hissing sound from an appliance or meter. If you think there is a gas leak, leave the area right away and report it.
- Check for current power outages here.
After the Storm
- If your home or yard is damaged, have a qualified professional inspect your gas pipes and appliances.
- If you think there is a gas leak, leave the area right away and report it.
- Stay away from downed or low-hanging power lines.
- Report power outages and damaged electrical equipment.
- Call 8-1-1 at least two days before digging to make repairs. It’s free, and it’s the law.
Stay Alert
Power outages and storm damage can last longer than the storm itself. Stay safe and be aware of hazards until repairs are complete.
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 Culdesac Mesa Rezoning Public Input Event
Thank you to everyone who attended the Culdesac Mesa Rezoning Public Input Event on June 25. Community members had the opportunity to learn more about the proposed rezoning for the 27-acre site in Downtown Mesa, review feedback gathered to date, and hear about the project's anticipated timeline and next steps.
If you were unable to attend, there is still time to learn more about the proposal and share your thoughts. Community feedback plays an important role in the planning process, and residents are encouraged to review project information and submit comments online.
Learn more and provide feedback today!
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 Exploring The 233 Suites in Downtown Mesa
I had the opportunity to tour The 233 Suites, an exciting new mixed-use destination in Downtown Mesa that is home to Unscripted by Hyatt, Crust Simply Italian, The Nightingale Cocktail Bar, and Bombolino.
This unique development brings together hospitality, dining, and entertainment in one vibrant location, further enhancing the energy and appeal of Downtown Mesa. The project reflects the continued investment and growth taking place in our urban core, creating new opportunities for residents and visitors to experience all that Mesa has to offer.
We look forward to seeing the positive impact this destination will have on our downtown community for years to come.
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 Affordable Senior Housing Project Moving Forward
We are excited to share that the Helix Apartments, a new affordable housing community for seniors near Downtown Mesa, has reached a major milestone. The project was recently awarded highly competitive Low-Income Housing Tax Credits by the Arizona Department of Housing, making it one of only 11 projects selected statewide and one of just two in Maricopa County.
Through a public-private partnership with Commonwealth Development Corporation, the development will bring 64 affordable housing units, covered parking, and dedicated programming space to a city-owned site near the Mesa Senior Center. This project will help provide safe, affordable housing options for Mesa seniors while supporting a vibrant and inclusive downtown community.
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 Another Exciting Addition to Downtown Mesa
Downtown Mesa’s vibrant craft beverage scene continues to grow! Award-winning Pinnacle Brewing Company has announced plans to open a second location in Downtown Mesa, bringing its nationally recognized brews, a full taproom, and kitchen to Main Street in early 2027. This family-owned Arizona brewery chose Mesa because of our thriving and walkable brewery district, further reinforcing Downtown Mesa as a destination for residents and visitors alike. We look forward to welcoming Pinnacle Brewing to District 4 and supporting another great local business investment in our community.
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It was wonderful to join families at the Mesa Public Library's Summer Reading Kickoff and see so much excitement for reading and learning this summer!
The Summer Reading Program is a great way for children, teens, and adults to stay engaged, explore new stories, and discover all the amazing resources our Mesa libraries have to offer. Thank you to the library staff, volunteers, and community partners who helped make this event a success.
Wishing everyone a fun-filled summer of reading, learning, and adventure!
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In honor of National Donut Day, I had the privilege of joining the Salvation Army to deliver donuts to Mesa’s firefighters, police officers, dispatchers, and detention officers. It was a small way to say thank you to the men and women who serve our community with professionalism, courage, and dedication every day.
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Another successful Skate Party at the Mesa City Plaza!
It was a great evening in Downtown Mesa filled with music, laughter, and plenty of skating fun. Thank you to everyone who came out to roll around the rink, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a fun night in our community.
We love seeing families and friends come together to create memories and enjoy all that Downtown Mesa has to offer. See you at the next Skate Party!
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Congratulations to Genoa Healthcare on the grand opening of its new pharmacy inside Terros Health Center in Mesa!
By bringing pharmacy services directly into the health center, Genoa is making it easier for patients to access the medications and support they need. This partnership will help improve health outcomes, strengthen families, and enhance the well-being of our community.
Thank you to Genoa Healthcare and Terros Health for your commitment to caring for Mesa residents. We’re excited to welcome you to our community and celebrate this important milestone.
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It was a privilege to participate in this month's Women's Business Connection, hosted by the Mesa Chamber of Commerce.
I joined Mesa Chamber President and CEO Sally Harrison, Councilmember Alicia Goforth, and Councilmember Doreen Taylor for a discussion on Women Who Shape Mesa, where we shared our leadership journeys, discussed the impact of public service, and explored ways residents can become more involved in shaping the future of our community.
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July 1 & 15 - Dinosaurs After Dark
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Get ready for something cool this summer! Dinosaurs After Dark is back at AZMNH. The museum will be open after hours with crafts, activities, and the Arizona Through Time speaker series. |
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July 9 - SRP's FREE Virtual Water Conservation Expo
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Hey, Salt River Project customers! Looking for simple ways to save water and lower your water bill? Join and learn practical water-saving tips, canal history and about how SRP manages its water supplies. Reserve your spot today! |
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August 12-15 - Mesa International Film Festival
The Mesa International Film Festival is a premier celebration of independent cinema, drawing filmmakers, audiences, and industry leaders. Programming varies daily and includes a mix of filmmaker symposium activities and ticketed screenings available to the public. |
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August 14 - Family Free Evenings @ idea Museum
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
We will be open and with free admission as part of Family Free Day supported by Meta. Experience the exhibits, interactives and programming throughout the museum during these special evening hours. |
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August 20 - Workforce Center @ Mesa Hiring Event
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Need a new job or looking at a career change? Meet 20+ local employers who are hiring now. This event is free for both business and job seekers—don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity. Located at Eagles Community Center, 828 E. Broadway Rd., Mesa, AZ, 85204. |
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There’s always something exciting happening in Downtown Mesa! Check out the Downtown Mesa Association's calendar of events to stay up to date on upcoming activities, festivals, and more. |
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 This year, Council will observe two summer recess periods. The first recess began on Tuesday, June 9, with Council reconvening on Thursday, July 16. The second recess will begin on Tuesday, July 28, with Council reconvening on Thursday, August 13.
July Council Meetings
Monday, July 20 - 5:45 p.m.
Monday, July 27 - 5:45 p.m.
July Study Sessions
Thursday, July 16 - 7:30 a.m.
Monday, July 20 - 5:15 p.m.
Thursday, July 23 - 7:30 a.m.
Monday, July 27 - 5:15 p.m.
August Council Meetings
Monday, August 17 - 5:45 p.m.
Monday, August 31 - 5:45 p.m.
August Study Sessions
Thursday, August 13 - 7:30 a.m.
Monday, August 17 - 5:15 p.m.
Thursday, August 20 - 7:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 27 - 7:30 a.m.
Monday, August 31 - 5:15 p.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.
Council agendas.
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