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Still bummed about the cancellation of the fireworks at MCC? Well, there will still be some fireworks to watch in Mesa.
Living Word Bible Church (3520 E. Brown Road.) is hosting a celebration that starts at 5pm, with Fireworks starting at 9:15. There are also other fireworks alternatives around the East Valley.
It is disappointing that no one came in to "save" the MCC fireworks, but that just goes to show how bad things really are. Let's hope that the fireworks at MCC aren't gone for good, but the skys over West Mesa will be dark this year.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Fiesta MarketPlace coming to Fiesta Mall
Don't call it a swap meet. Fiesta MarketPlace is taking over the old Service Merchandise space at Fiesta Mall and turning it into an upscale, community focused shopping space with booths that can be rented for $400 a month.
Yet another great example of a creative reuse of an existing big-box space. Mesa truly has become a model for this type of reuse, which will be more and more common in the future as shopping centers reach their maturity and seek reinvention. They already have 50 vendors signed up, but are aiming for 100 before they open.
If everyone only took a small booth, they should already be taking in about $20,000 a month, which should hopefully go a long way in paying for the building, the electricity, and the improvements. It's nice to see people looking for creative ways to revitalize the Fiesta mall area.
While Councilman Kavanaugh is right that the area will need creative zoning and different uses to secure long-term viability, in this current real-estate market and economic environment, even adding more retail is a move in the right direction.
Yet another great example of a creative reuse of an existing big-box space. Mesa truly has become a model for this type of reuse, which will be more and more common in the future as shopping centers reach their maturity and seek reinvention. They already have 50 vendors signed up, but are aiming for 100 before they open.
If everyone only took a small booth, they should already be taking in about $20,000 a month, which should hopefully go a long way in paying for the building, the electricity, and the improvements. It's nice to see people looking for creative ways to revitalize the Fiesta mall area.
While Councilman Kavanaugh is right that the area will need creative zoning and different uses to secure long-term viability, in this current real-estate market and economic environment, even adding more retail is a move in the right direction.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Light posting
You'll probably notice over the next couple of weeks that the blogging around here will be relatively light. It's hot, it's summer. As much as we love Mesa, it's nice to be other places from time to time.
In the meantime, if you have a commentary that you would like to share, send it our way, and we'll post them if we think they are topical. Thank you for your continued support and for your readership.
We'll be in and out, so keep us in the loop of anything that is going on, and of course, you can follow us on twitter @MesaIssues.
In the meantime, if you have a commentary that you would like to share, send it our way, and we'll post them if we think they are topical. Thank you for your continued support and for your readership.
We'll be in and out, so keep us in the loop of anything that is going on, and of course, you can follow us on twitter @MesaIssues.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Twitter Time! @MesaIssues
This week went by fast, and now, FGITF - thank goodness it's twitter Friday. The blogging today will be micro-style via our twitter page @MesaIssues.
Check us out at http://twitter.com/mesaissues. We would always appreciate a follow!
Check us out at http://twitter.com/mesaissues. We would always appreciate a follow!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Below average overachiever
Aim low and beat expectations. Although Mesa's graduation rates are a little bit below the national average, they far exceed the expectations of Education Week magazine. Is that good...or bad?
On the bad side, it is celebrating underachievement. Sure, they beat expectations, but shouldn't they be a little higher? I know the neighborhood demographics are much different between Mountain View and Westwood, but is it enough for a 13 point drop?
On the good side, the state has had the second greatest improvement in the past 10 years, and MPS has instituted a lot of different programs to keep kids in school and get those who have dropped out alternatives for them to earn their diploma.
This shows that MPS has done quite a bit over the last few years to make improvements. Let's hope they are able to continue to improve, even if they are going to be forced to do more with less.
On the bad side, it is celebrating underachievement. Sure, they beat expectations, but shouldn't they be a little higher? I know the neighborhood demographics are much different between Mountain View and Westwood, but is it enough for a 13 point drop?
On the good side, the state has had the second greatest improvement in the past 10 years, and MPS has instituted a lot of different programs to keep kids in school and get those who have dropped out alternatives for them to earn their diploma.
This shows that MPS has done quite a bit over the last few years to make improvements. Let's hope they are able to continue to improve, even if they are going to be forced to do more with less.
Beverly Park video
The Tribune has a really neat video of the building of Beverly Park and the collection of volunteers from the community, Home Depot, and Kaboom who came to help. It was really neat to see so many people working together to make such an amazing project happen. Plus, how often do people get to see playground equipment being put together? It's fascinating that some of those things come in disassembled pieces instead of just falling out of the sky pre-assembed.
We would have embedded the video here, but it appears that the Tribune doesn't seem to have the sort of capability. We don't know why they have gone into the amateur video making business, but not given people the tools needed to help share their videos. It doesn't quite make sense.
We would have embedded the video here, but it appears that the Tribune doesn't seem to have the sort of capability. We don't know why they have gone into the amateur video making business, but not given people the tools needed to help share their videos. It doesn't quite make sense.
More on Mesa and the state budget
Not too much new here except that Mesa is "nervous" about the current state budget standoff. In a bit of not all that shocking news, if the state decides to shut down, it would cause problems for Mesa and other cities throughout the state.
The bigger question here is why is the legislature getting away with such bad behavior? Why are we even talking about a state shut down in the first place? Why are the people who represent Mesa kicking religious groups out of hearings?
It's no wonder why the legislature is being blamed by 52% of people for causing the problem. The real question is: does this apply to taxes as well? If the legislative budget passes and takes a bite out of the local budgets, cities like Mesa and other will most likely be forced to raise taxes, since they have already made their dramatic budget cuts. In that scenario, does the legislature still get the blame?
The bigger question here is why is the legislature getting away with such bad behavior? Why are we even talking about a state shut down in the first place? Why are the people who represent Mesa kicking religious groups out of hearings?
It's no wonder why the legislature is being blamed by 52% of people for causing the problem. The real question is: does this apply to taxes as well? If the legislative budget passes and takes a bite out of the local budgets, cities like Mesa and other will most likely be forced to raise taxes, since they have already made their dramatic budget cuts. In that scenario, does the legislature still get the blame?
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Democratic inroads into Mesa
Don't think the Democrats have their sights set on Arizona? Think again. President Obama has made his presence known in Mesa once again, this time sending U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke to La Mesita family homeless shelter as part of the "United We Serve" volunteer program. West Mesa, which is part of Congressman Harry Mitchell's district, has become a high profile spot, landing one of 17 visits as part of the kick-off.
This President has taken more interest in Mesa in 6 months than the previous President took in 8 years. Could it have anything to do with the fact that the conservative Republican leaning district is being represented by a Democrat who is at the top of the GOP target list? Let's hope that Mesa has the ear of the President and the Congressman on keeping the Cubs here.
When you think about it, Obama's team has taken quite an interest in Arizona in general. He has spent quite a bit of time in Phoenix, and he even came to Tempe to give ASU's commencement speech. Is this to make sure that he has a better showing in Arizona the next time around, or do the Democrats think that they can make some moves in Arizona?
With the Republicans fighing over the budget, they have eclipsed the fact that Napolitano caused this problem in the first place. The longer this goes on, the greater the liklihood that the Democrats have a shot at the Governor's office once again.
Mitchell has done a decent job as an independent voice, voting against the Democrats when he has to, and still riding the Obama train as much as possible. This combined with the fact that the Republicans will probably face another bloody primary, pretty much seals the deal for Mitchell. There aren't any other apparent moves being made in the East Valley as far as we can tell, but maybe the Dems will try to muster up more than a scapegoat to run against Flake next year.
The elections in 2010 will be the first true test to see if Obama still has the "charm" of if it is already starting to wear off.
This President has taken more interest in Mesa in 6 months than the previous President took in 8 years. Could it have anything to do with the fact that the conservative Republican leaning district is being represented by a Democrat who is at the top of the GOP target list? Let's hope that Mesa has the ear of the President and the Congressman on keeping the Cubs here.
When you think about it, Obama's team has taken quite an interest in Arizona in general. He has spent quite a bit of time in Phoenix, and he even came to Tempe to give ASU's commencement speech. Is this to make sure that he has a better showing in Arizona the next time around, or do the Democrats think that they can make some moves in Arizona?
With the Republicans fighing over the budget, they have eclipsed the fact that Napolitano caused this problem in the first place. The longer this goes on, the greater the liklihood that the Democrats have a shot at the Governor's office once again.
Mitchell has done a decent job as an independent voice, voting against the Democrats when he has to, and still riding the Obama train as much as possible. This combined with the fact that the Republicans will probably face another bloody primary, pretty much seals the deal for Mitchell. There aren't any other apparent moves being made in the East Valley as far as we can tell, but maybe the Dems will try to muster up more than a scapegoat to run against Flake next year.
The elections in 2010 will be the first true test to see if Obama still has the "charm" of if it is already starting to wear off.
Mesa Council approves next year's budget
Following the major budget cuts of the last year and the major reorganization effort, the Mesa City Council passed their tentative budget for next year. It is being called an "upper spending limit" which is good, especially since, although the economy appears to at least leveled out, we never know what could happen.
The new budget banks on about $50 million from stimulus money, which will hopefully fill the gap until Mesa's sales tax numbers start to recover. However, we should realize that Mesa can't count on stimulus dollars forever, even if the current program gets extended.
Also included in this plan is increased user fees, including fees tacked onto utilities and increased costs for plots at Mesa Cemetary. Unfortunately, once fees are raised, they are rarely reduced. When the economy does finally recover, that may be something for Mesa to consider to keep its fiscal fitness in place.
When times are bad, government budgets go on a diet and opt for the more essential sustaining items. As times get better, the spending naturally returns to previous levels as "wants" replace "needs." If Mesa remembers the sacrifices that people are making now (ie increased impact fees, pay cuts, etc) perhaps restoring these items will be a top priority instead of binging on other spending projects.
The new budget banks on about $50 million from stimulus money, which will hopefully fill the gap until Mesa's sales tax numbers start to recover. However, we should realize that Mesa can't count on stimulus dollars forever, even if the current program gets extended.
Also included in this plan is increased user fees, including fees tacked onto utilities and increased costs for plots at Mesa Cemetary. Unfortunately, once fees are raised, they are rarely reduced. When the economy does finally recover, that may be something for Mesa to consider to keep its fiscal fitness in place.
When times are bad, government budgets go on a diet and opt for the more essential sustaining items. As times get better, the spending naturally returns to previous levels as "wants" replace "needs." If Mesa remembers the sacrifices that people are making now (ie increased impact fees, pay cuts, etc) perhaps restoring these items will be a top priority instead of binging on other spending projects.
Where is Mesa on the state budget?
We got a press release from the Governor's office announcing the individuals and organizations who have signed on as supporters of her budget plan. You can check out the fairly impressive list here.
The list includes East Valley Partnership and ASU President Michael Crow as well as others who represent the East Valley. What was interesting to note, however, was that the list doesn't contain anyone from the Mesa City Council or the Mesa Chamber of Commerce. As we have discussed before, the other budget options that are out there could have some serious repercussions for Mesa's already fragile budget.
If Mesa isn't supporting this option, what other options are out there? With the budget crisis creeping towards our state with each passing day, what should be done? Before cuts are made, we still maintain that the decision should be given a chance to go to the voters. Maybe we will get some clarity from the Arizona Supreme Court today.
The list includes East Valley Partnership and ASU President Michael Crow as well as others who represent the East Valley. What was interesting to note, however, was that the list doesn't contain anyone from the Mesa City Council or the Mesa Chamber of Commerce. As we have discussed before, the other budget options that are out there could have some serious repercussions for Mesa's already fragile budget.
If Mesa isn't supporting this option, what other options are out there? With the budget crisis creeping towards our state with each passing day, what should be done? Before cuts are made, we still maintain that the decision should be given a chance to go to the voters. Maybe we will get some clarity from the Arizona Supreme Court today.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Possible homicide near Dobson and Southern
Police are investigating a possible homicide at Dobson and Southern (Tribune version here).
We are trying not to turn this place into a police blotter, but there are fewer issues to discuss in the summer which means more focus will be placed on crime. Hopefully Mesa PD can keep a crime to a minimum.
We are trying not to turn this place into a police blotter, but there are fewer issues to discuss in the summer which means more focus will be placed on crime. Hopefully Mesa PD can keep a crime to a minimum.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Follow us on twitter @MesaIssues
You know what time it is. Twitter Friday. The blogging today will be micro-style via our twitter page @MesaIssues.
Check us out at http://twitter.com/mesaissues. We would always appreciate a follow!
Check us out at http://twitter.com/mesaissues. We would always appreciate a follow!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
A lot more on Gascon
A day after Gascon's announcement, there are a lot of takes on what his leaving means and how it will impact Mesa. First, he will be out by the end of July. So Mesa will have to work fast to find a replacement, or go with an interim chief for the time being.
It looks like the three Deputy chiefs will have their chance since Mayor Smith has said that whoever gets the job will be tasked to build on Gascon's foundation. The two Mesa police unions seem to have their eyes set on John Meza, who is currently in charge of operations. Meza in Mesa has a nice ring to it, but no one should blame Mesa if they choose to do a national search.
The other two interesting takes on Gascon leaving is the Republic's review of his legacy, and the concern from Latino leaders that his departure will be a setback. Both are done through the lense of race, which I think does more harm than good. First, Gascon did well by anyone's standards. His legacy review didn't need to be a who's who of hispanic surnames. Sort of smacks of lazy reporting.
Second, as for the concern from Latino leaders, it looks like the early front runner is a Latino, so I don't see their concern. The real problem is that the illegal immigration debate has become closely tied to ethnic backgrounds and stereotypes. It is hard to separate the two, but every time the media goes to a pro-hispanic organization to get opinions on illegal immigration, the rift is only going to get worse. Case in point, look at Gascon. Since Spanish was his first language, there were people out there that thought, no matter what, he won't be a strong advocate for enforcing immigration laws. The fact is, he did. Meanwhile, he also lowered crime 30% and homicides 50%.
It looks like the three Deputy chiefs will have their chance since Mayor Smith has said that whoever gets the job will be tasked to build on Gascon's foundation. The two Mesa police unions seem to have their eyes set on John Meza, who is currently in charge of operations. Meza in Mesa has a nice ring to it, but no one should blame Mesa if they choose to do a national search.
The other two interesting takes on Gascon leaving is the Republic's review of his legacy, and the concern from Latino leaders that his departure will be a setback. Both are done through the lense of race, which I think does more harm than good. First, Gascon did well by anyone's standards. His legacy review didn't need to be a who's who of hispanic surnames. Sort of smacks of lazy reporting.
Second, as for the concern from Latino leaders, it looks like the early front runner is a Latino, so I don't see their concern. The real problem is that the illegal immigration debate has become closely tied to ethnic backgrounds and stereotypes. It is hard to separate the two, but every time the media goes to a pro-hispanic organization to get opinions on illegal immigration, the rift is only going to get worse. Case in point, look at Gascon. Since Spanish was his first language, there were people out there that thought, no matter what, he won't be a strong advocate for enforcing immigration laws. The fact is, he did. Meanwhile, he also lowered crime 30% and homicides 50%.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
So long, Gascon
Mesa Police Chief George Gascon has taken the job as Chief of Police in San Francisco, California. While this is disappointing because there is still a lot of work to be done in Mesa, as we said before, it shouldn't be all that surprising.
He has always aspired to bigger and better things and it has been said all along that he would eventually be looking to return to California. His family is in California and Sheriff Joe is not. Talk about a double bonus.
Only time will tell how Gascon's legacy will play out in Mesa. He has done a lot to help the community and reduce crime. He has revolutionized the way Mesa does their police work and the tools and technology that they have at their disposal. He will always be able to point to this year's record low homicide rate as an example of his ability to create success.
On the other hand, he was an outspoken and public persona. He clashed openly with Sheriff Arpaio and it was clear that he was not one to back down. His strong personality and dedication to overall crime prevention made some feel like he wasn't focused enough on illegal immigration, an issue exacerbated by the fact that he was of Cuban-descent and had an accent.
Even more importantly, Mesa must now find a chief to take the reins and finish what Gascon has started. We cannot allow all of this progress to be halted because of a change in leadership. This is also an opportunity to foster a change in perception. Again, most thinking people understand that Mesa is not and never has been a "sanctuary city." However, the perception persists, and hiring someone who is tough on immigration, but a lot more thoughtful than the sheriff or any of the other zealots might be a good move.
We wish Gascon the best of luck in his future endeavor and thank him for leaving Mesa a better place.
He has always aspired to bigger and better things and it has been said all along that he would eventually be looking to return to California. His family is in California and Sheriff Joe is not. Talk about a double bonus.
Only time will tell how Gascon's legacy will play out in Mesa. He has done a lot to help the community and reduce crime. He has revolutionized the way Mesa does their police work and the tools and technology that they have at their disposal. He will always be able to point to this year's record low homicide rate as an example of his ability to create success.
On the other hand, he was an outspoken and public persona. He clashed openly with Sheriff Arpaio and it was clear that he was not one to back down. His strong personality and dedication to overall crime prevention made some feel like he wasn't focused enough on illegal immigration, an issue exacerbated by the fact that he was of Cuban-descent and had an accent.
Even more importantly, Mesa must now find a chief to take the reins and finish what Gascon has started. We cannot allow all of this progress to be halted because of a change in leadership. This is also an opportunity to foster a change in perception. Again, most thinking people understand that Mesa is not and never has been a "sanctuary city." However, the perception persists, and hiring someone who is tough on immigration, but a lot more thoughtful than the sheriff or any of the other zealots might be a good move.
We wish Gascon the best of luck in his future endeavor and thank him for leaving Mesa a better place.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Come on, give us a break!
We are trying so hard to look past the bad and wacky stuff that happens in Mesa. Then some nutty guy from Mesa tries to kill himself in some sort of elaborate way that involves a sword and driving himself into a pool.
To be clear, the event actually happened in Chandler, but since the guy was from Mesa, how much do you want to bet that this will be chalked up to the "only in Mesa" talk? Can't someone cut Mesa a break?
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