Chamber’s Advocacy Results in Pro-business Ordinances to Benefit Members

Temporary Banners
Council passed 7 – 0 on February 26^th.
Several changes to the sign code will positively impact members as it relates to banner displays.  New businesses will have the opportunity to display their “grand opening” or “now hiring” type banners for 120 days to include 90 days prior to opening.

The Council will consider allowing promotional banners to be hung up to 180 cumulative days per year.  Currently businesses can hang banners for no more than 30 days per quarter. Permitting and tracking of banner use may be done electronically. 

Real estate and development signs are allowed as part of the new text amendment which will encourage “coming soon” type signage to promote new projects.

We anticipate this text amendment to be approved by early March 2008.

Handbill (door hangers) Ordinance

The new ordinance regulating handbills allows businesses to continue this type of advertising; however, they must not deliver to any residence that has posted a 4 x 11 inch “No Trespassing” sign.  The entity advertised on the material will be held liable if the “no trespassing” sign is violated.

Governmental-type agencies will be allowed to post public notices.  No solicitation is allowed at residences with the posted sign, which includes door-to-door sales or political candidates.

The business will receive three written notices prior to the penalty phase.  Fees will be determined based on a civil offense.

While the Chamber would prefer no new regulation regarding handbills, this ordinance does provide a pro-business alternative to banning this activity.

The Council is expected to vote on this issue in March 2008.

Vertical Development

The Vertical Development Zoning Code Text Amendment clearly defines zones within the community that would permit higher development and allows for bonus height based on amenities desired by the community.  This type of process will prove to be very effective in attracting the type of development that will serve as a catalyst for future corporate headquarters and high-paying employment opportunities.

Building height may range from 4-6 stories as a right in specific zones and increase to up to 11 stories based on the zone and amenities provided.

Town Council is expected to vote on this issue in March 2008.

For more information regarding these issues please contact Kathy Langdon, President/CEO at Kathy@gilbertchamber.com.

Priorities
FY 2007-08 priorities

Chamber Supports Town and Gilbert Public School Ballot Issues

Gilbert Public Schools

Gilbert Public Schools is one of the top reasons people move to Gilbert and businesses relocate here.  Each of these questions were thoroughly examined by our Public Policy committee and are considered extremely important to providing the highest level of education for our children and a qualified workforce for our business community.

Of particular interest is the construction of the fifth high school which is a key component in addressing the need for future healthcare workers in our community and Arizona.  With an emphasis on math and science, partnerships with local hospitals and higher education institutions, this high school is positioned to play an important role in defining not only Gilbert’s economic future but also the future of many of our children as they are exposed to this unique environment.

Property tax rates are anticipated to decline even with the passage of these questions. With the increased assessed valuation of most businesses and homes, the total tax burden is expected to stay very close to the current amount paid for the school district.

Town of Gilbert

Street improvements continue to rank as the number one concern of our residents and businesses, the bond authorization will accelerate many of the projects that were projected to begin construction beyond the next five years. 

While the tax rate will remain at $1.15, the tax burden will most likely increase due to assessed valuations increasing.  The Town of Gilbert’s portion of the tax bill is approximately 10%.  The Chamber would prefer tax rates be decreased. However, after careful evaluation, it was recommended that street projects be accelerated in an effort to move goods, employees and customers to businesses which is an essential component to business success.  Accelerating street improvements is also best taken care of now instead of later at a much higher cost of construction.

Photo - Good Government Breakfast
Chamber host's Good Government Series a special thank to SRP.

Voting Records

The status of current business issues the Chamber is reviewing along with voting records of our local elected officials will be provided on this page.