Idon’t think many of us would have anticipated the events and circumstances that have transpired this year. It certainly has given us time to reflect.
It’s been just shy of three years since I was appointed to represent the residents of District 3 and approximately 11 years since I’ve been a Surprise resident. I’ve seen so much growth and changes, ups and downs and the last few months have been some of the most difficult with unexpected closure of businesses, the cancellation of spring training, furloughs and so much more.
The last month, City Council has been working with staff to discuss the city budget which is one of the most, if not the most important discussions and decisions we make. Tough decisions were made in order to keep costs down due to the unexpected revenue losses. We are working through this situation together to limit the impacts to you.
We will continue to be mindful of the current economy and we have requested flexibility to provide a balanced budget at the end of the year. Some of those decisions include hiring freezes for non-essential positions and furloughs for part-time seasonal workers.
Reductions totaling $3.8 million in non-essential spending was approved and staff will continue to monitor expenses and review cost cutting measures. The final budget adoption for fiscal year 2021 is scheduled for the regularly scheduled City Council meeting at 6 p.m. June 2
As part of the budget discussion, the city recently posted a Truth in Taxation notice. This is an annual disclosure that is required to be published every year by State law. City Council is proposing to hold the primary property tax rate, unchanged for tax year 2020.
Our property tax rate remains the lowest in the West Valley. Out of the property tax collected, Surprise receives 11.2%, while the remainder goes to schools, the county, and other special districts. The property tax rates will be discussed and adopted by the City Council on June 16 at or after 6 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers, 16000 N. Civic Center Drive.
Some of the initiatives to help our businesses during this time include the red restaurant banner program. In addition, the Surprise Economic Development Department has two new resources for non-restaurant retailers; a purple “Open for Business” #ShopSurprise banner to hang outside their business, and an on-line promotional resource, where any non-restaurant business can opt in to have their establishment promoted on the Surprise Economic Development department website and social media sites.
For businesses that haven’t already done so, to opt in to the business list, please visit the Surprise Business Promotion campaign webpage to complete a registration form.
As businesses in Surprise begin to open, and restaurants are beginning to open for dine-in service, please check our website, at surpriseaz.gov for a list of restaurants and their status listed. This list is updated daily, and shows what services are currently being provided by each establishment.
Please note that pavement preservation work was recently completed on Cotton Road north of Waddell Road, and will be moving forward in the coming weeks on Citrus Road between Waddell and Cactus, as well as in the Zanjero Trails, Sierra Montana, and Sycamore Farms neighborhoods.
I would like to thank all of our citizens for staying resilient during these difficult times. Thank you for doing your part whether it be wearing a face mask, or patronizing our local businesses.
While I’ve canceled my monthly meet and greets due to the current crisis, I look forward to having them again soon. As always, I’m available via phone or email as well for you.
Editor’s Note: Mr. Duffy is a Surprise city councilman for District 3. This is part of a series of guest commentaries from candidates in the Aug. 4 city election.
