I hope that this update finds you safe and healthy. I am looking forward to meeting with everyone again when it is safe to do so.
Please keep an eye on the city of Surprise website for information on when I am able to resume my monthly community meetings.
With an increase in COVID-19 cases recently, face coverings are now required in all public settings where it is difficult to maintain six feet physical distancing, and City Hall has been reclosed to the public.
The city’s outdoor parks and recreation facilities and amenities that have reopened will remain open. To get more information on what is open/closed in the city, please visit surpriseaz.gov/COVID-19. For details on the face covering requirement, along with Frequently Asked Questions, please visit surpriseaz.gov/facecoverings.
At this time, City Council and board and commissions meetings will remain closed to the public until August, and will reopen if federal and state guidance allows for increased gathering numbers at that time. Please tune in to watch City Council Meetings on Surprise TV, the Surprise City Gov Facebook page, Cox channel 11 or Century Link channel 8513. For information on how to comment by phone or email during a meeting, please visit https://www.surpriseaz.gov/agendas
The City Council approved the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 City Budget on June 2. The adopted budget is a flat budget compared to the prior year, with minor increases, such as funding for the 2020 General Election, personnel, and contractual and service related increases for a total budget of $415.5 million. The FY 2021 budget is focused on providing flexibility for the fiscal year, as we work to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19. To learn more, please visit www.surpriseaz.gov/budget.
As always, please feel free to reach out with any questions or comments you may have for me. The easiest way to reach me is through my email at nancy.hayden@surpriseaz.gov.
Lastly, I would like to express that the last couple of months have been challenging, but it has given us time to pause, to process, reflect and listen regarding the current climate within our city and country. I have been proud to watch businesses innovate their processes, and persevere in the midst of so many challenges. I am also proud to be a part of this great community where we uphold the values of inclusiveness, diversity, equality and accountability. My thoughts and prayers have been with all of you during this time of uncertainty. I wish you all a happy and blessed month.
