Log in

Sanders: Councilman stresses ‘giving back’ in 1st year

Posted

It seems fitting to write an editorial as I wrap up my first year as a councilman. Last January, I had the honor of being appointed to represent the residents of District 5. 

Prior to joining City Council, I was a member of the former Surprise Community and Recreation Services Advisory Commission for five years and worked with my fellow members and staff planning several of our city parks including Veramonte Park and Surprise Farms Park as well as our pickleball courts.

Giving back has always been important to me and representing this district allows me the opportunity to continue to do so. 

Approving the city’s budget is an instrumental part of our role as councilmembers. There are so many components to our fiduciary responsibility to our taxpayers, including keeping Surprise safe, economic development opportunities, the variety of services we offer our residents, infrastructure decisions and so much more.

My banking and finance background has been a valuable tool I bring to the council, which has helped shape many of the financial decisions that are required. I take pride in leveraging this experience to help make wise economic decisions to protect taxpayer monies.

One of my favorite parts of the serving you, is being the residents’ voice. During my time with you, I have learned about things that needed resolution, including a lighting issue at Kingswood Parke. Your safety is of utmost importance to me.

I am happy to report that a group of streetlights located in one section of the HOA will be replaced in the coming weeks. With the support of city council, the diligence of staff, and without any additional cost to the city, funding was allocated to this project in early November.

Your Surprise Police Department and the Kingswood Parke HOA Board were also integral parts of this project, providing education and support for the residents. I also appreciate the willingness of APS to prioritize and expedite the delivery of this project for Kingswood Parke. It is this kind of teamwork that helps keep our city great. 

2019 was a productive and successful year for Surprise. Costco broke ground, and several new businesses opened, including many in District 5. Some of the highlights include: Bonfire Craft Kitchen and Tap House, Vein Envy, Ugly Tuna Sushi, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Café Rio, Mucho Burrito, Richi’s Diner II, Angry Crab Shack and many more.

Also, the Texas Rangers continue to invest in Surprise with a permanent state-of-the-art housing facility set to open next month across the street from Surprise Stadium.

City Center continues to grow, including the campus at Ottawa University. OUAZ marks its third year and has grown to 850 students. The campus has grown from a single building for classrooms and office space to a 300-bed student housing building, a multipurpose athletic field, a student union building, and Faith Arena — a three-story, 100,000-square-foot athletic center, which includes a workout facility, activity spaces, indoor basketball and volleyball courts and coach’s offices.

With input from our residents who attended our public meetings on the City Center Master Plan, we now have a draft. This input will ensure this area of Surprise in District 5 is developed to its full potential with a real downtown feel.

It has always been important to me to represent my constituents. Since my Oath of Office, I have met with the HOAs in District 5, attended HOA meetings, met with Community leaders and residents alike and started hosting monthly meet and greets to listen to you. Thank you for that opportunity to ensure I represent you.

I’m excited for 2020 and I’m grateful for another year of serving the city of Surprise. My door is always open, and my phone is always on to assist you. Thank you for your continued support and engagement. 

Editor’s Note: David Sanders is a city councilman from District 5.