FALLISSUE LINE CITYLINE
UPCOMING EVENTS
OCT - DEC 2024
ADULT CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
ARTS IN THE PARK SEASON OPENER
CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK CITIZENS LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE
FALL FESTIVAL OF ARTS
LAS POSADAS PROCESSION AND FIESTA
TOUCH-A-TRUCK EVENT
TRUCK STUD C INFORMATION MEETING
EXCITING STORIES
2024 ELECTIONS
COMPLETION OF LITCHFIELD SQUARE
DEVELOPMENT OF HILLTOP
RELOCATION OF THE LIBRARY
ROUNDABOUTS & TRAFFIC CIRCLES
THANK YOU TO COUNCILMEMBERS
UPDATE ON THE TRUCK STUDY
A MESSAGE FROM MayorThomasL.Schoaf
The City Council voted unanimously in favor of working with the County to construct a new 10,000 square foot library to be located on Litchfield Road at the north end of the La Loma hilltop Some residents objected to the new Library because its new location is less convenient for some residents The Council supported this project for many reasons including the current library does not meet safety standards for its patrons and staff, it is too small to support community programming, there is a lack of study rooms, staff cannot maintain sight lines, and there are technological issues The current library cannot be expanded for various reasons This decision is the only feasible path for our residents to enjoy the benefits of a modern library located within our City
vedforothercivicpurposes.Therewillbepublicmeetingstoassesscivicusessuch recreationalprogramming,children’sprograms,bookpickupanddrop-off, expansionofthecitypreschool,etc ThisfacilitywillcontinuetoserveCityresidentsgoingforward LitchfieldSquareisapproachingasignificantmilestone.Citybuiltinfrastructureincludingroads,pathways,theparkand utilitieswillbecompletedbyyear’send.Thefirstbuildingisalsoscheduledtobeginconstructionbyyear’send.Wearein activenegotiationsontwoadditionalprojectsfortwoadditionalparcels Weareworkingtowardsallthreeprojectsmoving forwardwhichwillrepresentapproximately50%oftheplannedbuildingsforthesquare.Thisiscomingtogetheraftermany, manyyearsofeffortbytheCouncilandCitystaff AllofthenewdevelopmentsmeetthevisionforourCityCenteras expressedbyyouduringourmanypublicmeetings.
HappytodiscusstheLibrary,LitchfieldSquare,oranyotherCityissuewithyou.Youcanreachmeat623-935-5033or tschoaf@litchfieldpark gov
Litchfield Park Mayor & City Council
ThomasLSchoaf,Mayor tschoaf@litchfieldpark.gov
PaulFaith,ViceMayor pfaith@litchfieldpark.gov
JohnRomack,CouncilMember jromack@litchfieldpark.gov
AnnDonahue,CouncilMember adonahue@litchfieldpark gov
LisaBrainard-Watson,Council Member
lbrainardwatson@litchfieldpark.gov
RonClair,CouncilMember rclair@litchfieldpark.gov
JustinJames,CouncilMember jjames@litchfieldpark gov
https://www.litchfieldpark.gov/1613/CityLine-Newsletters
COUNCIL’S CORNER ThankYou
TO OUR
Departing Councilmembers
JOHN ROMACK
Elected 2008
The Council is losing a treasured voice with the retirement of Councilman Romack. John was a resident long before development began encroaching on the Park. He was part of our history, which he brought into each of our decisions for the last 16 years. We will miss his voice in our decisions going forward. Thank you for the sixteen years of service to the citizens of Litchfield Park.
ANN DONAHUE
Elected 2016
Councilwoman Donahue brought the perspective of a longtime resident who raised her family here to the Council. She was a champion for City communications with our residents. She has been an important voice for the historical society and the La Loma development. We hope that she will continue involvement with the hilltop development and the La Loma homestead going forward. Thank you for eight years of service to the citizens of Litchfield Park.
A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER
It is an exciting time to live and work in Litchfield Park. We have received additional responses to our Request for Proposals (RFP) on Litchfield Square with the city’s completion of the Litchfield Square work to be completed this fall.
Staff is busy planning the proposed restoration of the La Loma hilltop to possibly include a hilltop park, Agua Fria Academy, P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center, Arizona Farm & Ranch, and the new library project.
It will be a busy year of constructing capital projects such as the Camelback Park parking lot and designing many future infrastructure components such as a proposed roundabout at Litchfield/Brinton and on Camelback Road at the Sun Health entrance.
The City continues to investigate trucking issues, and I would invite you to attend the Truck Study Public Input Meeting on November 7th at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.
As always, I welcome any questions you may have,
Meeting Dates
Sincerely,
Matthew C. Williams City Manager City of Litchfield Park mwilliams@litchfieldpark.gov
THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS UPON US FINANCE
Contributor: Paige Peterson, Assistant City Manager and Finance Director
SHOP THE PARK... LITCHFIELD PARK
As the holiday season and gift buying approaches, try to shop locally and support local businesses through retail purchases, restaurant gift cards, or gift a membership!
Shopping locally supports our local economy by keeping the dollars in Litchfield Park. The local city sales tax revenue goes towards police, fire, medical, street maintenance, our beautiful palm and orange trees, parks and more!
Local city sales tax accounts for nearly 70% of our general fund revenues, so shopping locally is vital for city operations especially since the city does not have a city property tax.
Supporting our local businesses also means creating more local jobs and supporting local business owners!
For a list of our local business please visit: https://litchfieldpark.gov/businessdirectoryii.aspx
Happy Local Shopping!
2024 ELECTIONS
Contributor:
Terri Roth, MMC, City Clerk
Litchfield Park held a Primary Election on July 30, 2024, for the purpose of filling three (3) Council Member seats Since all three (3) seats were filled during the Primary, a run-off in the November 5, 2024, General Election will not be necessary.
The voters elected Suzanne Allen, Andrew Fraser, and incumbent Ron Clair, who will be sworn in and take their seat on the Council during the January 2025 regular meeting
All registered voters in Maricopa County are eligible to participate in the General Election This election includes federal, state, county and local offices that are up for election. Below is a list of important dates you should be aware of:
October 7 - Voter Registration deadline
October 9 - Ballots mailed and Drop-Boxes available
October 25 - Last day to request an Early Ballot
October 29 - Last day to mail back your Ballot
November 5 - Election Day
Visit BeBallotReady.Vote to verify your registration information You may also visit the County Recorder’s FAQ page for more information.
The Secretary of State’s office has a Voter Information Portal where you can request a Ballot-by-Mail if you are not on the Active Early Voting List (AEVL). Click here for more information.
To learn what will be on your ballot, click here.
Thank you for participating in our Elections. Your voice is important!
HANDBILLS
Contributor: Terri Roth, MMC, City Clerk
RequesttoStoptheDeliveryofHandbillsand UninvitedNewspapers
byTerriRoth,MMC,CityClerk
In accordance with Ordinance 99-50, the City provides residents with the opportunity to be officially registered to stopdeliveryofhandbillsanduninvitednewspapers.Ifyouhavepreviouslyregistered,yourregistrationautomatically expiresonJanuary31stofeachyear Annualrenewalisrequired Ifyouareafirst-timeregistrant,it’seasytoregister Justclickheretoregister.Followthedirectionsontheformtobecomeregistered,thenemailthecompletedformto troth@litchfieldpark.gov, mail or hand deliver to City Clerk Office, City of Litchfield Park, 214 W. Wigwam Blvd., LitchfieldPark,AZ85340 Allregistrationsmustbeinwritingwithanauthorizedsignature
LITCHFIELD PARK YOUTH COUNCIL
Contributor: Tricia Kramer - Community & Recreation Services Director
Applicationsarenowbeingacceptedforthe2024-2025cohortoftheLitchfieldParkYouthCouncil.Theobjective ofourYouthCouncilistoeducateLitchfieldParkteensaboutlocalgovernmentanditsimpactonthecommunity Inaddition,theLitchfieldParkYouthCouncilseekstomotivateandempowerLitchfieldParkyouthbysupporting youthvoiceandfosteringcivicresponsibility
TheLitchfieldParkYouthCounciliscomprisedofhighschoolstudentswhoworkoncommunityserviceprojects, developleadershipskills,andlearnaboutLitchfieldParkcitygovernmentApplicantsmustbeaFreshman, Sophomore,Junior,orSeniorwhoeitherliveintheCityofLitchfieldParkorattendMillenniumHighSchooland resideinthe85340zipcode.Applicantsshouldbeinterestedinthecitygovernment,politics,andyouthissues andhaveawillingnesstolearnandtoparticipateinmeetings.
TheLitchfieldParkYouthCouncilwill:
Havetheopportunitytolearnaboutcitygovernmentthroughhands-onexperientialactivities
Provideavoiceforyouthinanefforttohelpcityleadersbetterunderstandtheneedsandconcernsofyouth DevelopabetterunderstandingofcommunityneedsintheCityofLitchfieldParkthroughcommunityservice projects.
Cultivateanunderstandingofleadershipandacquireskillsthereinbyservingasanactivememberofthe YouthCouncil
RepresentLitchfieldParkYouthatpublicfunctionsinwhichtheYouthCouncil’spresenceisrequestedand approved.
YouthCouncilMembersmustbewillingtoattendandparticipateinallscheduledmeetings.Theymustalsobe willingtoattendothermeetingsorevents,suchasteenleadershipconferences,asopportunitiesariseMembers mustalsoplayanactiveroleintheplanningandimplementationofYouthCouncilevents
ApplicationswillbeconsideredonarollingbasisthroughDecember31,2024.Toreviewthebylawsofthe LitchfieldParkYouthCouncilandtoobtainanapplicationpacket,pleasevisittheYouthCouncilpagewithinthe BoardsandCommissionssectionoftheCity’swebsite
IfyouareorknowahighschoolerintheWestValleywhodoesnotmeettheresidencyrequirementsbuthasa stronginterestinortiestotheCityofLitchfieldPark,pleasereachouttoLitchfieldParkYouthCouncil’sAdvisor, TriciaKramerat623-935-9040orattkramer@litchfieldpark.gov.
https://www.litchfieldpark.gov/1613/CityLine-Newsletters
OPENING Litchfield Square
Contributor: Randy Proch - Planning Director
LITCHFIELD SQUARE is near completion in the center of the city. Final work is being completed at all ends of the 26-acre mixed-use development New signs have been installed on Litchfield Road at Village Parkway, roadwork is wrapping up on Wigwam Boulevard, and remaining details are being finalized. The new street network will contain parking spaces for vehicles and golf carts with designated areas for rideshare pick-up and drop-off along with directory signs pointing guests in the right direction.
LITCHFIELD SQUARE PARK continues to evolve with the Palm Plaza taking shape, along with the overlook wall towards the amphitheater area The final selection of playground equipment has been made with installation occurring right after Thanksgiving. This shaded area will have thematic elements of aviation and provide another place for families to gather while enjoying the square. Restroom Building #1 is nearly complete.
NEW DEVELOPMENT INTEREST at the southern end of the square, surrounding the City Hall, has brought in a new RFP. This proposal for Lot 13 and 14 is under consideration for a three-story retail and condo building. 10,000 square feet of commercial space is expected on the ground floor with lofted condos sitting above, each with their own ground-floor garage and driveway. Lot 3 and 4 at the north end of the square will break ground before the end of the year. This two-story mixed-use development will include several buildings connected by breezeways with two restaurants, several retail spaces, and offices on the second floor planned
High-Level overview of The HILLTOP Development
HILLTOP excitement continues to build for a significant investment into the site with the inclusion of the new 10,000 square foot Maricopa County Library branch relocating from Wigwam Boulevard. This is a 40% increase over the current space and creates new programming and event opportunities along with associated improvements to the Hilltop Agua Fria High School District is proposing a 400-student Fine Arts Academy and 700-seat Performing Arts Center (PAC) to wrap around the south and eastern portions of the site, away from the hill itself, abutting the Sun Health La Loma campus. The PAC is anticipated to house events throughout the year. These projects, along with the planned P W Litchfield Heritage Center proposal will bring new life, interest, and gathering spaces into the Hilltop and further bring the original vision of the cultural center forward. The City is preparing clean-up funds as well to prep the site for future park and event space, especially for the 360-degree view from the bandstand in the center of the site
Engineering and Development
Contributor:
Keith Drunasky, PE - City Engineer
ROUNDABOUTS AND TRAFFIC CIRCLES
Roundabouts and traffic circles are increasingly popular alternatives to traditional intersections, offering numerous benefits in traffic management and safety. Unlike conventional traffic signals or stop signs, these circular intersectionsaimtoenhancetheflowoftrafficandreduceaccidentrates
Roundabouts are designed to reduce the likelihood of high-speed collisions byrequiringvehiclestonavigateageometricallychallengingpath,which
naturally slows down traffic. Multiple national and local jurisdictional studies have shown that roundabouts can lead to a significant decrease in both fatal and injury-related accidents. This is primarily because they eliminate head-on and T-bone crashes by promoting lower speeds, reducing the number of potential conflict points and forcing drivers to yield to circulating traffic The roundabout at Village Parkway and Litchfield Road has experienced 11 reported accidents. All accidents were single vehicle accidents that were either cause by excessive speeds, driving while under the influence, not paying attention to the roadway conditions, or a combination of some or all of these By contrast, if this intersection were a traditional signalized intersection, it is very likely that many of these accidents would have been very severe, with the potential for very serious injuries or death.
In contrast, traffic circles, which are often larger and have less strict design guidelines, may not always provide the same safety benefits. While they can still offer improved traffic flow compared to traditional intersections, their larger size and varying entry speeds can sometimes result in more complex driving situations. Nonetheless, they generally improve traffic movement and reduce delay compared to standard traffic lights Traffic circles are showing up more and more in the United States, particularly here in Arizona, in smaller, commercial and high density residential complex where they can take the place of a traditional smaller intersection that is stop controlled.
The cost of installing roundabouts and traffic circles versus signalized intersections can vary significantly Roundabouts typically require a higher initial investment due to the need for detailed planning, design, and construction. This typically includes land acquisition, grading, specialized drainage and installation of appropriate signage and landscaping. Despite the higher upfront costs, roundabouts often lead to long-term savings by reducing accident-related expenses and maintenance costs associated with traffic signals. Traffic circles, being less complex in their design and construction, usually come with lower initial costs. However,theirefficiencycanvarydependingontrafficvolumeandlocaldrivingconditions
Thecontinuousflowofvehiclesinaroundaboutminimizesstop-and-goconditionsthatoftencontributetolagginganddelayed vehicle staging as well as rear-end collisions. While roundabouts and traffic circles both offer benefits over traditional intersections,roundaboutsaregenerallymoreeffectiveinimprovingtrafficsafetyandefficiencydespitetheirhigherinitialcost
Relocation THELIBRARY
This new library will be built in 2025-2026 near the southwest corner of the Litchfield/Missouri intersection.
The current library was built in 1979 and expanded in 1996. The current and future library facilities are owned by the City of Litchfield Park, but operated by the Maricopa County Library District. The current library does not meet community or county needs as it is too small, lacks community room space, study rooms, and makes technological improvements difficult.
The City will be preserving the current library facility and it may be repurposed for multiple civic purposes
The City of Litchfield Park is proud to partner with Maricopa County to construct a new library in Litchfield Park.
such as a community room, recreational programming and more.
The new library will be 40% larger and offer a community meeting space, increased library programming, study rooms, modern technology and many other upgrades. Maricopa County will be paying $5M towards this project with the library district funding the tenant improvements.
The new library is a key element of the cultural center planned for the historic 20 acre La Loma hilltop property. This property may include the new library, P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center, Agua Fria Performing Arts Center (proposed), hilltop park and more.
Update THETRUCKSTUDY
As the City of Litchfield Park has grown the west valley has grown exponentially around us. This can easily be seen through the growing commercial truck traffic on Camelback Road. Per City ordinances “through” truck traffic has been banned on city streets since the city’s founding, with the exception of the city truck route. In 2020, the City changed the official city truck route from Litchfield Road to Dysart Road through City Ordinance 20-242.
The city annexed Camelback Road from Maricopa County in 2022. Through-trucks were then restricted on Camelback Road when it became a city street that was not designated as the city truck route.
In response to an effort at the state legislature by the Arizona Trucking Association to eliminate the City’s ability to restrict through trucks, the city agreed to not enforce our existing ordinance pending a truck study by the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG).
The Arizona Trucking Association broke this agreement in 2022, when it advocated to pass State Law SB-1097. This statute attempted to ban any new through truck restrictions in Arizona put in place after 2019. It should be noted that the Legislature attempted to only impact the City of Litchfield Park.
The MAG study was completed in Spring 2024 and the City then procured its own engineering consultants to examine the MAG results and study elements the MAG study did not address such as pollution and health hazards created by through trucking.
The City held a public input meeting in December 2022 before the MAG study began. We now invite citizens to attend a Public Input Meeting where the truck study findings will be presented.
Thursday, November 7 , 2024
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church 6:00pm.
PARKING PERMITS IN THE VILLAGE
Contributor: Rena Dosch (previously Quale) - Code Enforcement Officer
NewParkingRegulationstoAddressSchoolPick-up/Drop-offIssues
In response to ongoing challenges related to student and parent pickup and drop-off, a new parking regulation has been introduced for select residential streets in The Village across the street from Millennium High School. Parking restrictions and No Parking signs are alreadyinplaceandareenforcedMondaythroughFriday,from7:00AMto9:00AMand12:00PMto3:00PM
WhytheChange?
The decision to implement parking restrictions stems from concerns raised by local residents, city and school officials, and community members about congestion and safety hazards during peak school hours Parents and students often park in residential areas around the school, leading to blocked driveways, reduced visibility for drivers and pedestrians, and increased traffic congestion. These issues havepromptedtheneedforamorestructuredapproachtoparking
WhatAretheNewRegulations?
Parking on select streets within The Village (see map below) will be restricted to certain hours The restricted hours will be from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday. During these times, parking will be permitted only for vehicles displayingavalidpermit
HowtoObtainaPermit
Residents who wish to park in these restricted areas during the designatedhourswillneedtoobtainaparkingpermit.Applicantsmay applyforeachvehiclethatisregisteredtothataddress.
ParkingPermitApplicationsareavailableinCityHallorcanbefoundon ourwebsite:
https://litchfieldpark.gov/1761/Village-at-Litchfield-Park-Parking-Permi
Applications should be completed and returned either in person at Litchfield Park City Hall, 214 W Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 during business hours or emailed to: info@litchfieldpark gov Permits will be mailed to applicant’s home address Please be prepared to show proof of residence and vehicle registration
TherearenofeesassociatedforobtainingaParkingPermit Replacementpermitsare$5 00each
EnforcementandPenalties
The new parking regulation is enforced by Avondale Police Department Vehicles parked without a permit during the restricted hours maybesubjecttofinesandpossibletowing Thisenforcementisdesignedtoensurecomplianceandmaintaintheeffectivenessofthe new regulations The introduction of this parking restriction around Millennium High School represents a proactive step toward addressing the traffic and safety challenges associated with school pick-up and drop-off times. By requiring permits and designating specific parking hours, the new regulations aim to create a safer, more organized environment for students, parents, and residents alike.
https://www.litchfieldpark.gov/1613/CityLine-Newsletters
OVERSEEDING Your Lawn in AZ
Contributor: Kyle Ames Director of Public Works/ Safety & Training Coordinator
Overseeding is a vital practice for maintaining a lush, green lawn in Arizona’s unique climate Given the state’s arid conditions and extreme temperatures, overseeding helps ensure your lawn remains healthy and vibrant throughout the year This guide will walk you through the essentialsofoverseedinginArizona,includingtiming,preparation,andbestpractices.
WhyOverseed?
1
ImprovesLawnDensity:Overseedingintroducesnewgrassseedsintoexistingturf,fillinginbarespotsandthickeningthelawn
2.
3
Enhances Grass Variety: It allows you to mix different grass types, which can improve your lawn’s resilience to pests, diseases, and environmentalstressors
RepairsDamage:Whetherduetoheavyfoottraffic,drought,orotherissues,overseedinghelpsrepairandrejuvenatedamagedareasofyour lawn.
BestTimetoOverseed
InArizona,thetimingofoverseedingiscrucialduetothestate’shotsummersandmildwinters Thebesttimestooverseedare: Fall(Mid-SeptembertoEarlyNovember):Thisistheidealtimeforoverseedingcool-seasongrasseslikeryegrass Thecoolertemperatures andincreasedmoisturecreateanoptimalenvironmentforseedgerminationandestablishment
1 Spring(LateMarchtoEarlyApril):Ifyou’reoverseedingwithwarm-seasongrassessuchasBermuda,springisthebesttime Astemperatures warmup,thisgrasswillbegintothrive
2 Preparation
1 Mow and Clean the Lawn: Before overseeding, mow your lawn to a lower height exposing the crown. This helps the seeds make better contactwiththesoil Removeanydebris,suchasleavesandsticks,toensureacleansurface
3
ChoosetheRightGrassSeed:SelectaseedvarietysuitedtoArizona’sclimate Forcool-seasongrassoverseeding,ryegrassisapopularchoice Forwarm-seasongrasseslikeBermudaisthebestchoice
Aerate the Soil: Aerating the soil before overseeding improves seed-to-soil contact and enhances seed germination Use a core aerator to createholesinthesoil,whichalsohelpswithwaterandnutrientabsorption.
4 SeedingandWatering
Prepare the Soil: Lightly rake the soil to loosen the top layer This creates a better environment for seed germination and allows seeds to settleintothesoil
Sow the Seeds: Evenly spread the seeds over the prepared soil For best results, use a broadcast spreader to ensure uniform distribution Followtherecommendedseedingrateontheseedpackage 1
Watering:Afterseeding,waterthearealightlytohelptheseedssettleintothesoil.Keepthesoilconsistentlymoistuntiltheseedsgerminate, andthenewgrassestablishes Thistypicallyinvolveswateringdailyoreveryotherday,dependingonweatherconditions 2.
AvoidHeavyTraffic:Keepfoottraffictoaminimumwhiletheseedsaregerminating Thishelpsavoidcompactingthesoilanddamagingthe youngseedlings.
Maintenance
Fertilizing:Aftertheseedshavegerminatedandthegrassisgrowingwell,applyabalancedfertilizertopromotehealthygrowth Followthe recommendationsforthespecifictypeofgrassyou’veoverseeded. 1
Mowing:Oncethenewgrassreachesaheightofabout3inches,youcanbeginmowing Setyourmowertoahighsettingtoavoidscalpingthe newgrass 2
WeedControl:Becautiouswithherbicidesastheycandamageyounggrass.Ifnecessary,usepre-emergentweedcontrolproductsthatare safefornewlyseededlawns 3.
Overseeding is a valuable practice for maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn in Arizona By choosing the right time, preparing your lawn properly, and following best practices for seeding and maintenance, you can ensure a vibrant, resilient lawn that thrives throughout the year Embracetheprocess,andyourlawnwillrewardyouwithlush,greenbeautyinArizona’schallengingclimate
https://www.litchfieldpark.gov/1613/CityLine-Newsletters
SPECIAL EVENTS
Spend a pleasant fall weekend in Litchfield Park at our 54th annual Festival of Arts! This highly anticipated festival takes place on November 2 and 3 from 9am to 5pm. The festival is set up in our historic downtown area Wander along the tree-lined streets and shop for fine art, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and other unique artisanal treasures
Let the live music on the main stage, such as the enthralling guitar skills of the Sahnas Brothers, move you. From jazz to blues to flamenco to rock, the diverse musical lineup promises an unforgettable experience.
Enjoy the atmosphere while sampling Arizona wines or drinking a cold beer in the Beer & Wine Garden Savor delicious fare from a variety of gourmet food vendors Litchfield Park’s popular downtown restaurants will also be open for business with their own great selections.
The festival attracts thousands of visitors from near and far to our beautiful city. Admission is free and you are bound to discover a new favorite artist! For details call 623-935-9040 or visit litchfieldpark.gov for artist gallery, performance schedule, or Beer & Wine Garden tickets.
SPECIAL EVENTS
ROCK WITH US
Join us on the front lawn of The Wigwam on Sunday, November 10, as we kick off this year’s free Arts in the Park concert season Cold Shott and the Hurricane Horns will be performing from 3pm-5pm that afternoon. The band is a crowd favorite, bringing their lively R&B, blues and funk to the community. Generously sponsored by APS
TOUCH A TRUCK
Our annual Touch-A-Truck is a free family-friendly event that offers children a hands-on opportunity to explore a variety of vehicles including police, fire, racing, construction, and utility vehicles. Come meet those who protect and serve our community Takes place on November 16 from 9am-12pm in the south parking lot of Litchfield Elementary School.
SPREAD SOME CHEER
Rediscover the joy of the holidays at Christmas in the Park!
Admission is free and features include a parade, a petting zoo, kids crafts, and pictures with Santa. Festivities start at 9am on December 14. Our hometown parade begins at 10am. Over 70 arts and crafts vendors, and adorable children’s performances add to the holiday spirit
EngagementCOMMUNITY
MEMORIAL BENCH PROGRAM
https://www.litchfieldpark.gov/1767/2025-Citizens-Leadership-Academy
The City of Litchfield Park’s Recreation and Public Grounds (RPG) Commission approved a new Memorial Bench Program effective January 1, 2024. Under the new Memorial Bench Program, a donation of $2,500 allows a new bench with a memorial plaque to be placed in a designated public space for a term of 10 years. This covers the costs incurred by the City for the purchase, installation, and upkeep of the bench and memorial plaque during the lifetime of the bench. 10 years is the average lifespan of the benches per the manufacturer. After 10 years, the memorial bench will be removed. A new one can be purchased in its place by either the current donor or a new donor.
For details, contact Community & Recreation Services Director, Tricia Kramer, at 623-935-9040 or at tkramer@litchfieldpark.gov.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH LIBRARY LAWN AT 10:00 AM $50 PER TEAM (TEAMS OF 2) MUST BE 18 OR OLDER WIN CASH PRIZES FOR
CALL
REC
AT 623-935-9040 The tennis and basketball courts at the The tennis and basketball courts at the Recreation Center are open to the public Recreation Center are open to the public for free on weekends and holidays. Drop for free on weekends and holidays. Drop in to play a game or two of tennis, in to play a game or two of tennis, pickleball, or basketball between the pickleball, or basketball between the hours of 8am and 5pm. Courts are hours of 8am and 5pm. Courts are available on a first come first serve basis available on a first come first serve basis only. only. No reservations for pick up games. No reservations for pick up games.
CITY OF LITCHFIELD PARK
Inobservanceof ChristmasandtheNewYear, CityHall,theMagistrateCourt,and theRecreationCenter willCLOSEat3pm onMonday,December23,2024
CityOfficeswillremainclosed fortheholidaysthrough Tuesday,January1,2025
COMMUNITY NEWS
We invite our residents and friends to join us in honoring the brave men and women in our armed forces. We hold flag raising ceremonies to honor each branch of service.
Upcoming ceremonies:
Congratulations to the Meihaus family on Cascada Rd. Their yard, pictured to the right, was selected by the Recreation and Public Grounds (RPG) Commission as the Yard of the Quarter for the second quarter of 2024.
Yard of the Quarter is a recognition program for attractive homes and yards in our beautiful community.
Litchfield Park residents may nominate themselves or a neighbor whose property stands out as being attractive and well-maintained. Nominations are evaluated quarterly by the RPG Commission.
Nominations for the fourth quarter of 2024 are now open and will be accepted through December 31st. Residents may submit a Yard of the Quarter nomination online at litchfieldpark.gov.
VIPS Program for Litchfield Park Residents
Contributor:
Chief Memo Espinoza, Avondale Police Department
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE
Hardly a day or week goes by that I don’t hear, “Thank you for your service.” It’s a short but meaningful line that makes me feel both humbled and honored at the same time. It also reminds me to be thankful for those that serve alongside me. We have a team in our department that has “Service” in their name – the Volunteers in Policing Services It’s managed by our coordinator Suzanne Hogue, and it gets straight to the heart of our mission statement, Serving with Honor.
Our Volunteers in Policing Services hosts dozens of citizens who volunteer their time toward the work and success of the Avondale Police Department and the Litchfield Park Squad. Our VIPS, as we call them, help in just about every team of the Police Department. They process evidence, locate stolen vehicles in our neighborhoods, file records, and much more. I think of one VIP specifically, Paul Lemmon, who has been volunteering in our VIPS program for 7 years You may have seen Paul and other VIPS patrolling in Litchfield Park, readily offering a hand to help a citizen in need, reporting suspicious behavior, and warning violators of improperly parked vehicles. The interactions I most respect from our VIPS are the unexpected ones. I imagine Paul driving through Litchfield Park and being waved down by a citizen who was grateful to run into a resource at the right place, at the right time.
As Chief of Police, I hear “thank you” plenty. It’s hard to say you’re welcome because I immediately consider how much work and help comes from everyone in this department, especially from the VIPS who serve Avondale and Litchfield Park. The next time you see a Volunteer in a Policing Services vehicle patrolling in Litchfield Park, I encourage you to waive them down and say, “Thank you for your service.” Like me, they will be both humbled and honored.
https://www.litchfieldpark.gov/1613/CityLine-Newsletters
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
Do Your Smoke Alarms Work?
Contributor:
Tanja Tanner, Community Education Coordinator Goodyear Fire Department
The Goodyear Fire Department (GFD) teamed up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week (FPW ) for more than 100 years to promote this year’s FPW campaign, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you! ” The campaign workstoeducateeveryoneabouttheimportanceofhavingworkingsmokealarmsinthehome.
According to NFPA, smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half (54 percent).Meanwhile,roughlythreeoutoffivefiredeathshappeninhomeswitheithernosmoke alarmsornoworkingsmokealarms.
“Smoke alarms serve as the first line of defense in a home fire, but they need to be working in order to protect people,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps better educate the public about simple but critical steps they can take to make sure their homes have smoke alarms in all the needed locationsandthatthey’reworkingproperly.”
TheGFDencouragesallresidentstoactivelysupportthe2024FPWtheme,“Smokealarms:Make them work for you!” “Working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, giving people the time to get out safely,” said Tanja Tanner, Community Education Coordinator.
“This year’s Fire Prevention campaign is a great way to remind everyone about these messages andtoactonthem ”
GoodyearFireDepartmentoffersthesekeysmokealarmsafetytipsandguidelines:
Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), andoneachlevel(includingthebasement)ofthehome. Makesuresmokealarmsmeettheneedsofallfamilymembers,includingthosewithsensory orphysicaldisabilities.
Testsmokealarmsatleastonceamonthbypushingthetestbutton. Replaceallsmokealarmswhentheyare10yearsold. Haveanelectricianorhandymancheckandinstallyournewalarms.
To find out more about programs and activities in Litchfield Park, please contact the education team with the Goodyear Fire Department at gdyfdcrr@goodyearaz.gov. For more information aboutsmokealarms,visitnfpa.org/smokealarms.
https://www.litchfieldpark.gov/1613/CityLine-Newsletters
UNLOCKING STUDENT POTENTIAL
Litchfield Elementary School District Unveils Strategic Plan to Unlock Student Potential
Contributor:
Sam Nuanez - Executive Director of Communications LESD79
Phase One: Engaging Keyholders
The Litchfield Elementary School District (LESD79) is proud to introduce its comprehensive new strategic plan, designed to enhance the academic and personal success of every student, known as the "Litchfield Learner." This plan is centered around the belief that all of us, teachers, staff, administrators and community members are "keyholders," playing a vital role in unlocking the full potential and future of our students
The district’s strategic plan follows a phased approach aimed at engaging the entire community in fostering a positive learning environment
The first step is engaging keyholders business leaders, faith organizations, and community members to guide the strategic direction Together, they will shape the vision and future for our district, ensuring that every student receives the support they need to succeed
Phase Two: Empowering Keyholders
After engagement, the focus shifts to empowering all keyholders to develop measurable goals and actionable steps, aligned with the district’s three "Keystones of Success": Readiness, Relationships, and Resources. These initiatives aim to foster academic achievement and build the social skills essential for student success.
Phase Three: Measuring Impact
Using key performance indicators, the district will measure the progress and effectiveness of the initiatives. The emphasis will be on academic outcomes, school culture, and supporting teachers and staff through development and collaborative teams
Phase Four: Reflecting and Adjusting
The final phase focuses on reflection and continuous improvement. By analyzing the impact of these initiatives, the district will modify actions to ensure clear next steps that prioritize student success, teacher support, and family engagement.
LESD79’s strategic plan emphasizes a commitment to honoring the past and unlocking the future with efforts in three key areas: Readiness, Resources, and Relationships Through community collaboration, the district aims to build a brighter future for every Litchfield Learner.
P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center
HOSTS FOURTH ANNUAL LAS POSADAS EVENT
Contributor: Lisa Hegarty
The P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center is proud to again partner with Ballet Folklorico Esperanza for the fourth annual Las Posadas of Litchfield Park: A Journey Together to the Mission on Saturday, December 7th.
This evening community procession and fiesta honors the Southwest Valley’s history and culture while paying tribute to the origins of the historic St. Thomas AquinasMissionChurchlocatedintheheartofLitchfieldPark AtraditionfromMexico,LasPosadasliterallytranslatesas“TheInns”andrefersto thesheltersoughtbyMaryandJosephontheirjourneytoBethlehem.Procession participants play the part of peregrinos, or pilgrims, accompanying Mary and Joseph and sing as they process to various locations. They are repeatedly turned away by participants playing the part of innkeepers until they reach their final stop where they are welcomed with festivities Traditionally observed over nine nights, this event will be a single-night procession along Wigwam Blvd, which will end with a fiesta including entertainment, displays, vendors, food trucks, and crafts on the grounds of the original St. Thomas Aquinas Mission Church at Neolin Avenue and Wigwam Boulevard.
This Mission Revival church, designed by a prominent Pasadena architect named Reginald Johnson, has special significance in the Southwest Valley’s history as it provided a place of worship for the
Mexican Catholic workers who were central to the area’s agricultural development.
For more information contact the Litchfield Heritage Center at
Date: Friday, December 7, 2024
Time: 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm; Procession begins at 5:30 pm
Location: Original St. Thomas Aquinas Mission Church on Neolin Ave & Wigwam Blvd
4:30 – 5:15 Music, food, crafts, and shopping
5:15 – 5:30 Procession preparation: All are invited to join in!
5:30 – 6:00 Procession: join or watch costumed participants singing and portraying the roles of innkeepers, Mary, and Joseph.
6:00 – 8:00 Fiesta continues with performances, food and craft vendors, and children’s activities
City Boundary Map
