A Galactic Farewell: Highlights from the State of the City Address

Monthly Update from Vice Mayor Heredia

Mayor John Giles wrapped up his last State of the City Address with an intergalactic bang, painting a picture of Mesa’s dreams for the future featuring space adventures. It was quite the show, with performances from Senator Mark Kelly and Alice Cooper! Mesa’s all about pushing boundaries and moving forward, and this event was no exception.

While sharing some of Mesa’s latest achievements and its food scene, Mayor Giles also made some important announcements. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Restoration of Native American Temple Ruins: Mayor Giles announced plans to restore the name of the Mesa Grande ruins, signaling a commitment to repairing the city’s relationship with southern tribes. The temple mound, a significant Hohokam archaeological site, will undergo a renaming process in collaboration with tribal leaders and the Museum and Cultural Advisory Board.

2. Expansion of Mesa College Promise: The Mesa College Promise program, which supports high school graduates’ tuition at Mesa Community College, is expanding to include adult learners residing in Mesa. This initiative, aimed at increasing access to higher education, has garnered widespread support and even attracted the attention of First Lady Jill Biden.

3. ASU’s Expansion: Arizona State University is set to expand its footprint in Mesa, with plans to establish the ASU Center for Creative Technology. The university will occupy the current post office space, paving the way for enhanced programs in animation, filmmaking, and video game design. The city aims to facilitate ASU’s expansion while ensuring continued service at the downtown post office.

My heartfelt gratitude to Mayor John Giles for his visionary leadership and the electrifying send-off during the State of the City Address. As we look to the future, let’s continue pushing boundaries and embracing new horizons together.

Stay engaged and watch the full State of the City Address at www.mesaaz.gov/government/mayorcouncil/mayor-john-giles/state-of-the-city-address