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Phoenix Final Four Events: Know Before You Gohttps://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/city-manager/3058City Manager4/5/2024 9:00:00 PMhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3058/Newsroom_FInalFour_KBYG.pngPhoenix Final Four Events: Know Before You Go<div class="ExternalClass9A14DB8F27AE4678984C6DBC354C8E2B"><html> <p>​The City of Phoenix is excited to welcome basketball fans to explore and enjoy the excitement in and around downtown during the NCAA Men's Final Four. Whether you're a resident looking for information about the March Madness Music Festival ® at Hance Park or the Final Four Fan Fest® at the Phoenix Convention Center or a visitor heading into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, the City of Phoenix is prepared to help you enjoy a safe experience. See below for valuable <strong>Know Before You Go </strong>ideas and suggestions to make the most of your time in downtown Phoenix. Also,<a target="_blank" href="https://www.flowcode.com/page/welcometophx"> check out popular ideas on how to enjoy Phoenix</a>, including guides to food and fun in the downtown area. Visit the City's <a target="_blank" href="/pio/finalfour">Final Four home page​</a> for more​​​ resources.<br></p> <h2>Aviation​<br></h2> <p>Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is looking forward to welcoming travelers from across the country in for the NCAA Final Four festivities and are offering the following travel tips to make the customer journey as seamless as possible:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Reserve your rental car in advance: Vehicles will be in high demand.</p> </li> <li> <p>Remember 5-4-3-2-1: </p> </li> <ul> <li> <p>5 hrs before departure - Check out of your hotel</p> </li> <li> <p>4 hrs before departure – Turn in your rental car</p> </li> <li> <p>3 hrs before departure – Check in at the ticket counter</p> </li> <li> <p>2 hrs before departure – Get in line at the TSA Security Checkpoint</p> </li> <li> <p>1 hr before departure – Be at your gate.</p> </li> </ul> <li> <p>Game memorabilia: Pack most of your souvenirs in your luggage EXCEPT for your game program. Carry that in your carry-on to avoid potential issues with baggage scanners.</p> </li> <li> <p>Visit <a target="_blank" href="http://www.skyharbor.com/">skyharbor.com</a> for additional travel tips.<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"> </span></p> </li> </ul> <h2>Public Transit</h2> <p> The Final Four fun is only a train/bus ride away! Phoenix Public Transit, in collaboration with <a target="_blank" href="http://www.valleymetro.org/">Valley Metro</a>, welcomes visitors and residents to the 2024 NCAA Final Four, and encourages all to take public transit to the festivities. For the entire Final Four weekend, the City of Phoenix is proud to support the Valley Metro's sponsored rides program. This means you can ride Light Rail for free. To take advantage of the program, follow these steps:</p> <ol> <li> <p>Download the <a target="_blank" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.valleymetro.org/how-to-ride/online-tools/app__%3b%21%21LkjWUF49MRd51_ry%21bUpbg-mZsdOxHdioZyVLcJIcgEmQ-Oofdq5-9dZMxZUQ2Egd8-_AuORTh8zrbv_g2oNLMyRaqtGDGFyeeTVRa74U$">Valley Metro app [valleymetro.org]</a> and create an account. The app and account are required to access the complimentary pass.</p> </li> <li> <p>Visit the <a target="_blank" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.ncaa.com/mens-final-four/know-before-you-go__%3b%21%21LkjWUF49MRd51_ry%21bUpbg-mZsdOxHdioZyVLcJIcgEmQ-Oofdq5-9dZMxZUQ2Egd8-_AuORTh8zrbv_g2oNLMyRaqtGDGFyeeSVGJLhX$">'Know Before You Go' [ncaa.com]</a> section of the <a target="_blank" href="https://cityofphoenix-my.sharepoint.com/personal/067901_one_phoenix_gov/Documents/001-Final%20Four%202024/002_FF24_Messaging/04_PHXNewsroom_Articles/ncaa.com/mensfinalfour">NCAA Men's Final Four® website</a> or the <a target="_blank" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.ncaa.com/mens-final-four/mens-final-four-app__%3b%21%21LkjWUF49MRd51_ry%21bUpbg-mZsdOxHdioZyVLcJIcgEmQ-Oofdq5-9dZMxZUQ2Egd8-_AuORTh8zrbv_g2oNLMyRaqtGDGFyeefPE4mab$">Official App [ncaa.com]</a>. Under 'Transportation,' click the link to access the Final Four transit pass. This link will take you back to the Valley Metro app. </p> </li> <li> <p>Complete the transaction for your complimentary Final Four transit pass.</p> </li> </ol> <p>Scan the QR code at the purple fare readers before each ride. This pass is valid April 5-8 for up to four people.<br></p> <h2>Phoenix Convention Center<br></h2> <p>The Phoenix Convention Center is home to the Final Four Fan Fest® presented by Capital One from Friday, April 5 to Monday, April 8.  Tickets are $8 for presale and $10 at the door and <a target="_blank" href="http://ticketmaster.com/men-s-final-four-fan-fest-tickets/artist/2070512?_gl=1%2aqz5iln%2a_gcl_au%2aMjgwMDM1NDUyLjE3MDU2MDU3NjE">are available at Ticketmaster</a>. </p> <h2>Parking<br></h2> <p>Guests are encouraged to purchase parking ahead of time as we anticipate a high demand for spaces near the Phoenix Convention Center. <a target="_blank" href="https://space.aceparking.com/ncaafinalfour">Purchase your parking via Ace Parking.</a> More information is available at the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncaa.com/mens-final-four/fan-fest#overview">Final Four web site</a>.</p> <h2>Fire<br></h2> <p> The Phoenix Fire Department wants to ensure everyone is well-prepared and informed to guarantee an enjoyable experience:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Keep an eye on weather: High winds, extreme heat, or dry conditions can increase the risk of fire hazards and medical emergencies.</p> </li> <li> <p>Be prepared: Hydrate ahead of time, bring ample water, wear sunscreen, and sensible shoes.</p> </li> <li> <p>Ensure all cigarette butts and other smoking materials are safely extinguished and disposed of in designated receptacles.</p> </li> <li> <p>Keep Emergency Exits Clear and Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency exits and ensure they remain unobstructed throughout the event.</p> </li> </ul> <p>Fire department services will continue to operate as usual throughout the duration of the event. This includes emergency response, fire prevention activities, and community outreach efforts. In anticipation of the increased activity and potential emergencies associated with the event, we will have extra fire department crews on duty. These additional personnel will be strategically deployed to enhance our response capacity and ensure prompt assistance if needed.</p> <p>We are excited to welcome everyone to Phoenix for the Final Four events. Check out the official <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncaa.com/mens-final-four/know-before-you-go">NCAA Know Before You Go web page</a> as another resource for the latest information. </p> <h2>Police<br></h2> <p>While in the downtown area, please watch out for heavy pedestrian traffic and Phoenix Police officers directing traffic. Some other important reminders:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Plan ahead where you will park.</p> </li> <li> <p>Do not leave valuables visible in your vehicle and to lock it when you leave. </p> </li> <li> <p>Arrange a designated driver, a ride share service or take public transportation before planning to drink.</p> </li> <li> <p>If you see something suspicious, call 911 for emergencies or the non-emergency number 602-262-6151.</p> </li> </ul> <p>The Phoenix Police Department is committed to continuing its 24/7 service to the residents of Phoenix. Extra staffing for Final Four events will not pull officers from the streets. </p> <h2>Library<br></h2> <p>As an FYI, there is an impact to accessing Burton Barr Central Library due to the March Madness Music Festival® being held in the adjacent Hance Park. The impact will affect surrounding roads and parking will be limited. If you have books and other materials to return, consider using another Phoenix Public Library location. Visit the "Plan Ahead When Visiting Burton Barr Central Library" page on <a target="_blank" href="http://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/">phoenixpubliclibrary.org</a> frequently for regular updates.</p> <h2>Parks and Recreation<br></h2> <p>If you need a break from the Final Four fun, consider using one of the city's many parks, hiking trails, golf courses, and more. The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety of activities and programs for people of all ages and abilities. Visit Phoenix.gov/Parks to get started.</p> <p>With hiking being one of the most popular things to do when visiting Phoenix, we want to make sure you do not become a statistic. With more than 200 people rescued from City of Phoenix desert and mountain parks and preserves – please <a target="_blank" href="/parks/trails/take-a-hike-do-it-right">follow our hiking guidelines</a> before hitting the trails.</p> <h2>Streets<br></h2> <p>Be mindful of road closures and restrictions to avoid traffic delays. For the latest information, visit the <a target="_blank" href="http://phoenix.gov/streets/street-closures">Phoenix Traffic Restrictions and Street Closures map</a> or use the <a target="_blank" href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/2c58012149fd4ed98115e726b6e15449">interactive event map</a>.</p> <h2>Public Works<br></h2> <p>The City's Public Works Department will deploy waste receptacles around the downtown area to support Final Four events. Look for green racks for food waste, blue racks for recyclables, and black racks for landfill items. Zero Waste Ambassadors in green shirts will be nearby to help ensure items are placed in the appropriate receptacle.</p> <h2>Water<br></h2> <p>The Water Services Department advises everyone to stay hydrated and eco-friendly. Utilize downtown hydration stations and bring reusable water bottles. Phoenix's tap water is safe and meets all quality standards. Keep hydrated, reduce plastic use, and check our website, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.phoenix.gov/water">Phoenix.gov/Water</a>, or social media (@PHXWater) to learn more about Phoenix Water Services. Enjoy the festivities responsibly while conserving water.<br></p> </html></div>https://www.phoenix.gov/citymanagerNewscity-managerValley Metro Rail in downtown PhoenixCity Manager@CityofPhoenixAZ @MFinalFourFinal Four, Final Four events, Know Before You GoAshley Patton, Deputy Director602-292-3704ashley.patton@phoenix.govhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/MediaContact/Attachments/89/Ashley_Patton.jpgPHXCityManagerMany downtown Final Four events can be accessed by using Valley Metro Rail.

 

 

Annual Stormwater Awareness Campaign Encourages Residents to Help Keep Our Waterways Clean Year-round from Stormwater Pollutionhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3328Water Services1/16/2025 5:40:00 PMhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3328/Stormwater 2025 Newsroom v2.pngAnnual Stormwater Awareness Campaign Encourages Residents to Help Keep Our Waterways Clean Year-round from Stormwater Pollution<div class="ExternalClass25ABA5293D0D442FBD8C72C7DF13948C"><html> <p>​The Water Services Dept. Environmental & Safety Division invites you to learn about the City of Phoenix Stormwater Management Program during the <strong>Annual Stormwater Awareness Week on Jan. 20-26, 2025.</strong> Stormwater Awareness Week is an annual regional effort to teach simple everyday actions to reduce stormwater pollution.<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"> </span></p> <p></p> <p> <strong> <em>What is Stormwater Pollution?</em> </strong> <br> </p> <p>In Phoenix, stormwater is rainwater that flows over roads and through gutters and does not soak into the ground. This stormwater enters our storm drainpipes, which carry the water to protected surface waters like the Salt River or Skunk Creek. Unlike water we use to flush our toilets, stormwater does not go to a treatment plant. It flows from the storm drains untreated right into rivers and washes. <br></p> <p>As stormwater flows across areas like roads and parking lots and into our storm drains, it can pick up pollutants like oil and pet waste and carry them into our washes and rivers. This creates significant water quality challenges. Because pollutants can enter surface waters through our storm drain system, the city is required to have a Clean Water Act MS4 permit from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to operate that system.    <br></p> <p> <strong> <em>What the City does to prevent Stormwater Pollution?</em> </strong> <br> </p> <p>Several Phoenix departments work together to support the MS4 permit through the Stormwater Management Program including Phoenix Water Services, Office of Planning and Development, Office of Environmental Programs, and the Street Transportation Dept. <br></p> <p>In 2024, the program added storm drain management tools and a database to help manage this complex permit, which uses infrastructure of 760 outfalls where rain flows, 80 of which are located along the Salt River. Additionally, a new stormwater post-construction program required by the permit allows owner-led inspections to minimize staffing costs. </p> <p>"Stormwater Awareness Week encourages our community members to take everyday actions to help protect the quality of our water,” said Berai Kimball, Deputy Water Services Director. “With our separate systems for stormwater and wastewater, it’s important to remember that stormwater doesn’t get treated and flows directly to nearby washes and retention basins, infiltrating the soil, making it imperative that we work daily to keep our water system clean.”</p> <p> <em> <strong>How can residents participate in Stormwater Awareness Week?</strong> </em> <br> </p> <p>Since the campaign's initial launch in 2019, more Valley municipalities and government agencies have participated in the weeklong event. We are encouraging the public to get involved by taking steps to reduce stormwater pollution by learning more at our <a href="https://cityofphoenix.webex.com/weblink/register/rf4432881ec344b42e9dd7b602165d251" target="_blank"><strong>Virtual Workshop</strong></a> which is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 22, at noon to discuss the City’s Stormwater Management Program and our activities to reduce stormwater pollution. Attendees are required to <a href="https://cityofphoenix.webex.com/weblink/register/rf4432881ec344b42e9dd7b602165d251" target="_blank"><strong>Register</strong></a> in advance to participate.<br></p> <p>Simple actions to reduce stormwater pollution include: <br></p> <ul style="" class="" dir=""> <li><p>Properly disposing of trash, recyclables, and chemicals like detergent, paint, medications, etc.</p></li><li><p><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">Recycling motor oil and maintaining your vehicle to prevent leak s</span></p></li> <li><p> Cleaning up after your pet  </p></li> <li><p> Using lawn chemicals sparingly and always following manufacturers’ directions </p></li> <li><p> Properly disposing of lefto ver paint and household chemicals at a household hazardous waste event <br> </p></li> <li><p> And please remember - only rain in the storm drain   </p></li> </ul> <p></p> <p> To learn more about the City of Phoenix Water Services Department Stormwater Awareness Week and what you can do as an individual or business to prevent stormwater pollution, please visit <a href="/waterservices/envservices/stormwater-program" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/stormwater.</a>  </p> <p></p> <p>Media Contact:<br></p> <p> <strong>Jimena Garrison</strong> </p> <p>Senior Public Information Officer <br></p> <p>Water Services<br></p> <p>Cell: 480-390-1933 (call or text) </p> <p>E-mail: <a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"><strong>jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</strong></a></p> <p> <strong>Angela Serda</strong> <br> </p> <p>Public Information Specialist<br></p> <p>Water Services</p> <p>Cell: 623-499-8919 (call or text) </p> <p>E-mail: <a href="mailto:angela.serda@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"><strong>angela.serda@phoenix.gov</strong></a><br></p> <p> <br> </p> </html></div>https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservicesNews
City of Phoenix Appoints New Chief Privacy Officer to Strengthen Commitment to Data Privacy https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/information-technology-services/3326Information Technology Services1/16/2025 4:00:00 PMhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3326/CHIEF PRIVACY OFFICER_newsroom.pngCity of Phoenix Appoints New Chief Privacy Officer to Strengthen Commitment to Data Privacy <div class="ExternalClass1D5DC38A2C5B46E5B1C102880CEB3843"><html> <p>​The City of Phoenix and Information Technology Services Department are pleased to announce the appointment of Ciara Maerowitz as the City’s Chief Privacy Officer (CPO). This role underscores the City’s commitment to responsibly handle and protect the data of our employees, residents, and business partners. </p> <div></div> <p>Maerowitz brings nearly ten years of experience in regulatory compliance. Previously, she held positions at multiple global financial services firms, where she implemented global privacy programs across over 50 jurisdictions in highly complex and tightly regulated environments. </p> <p> "I am honored to continue my work in privacy as the City’s first dedicated Chief Privacy Officer,” said Maerowitz. “Privacy is a cornerstone of the trust our residents place in us, and I look forward to leading the City's efforts in enhancing privacy protections and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations."  </p> <p></p> <p>In this role, Maerowitz will drive transparency, trust, and accountability in handling personal information by pursuing the highest standards of data protection. Maerowitz will play an integral role in developing and maintaining frameworks for data governance, providing guidance on mitigation of privacy risks, and ensuring the City of Phoenix continues to comply with emerging global privacy laws. The Chief Privacy Officer will also act as the main contact in the event of a privacy breach, both internally and externally.  </p> <p> Maerowitz holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Arizona and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Bryn Mawr College. She is recognized as a Fellow in Information Privacy (FIP), a prestigious designation given to select experts in the fields of privacy risk management by the International Association of Privacy Professionals. The City of Phoenix is committed to upholding the highest standards of data protection, ensuring that the personal data of its residents and customers is always treated with the utmost care and respect. The Data Privacy Office can be reached at <a target="_blank" href="mailto:privacy@phoenix.gov">privacy@phoenix.gov​</a>.   <br> </p> <p></p> </html></div>https://www.phoenix.gov/itsNews
Phoenix Considers Multiple Options to Balance Budgethttps://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/city-manager/3325City Manager1/15/2025 3:00:00 PMhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3325/Newsroom_Budget_001PCH.jpgPhoenix Considers Multiple Options to Balance Budget<div class="ExternalClass8149680D7C2343FE98DAA5351FF56AEA"><html> <p>​The City of Phoenix is exploring options to deal with a potential budget shortfall, which could include raising sales tax or cutting some services to residents. The City is required to adopt a balanced budget each fiscal year.</p> <p></p> <p>Under the direction of the Mayor and Phoenix City Council, the City has successfully managed significant growth in population, square miles serviced, inflationary pressures on spending, while providing robust services to residents including public safety, parks, libraries, streets, additional services for those experiencing homelessness and increased efforts to combat summer heat. Seeing the fire crisis unfolding in Los Angeles is a reminder of the importance of appropriately funding these important services. </p> <p>However, decisions made at the State level including the elimination of residential rental sales tax and the implementation of a flat income tax will negatively impact the City's budget and result in reduced ongoing revenues.</p> <p>Unlike the Federal Government which can continue to spend more than the amount it takes in, the City is required by law to have a balanced budget, which means reaching a budget for the coming fiscal year may require raising revenue, cutting services, or a combination to keep the budget balanced going forward.</p> <p>To give the City Council options as we progress through the budget process, the City has posted a notice of intent to increase transaction privilege tax (TPT) and use tax (sales taxes) by up to 0.5% (half a percentage point). This notice does not necessarily mean taxes will increase, but instead gives the Council and the community time to consider potential options to balance the budget. The Council would have to vote to increase taxes, something that would not happen for at least 60 days to give community members time to share their opinions about any changes. The Council is currently scheduled to consider the increase at the March 18, 2025, Phoenix City Council meeting. If Council approved any change, it would take effect on July 1, 2025.<br></p> <p>At the same time, departments throughout the City are submitting potential cuts in services for City leadership to consider. The City Manager will use this information to create a trial budget which could include a possible tax increase, cuts to services provided to residents by the City, or a combination that leads to a balanced budget.</p> <h2>Impact Of Potential Tax Increase</h2> <p>The City of Phoenix has not raised the TPT rate for the General Fund in nearly 40 years. It was set at 1.2% in 1986 and has remained at that rate since. The combined TPT rate (including non-general funds) is currently 2.3% and was last increased in 2016 when voters approved the Transportation 2050 sales tax. For comparison purposes, the largest TPT category is retail sales tax and Phoenix's rate of 2.3% puts us in the middle for cities throughout the valley with some as high as 3.0%. Even if the full 0.5% increase was approved, the Phoenix Retail TPT rate would still be below Glendale and Buckeye and the same as Surprise. </p> <p>What would the increase mean for the typical purchase? For a $4 cup of coffee, you'll pay an additional two cents. A $20 shirt would cost an extra dime. A $100 pair of shoes would be an additional 50 cents and a new $900 washing machine would add $4.50 to the cost.</p> <h2> <span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span>Provide Feedback On The Budget​<span id="ms-rterangepaste-end"></span></h2> <p>The City's more than $2 billion-dollar General Fund operating budget includes everything from police and fire services, to funding your neighborhood parks and libraries, the streets you drive on and services for seniors.</p> <p>With a budget that size , supporting the fifth largest city in the country and 1.7 million residents, it can be a challenge to understand everything that goes into the services you receive. </p> <p>To help residents better understand what is included in the General Fund budget, the Budget and Research Department uses software called <a href="/fundphoenix" target="_blank">FundPHX</a>. The interactive tool lets you see for yourself what each General Fund service costs, allowing you to recommend changes ahead of City Council making final budget decisions each year.</p> <p>Right now, the tool is using current budget year numbers. Those will be updated with the City Manager's Trial Budget numbers in April where you can submit your own recommendations for next year's budget. Residents can also check the Budget & Research Department website for more information at <a href="/budget" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/budget</a>. <br></p> <h2>More Information<br></h2> <p>The City will also be hosting several budget information sessions to further explain this possible tax increase. You can find the schedule on the <a href="/calendar/budget" target="_blank">PHX City Calendar</a>.<br></p> <p>The City has created the <a href="/fees" target="_blank">official Fee notice</a> as well as a<a href="/Documents/2025-PHX-Tax-Notice-Info.pdf" target="_blank"> detailed information document (PDF)</a> of the budget considerations for a proposed tax increase which includes service comparisons from the current year to those prior to the last tax increase, as well as a list of budget challenges and unfunded needs.</p> <p>More information on the General Fund budget status and multi-year forecast will be presented to the <a href="/mayorcouncil" target="_blank">Phoenix City Council</a> on February 25, 2025.<br></p> </html></div>https://www.phoenix.gov/citymanagerNews

 

 

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