Chandler Streamlines Historic Preservation with Revised Ordinance
Chandler City Council has updated its historic preservation ordinance, making it easier for communities to protect their architectural heritage. The new amendments lower the required percentage of consenting property owners for creating preservation districts from 90% to 60%, allowing residents to more easily reach the necessary threshold for district or landmark designation. Property owners can opt out if they prefer not to participate.
Additionally, the council increased the annual cap on commissioner appointments from two to five, ensuring a quorum for the seven-member commission. The amendments also introduce an option to document public support for Conservation Districts.
The council established general design guidelines for all historic preservation districts and landmarks, informed by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, staff ideas, and best practices from other municipalities. Focusing on exterior preservation, these user-friendly guidelines aim to retain the authentic character of historic sites.
Since adopting its historic preservation ordinance in late 2020, Chandler designated Southside Village as its first Historic Conservation District. For more information, residents can contact Assistant Historic Preservation Officer Harley Mehlhorn at 480-782-3054.
Tempe Mayor Hosts Event to Tackle Elder Abuse
Tempe Mayor Corey Woods will host the 2nd Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 10 at Friendship Village in Tempe. The free event aims to address the alarming issue of elder abuse and financial exploitation, which affects over five million Americans annually.
Reports of elder abuse to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office have risen by 150% in the past decade. Older adults are vulnerable due to isolation and dependence on others. Predators strip their victims of their rights, isolate them, and medicate them against their wishes. Shockingly, only one in 44 incidents is reported, resulting in estimated losses ranging from $36 billion to $3.5 trillion per year.
The event will bring together aging industry experts, community leaders, and business professionals. They will share valuable insights and guidance on protecting loved ones from becoming victims of this “silent crime.” Tempe resident Linda Arters, a national elder justice advocate, is coordinating the event. The focus is on residents aged 50 and older, as well as future caregivers.
Limited seating is available, so registration is required. Interested individuals can register online at tempe.gov/agefriendly or contact Linda Arters at 602-677-3533 or [email protected].
Tempe History Museum’s African American Advisory Committee Hosts 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration
The African American Advisory Committee of the Tempe History Museum is set to present its 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration Saturday, June 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This vibrant event aims to both educate the community about the historic end of slavery in the United States and to commemorate this crucial milestone in American history. The Juneteenth Celebration will take place at the Tempe History Museum, 809 E Southern Ave. As a testament to the museum’s commitment to accessible education and community involvement, this event is free and open to all ages.
Attendees can expect an array of interactive activities and educational displays. Performances throughout the day will bring history to life, and a special story time will ensure the youngest visitors are included in the festivities. The community’s police and fire departments will also participate, presenting their vehicles for a unique, up-close experience.Moreover, an assortment of food trucks will be onsite, ensuring attendees can refuel and enjoy a wide range of culinary delights while participating in the day’s events.
The 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration is more than a day of activities; it’s a profound recognition of freedom and an educational exploration of African American history. The community is cordially invited to join in this celebration of unity, history, and progress.
