News Releases All Archives Utility work for Waddell Rd widening begins 5/28; travel impact at Sarival Ave Westbound Waddell Road will be closed at Sarival Avenue, May 28 – June 11, from 5 a.m. through 5:30 p.m.daily. Surprise becoming hotbed for youth sports tourism as industry booms Surprise will soon see a convergence of baseball talent from across the country for a series of nationally recognized youth baseball tournaments this summer season. Public meetings in June for proposed Annexation & related Zoning changes in northern Surprise The city of Surprise has issued public notices regarding upcoming public hearings on a proposed annexation and zoning changes related to several parcels of land in the city’s northern area. City offices closed May 27 for Memorial Day; trash / recycling schedule change Due to Memorial Day, City of Surprise trash and recycling customers are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day the week of May 27-31. Ozone High Pollution Advisory issued for May 14-15 For more information about the Ozone High Pollution Advisory visit www.azdeq.gov or www.cleanairmakemore.com. Adult sports leagues registration now open for returning teams New teams and non-returning teams may register beginning May 16. Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex to host National Level II Girls’ 18s Junior competition returns to the Surprise May 18-21 with the arrival of the 2019 USTA National Level 2 Girls 18s Championships. Road Restriction: NB Litchfield Rd approaching Greenway Rd NB Litchfield Rd, approaching Greenway Rd, is restricted to a single lane to repair a damaged utility line. The NB left turn at Greenway Rd is also restricted. Youth, teen summer tennis programs now enrolling All skill levels are welcome; enroll today! City Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commission Vacancies Applications are being accepted for the Arts & Cultural Advisory Commission, Personnel Appeals Board, Veterans, Disability and Human Services Commission. Hollyhock Library adjusts Saturday hours starting May 11 Library will be open 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Tuesday and Thursday hours will remain 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. Free HOA Connection Class on New Case Law & Legislation, Secrets of a Successful Associations The class will be hosted in the Surprise City Hall Council Overflow Room on June 5; space is limited, sign up today! Join the Surprise Senior Center and receive free trial membership between May 6 & June 30 Participants who remain enrolled in Senior Center programs following the free trial will pay the annual membership fee on July 1, 2019. Surprise team member named “2019 Economic Developer of the Year” Jeanine Jerkovic, Surprise's economic development director, received the recognition at last night's annual Economic Development Distinguished by Excellence Awards reception in Tucson. Are you paying too much for prescriptions? Attend a Medicare class and find out Medicare participants, and future participants, with questions about their prescription plan are encouraged to attend the May 20 class. Surprise hosts AIA Division III 1st Round Baseball State Championship Playoffs The games will take place at the Kansas City Royals practice facilities located at 15960 N. Bullard Ave. Registration for summer adult tennis programs now open With three class offerings, there is sure to be a program for adult tennis players of all levels and abilities! Surprise Utility Assistance Application Events scheduled for May, June The first-come, first-served events will be held at the Surprise Resource Center, 12425 W. Bell Rd. Bldg. A Suite #124; a special event is scheduled for May 22 in El Mirage. City now enrolling for free Estate Planning classes, May 8 & 22 Space is limited; enroll today! Ozone High Pollution Advisory issued for April 25 For more information about the Ozone High Pollution Advisory visit www.azdeq.gov or www.cleanairmakemore.com. Overnight closure of SB Litchfield Rd, Cactus to Desert Cove, 4/29-5/8 Closure will be in place 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. nightly to install a new water line. Attend a free seminar on May 7 to learn your options concerning Wills vs Trusts Registration is required; reserve your seat today! Gov. Doug Ducey to speak at Veterans Bridge Naming Celebration in Surprise A celebration on Friday, April 26 will mark the renaming of the bridge at US 60 (Grand Ave) and Bell Road to Veterans Bridge. Southwest Gas begins project on Litchfield Rd, Greenway to Waddell, April 22 Contact the Southwest Gas Project Hotline, 602.532.6100, for more information. Ozone High Pollution Advisory issued for April 19 For more information about the Ozone High Pollution Advisory visit www.azdeq.gov or www.cleanairmakemore.com. DevelopNEXT: Land Development Ordinances Chapters 101-102 go to Planning & Zoning for discussion Based on feedback received from the public, stakeholders, and the Planning and Zoning Commission, staff will make revisions and publish an updated draft of the first two chapters. Public records requests join list of city services available in My Surprise Download the My Surprise app in the App Store and Google Play and engage with your Surprise, today! 2019 Surprise Area Interfaith & Golden Rule Community Breakfast to be held May 1; reserve your seat Come build community by meeting city, faith, business and non-profit leaders from the region at the 2019 Surprise Area Interfaith & Golden Rule Community Breakfast! Surprise Hosts Veterans Bridge Naming Celebration A celebration on Friday, April 26 will mark the renaming of the bridge at US 60 (Grand Ave) and Bell Road to Veterans Bridge. FY2020 Recommended Budget addresses city growth; maintenance of existing assets City Manager Mike Frazier’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 City Manager Recommended Budget, presented at City Council’s April 16 Work Session, continues to focus on Council’s commitment to maintain quality public services and infrastructure, while also addressing the needs of a growing community. PacWest Tennis Championships return to Surprise; free youth tennis clinic April 17 The 20 championship-hopeful teams begin tournament play on April 17 at the Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex. Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival, April 14 This is the final Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival of the 2018-19 series; don't miss it! Become a Volunteer on Surprise Fire-Medical’s Community Emergency Response Team Sign up for a training course covering basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Registration for youth summer basketball league, sports camps begins April 8 A special Saturday registration will be held on April 27 at the Community & Recreation Services office, 15960 N Bullard Ave, from 8 - 11 a.m. Local youth invited to compete in MLB Pitch, Hit & Run and Jr. Home Run Derby competitions Both events will take place Saturday, April 27, at the Surprise Youth Baseball Complex, 15565 N. Parkview Place. 2019 Surprise Retail Survey results are in! Check out our residents' most-requested places to shop and dine, and the Top 10 local favorites! Surprise partners to host Utility Assistance events throughout April The first-come, first-served events will be held at the Surprise Resource Center, 12425 W. Bell Rd. Bldg. A Suite #124 Pledge to conserve water & help Surprise win a nationwide water conservation challenge Residents in winning cities will win hundreds of prizes; one lucky resident will win $3,000 towards their annual utility bills! Plan for your future; attend a free Estate Planning class Understand how taxation, inflation, social security and other factors impact your retirement income. City of Surprise 2019 State of the City focuses on growth and sustainability Watch the video presentation to see the city's accomplishments from the past year and the vision for moving forward. Surprise to host USTA rating program for Singles, Doubles Tennis Championships (50+) The National Tennis Rating Program Championships for men and women's groups, age 50 and better, begins March 29. Repavement of Sun Valley Parkway, 291st Ave – 219th Ave, begins April 1 This Maricopa County Department of Transportation project will run through approximately the end of June. Learn How to Maximize Your Medicare Options Reserve your seat and plan to attend one of these free informational sessions on April 16 or April 30 at the Surprise Resource Center. City opens application process for Community Outreach Program Eligible 501(c)3 organizations or verified 501(c)3 partner agencies may now apply. City, ARIZONA@WORK Maricopa County to host job fair in Surprise on March 29 Surprise Job Fair hours are 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Northwest Regional Library, 16089 N. Bullard Ave. Volunteer for Surprise Day of Service on April 6 Volunteers will participate in a number of community service projects, including painting, gravel spreading, yard cleaning and other services. Hop over to spring Egg-stravaganza on April 20 This free family event begins at 7:30 a.m. and features hunts for children ages 10 and under, bounce houses and more! Surprise Police warn community members about telephone scam Scammer is requesting bond payment via various forms of gift cards. If you receive a call, please report it to Surprise Police at 623.222.4000. Enjoy a Spring Training game & fireworks show at Surprise Stadium Friday night March 22 is Jimmy John's Fireworks Night at Surprise Stadium! Catch the game at 6:05pm and the fireworks show afterwards! Bullard Ave closure, Greenway Rd to Tierra Buena Ln, begins 3/25 The 24-hour closure will begin at 4 a.m. on March 25, and will be in place until 5 p.m., March 29. Special Spring Training Offer for Banner Del Webb Community Health Day March 21 Enjoy a special ‘$44 Family Four Pack’ ticket offer including tickets, food and drinks, as well as fun events during the game to promoting healthy living! Community invited to Surprise City Center input session March 21 Come share your ideas for future Surprise City Center development! Meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at Larry H. Miller Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Surprise. Schedule your Household Hazardous Waste Collection appointments beginning March 21 Appointments can be scheduled in the My Surprise app, online or by calling customer service. 175th Ave closed Sweetwater Ave to Waddell Rd, March 18-26 175th Avenue will be closed at Sweetwater Avenue, north to Waddell Road, to install a new sewer line. This will be a 24-hour closure starting at 4 a.m. on 3/18/19 and stopping at 5 p.m. 3/26/19. Detours will be in place. Today's Chicago White Sox vs. Kansas City Royals spring training game cancelled The Chicago White Sox vs. Kansas City Royals game scheduled for today, March 12, at 1:05 p.m. in Surprise Stadium has been cancelled due to inclement weather and field conditions. Rain out ticket policy in effect. Surprise basketball coach wins Jr. NBA Coach of the Year Congratulations to Coach Leon Chavez, who has been a volunteer basketball coach for eight years. Dysart Rd center median work scheduled to begin March 16 The project is scheduled to conclude on March 25, weather permitting. City invites companies to support construction of outdoor memorial in honor of veterans The city is seeking construction and landscaping companies to partner in the creation of an outdoor memorial and veteran reflecting space in honor of late Surprise resident and combat wounded veteran Brian Mancini. Help shape Surprise City Center; share ideas at March 11 input session Help shape our future downtown Monday, March 11 at Sun City Grand in the Cimarron Center - Agua Fria Room from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Surprise Resource Center to host Utility Assistance Application events March 14, 21, & 28 Assistance will be available from 3-7 p.m., or until fund capacity is achieved. Daytime closure scheduled for westbound Waddell Road at Cotton, March 7 The westbound traveling restriction will be in place from 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Budweiser Clydesdales to visit Surprise Stadium before Thursday’s Spring Training Game The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales are heading to Surprise Stadium on Thursday, March 7 for a special appearance prior to the Kansas City Royals and Los Angeles Angels Spring Training game. Updated: Daytime closure scheduled for westbound Waddell Road at Sarival, March 5 & 6 The westbound traveling restriction will be in place during the work hours, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 2nd annual Surprise Spring Training 5K - Road Closures and Parking Locations Bullard Avenue will be closed between Greenway Avenue and Paradise Lane from 6:30 p.m. through approximately 8:30 p.m. Motorists should expect detours. Volunteers needed for Surprise Day of Service, March 9 Volunteer opportunities are open to groups, families, youths and adults! Surprise State of the City Premiere & 10-year City Hall Anniversary set for Mar. 28 Join us Thursday, March 28, 6- 8 p.m. for the State of the City video premiere, along with food, entertainment and a showcase of the city's programs and services. Free financial, health benefits guidance available for seniors at Surprise Resource Center Interested seniors, ages 55+, can complete the online application or call to schedule an appointment. Surprise seeking talent for annual talent show Talent applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 15; the Surprise Talent Show is Friday, April 26 at the Valley Vista Performing Arts Center. New tourism website launches; showcases city as a place to “Find your Surprise” ExploreSurprise.com highlights the many ways to play, dine, shop and stay in Surprise! City Court Compliance Assistance Program helps resolve fines, reinstate driving privileges Complete the online financial affidavit and view frequently asked questions at surpriseaz.gov/courtCAP. Cleanup Event March 9; free waste drop-off for Surprise residents Surprise residents can drop off up to 2,000 pounds of non-hazardous residential waste at the Northwest Regional Landfill from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. 2019 Surprise Retail Survey is open; new youth survey added this year! Do you have a favorite restaurant or retail store that you would like to see open in Surprise? Tell us by taking our retail survey by March 15. Nebraska vs. Oregon State baseball games delayed until 2pm & 6pm today Tickets purchased for the February 21 game will be honored for the rescheduled game taking place at 2 p.m. Tickets originally purchased for the February 22 game at 4 p.m. will be honored for the 6 p.m. game. Cactus Rd, Citrus Rd to Perryville Rd, has been REOPENED Perryville Road, from Cactus Road to Desert Cove Road has also reopened. Cactus Rd, Citrus Rd to Perryville Rd, closed due to water main break The road is anticipated to be closed through the majority of the day tomorrow, February 22. Nebraska vs. Oregon State baseball game postponed until Friday 2/22 Tickets purchased for the February 21 game will be honored for the rescheduled game taking place at 12 p.m. on Friday. Tickets originally purchased for the February 22 game at 1 p.m. will be honored for the 4 p.m. game. Apply for the Surprise Youth Council and help make a difference in your city! Students who are currently in grades 7-11 may apply by March 24. Spring Break Tennis Camp registration now open Camp will meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 9 a.m. - noon, during the week of March 18. Updated: Council approves 5 year Utility Rate Study schedule; new solid waste rates begin July 1 City-serviced residential water and wastewater utility rates will remain unchanged in FY 2020-2024. Household Hazardous Waste will now be picked up directly from your home Beginning April 1-12, Surprise residents will be able to schedule a free hazardous waste collection appointment. Free Classes: Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning, Medicare Options & HOA Connection Registration is now open; sign up today! City seeks volunteers for Senior Center; will host info session on March 6 Sign up today and learn how you can help serve our city's senior population! Spring Break Camp registration is now open Camp will be held March 18-22 at Countryside Recreation Center, 15038 N. Parkview Place. Surprise Stadium announces 2019 Spring Training ticket promotions & fan experiences We have ticket prices and packages for everyone, including families, military members and residents! City offices closed Feb. 18 for Presidents’ Day; trash / recycling schedule change Vendor opportunities available for Spring Egg-stravaganza event The event will take place on Saturday, April 20 from 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and is expected to draw 12,000-15,000 participants. Babe Ruth League registration now open Individual and team registration is available Feb. 11 - Mar. 22, in-person at the Community and Recreation Services office, or online at surpriseaz.gov/recreation. USTA Women’s Pro Circuit underway at Surprise Tennis & Racquet Complex Come watch exciting tennis play with the USTA Women’s Pro Circuit – Surprise Tennis Classic in town February 11-17. City’s summer job program for teens now accepting applications Selected interns, ages 15-19, will earn $11 per hour while receiving professional development training during this six week program. Join us for Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival events Live music, delicious food trucks and more on Feb. 10, March 10 & April 14! Tickets on sale for City of Surprise Spring Training Welcome Back Luncheon Hear from the mayor and members of the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers management teams while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and refreshments overlooking the Surprise Stadium ballfield. Sanderson Ford College Baseball Classic leads off baseball season in Surprise The 2018 College World Series National Champion Oregon State Beavers will make their season debut at the Classic! Individual tickets and tournament passes are on sale now at surprisestadium.com. City begins FY20 budget discussions Feb. 19 The City of Surprise FY2020 budget building process kicks off at the City Council Work Session on Tuesday, February 19. Surprise Youth Council hosts Level 4 party March 9 High school students will enjoy awesome music, art, dancing and fun on the top floor of the City Hall parking garage! Rock your block! Free block party trailer rentals available Let us help you get to know your neighbors by providing the supplies you need for a great party! Learn How to Maximize Your Medicare Options Get information on the elements of Medicare Parts A and B; Medicare Advantage plans (Part C); Prescription Drug plans (Part D); and Medicare Supplements (Medigap). Registration is now open for the Surprise Tennis University This 11-week program is designed to teach adults new to the sport the fundamentals of the game. Shop the Artisan Treasures Sweet Spring Festival Feb. 16 Festival will feature over 100 local artists and vendors! Free admission. APS utility assistance is now available to federal workers in Surprise, El Mirage Appointments can be scheduled by calling 623.222.1600; proof of federal employee status and an APS account are required. Road restrictions in place at Bell and Litchfield roads for utility work The restrictions affect the west bound curb lane on Bell Rd. and the south bound curb lane on Litchfield Rd. Surprise 10 & Under Tennis offers FREE Bonus Play Day for the 2019 Winter Session The Net Generation program provides a structured and fun framework for learning the game of tennis, and utilizes equipment and court dimensions that are age and skill appropriate. Free Financial Fitness Classes: Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning, Annuities Register today and reserve your spot! Register for the 2019 Surprise City Academy & learn how your city government works The academy offers the opportunity to learn about the city directly from the mayor, councilmembers, city manager and upper-level city staff. Plus, you will hear from city partners like Ottawa University and West-MEC. City to host Vets 4 Biz ‘Rally Point’ networking, resource event Jan. 26 The Rally Point event will be held at the AZ TechCelerator, 12425 W. Bell Rd, from 9 a.m. to noon. City Council names Winters as Vice Mayor The Surprise City Council unanimously selected District 1 Councilmember Roland F. Winters Jr. to serve as Vice Mayor at their regular meeting Tuesday January 15, 2019. Surprise names new Veterans, Disability and Human Services Commissioners The first Veterans, Disability and Human Services Commission meeting will be Wednesday, February 13, 2019. City offices closed Jan. 21 for MLK Day; trash / recycling schedule change City of Surprise trash and recycling customers are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day the week of January 21-25. City Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commissions There are currently two vacancies on the Community & Recreation Services Commission and one vacancy on the City Audit Committee. Registration open for spring youth sports leagues and camps Register for tee-ball, baseball, softball or volleyball through Jan. 26. Surprise Pops Band performs “Music of the West” concert on Jan. 20 The performance is open to the public and is free with the donation of a non-perishable food item. Council selects Sanders to fill D5 vacancy The Surprise City Council appointed David Sanders to serve as the new District 5 (D5) Councilmember. RESCHEDULED EVENT: Jan. 6 Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival moved to Jan. 27 Due to the anticipation of inclement weather this weekend, the city is rescheduling the January 6 Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival to January 27. Free Financial Fitness Classes: Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning, Tax Review, Annuities Register today! Surprise launches wastewater campaign; encourages residents to Be G.R.O.S.S. Learn how to 'Be a Guardian' and help protect your home and city sewers from the damaging effects of improperly disposed items. Surprise partners with AZ Ice to offer ice skating classes Classes include Parent & Me, Tots, Basic 1, Hockey, Teen/Adults, and Adult Skate. Northbound Dysart Rd at Bell Rd closed nightly 1/6 – 1/21 Closure nightly from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Teen Arizona Snowbowl Turnaround Trip Sign up for a day of skiing or snowboarding at Arizona Snowbowl with teens from other Arizona cities. Trip is January 4th! Surprise Stadium Box Office opens Saturday, Jan. 5 for Spring Training & College Baseball Tickets Choose from a variety of ticket packages and game experiences! Surprise Fine Art & Wine Festival returns Jan. 11-13 Experience 80+ juried fine artists, live music and delicious food trucks! Celebrate safely; know the law on fireworks use in Surprise Consumer fireworks use is permitted on private property within city limits December 24 - January 3. Cactus League Luncheon set for Feb. 19; kicks off 2019 Spring Training Season Fans can purchase tickets to this event, which will feature the induction of the latest Cactus League Hall of Fame class. City offers Christmas tree drop-off sites; holiday recycling tips The lots are open December 26, 2018 – January 10, 2019. Call for Entry: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Celebration and Service Youth Poster Contest Calling all youth artists ages 12-14! The city of Surprise is holding a poster contest as part of the celebration. City offices closed Dec. 25 & Jan. 1 for holidays; trash / recycling schedule change City of Surprise trash and recycling customers only are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day both the week of Christmas and New Year’s. Winter Break Camp registration now open A fun way for kids in Kindergarten through 6th grade to spend winter break! Runs December 26-28 and January 2-4. Temporary closure of Cactus Rd, Cotton Ln to Auto Show Rd, Dec. 18 Road will be closed from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. for pavement maintenance. City of Surprise seeking applications for new Veterans, Disability and Human Services Commission Applications are available for pickup at Surprise City Hall - City Clerk’s Office. Join city of Surprise for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Celebration & Service on Jan. 19 Come celebrate the life and work of Dr. King and honor his legacy by volunteering to serve your community. Register for Surprise City Academy & get an inside look at how your city government works This eight-session academy offers the opportunity to learn about the city directly from the mayor, councilmembers, city manager and upper-level city staff. D5 applicant names released; Council sets public interviews for December 20 Nine residents of District 5 (D5) have applied to fill the vacancy on City Council, following former D5 Councilmember Skip Hall’s appointment to Mayor. City hosts free Tax Review class The city is hosting a free Tax Review Class that will touch on various aspects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. City of Surprise program offers free support services for crime victims Victim Services Program assists crime victims in navigating the court system and connecting to resources. Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex to host series of national tennis tournaments Several United States Tennis Association (USTA) tennis tournaments are coming to Surprise this winter and spring. Bullard Avenue Improvement Project major roadwork concludes Minor adjustments and landscape establishment will continue through early 2019. Pickleball competition draws local and national talent to the City of Surprise The city will welcome thousands of pickleball players this winter as host of five pickleball tournaments. Councils oks new Veterans, Disability and Human Services Commission The Surprise City Council moved to approve the formation of a volunteer Veterans, Disability and Human Services Commission at the December 4, 2018 regular council meeting. There’s still time to register for youth winter sports camps & skills classes Sports camps and skills classes include basketball, baseball, softball and tennis. Applications open for Community Development Block Grant funding for public service activities Pre-application meeting Dec. 11; Applications due Jan. 11. DevelopNEXT: Drafts of Land Development Ordinances Chapters 104 & 105 Now Online Help shape your city by reviewing the draft chapters and offering your comments. National Anthem performer auditions set for 2019 Spring Training in Surprise Audition live on January 12, or submit an audio or video recording! Council to take action on Utility Rate Study public notice at Dec 18 meeting The presentation will occur during the 6 p.m. Regular City Council Meeting at Surprise City Hall, 16000 N. Civic Center Plaza. Ready, set, register for the 2nd Annual Surprise Spring Training 5K! The Surprise Spring Training 5K, presented by Jimmy John’s, returns to Surprise Stadium on Friday, March 1! Bullard Ave traffic signals at Acoma, Sweetwater intersections active week of Dec 3 Signals will flash red for 48 hours; drivers are reminded to treat the intersections as four-ways stops until the signals are fully operational on December 5. City of Surprise “Deck the Hock” holiday event Dec. 11 Come hear performances by local school choirs, drink hot cocoa, and bring an ornament to help decorate one of our eight themed trees! Register for Winter 2019 City of Surprise Adult Sports Leagues Registration opens Dec. 3 for softball, kickball, flag football, indoor volleyball and soccer. Shop the Artisan Treasures Holiday Affair this weekend at Surprise Stadium Over 100 local artists and vendors will be selling artisan treasures on Saturday, Nov. 24 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. City accepting applications for vacated D5 council seat The city of Surprise is currently accepting applications for the position of Councilmember District 5 (Palm) due to the selection of the incumbent, Skip Hall, as Mayor at the November 20th City Council Meeting. Put your pipes on a fat-free diet! Surprise encourages residents to properly dispose cooking grease City oil disposal locations are available through January 8, 2019 for those needing to dispose large amounts of cooking oil. Bullard Ave traffic switch planned for 11/28, signals active week of Dec 3 North and southbound traffic will be moved to lanes adjacent to the medians so crews can work on adjustments. Skip Hall selected as City of Surprise Mayor The Surprise City Council selected Skip Hall to serve as the city’s next mayor. Surprise Fire-Medical hosts series of fire station open houses Residents can come out and meet the firefighters, check out the living quarters, see the fire trucks and more! City hosts free Tax Review class Class will touch on various aspects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that passed at the end of 2017. Tracy Montgomery named city’s first Emergency Operations Manager In her new role, Montgomery's focus will center around aspects of safety and security, emergency management, preparedness and planning, and organizational resiliency. Surprise Spring Training tickets on sale tomorrow Get your tickets online or over the phone beginning Saturday, November 17 at 8 a.m. (MST). Support local businesses and #ShopSmall on Nov 24 And don't forget to opt-in to the ShopSurprise text campaign by texting 'ShopSurprise' to 69000! City offices closed Nov. 22 & 23 for Thanksgiving; trash / recycling schedule change Trash and recycling collection normally scheduled for Thursday, November 22 will occur on Friday, November 23. AZ TechCelerator’s Global Concierge program wins at Best of the West City of Surprise honored at Westmarc’s annual awards ceremony on November, 15, 2018. Free Financial Fitness Classes: Medicare, Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning, Annuities Register today! Bullard Ave Improvement Project weekly update; left lane closures scheduled for November 19 Get the latest information on the Bullard Avenue Improvement Project. Surprise RideChoice public meeting Nov. 28 in advance of full program transition Join Valley Metro at the Surprise Senior Center at 11:30 a.m. to learn more about the new program. Veterans Day Parade Entry Winners Announced Thank you to everyone who came out to honor our service men and women, and an even bigger thank you to all of our veterans. My Surprise community engagement app now available in Apple Store, Google Play Download My Surprise today! Santa’s Workshop offers extended hours this year This is a free event where kids can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy milk and cookies! Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival at Surprise Stadium Nov. 18 Come enjoy delicious food and live music by Flashback from 4-8 p.m.! Oracle ITA National Fall Tennis Championship finals this weekend in Surprise; watch live or on ESPN Admission is free! ESPN to air men’s and women’s singles finals LIVE on ESPN3 and the ESPN app. Get trained as a tax preparation volunteer & provide free tax help Help families this tax season by volunteering to be a tax preparer, greeter, tax return closer or interpreter. Celebrate with us at the 17th Annual Surprise Party Experience holiday fun Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at the Surprise Recreation Campus! Bullard Ave Improvement Project weekly update; traffic signal work at Acoma Nov 12 & 13 Surprise police officers will assist with traffic control while crews work to stand the signal poles at the Bullard & Acoma intersection. Royals, Rangers announce 2019 Spring Training Game Times; Tickets On Sale Nov 17 The 2019 schedule features a majority of games beginning at 1:05 p.m. The schedule also highlights five night games including Fireworks Night – presented by Jimmy John’s! City offices closed Monday for Veterans Day; trash / recycling schedule change Join us for a parade honoring our veterans on Monday, Nov. 12. Mayor Wolcott announces plans to resign; succession process set per code City of Surprise Mayor Sharon Wolcott announced her intention to resign at Tuesday’s Regular Council Meeting. City proposes utility rate adjustment for solid waste services; no increase for water, wastewater If the proposed solid waste rate is approved by Council in February, the rate would be effective July 1, 2019. County releases D1 city election results District 1 city election unofficial results. Shop at Surprise Super Swap Meet on November 10 More than 60 vendors will have new and used treasures on display! Council appoints Michael Frazier as new City Manager The Surprise City Council unanimously voted to appoint Michael Frazier as the Surprise City Manager at their Regular Meeting on November 6. Surprise Stadium to host 13th Annual Arizona Fall League Fall Stars Game Nov. 3 This dual in the desert will showcase the best performers from the AFL East - Mesa Solar Sox, Salt River Rafters and Scottsdale Scorpions against the best of the AFL West – Glendale Desert Dogs, Peoria Javelinas and our own Surprise Saguaros! DevelopNEXT: Drafts of Land Development Ordinances Chapters 101-103 Now Online Review the drafts and provide comments! Bullard Ave Improvement Project weekly update; signal poles installed at Acoma Nov 8 & 9 Surprise police will assist with traffic control while crews post new signal poles at Bullard and Acoma. Task Force Votes on ways to honor combat-wounded veteran Brian Mancini The City's Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force will present two recommendations for ways in which to honor the late Brian Mancini, to the City Council at their December 4th Work Session. Oracle ITA National Fall Tennis Tournament Championships & community events set for Surprise Tennis The nation’s top singles and doubles players will gather in Surprise. Plus, sign up for a doubles tournament for a chance to win a cash prize! City of Surprise recognized for exemplary event production and promotion The city earned several awards at the 24th Annual APS Arizona Talent in Events Concepts Awards Competition. Winter youth sports registration is now open! Choose from youth basketball or kickball leagues and a variety of winter break sports camps. Mark Coronado Park closed for overseeding Nov. 5-30 Programs that currently use Mark Coronado Park will be scheduled at alternate locations during this time. SeaCa Packaging Breaks Ground on Manufacturing Facility in Surprise During Arizona Manufacturers Mo The company will bring 65 phase one jobs and an anticipated $17M capital investment. City of Surprise hosts 4th Annual Veterans Day Parade & Pancake Breakfast Nov.12 Plus, catch the Police vs. Fire-Medical charity softball game after the parade! Free Financial Fitness Classes: Medicare, Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning Register today! Bullard Ave Improvement Project weekly update Get the latest information on the multi-modal Bullard Ave Improvement Project. Arizona Fall League to host free youth “PLAY BALL” clinic Nov. 3 This clinic is open to youths, ages 5-13, at all skill levels; space is limited, register today! City’s annual Pavement Preservation Program kicks off The focus of the first phase is low-to-moderate-capacity collector roads. Traffic signal upgrades scheduled for Greenway & Reems intersection, Oct 23-25 The signal will be completely disabled on Wednesday, October 24; commuters are encouraged to use alternate routes. Surprise Council to take action on naming Michael Frazier as City Manager The Surprise City Council will consider an employment contract to name Michael Frazier as the Surprise City Manager at their Regular Meeting on November 6. Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; weekend work continues through the month of October Read the latest construction update to learn what's happening on the Bullard Ave project. City, OUAZ partner on shared-use facility agreement Surprise, City Council approved a new shared-use facility agreement with the school that supports the city's Strategic Plan and the Parks & Recreation Master Plan to expand facilities to meet community needs. Driving Wise in Surprise now includes hands-free mobile communications The distracted driving ordinance went into effect September 6, 2018; read about it now! Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; overnight work to stripe crosswalks scheduled for Oct 17 Crews will be onsite at 12 a.m. to temporarily stripe crosswalks at Sweetwater Ave and Acoma Dr. Surprise seeking sponsors, volunteers for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Celebration & Service If your business or organization would like to help sponsor the event, there are several opportunities! Students take on 6th Annual Surprise Literacy Challenge Approximately 2,500 fourth – sixth grade students are participating in this year's challenge! Tickets on sale for Sanderson Ford College Baseball Classic with 2018 National Champs Oregon State Catch the Sanderson Ford College Baseball Classic February 15-24, featuring the Oregon State Beavers, New Mexico Lobos, Gonzaga Bulldogs, Minnesota Gophers and Nebraska Cornhuskers! Arizona Fall League brings Major League Baseball’s top prospects to Surprise Stadium The Surprise Saguaros begin their season Tuesday, October 9! Enter the Surprise Party Gingerbread House Contest Prizes include ribbons and a gift card valued at $100 for first place and $50 for second place! Texas Rangers host Sun Devil Baseball this Saturday at Surprise Stadium Game starts at 6 p.m. Admission is free! Software upgrade temporarily limits cashier/call center services Oct. 12 On Friday, October 12, 2018 the City Cashier Office, at City Hall, will be closed from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. due to a scheduled software upgrade. Draft of Planning & Engineering Design Standards online as part of DevelopNext; revised timeline Give your feedback on this draft document that will eventually guide the city's design standards and development expectations. Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; traffic pattern change rescheduled to Oct 10 The traffic pattern reconfiguration, Bullard Ave to Cholla St, has been rescheduled for Wednesday, October 10. Theatre, Poetry, Art & more! Details on October Arts Events in Surprise There are fun events for all ages! Council approves first Master License Agreement to support future wireless services In an effort to support the future of wireless services within Surprise, the City Council approved a Master License Agreement with AT&T Wireless at their Regular Meeting Tuesday night. City of Surprise Receives International Economic Development Award for Retail Survey The survey was recognized by the International Economic Development Council in the Business Retention and Expansion category. Grand Canyon Field Trip for Teens Oct. 13 This fun-filled day will include shuttling to different canyon overlooks, visiting the Grand Canyon Village and trading post, hiking and group activities. Election 2018 Information; Voter Registration Closes Oct. 9 The General Election is Tuesday, November 6. Update on Flooded Roads, Sandbag Locations Remember that it is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters. When you come to a flooded area, please “Turn Around Don’t Drown.” Surprise City Hall goes purple for domestic violence awareness Learn how you can join the city and state in raising awareness about domestic violence. Free sandbags available for flood protection; public reminded to report flooded streets Residents are asked to bring their own shovel to fill the bags. Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; new traffic pattern in place Oct 4 Work to switch traffic to the lanes west of the medians begins at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 3. New date for Task Force meeting to honor veteran Brian Mancini The next meeting of the City's Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force has been rescheduled to October 30 at 6 p.m. in City Council Chambers at City Hall. City partners to offer entrepreneurship training program for veterans & their spouses Space is limited to the first 40 registrants; reserve your seat for the October program. District 1 City Council Election Update After extensive legal review, including consultation and obtaining the legal opinion of outside counsel, the City Attorney’s office has issued a statement regarding the election. Community Outreach Program Funding Awarded The program assists non-profit organizations in providing programs and events that benefit Surprise residents. Surprise Fiesta Grande Celebration October 13! Join us for a classic car show, flavorful food trucks, festive beverages, kids play zone, piñata plaza and more! Parent & Tot Tennis class open for registration Have fun with your little one while they learn the game of tennis! Class is for children ages 2-4. Household Hazardous Waste Collection set for Oct. 13 Drop off unwanted paint, electronics and other hazardous waste. This event is free and for Surprise residents only! RideChoice Update: Choice to enroll in new program or keep existing program thru Nov. Beginning October 1, current RideChoice customers who reside in Surprise can either remain in the current RideChoice program through November or enroll in the new program. Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; weekend work scheduled for Sept. 29 Read the latest update on the Bullard Avenue Multi-Modal Improvement project. Surprise partners with Perfect Game to host Fall National Championships for club baseball teams Top club baseball teams from across the U.S. will play at Surprise Recreation Campus for one of Perfect Game’s premier national championship tournaments Sept. 21-24. Free Financial Fitness Classes: Medicare, Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning Register today and reserve your spot! ADOT Loop 303 Pavement Preservation Project: I-10 to Happy Valley Pkwy The project is scheduled to begin late Friday, Sept. 21, and is scheduled for completion by 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 22. Volunteer for Surprise Day of Service on October 6 & help beautify Surprise Show your community pride by helping with various community services projects! Fall Break Camp Registration Opens This fun-filled camp for 1st - 6th graders will be offered October 15-19. Taller de Medicare para hispanoparlantes / Medicare workshop for Spanish speakers Asista a un taller de Medicare el 25 de Septiembre. Come to a Medicare workshop designed for Spanish speakers on September 25, Bullard Improvement Project update; project remains on schedule to be substantially complete in Nov Landscaping irrigation, protected bike lanes and two travel lanes in each direction, are on schedule to be completed in November. Movie Night at Surprise Stadium Featuring Disney Pixar’s Cars 3 Join us for a free showing on Saturday, September 29! Gates open at 6 p.m., and the movie begins at 7 p.m. Task Force discusses ways to honor combat-wounded veteran Brian Mancini The City's Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force was presented with first-draft concepts to honor the late Brian Mancini, at their meeting on September 11. Surprise Transit Study poll asks residents to weigh in on potential public transit funding options The online poll will be available until 5 p.m. September 28. Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival series is back Join us September 23 for live music, craft beers and wine, delicious food trucks and other outdoor fun! RideChoice open houses set to review new service enhancements Surprise customers of Valley Metro’s RideChoice transportation program will see simplified ride booking and payment experiences, increased trip allowances, and an expanded provider network – including a new partnership with Lyft, effective October 1, 2018. Amber alert for missing teen cancelled The Amber alert issued for 14 year old Aubrey Gardner on September 9th, 2018 has been cancelled. Amber alert issued for missing teen An Amber Alert has been issued for a teen missing out of Surprise. 14 year old Aubrey Gardner was reported as missing from her home in Surprise on September 8, 2018. Aubrey is described as a white female, approximately 5’7” tall and 110 lbs in weight with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a white T-Shirt with cartoon characters Lilo and Stitch, blue jeans, and skateboard shoes with roses imprinted on the toes. Overnight closure of Waddell & Litchfield intersection Sept. 10-14 Intersection will be closed nightly from 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. for pavement preservation work. Detours will be in place. Surprise, DUSD win national award for video showing dangers of drunk driving The video aims to raise awareness about the dangers and life-changing consequences of drunk and distracted driving. City of Surprise hosts industrial focused job fair Sept. 14 Meet local employers like IRIS USA, Southwest Products, Intrepid Tool Industries, Trimaco, Felix Construction Company, Janus International Group and more! August 28th Primary Election results now final Final Official city election results released by the Maricopa County Elections Department. Learn to play tennis at Surprise Tennis University Learn the fundamental skills of tennis in this 11-week program for adults. Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; traffic signal foundation work begins at Sweetwater Sidewalks on both sides of Bullard remain open however sidewalks at Sweetwater may be closed intermittently while work is occurring. RideChoice transportation program adds new, enhanced features for Surprise residents this fall New program will offer expanded provider network and simplified booking process. Registration opens for City of Surprise youth volleyball, tee-ball, baseball and softball Register by September 22! Join us! Transit Feasibility Workshop on Sept 18; hear the results & see live transportation option The final public workshop of the Transit Feasibility Study will be held in the City Hall Community Room, 16000 N. Civic Center Plaza, from 5-7 p.m. City of Surprise distracted driving law goes into effect 9/6 Driving and using mobile devices that are not operating in a hands-free mode is illegal within Surprise city limits effective September 6. Vendor spaces available for Surprise Super Swap Meet in November The swap meet will be held Saturday, November 10 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Surprise Aquatic Center parking lot. 9/11 Memorial at City Hall through September The public is invited to view the city’s 9/11 Memorial in the lobby of City Hall throughout the month of September. Task Force working to honor late Veteran resident Brian Mancini will meet 9/11 The community is invited to attend this meeting of the Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force as they continue to discuss ways in which to honor Mancini. Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; new traffic pattern in place Sept. 4 North and southbound traffic will be moved to the travel lanes on the east side of the medians, Greenway to Peoria. Left turns will be maintained at all intersections. Major League Baseball announces 2019 Surprise Stadium Spring Training Schedule Major League Baseball, in conjunction with the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers, has announced the 31-game 2019 Surprise Stadium Spring Training schedule. The City of Surprise will begin its 17th season of Cactus League Spring Training on Saturday, February 23 with the Royals taking on the Rangers. UPDATED: Early Unofficial Primary Election Council votes announced Early Unofficial city election results released by the Maricopa County Elections Department as of September 3. The County is still processing Election Day ballots. The results will be updated as the city receives the latest updates. City offices closed Sept. 3 for Labor Day; trash / recycling schedule change City of Surprise trash and recycling customers are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day the week of September 3-7. Tot Time in Surprise - Spaces Available! Tot Time is a state licensed program that provides educational and recreational opportunities for children ages 3-5. Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; paving along medians begins next week Traffic patterns along Bullard Ave are tentatively scheduled to switch on the evening of September 3. Free Resume Seminar in Surprise on Sept. 5 Sharpen your resume writing skills and land your next interview! August 28 Primary Election results on web, TV The August 28 City Primary Election results will be posted to surpriseaz.gov and featured on Surprise TV, the city’s cable TV channel, Tuesday evening, August 28. Phoenix Business Journal recognizes Surprise Resource Center partner as Health Care Heroes finalist Congratulations to Roberta Ezratty on this great honor! City of Surprise accepting Veterans Day Parade entries Show your patriotic spirit and help honor those who have bravely served our country! City of Surprise seeks event vendors & car show entries for 5th Annual Surprise Fiesta Grande The celebration is Saturday, October 13 from 5 - 10 p.m. at the Roy Villanueva Community and Recreation Complex. Free Workshops: Medicare, Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning The city is hosting several free workshops in September. Register today! Bullard Ave Improvement Project update; Saturday work begins Aug 18 Saturday work hours will continue through the month of August, weather permitting. Decide Surprise GO Bond Pavement Preservation Projects begin in August Twelve areas are scheduled to receive treatment prior to the end of 2018! Surprise Youth Earn Arizona Career Readiness Certificates Students mastered seven core job skill areas through this program, which was offered in partnership with the Maricopa County Workforce Development Division. Join a City of Surprise Adult Sports League this fall Leagues include softball, basketball, kickball, indoor volleyball, flag football, and soccer. Cleanup Event September 8; free waste drop-off for Surprise residents It’s the perfect time to prune your landscape or clean out your garage! Registration opens for Surprise HOA Academy Great information for HOA residents, board members and managers. Bullard Ave Improvement Project update for the week of Aug 13 Concrete pours for medians, Waddell to Cactus, begin this week. Drive Wise, Surprise! Neighborhood Grant Program application now available Neighborhoods can apply for small grants to fund neighborhood events, functions, or community improvements. Council approves Distracted Driving Law Driving and using your mobile devices, that are not operating in a hands-free mode, is now illegal within Surprise city limits. Bullard Ave Improvement Project weekly update; median curb, irrigation work continues Work to implement recommendations made by the Bullard Avenue Task Force continues as crews work to construct narrower medians between Greenway Road and Cholla Street. Surprise Fire-Medical team with Ottawa Football in training partnership Spring Practice for the Ottawa University (OUAZ) Football Team included a new exercise- training with Surprise Fire-Medical Department's 300Fit physical fitness trainers. Surprise offers tips, reminders to help drivers navigate back-to-school traffic Make sure you know school zone traffic laws and have a plan for the back-to-school commute! Surprise wins award for adaptive recreation program offered in partnership with Royals, Rangers Athletes had the opportunity to work on their baseball skills with some of their favorite Major League players. Bullard Ave Improvement Project weekly update; concrete pours begin for narrower medians The speed limit will continue to be 25 miles per hour in the construction area except in school zones where the speed limit is 15 miles per hour. Spring Training a tourism hit in Surprise Spring Training brings in the people and the money to Arizona and as a proud Cactus League city, Surprise is feeling the benefits! AZ TechCelerator launches new, responsive website Let us help you spark innovation; visit the new site and schedule a tour today! City offers Folklorico Traditional Dance Class for youth The program includes both dance instruction and an opportunity to perform at the City of Surprise Fiesta Grande event! Cactus League produces windfall for Arizona economy $373 million for Arizona’s Gross Domestic Product; Total Economic Impact is $644.2 million Dive-in Movie featuring Disney’s “Coco” on August 4 at Surprise Aquatic Center Tickets are $5 for Surprise residents and $8 for non-residents. Concessions will be available for purchase. Surprise hosts Ken Griffey Jr. World Series & Babe Ruth Pacific Southwest Regional tournaments Catch the last of the summer baseball tournament series in Surprise; games begin today! Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1, 3) Amendment Comment Period and Public Hearings The City has initiated a substantial amendment to both the Neighborhood Stabilization Program 1 (NSP1) and Neighborhood Stabilization Program 3 (NSP3) action plans to re-allocate NSP funds to new activities. These amendments are supplements to the existing Annual Action Plans previously submitted to, and approved by, HUD. Bullard Ave Improvement Project median work progresses, Greenway Rd to Cholla St Drivers should expect reduced speed limits in the construction area; Drive Wise, Surprise, so everyone gets home safely! Upcoming music, theater performances at West Valley Arts HQ in Surprise Catch the opening performance of the popular Lunchtime Theater series and the first performance of Arts HQ's new Sunset Series! City offering up to $125 rebate for installing smart irrigation controllers Rebates will be processed until April 30, 2019 or fund depletion, whichever occurs first. Apply today! New Adaptive Signal Control Technology activated along Bell Rd, Cotton Ln to 114th Ave Pilot project aims to improve traffic flow, reduce travel time for Bell Road drivers. Updated: Bullard Ave Improvement Project work continues in the medians, Greenway to Waddell Please be aware of project crew members, bicyclists and pedestrians in the area. Drive Wise, Surprise! Don Mattingly 17U Baseball World Series kicks off Friday in Surprise Watch 16 teams from California, Texas, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona as they compete for the World Series Championship! Surprise to update development & design standards; public meeting July 24 Our development and design standards are getting a comprehensive update, and we want you to join as we DevelopNEXT! Touring outdoor photography exhibit “Neighbors” comes to Surprise, showcases residents Exhibit is an inclusive, expansive visual document of America through its people. Become a Volunteer on Surprise Fire-Medical’s Community Emergency Response Team Surprise Fire-Medical is offering free training for residents interested in volunteering in an emergency or disaster situation. Free Workshops: Medicare 101 & Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! Free Classes: Wills vs Trusts and Estate Planning Register today! Donate food to help erase hunger & your library fines! Maricopa County Library District’s annual Food for Fines program will take place July 6 – 15. ADOT pavement improvement work scheduled on Grand Avenue (US 60), 163rd Ave - CAP canal Lane restrictions will be in place weekdays from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., July 11-27. Bullard Ave construction project scheduled to begin July 9 When complete, the multi-modal roadway will feature new traffic signals, raised medians and protected bike lanes. Revised - Task Force begins work to honor late Veteran resident Brian Mancini The city’s Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force met, Thursday, June 28, to begin discussing ideas in which to honor the late Brian Mancini. Mark Coronado Park temporarily closed for event preparation The park will reopen Wednesday, July 4 at 3:00 p.m. Celebrate safely; know the law on fireworks use in Surprise Live in a HOA community? Make sure you check your neighborhood's rules before you spark up! City offices closed July 4 for Independence Day; trash / recycling schedule change Plus, don't miss out on the city's Fourth of July celebrations! Surprise hosts USA Baseball National Team Championships – 16U West Division Watch more than 45 baseball teams compete for a championship title when the USA Baseball National Team Championships – 16U West Division comes Surprise July 1-6. Register for youth fall sports leagues & classes The city is offering soccer and flag football leagues, as well as skills classes in basketball, baseball, softball and volleyball. Register July 2 - 21. Free Classes: Wills vs Trusts and Estate Planning Register today! Connie Mack World Series qualifier kicks off this Friday in Surprise This is your chance to see top talent from California, Nevada, Arizona and Mexico play right here in Surprise! Council adopts Surprise Arts & Culture Master Plan, Tourism Strategic Plan Learn how the plans will guide the growth of arts and culture and tourism in the city. City Council receives Decide Surprise bond projects and finance update City of Surprise staff provided City Council with a Decide Surprise General Obligation Bond projects and financial update at Tuesday night’s Regular Meeting. Free Workshops: Medicare 101 & Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! Celebrate Fourth of July with the City of Surprise This free event includes a rookie league baseball game at Surprise Stadium, live music at Mark Coronado Park and fireworks to end the night! Stay cool at the pool this Fourth of July Celebrate July 4 with games and activities, patriotic music and a poolside view of the City of Surprise annual fireworks show! S&P upgrades city’s utility revenue bonds S&P Global ratings has assigned an AA+ rating for the city’s Series 2018 senior-lien utility system revenue obligations. Heat warning this week; hydration stations available Plus, know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness. Dive-in Movie at Surprise Aquatic Center to feature Jumanji Event is Saturday, June 23. Get your tickets today! City of Surprise seeking instructors and ideas for Special Interest Classes Special interest classes include things like dance and fitness, art, preschool, cooking, STEM and more! Surprise youth showcase innovative solutions at Entrepreneurship Boot Camp Local high school students identified a community need and developed a product or service to address the need. Task Force reconvenes to honor late Veteran resident Brian Mancini At the request of the Surprise City Council the Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force will reconvene, Thursday, June 28, to begin the process to identifying possible ways in which to honor the late Brian Mancini. City opens application process for Community Outreach Program The Surprise Community Outreach Program is an effort to support and grow qualified local programs and events to improve the health and welfare of Surprise residents. City of Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commission Vacancy The City of Surprise is currently accepting applications for Arts & Cultural Advisory Commission. Dysart Road restrictions, Cactus to Peoria, beginning June 18 Dysart Rd will be restricted to one lane in each direction from Cactus Rd to Peoria Ave through August 5. Wilson Premier Championships West Baseball Tournament kicks off Friday in Surprise This four-day tournament, featuring over 70 teams from across the U.S., will showcase the talents of some of the biggest high school baseball stars! City Council adopts safety-focused FY2019 Budget Budget addresses safety needs for Information Technology, Police and Fire-Medical. Try the Surprise Senior Center for free in June We’re offering free memberships to all new participants for the month of June. Several classes, programs and social events are also free for the month. Free HOA Connection Class on Fair Housing Laws, Public Safety Outreach Programs Class is Monday, June 11, 1-3 p.m. Register today! Surprise Transit Study needs your help planning most popular routes The online interactive Wikimap launches today; a public meeting to answer study-related questions is scheduled for June 13 at Surprise City Hall. Free Classes: Wills vs Trusts and Estate Planning Register today! City of Surprise swim lesson registration opens Private and group swim lessons are available for all ages and abilities! Vietnam Veterans Memorial ‘The Moving Wall’ coming to Surprise in July The Moving Wall will be open 24 hours for viewing from July 5 at 9 a.m. – July 9 at noon. Don’t sit out the Summer! Get in the game with City of Surprise youth sports camps! Registration is now open for a variety of City of Surprise Summer Break Youth Sports Camps, including volleyball, cheerleading, baseball, softball, basketball, football, soccer and tennis. City of Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commission Vacancy The City of Surprise is currently accepting applications for the following Commissions. All Board/Commission positions are voluntary. City offices closed May 28 for Memorial Day; trash / recycling schedule change Surprise trash and recycling customers only are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day the week of May 28 – June 1. Truth In Taxation Hearing Notice Of Tax Increase IN COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 42-17107, ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES, THE CITY OF SURPRISE IS NOTIFYING ITS PROPERTY TAXPAYERS OF THE CITY OF SURPRISE'S INTENTION TO RAISE ITS PRIMARY PROPERTY TAXES OVER LAST YEAR'S LEVEL. THE CITY OF SURPRISE IS PROPOSING AN INCREASE IN PRIMARY PROPERTY TAXES OF $311,422 OR 4.2%. Free Workshops: Medicare 101 & Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! City to host urban camping discussion in June The city will host a public meeting to discuss an amendment to the city code related to urban camping on Wednesday, June 6. Surprise, Arizona@Work offering free IT Certification training beginning in June Sign up for an information session to learn more about the program including training locations and eligibility. Voters ok city water election Voters have approved the May 15th Water Election, authorizing City Council to complete negotiations with the Circle City Water Company (CCW) for the possible acquisition of the utility. 2018 Surprise Interfaith Breakfast to be held May 17; reserve your seat Only 50 seats remain for this free community celebration event. Summer Adult Sports League Registration Opens May 14 Summer leagues include: Co-Ed and Men’s Softball; Men’s Basketball; Co-Ed Kickball; Co-Ed Indoor Volleyball; 4-on-4 Flag Football, and Co-Ed and Men’s Soccer. Surprise Aquatic Center and Hollyhock Pool Open May 26 Summer pool passes are on sale now! City Council / Planning & Zoning to meet to talk Community Facilities Districts Joint meeting is Monday, May 14 at 6 p.m. in City Council Chambers. Surprise Aquatic Center hosts Itty Bitty Beach Party on May 24 Enjoy music, games, prizes, arts & crafts, pool fun and a special appearance by a magical mermaid! For kids ages 6 & under. Phoenix Business Journal ranks City of Surprise as one of Valley’s Healthiest Employers Surprise placed sixth among midsized companies. Residents love their city; focused on safety & economy in National Citizen Survey The 2018 National Citizen Survey (NCS) results reveal more than 8 in 10 residents rate the quality of life in Surprise as excellent or good; and they recommend living here. Outdoor painting party with SugarPlum Froyo at Surprise Community Park Create an art piece, with the help of an art teacher, and enjoy some frozen yogurt afterwards! Free Chest Compression Only CPR Classes offered in Surprise Classes available on June 6, June 27 and July 18. Register today! MCDOT Sun Valley Pkwy pavement rehab in Surprise begins May 7 Motorists should expect lane restrictions through July 2018. Watch the NCAA Division II Tennis Championships in Surprise May 8-12 Ticket are on sale now! “Despicable Me 3” Stadium Movie Night rescheduled to May 12 Gates will open at 6:00 p.m. and the movie will begin at 7 p.m. Loop 303 ramps at Cactus, Waddell roads restricted this weekend Access from the freeway off-ramps to eastbound Cactus or Waddell roads will not available. Union Hills & 107th Ave intersection to be closed May 4-21 Drivers should plan to use alternate routes; access will be maintained for emergency vehicles. Volunteer for Surprise Day of Service on May 12 Give back by helping with painting, cleaning/trash removal, landscaping and more! City offering Recreation Day Camp at Sierra Montana Recreation Center With the possibility of school closures later this week, the City of Surprise Community and Recreation Services Department will be offering a Recreation Day Camp. Call to artists! Opportunity to feature art piece at Surprise City Hall Proposals are due by 5 p.m. on May 14. Join us for Surprise Safety Day on May 5 Enjoy emergency vehicle and equipment displays, water safety and CPR demos and more! Plus, we're offering free swim lesson assessments and will be conducting swim team tryouts. Free Classes: Wills vs Trusts and Estate Planning Register today! City of Surprise Talent Show Takes Center Stage April 24 Local youth, teens and adults will perform a variety of acts! Movie Night at Surprise Stadium features Despicable Me 3 Join us Saturday, April 21 on the lawn of Surprise Stadium! Free Admission. 2018 Surprise Retail Survey Results are in! Thanks to the 3,000+ people who voted! Now, see who topped the list of favorite locally-owned businesses. FY2019 Recommended Budget focuses on safety City Manager Bob Wingenroth presented a Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Recommended Budget to City Council at Tuesday’s Work Session, that is built on the foundation of safety- for residents; city infrastructure/technology; and the city’s financial position. Free Workshops: Medicare 101 & Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! 2018 State of the City Address is future-focused Growing a downtown, building community wealth, enhancing public transit via autonomous vehicle options and highlighting ways to maintain a Connected Surprise, were all addressed in Mayor Sharon Wolcott’s 2018 State of the City speech, Monday night from West-MEC’s Lightbox. Surprise Senior Center closed today due to power outage All activities and Senior Bus routes have been cancelled. Surprise public transit study continues; public meetings planned for later this year Your public comments can be shared online at surpriseaz.gov/transitstudy throughout the study process. Local youth invited to compete in MLB Pitch, Hit & Run and Jr. Home Run Derby competitions The City of Surprise will host both a Major League Baseball Jr. Home Run Derby and a Pitch, Hit & Run Competition on April 21! Registration open for youth summer basketball league and sports camps Sports Camps include basketball, football, baseball, softball, volleyball, soccer and cheerleading! Shop at Surprise Super Meet on Saturday More than 50 vendors will have new and used treasures on display from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Surprise Aquatic Center. Surprise Senior Services hosts Seniors Prom May 1 Music, dancing and a delicious catered lunch! S&P upgrades city’s GO Bond rating as Council authorizes first Decide Surprise Bond sale The Surprise City Council authorized staff to proceed with the first bond sale related to the General Obligation Bond Election approved by voters last fall. Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival April 8 Live music, a variety of delicious food trucks and an assortment of craft beers and wines provided by State 48 Brewery. Surprise TV website boasts new layout, smart device compatible design Watch City Council Meetings, popular programs and so much more on your favorite device! City to award three $20k Micro-enterprise Grants to eligible Surprise businesses Applicants must be Surprise-based small businesses and meet additional eligibility requirements; applications are due by 2 p.m. April 30, 2018. Surprise AZ TechCelerator awarded international soft landings designation In addition to being a member of the InBIA global network, the designation brings global visibility and collaboration opportunities. We heard you! Revised draft of Surprise Arts & Culture Master Plan ready for feedback Read the revised draft and offer your comments by April 8! Vote for your favorite local businesses in the 2018 Surprise Retail Survey Recognize your favorite local restaurants and retailers! Survey closes April 13. Household Hazardous Waste Collection set for April 14 Get rid of unwanted paint, electronics and other hazardous waste at our free collection event! Don't miss the Time of Your Life at next Surprise Pops Band concert The Surprise Pops Band's concert is set for Sunday, April 15, at the Valley Vista High School Performing Arts Center. Join us for Surprise Spring Egg-stravaganza on March 31 Kids 10 years and younger can join the search for more than 50,000 candy and toy-filled plastic eggs! State of the City is set April 16; at the Lightbox Join Mayor Sharon Wolcott and the Surprise City Council for the 2018 State of the City Address, Monday, April 16, at the new West-MEC Northwest Campus! Science & technology come out to play at Surprise SciTech Festival April 21 Come check out interactive SciTech booths, an incredible line-up of speakers, music and more! Free educational series teaches parents how to ‘Raise a Reader’ Classes begin March 27 and occur each Tuesday for eight weeks from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free Classes: Wills vs Trusts and Estate Planning Register today! Vote on Surprise’s water future! New info added to website, public meeting dates set Surprise voters will decide whether or not to authorize the purchase of a water service company in a May 15 Special Election. Free Workshops: Medicare 101 & Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! City of Surprise builds family a home through grant program Friends, family, Habitat for Humanity staff and city staff and leadership, took part in a key presentation ceremony March 7. Council approves new sign code with increased options for permanent & temporary signage The update aims to balance business needs with aesthetics, while meeting the requirements of law. City opens summer job program for teens; apply by April 5 Program open to income-eligible Surprise teens between the ages of 15 – 19. National Citizens Survey now online If you live in Surprise and did not receive a National Citizens Survey (NCS) by mail, you can now take the survey online! New Senior Services Exercise Program Begins March 15 The class will focus on deep breathing, joint openers, core stability, balance and relaxation. Youth Paint and Pizza Night Mar. 6 Youth, ages 11-17, can enjoy a night of painting, pizza, music and FUN! Surprise public transit survey is now available online Share your opinion on the future of public transportation in Surprise. Free classes on IRAs and Estate Planning Police investigating trespassing at Ottawa University campus in Surprise; investigation continues Surprise Police have identified the suspect in this morning’s trespassing incident at Ottawa University, as 31-year old Steven Ziya. Registration underway for Spring Break Camp This camp, for Kindergarten – 6th grade, offers fun activities that include arts and crafts, games, sports and field trips. Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival is Mar. 11 in Surprise! Choose from a variety of delicious food trucks, as well as an assortment of craft beers and wines provided by State 48 Brewery. Free admission! City of Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commission Vacancy The City of Surprise is currently accepting applications for the Community & Recreation Services Commission. Surprise Stadium ranked #1 AZ Spring Training Stadium by USA TODAY Surprise Stadium also topped all 23 Arizona and Florida spring training facilities in the categories of facility and fan-experience! City of Surprise hosts Teen Laser Tag Tournament For youth ages 12-17. Register today! Surprise hosts meeting to discuss services available to homeless individuals, families This informational meeting is open to the public however space is limited; reserve your seat by calling 623.222.1620. NOTICE: This class is full Project to restore Bullard Ave to two lanes each direction, additional features, funding approved The project is anticipated to begin in summer 2018. Registration open for Special Interest Classes – dance, fitness, music, pet CPR & more Classes available for ages 2 through adult. Public transportation in Surprise? Your feedback is needed to develop a plan Help Surprise create a plan that is representative of what options would be most successful and where! City sets plans to honor former CRS Director Coronado The Surprise City Council, Tuesday night, agreed to recognize the late Community and Recreation Services (CRS) Director Mark A. Coronado's service to Surprise. Funding released for Decide Surprise bond projects Design work and some land acquisition deals can commence on several of the Decide Surprise General Obligation Bond Projects, following City Council’s action Tuesday night. Seeking feedback on Surprise Arts & Culture Master Plan draft Review the draft, and help shape the final version! Free Workshops: Medicare 101 & Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! Vendor spaces available for Surprise Super Swap Meet Do you have new or used items to sell? Reserve a space at Surprise Super Swap Meet! Sidewalk ramp replacement on Bullard begins Feb. 19 Daytime lane restrictions are anticipated along Bullard from Cholla Street to Windrose Drive through Feb. 23. Free classes on Wills & Trusts, Estate Planning Register today! Cleanup Event March 10, free residential waste drop-off for residents Surprise residents can drop off up to 2,000 pounds of residential waste free-of-charge at the Northwest Regional Landfill. City offices closed Feb. 19 for Presidents’ Day; trash / recycling schedule change Due to the holiday, City of Surprise trash and recycling customers ONLY are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day the week of February 19-23. NEW! Spring Break Running Camp for youth Three-day camp that will teach the fundamentals of running, including: form, stretching, warm-up and drills. Babe Ruth Baseball League Registration Now Open We are also looking for volunteer coaches for the 13-15 Babe Ruth Division. Apply for the Surprise Youth Council and help make a difference in your city! Collaborate with local leaders to give youth a voice in city issues and help solve youth issues through awareness campaigns, service projects, and community-building events. Help City of Surprise kick off Spring Training at the Mayor’s Welcome Back Lunch Get insight into the 2018 spring training season direct from the Rangers and Royals managers and staff! Vendor opportunities available for Spring Egg-stravaganza event This annual community event offers promotional opportunities for interested businesses and organizations. MCDOT announces start date for adaptive signal project on Bell, Cotton Ln - 114th Ave Drivers can expect intermittent lane restrictions during off-peak, daytime travel hours. City begins FY19 budget discussions The Recommended Budget is scheduled for release in April. Council appoints Hayden to serve District 2 The Surprise City Council appointed Nancy Hayden to serve as the councilmember for District 2 (D2), at their Tuesday Regular Meeting. Surprise Resource Center now offers emergency food, Medicare counseling support services The new services are available to all Arizona residents; eligibility requirements may apply. City of Surprise Tot Time Program – space available! The Tot Time Program provides educational and recreational opportunities for children ages 3-5 who are not enrolled in Kindergarten. Free Meditation Class Feb. 26 The class is for all levels of meditation experience. Former Canadian Prime Minister to visit Surprise, speak on city’s Canadian Healthcare Initiative Mr. Turner's comments will be part of the February 6 City Council Work Session presentation on the Surprise-Canada Cross Border Healthcare Initiative. Major housing rehabilitation funds available to eligible Surprise residents Limited funding available to cover major repairs such as plumbing, mechanical, electrical, heating, cooling and accessibility. Public input online for D2 applicants; Council votes February 6 All comments submitted to the City Clerk during the public input period, January 23 – January 30, have been posted to www.surpriseaz.gov/cityclerk. Share your input on pedestrian streetscapes in Maricopa County Protected bike lanes or shade - you decide! Lifeguard training & swim lesson instructor courses are open for registration The city is looking for responsible individuals, age 16+, to be lifeguards and swim instructors; and training classes are coming up! New 2018 bat rule change for Cal Ripken and Babe Ruth baseball As of January 1, 2018, the new USA Baseball Bat Standard was implemented. Inaugural Surprise Spring Training 5K leads off 2018 season 5K starts at 7 p.m. on March 2 at Surprise Stadium. Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival is Feb. 11 in Surprise! Choose from a variety of delicious food trucks, as well as an assortment of craft beers and wines provided by State 48 Brewery. City hosts free Medicare workshop Get info on the elements of Medicare Parts A and B; Medicare Advantage plans (Part C); Prescription Drug plans (Part D); and Medicare Supplements (Medigap). Say it, Surprise! National Citizens Survey coming soon What do you love about living in Surprise? What services do you value most? What can the city do better to improve the quality of life in our hometown? You can share your thoughts in the 2018 National Citizens Survey (NCS)! Public input opens for D2 applicants; Council votes February 6 The public input period for the applicants seeking the District 2 Council appointment is open through Tuesday, January 30 at 5 p.m. Free Seminar on Living Trusts Versus Wills Register today! City of Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commission Vacancies The City of Surprise is currently accepting applications for Board/Commissions. Free Estate Planning Class Feb. 8 Register today! Surprise Police release statement regarding sex offender notifications In early December 2017 the Surprise Police Department became aware of a situation regarding our processes for sex offender community notifications. Join us for Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festival this weekend! Enjoy live music, a variety of food trucks, as well as an assortment of craft beers and wines provided by State 48 Brewery. D2 applicant names released; interviews on January 23 Seven residents of District 2 have applied to fill the vacancy on City Council, following the death of Councilmember Jim Hayden. Surprise Youth Council hosts second Level 4 gathering Feb. 24 Admission is free; atttendees must show photo ID to be admitted. City Council names Remley Vice Mayor The Surprise City Council selected District 4 Councilmember Ken Remley to serve as Vice Mayor at their regular meeting Tuesday night. City releases procurement schedule for Decide Surprise bond projects The city of Surprise has released the anticipated procurement schedule for some of the bond projects approved by voters last November. Jan. 28 Pops Band concert brings Big Band music to Surprise Valley Vista High School Performing Arts Center, 15550 N Parkview Place; doors open at 2:15p. Register for the 2018 Surprise City Academy & learn how your city government works Learn about the city directly from the mayor, councilmembers, city manager and city staff! Surprise Fine Art & Wine Festival Returns January 12-14 Experience fine art, great wine, live music and a variety of tasty food options. City offices closed Jan. 15 for MLK Day; trash / recycling schedule change Trash and recycling collection will be postponed by one day the week of January 15-19 for City of Surprise customers. Task Force to send options to Council for ways to honor former CRS Director At the Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force’s January 9th meeting, the group reviewed previously discussed options, with identified approximate costs, for ways the city could honor the late Community and Recreation Services(CRS) Director Mark A. Coronado. Join city of Surprise for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Celebration & Service on Jan. 13 Be part of an event honoring the life and work of Dr. King! Event starts 8:30 a.m. in the City Hall courtyard. Free Classes on Smart Investment Planning The city is hosting two free classes on investment planning for anyone preparing for retirement or already retired. Register today! City of Surprise spring youth sports leagues and classes open for registration Jan. 8 We are offering volleyball, softball, tee-ball and baseball leagues; a soccer camp; and baseball and softball classes. City sets meetings to discuss future development in the Original Town Site The City of Surprise will host public engagement meetings in January and February to discuss new development opportunities in the area. Surprise Police Host Shred-A-Thon and Prescription Drug Take-Back Event Jan. 13 Join us for this free event on Saturday, January 13 from 7-10 a.m.! Surprise Stadium Box Office opens Saturday for Spring Training, College Baseball Tickets Surprise Stadium will host 31 Spring Training games this season, and two NCAA college baseball tournaments! City accepting applications for D2 council seat vacated by death of Hayden The city of Surprise is currently accepting applications for the position of Councilmember District 2 (Cottonwood) due to the death of Councilmember Jim Hayden. Free Workshop: IRA Basics, Strategies & Laws Register today! Students get inside look at judicial system through city career program; accepting applications The city's Court Exploring Program provides youth with an opportunity to participate in a unique interactive worksite-based career education exploring program. Sign Code update process continues with new draft online, meetings scheduled for early 2018 Give your feedback online or at a meeting! Free Seminar on Living Trusts Versus Wills Register today! Surprise Fire-Medical Department awarded 2018 GOHS grants Grants will fund car seats and associated safety brochures and a DUI mock crash event. Celebrate safely; know the law on fireworks use in Surprise Remember, it is illegal to use consumer fireworks on public property including areas like streets, sidewalks and parks. Surprise Fire-Medical Department awarded a Mechanical CPR Device from Firehouse Subs Public Safety The safety equipment will be installed on the fire department's primary ambulance response unit. City announces the passing of Councilmember Jim Hayden District 2 Councilmember Jim Hayden passed away this afternoon, following a short illness. Registration continues for youth winter break camp and sports camps There’s still time to register for City of Surprise winter camps! Surprise adds new dates for Sunday in the Park Food Truck Festivals Join us Sunday, January 21 from noon to 4 p.m. at 8-Acre Park for live music, food trucks and craft beer! City accepting applications for Community Development Block Grant- funded public service activities A pre-application meeting is scheduled for January 10, 2018 at Surprise City Hall. City offices closed Dec. 25 & Jan. 1 for holidays; trash / recycling schedule change City of Surprise trash and recycling customers ONLY are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day both the week of Christmas and New Year’s. City offers Christmas tree drop-off sites; holiday recycling tips Drop-off sites are open December 26, 2017 – January 13, 2018. Task Force narrows options to honor former CRS Director; requests cost analysis At the Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force’s December 14th meeting, the group reviewed all public recommendations they received identifying ways the city could honor the late Community and Recreation Services(CRS) Director Mark A. Coronado. City hosts ribbon cutting Ceremony for new pickleball courts Saturday, December 16 at 10 a.m. at Surprise Community Park. Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex offers Winter Tennis Camps for ages 7-18 Registration is underway! CALL OF ELECTION Notice is hereby given that the City of Surprise, Arizona will hold elections as follows: Primary Election: Tuesday, August 28, 2018 General Election: Tuesday, November 6, 2018 (If Applicable) Surprise releases Canadian visitor survey to advance cross-border healthcare initiative Survey will help the community’s efforts to identify the feasibility of providing access to Canadian healthcare in Surprise. Help decorate for our “Deck the Hock” holiday event Donations of new or handmade ornaments for one of six themed trees are being accepted through Dec. 18! 2018 Royals, Rangers Surprise Spring Training: Online pre-sale begins December 9! Fans can purchase tickets beginning Saturday, December 9 at 8 a.m. (MST) through a special online pre-sale at www.SurpriseSpringTraining.com. Free Public Art Bus Tour to Local Artist’s Studio Take a free bus tour to the home studio of local artist Joe Tyler on Saturday, January 20. Registration underway for Winter Break Camp For kindergarten through 6th grade. City of Surprise hosts Bubble Football game for teens Compete in a football game where you will be wearing a bubble instead of pads. For ages 13-17. Second Sundays in the Park Food Truck Festival Dec. 10 Enjoy live entertainment, unique food trucks and local craft beer! Karate classes registering now! New monthly karate classes for ages 4 and up! Free Seminar on Living Trusts Versus Wills Register today! Free Workshop: IRA Basics, Strategies & Laws Register today! City presents Cookies & Crafts with Santa Register for this fun-filled event! For ages 3-9. Calling youth artists for literacy-themed bookmark contest Enter by Jan. 31, 2018 for a chance to win great some prizes! Free tax planning class Get an overview of tax basics, learn what’s new for 2017 and more! Join us for Surprise Party on Dec. 1 & 2 A variety of holiday-themed activities and entertainment experiences. Admission is free with a canned food or toy donation benefiting Sanderson Ford Operation Santa Claus. City of Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commission Vacancies Vacancies in Municipal Property Corporation, Audit Committee, Disability Advisory Commission. Nov. 25 is Small Business Saturday in Surprise Shop small and support our city’s local businesses! Royals, Rangers announce 2018 Spring Training schedule The Surprise Stadium will host 31 games this season which include matchups against all teams in the Cactus League and two double headers March 12 and March 17. Task Force sets 2nd meeting to review ways to honor former CRS Director The public is encouraged to attend Free Workshop: Simplify Your Retirement Take the complexity out of retirement income planning by attending a free workshop on December 11. Free Meditation Class Dec. 11 For all levels of meditation experience! City offices closed Nov. 23 & 24 for Thanksgiving; trash / recycling schedule change Trash and recycling collection normally scheduled for Thursday, November 23 will occur on Friday, November 24. City of Surprise congratulates award-winning Veterans Day Parade entries Best in category awards announced. Thank you to all parade participants! ShopSurprise daily deals are back; campaign will include businesses citywide Text ‘ShopSurprise’ (one word) to 85100 to opt in and have daily deals sent directly to your phone! Get trained as a tax preparation volunteer & provide free tax help IRS Certification / Tax Law training classes will be held late November through January. Registration Underway for City of Surprise Adult Sports Winter Leagues Sports include Co-Ed Kickball, Co-Ed Indoor Volleyball, 4 on 4 Flag Football, Co-Ed and Men’s Soccer leagues, Co-Ed and Men’s Softball and Men’s Basketball. Put your pipes on a fat-free diet! Surprise encourages residents to properly dispose cooking grease Large amounts of grease, such as oil used to fry your turkey, can be disposed at one of the city’s oil disposal locations between November 18, 2017 and January 6, 2018. Shop Surprise Super Swap Meet on Saturday More than 60 vendors will have new and used treasures on display from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Surprise Aquatic Center! Free class offers tips on preventing identity theft The financial consequences of identity theft can be devastating. Help protect yourself and your family by getting informed at a free class. Registration open for youth basketball and kickball leagues, baseball, softball and basketball camp Resident and Non-Resident registration will be held thru November 22 with a Special Saturday registration on November 18. Union Hills & 111th Ave intersection to be closed Nov 13-29 The closure is required to install a portion of storm drain pipe along Union Hills Dr. Voters ok bonds to build 10 projects Voters have approved general obligation funding for projects related to Public Safety, Traffic Congestion Mitigation and Pavement Preservation, according to final results released by the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office. Seeking vendors, car show entries & gingerbread house contest participants for Surprise Party Surprise Party is a free event featuring fun for the whole family. It's happening December 1 from 5–9 p.m. and December 2 from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. at the Surprise Recreation Campus. Council sends Water Company acquisition to voters on May ballot Surprise voters will decide whether or not to authorize the purchase and acquisition of a water service company in a May 15 Special Election. City Council approved sending the question to ballot at their November 7th Regular Meeting. Live country music performance at “Second Sundays in the Park” Nov.12 Free event! Join us in the center of Surprise Community Park from 2-4 p.m. City offices closed Friday for Veterans Day; no change to trash / recycling schedule Veterans Day events include pancake breakfast, parade and police vs fire charity softball game. D4 meeting open to all residents for discussion on future OTS projects Residents from across the city are invited to attend the next District 4 Community Meeting to discuss proposed improvement projects in the city’s Original Town Site (OTS). Free Meditation Class Nov. 29 Class will explore the history, benefits, and different forms of meditation, as well as current research for improving health. City’s innovative risk management program earns national recognition Surprise captures Honorable Mention in the 2017 Theodore Roosevelt Workers’ Compensation and Disability Management Awards. City wins big at Best of the West Awards Econ Dev's Mike Hoover wins President's Choice Award; Bell-Grand Business Outreach named finalist. Surprise seeking sponsors, volunteers for 2nd annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Celebration & S Join us for an exciting program celebrating Dr. King's life and then help better your community through various service projects. Surprise special events team wins multiple APS AzTEC Awards APS AzTech recognizes outstanding examples of festival and event production and promotion. 8-Acre Park closed for maintenance Closure is effective through November 29, 2017. City launches opioid addiction resource website; supports other initiatives surpriseaz.gov/opioidhelp amis to connect abusers to various local and national resources and support agencies working to end opioid abuse. Join City of Surprise for a Veterans Day Parade, Breakfast & Charity Softball Game on Nov. 11 Help us honor our service men and women. Youth Winter Break Camp registration underway Enjoy activities, arts and crafts, games, field trips and more over the holiday break! For youth in Kindergarten - 6th grade. City of Surprise wins statewide Economic Development awards City receives two AAED Golden Prospector awards in the Multimedia Promotion and Special Event categories. Council joins P&Z to discuss the city's future downtown Councilmembers and Commissioners will discuss the city's vision for a downtown, planned in the area surrounding the Civic Center, from Bell to Greenway roads and Litchfield Road to Bullard Avenue. November 7 Special Election results on web, TV Election results will be posted Tuesday evening, November 7. Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex offers All Access Pass for Kids 7-10 This beginners program allows kids to take lessons four days a week, participate in bonus play days, have unlimited walk-on practice time and free equipment rentals. Free Workshop: Simplify Your Retirement Take the complexity out of retirement income planning. Register today! Thanks to all Art Week participants; Arts & Culture Master Plan Survey Closes Oct. 31 Let us know what types of arts and cultural activities and venues you would like to see in Surprise! ADOT pavement improvement project requires travel and turn restrictions on Grand, Loop 303 to Happy The work is scheduled to begin on Monday, Oct. 30 and continue through the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 8. Bat rule changes for Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken in 2018 See what bats are needed for the upcoming baseball, softball and t-ball seasons. City seeks arts & crafts vendors, car show participants, promotional vendors for Surprise Party The event runs Friday, December 1 from 5–9 p.m. and Saturday, December 2 from 11a.m.–5 p.m. at the Surprise Recreation Campus. Surprise introducing new recreation registration application on Nov 6 REC-Connect will be replaced on Nov. 6 by Surprise Rec, a more user-friendly recreation application. Arizona Fall League offers fans exciting ticketing and in-game promotions Arizona Fall League will feature ‘Sprouts’ Family Fun Nights, AARP Throwback Thursdays and MLB Mystery Bobblehead giveaways! City recognized as a Veteran Supportive Employer and Community The Arizona Coalition for Military Families (ACMF) has designated the city of Surprise an Arizona Veteran Supportive Employer & City! Free Workshop: IRA Basics, Strategies & Laws Register today! Union Hills Dr lane restrictions begin Oct 23 The roadway will be restricted to one lane with flaggers, Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. City of Surprise offers youth field trip fun this fall break Main Event Entertainment and Fear Farm field trips for ages 11-15. Surprise introduces youth skateboarding class The course runs weekly on Saturdays and will teach the basics of skateboarding. Valley Metro collecting rider input on 2018 Express Route service changes Learn about the proposed changes and provide feedback at valleymetro.org/servicechanges. Surprise participates in Arizona’s 16th Annual Cities & Towns Week Get connected to your city! Call to Artists for Surprise City Hall Mural Project Mural will represent artist's interpretation of the White Tank Mountains. Youth Rec Nights “Boo Fest” Tonight A night of ghoulish fun, games, dancing and music! Open to youth in grades 6-8. Surprise Tennis & Racquet complex hosts Fall Break Camp The camp is offered Monday-Wednesday, 9-11 a.m., during the week of October 16. Surprise Recognizes Achievements of Local Special Olympics Athletes Athletes and teams advance to state competition! Veteran artists invited to take part in Veterans Day art show Both amateur and professional artists are invited to submit art in any medium! City celebrates ‘Lift-Off’ of Surprise Resource Center playroom Join us October 25, 10 a.m. at the Surprise Resource Center, 12425 W. Bell Road, Building A, Suite 124. City hosts free Medicare workshop This workshop is for anyone enrolled in Medicare or wanting to learn more about it. Register today! Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex to host series of tennis tournaments this fall Several United States Tennis Association (USTA) tennis tournaments are coming to Surprise this fall! Task Force to research way to honor long-time CRS Director Mark A. Coronado Recognizing that the City of Surprise rests on the shoulders of great women and men who invested a precious part of themselves to the benefit of our city; the Surprise City Council has adopted a policy to create an Ad-Hoc “Honoring an Exceptional Leader Task Force” within the City of Surprise. Second Sundays in the Park features live ‘50s & ‘60s rock this weekend Sunday, October 8 from 2-4 p.m. at Surprise Community Park Free wellness class on cognition, brain function Class will cover normal changes in thinking and memory as we age and ones that may be indicative of dementia, as well as lifestyle strategies that preserve brain function. Free Seminar on Living Trusts Versus Wills Register today! Surprise Fiesta Grande Celebration October 14 Join us for food, music and fun at Surprise Fiesta Grande! Seeking volunteers for day of service at St. Mary’s Food Bank Help sort food on Wednesday, October 18! Surprise Fire-Medical Department receives American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Recogn The Surprise Fire-Medical Department has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold Plus Award for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks. AZ Fall League begins Oct. 10; Surprise Saguaros home schedule released The Arizona Fall League season opens Oct. 10, bringing a glimpse of baseball’s future, and City of Surprise is part of the action! Greenway Rd restrictions begin Oct. 6 for pavement improvements Reems Road to Sarival Avenue will be restricted October 6-17. Arizona History & Culture Speaker Series returns to Surprise with new speakers, topics Local experts from Arizona Humanities’ AZ Speaks program will present on a variety of history and culture topics. Students take on 5th Annual Surprise Literacy Challenge Fourth – sixth grade classrooms from 13 schools across Surprise are participating in this two-month challenge to experience literacy in fun ways! Surprise named Global City of the Year The City of Surprise has been recognized by the Global Chamber of Phoenix as the Global Business City of the Year at the organization’s annual Grow Globally Fair. Surprise City Hall goes purple for domestic violence awareness Mayor Wolcott officially proclaims October “Domestic Violence Awareness Month” in Surprise. Ribbon cutting ceremony for new addition to Dick McComb City Park Join us Saturday, October 7, at 10 a.m. Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event October 14 Free hazardous waste drop off for Surprise residents. City of Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commission The City of Surprise is currently accepting applications for the following Commissions. All Board/Commission positions are voluntary. Municipal Property Corporation - 1 vacancy Join us for Art Week events & provide Arts & Culture Master Plan feedback A collection of fun, family-friendly events where you can give input on the Surprise Arts & Culture Master Plan and help create a community art piece! New videos illustrate 10 projects up for vote in November special election See what the projects would look like, and what needs they would address, in three new videos that cover each of the bond questions. City participates in Bloomberg Philanthropies’ “Idea Accelerator” Workshop Through the nationwide Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Mayors Challenge, the city of Surprise was selected to host an all-day visioning workshop to discuss the future of City Center. Free Seminar on Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! Vendor spaces available for Surprise Super Swap Meet Nov. 18 Vendor spaces are now available to rent. City of Surprise Community & Recreation Services receives National Accreditation The City of Surprise Community & Recreation Services Department has received accreditation by the National Recreation and Parks Association. The Association recognized Surprise’s efforts to provide high quality parks and recreation services and experience to its residents and visitors. Movie Night at Surprise Stadium September 30 features “SING” Free admission. Gates open at 6 p.m., and the movie starts at 7 p.m. Free Seminar on Living Trusts Versus Wills Register today! City hosts free Medicare workshop Register today! City hosts photo contest for xeriscaping calendar Submit your photo by October 18 to have it considered for the calendar. Surprise Economic Development Team Wins Three International Awards IEDC's Excellence in Economic Development Awards recognize the world's best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year's most influential leaders. City offering $125 rebate for installing smart irrigation controllers View rebate eligibility and download the application at surpriseaz.gov/H2Orebate. Council appoints Duffy to fill D3 vacancy The Surprise City Council approved the appointment of Patrick Duffy to represent the residents of District 3 at their Tuesday night Regular Council Meeting. City Manager selects Kendra Pettis to lead new Sports & Tourism Department City Manager Bob Wingenroth has selected Kendra Pettis to serve as the director of the new Sports and Tourism Department. Match your skills, talents to meaningful volunteer opportunities This Experience Matters info session will provide information on the organization and help you match your passion and skills with volunteer opportunities. Free seminar on Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! Bell Rd restrictions begin Sept. 20 for rubberized pavement rehabilitation Lane and turn movement restrictions will be required during the preservation work. City & education partners host voter registration drives The City of Surprise, Dysart Unified School District and Ottawa University (OUAZ) in Surprise, are joining thousands of groups across the country in hosting voter registration drives on National Voter Registration Day, Tuesday, September 26! City’s Lock It or Lose It campaign wins national award An important community safety message is now award-winning! The City of Surprise Lock It or Lose It took top honors at the National Association of Telecommunications Officers & Advisors (NATOA) Government Programming Awards, held last week in Seattle, Washington. Civic Center Dr expansion opens Sept 15 Motorists will be able to access Paradise Ln directly from Bell Rd beginning tomorrow at 6 a.m. Show your community pride; Volunteer for “Love our Schools Day” Help on various projects at schools throughout Surprise on Sept. 30! Surprise Fire-Medical hosts series of fire station open houses Come out and meet the firefighters, see the fire trucks and firefighting gear and more! Youth invited to Rec Nights “Touchdown” Party Sept. 22 Fan vs. fan competitions, music, dancing, dodgeball, laser light show and more! For youth in 6-8 grade. City’s annual Pavement Preservation Program kicks off 200.2 lane miles of city streets will receive pavement preservation treatments through June 30. Free Chest Compression Only CPR Class offered Sept. 27 Register today! Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex celebrates its 10-year anniversary Festivities begin tonight with a Scramble tournament and complimentary Slicers program! Registration opens for City of Surprise fall break sport camps Youth baseball and softball camps run Oct. 16-18. Free sandbags available for flood protection; public reminded to report flooded streets A flash flood watch has been issued for the afternoon of Sept. 8, 2017 through the evening. City of Surprise welcomes 2,000 youth sports participants this fall Soccer and flag football games start Sept. 9! Arts & Culture Master Plan survey closes Sept. 9; new input opportunities coming up! Take the survey, and join us for a series of "Arts Week" events! Council oks temporary sign policy, as work continues to update permanent code The City Council approved an updated Temporary Sign Policy for the city, at their Tuesday Regular Meeting. Bell Road & Grand Avenue ramps to be closed Sept. 18-24 for improvements Motorists needing to access Grand Ave from Bell Rd will be detoured to Dysart and Litchfield roads. City to host Archery Tag Tournament for teens Sept. 9 Combines the fun of dodgeball and paintball. For ages 13-17. Hollyhock Library to extend hours of operation, funding support from local charitable organizations The City of Surprise and Maricopa County Library District are excited to offer extended operating hours for the Hollyhock Library, located at 15844 N Hollyhock Street. Second Sundays in the Park fall concert series kicks off Sept. 10 Free, live musical entertainment at Surprise Community Park from 2-4 p.m. City to host Bond Election meetings; or we’ll come to you On Tuesday, November 7, Surprise residents will consider three separate General Obligation Bond questions to fund 10 capital improvement projects in the areas of Public Safety, Traffic Congestion Mitigation and Pavement Preservation. Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex kicks off Net Generation youth programming Program puts emphasis on learning through play and building character on and off the tennis court. Free Workshop: Understanding Your IRA Workshop will cover IRA basics, strategies and laws.Register today! Fall youth sports registration begins Sept. 5; Volunteer opportunities available Sports include girls’ recreational and competitive volleyball, Babe Ruth softball and Cal Ripken tee-ball and baseball. City to honor Dick McComb in park renaming event Following City Council's direction to honor the city's longest-tenured City Manager Dick McComb (1990 - 2000), the city will officially rename Surprise Farms Community Park, to Dick McComb City Park, at a public ceremony, Saturday, September 30, at 9 a.m. Seven apply for D3 seat; Council interviews on Sept. 5 The Surprise City Council will meet to interview the seven applicants seeking the vacant District 3 council seat in a Special Meeting, September 5, at 3 p.m., in City Hall- Council Chambers. Help Surprise, Highland Prep collect 100,000 water bottles for Hurricane Harvey survivors Cases of water will be accepted through 5 p.m. Tuesday, September 5. Fall Cleanup Event September 16, free for Surprise residents Drop off up to 2,000 pounds of residential waste free-of-charge at the Northwest Regional Landfill. City offices closed Monday for Labor Day; holiday trash / recycling schedule in effect City of Surprise trash and recycling customers ONLY are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day the week of September 4-8. Neighborhood Grant Program application now available Completed applications are due to City Hall by 5:00 p.m. on November 10, 2017. Surprise Fit Kids registration now available Four-week fitness and nutrition program for youth ages 7-14. Change to City of Surprise Sandbag Locations Closing two locations; eight locations remain available during heavy rain events. Youth “Neon Night” Celebration Aug. 25 Music, dancing, dodgeball, laser light shows and more! For 6-8 graders. $5 admission. Surprise Senior Services Seeking Food Service Volunteers Volunteer shifts are 2-4 hours and available Monday through Friday at Surprise Senior Center. Lunchtime Theatre Series 2017-2018 performances are set Jazz, Opera, Broadway and the Classics are included in the line-up for the Lunchtime Theatre Series during the fall – spring seasons! Temporary lane restrictions for Bell Rd. landscape maintenance August 21 - 26 during overnight hours. Registration opens for Surprise HOA Academy Get information on contracts, fiduciary duty, CC&R enforcement and code compliance. City opens D3 Council vacancy application period Interested persons must submit an application to the City Clerk's Office prior to the close of the acceptance period, which is 5 p.m., Wednesday, August 30. District 3’s Williams resigns from Council District 3 Councilmember John Williams on Tuesday, submitted a letter of resignation from the City Council effectively immediately. City Council Meetings get “social” with live Facebook streaming The city is launching a new way for residents to connect to what’s happening in their community! Beginning, August 15, all City Council Work Sessions and Regular Meetings will be streamed live on the city’s Facebook page. Union Hills Dr traffic restrictions begin August 14 111th Ave will be inaccessible from Union Hills Dr; flaggers will be onsite to assist with daytime lane restrictions. Free Seminar on Essentials of Long-Term Care Planning Information on how traditional Long-Term Care works versus new options. Register today! County names Surprise a satellite voting site for Nov Special Election; new onsite voting dates Surprise City Hall will serve as a Satellite Voting site for this November 7 Special Election cycle. Free seminar on Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Register today! Surprise to host educational presentation on older adults and suicide Learn the signs and symptoms of suicide, depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Plus, get connected to resources for help. Free educational series teaches parents how to ‘Raise a Reader’ The workshop series will be taught over eight consecutive Fridays beginning August 11. City hosts free Medicare workshop Register today! City to study impact of removing traffic signal on Greenway Rd, west of Cotton Ln The signal heads will be covered for 90 days beginning August 7. Registration for City Adult Sports Leagues begins in August Team registration begins on August 14; participants must be 18 years of age or older. City of Surprise accepting parade entries for 3rd Annual Veterans Day Parade There is no fee to participate. Entry forms are due by October 27. Fall swim lesson schedule available Resident registration begins August 2. Free seminar on Living Trusts versus Wills Register today! Legos, ballet, Zumba, ukulele, pickleball and more! Now enrolling for fall special interest classes Classes are available for ages two through adult! Social Security 101 Educational Workshop Learn the importance of timing and how starting benefits affects your taxes and lifetime Social Security benefits. Vendor space, promotional booths available for Surprise Fiesta Grande Event is happening Saturday, October 14 from 3-9 p.m. Dive-in Movie at Surprise Aquatic Center featuring “The LEGO Batman Movie” Saturday, July 22 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 for residents, $8 for non-residents. 115th Ave & Union Hills Dr intersection closure begins July 21 The intersection is scheduled to reopen by 5 a.m. on Monday, July 31. Public invited to sign code update discussions Join us for a series of discussions on proposed updates to the city of Surprise sign code. Registration Opens for Youth Soccer, Flag Football Leagues & Youth Basketball, Volleyball Classes Register by July 22! Free seminar on Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Learn to compare different plans, select pharmacies, track prescriptions and more. City offers tips to stay safe during Monsoon 2017 Get monsoon safety tips and sandbag locations. City hosts free Medicare workshop Information on the elements of Medicare parts A, B and C, prescription drug plans, and Medicare supplements. Donna Miller named CRS Director Donna Miller has been promoted to serve as the city’s Community and Recreation Services (CRS) Director, City Manager Bob Wingenroth announced today. Project to construct waterline along Bullard Ave begins July 5 Traffic restrictions will be in place between Waddell Rd and Acoma Dr while crews are in the area. Know before you go! City of Surprise July 4th Celebration: event, parking & traffic details The event will feature baseball, music and a spectacular fireworks display! City offices closed July 4 for Independence Day; change to trash / recycling schedule City of Surprise trash / recycling customers will have regular collection Monday; Schedule change occurs July 4-7. Celebrate safely; know the law on fireworks use in Surprise Learn when and where fireworks can be used and what kinds are acceptable for consumer use. Donate food to help erase hunger & your library fines! Maricopa County Library District’s annual Food for Fines program will take place July 7 – 15. Surprise Fire-Medical Department graduates eight recruits; including five funded with federal grant Congratulations to our newest firefighters! US-Canada cross-border healthcare initiative debuts in Surprise Surprise, Arizona could be the next top destination for Canadian medical travel. Mark Coronado funeral set for Thursday The Coronado Family has released the following obituary and funeral information for Community and Recreation Services Director Mark A. Coronado, who passed away on June 15. Back to School Supply Drive at Surprise City Hall Donate until July 31 to benefit local K-8 graders. City of Surprise 4th of July Celebration features baseball and fireworks Admission is free with a canned food donation! City announces the passing of Mark Coronado Long-time Community and Recreation Services (CRS) Director Mark A. Coronado passed away, today. He was 59. Surprise Youth Spark Solutions at Entrepreneurship Boot Camp Students created solutions to community needs and competed for a chance to win a 3D printer! Changes to Bulk Trash Pickup program coming July 1 Customers should place bulk trash in the street, up against the curb, rather than on their property. City of Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commissions The City of Surprise is currently accepting applications for the Arts & Cultural Advisory Commission. Annuities & Life Insurance; free workshop June 27 Get up-to-date information on the annuity and life insurance contracts that exist in the marketplace. Watch July 4th fireworks poolside at Surprise Aquatic Center Celebration will feature music, games, nighttime swimming, crafts and raffle prizes! Tickets go on sale June 20. Tennis, tumbling, ukulele and more! Now enrolling for summer special interest classes Classes are available for ages two through adult and will be held at various locations throughout Surprise. Free seminar on Medicare Prescription Drug Plans An educational seminar that will help you compare the different plans that are available. Council oks FY18 budget that maintains services & property tax rate The Surprise City Council approved a $275.8 million Fiscal Year 2018 Budget, at a Special Meeting Tuesday night. It’s time to Decide Surprise as Council sends 3 bond questions for Nov ballot At their June 6th Regular Meeting, City Council approved sending three General Obligation Bond questions in the areas of Public Safety, Traffic Congestion Mitigation and Pavement Preservation to the ballot in a Special Election on November 7, 2017. All registered voters in Surprise will receive a ballot by mail. City of Surprise opens swim lesson registration Private and group lessons are available at the Surprise Aquatic Center and Hollyhock Pool. Heat warning this week; city accepting water bottle donations for those in need All city of Surprise fire stations are accepting water bottles donations for distribution to those in need. Surprise named a national finalist for 2017 America’s Best Intergenerational Community Award The awards program recognizes communities across America that are incorporating intergenerational solutions. Surprise Aquatic Center summer Dive-in Movie event featuring “Disney’s Moana” Get your tickets now! City opens application process for Community Outreach Program A City Council-led initiative to assist community organizations in providing programs and events that benefit City of Surprise residents is now accepting applications. City, Valley Metro host public meeting to discuss Dial-a-Ride transition, June 14 The meeting will be held in the Surprise City Hall Community Room; a brief presentation will begin at 4 p.m. Civic Center Dr expansion will begin in June The completed roadway will provide direct access to Surprise City Hall from Bell Road. Surprise seeks public input on libraries; online survey extended to June 16 Tell us how we can improve or transform our libraries. First recipient of District 4 Home Beautification Award announced The award program recognizes District 4 residents who show pride in their home through renovation and maintenance activities. Surprise joins Heat Relief Network; accepting water donations for hydration stations The city is providing hydration and refuge stations for those in need of a place to cool off during the hot summer months. Truth In Taxation Hearing Notice of Tax Increase IN COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 42-17107, ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES, THE CITY OF SURPRISE IS NOTIFYING ITS PROPERTY TAXPAYERS OF THE CITY OF SURPRISE'S INTENTION TO RAISE ITS PRIMARY PROPERTY TAXES OVER LAST YEAR'S LEVEL. THE CITY OF SURPRISE IS PROPOSING AN INCREASE IN PRIMARY PROPERTY TAXES OF $268,241 OR 3.7%. Share your thoughts, opinions on art and culture in Surprise to help shape master plan Take our online survey, and join us for a roundtable discussion! City partners to offer small business ownership basics course for veterans The course will be offered on Friday, June 23 from 8:00a - 5:00p at the AZTechCelerator; space is limited. City offices closed May 29 for Memorial Day; holiday trash / recycling schedule in effect City of Surprise trash and recycling customers are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day all week. City seeks donations for homeless, families in need as Project Connect event comes to Surprise 7/26 Donations should be dropped off at a designated locations by 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 25. Surprise Aquatic Center and Hollyhock Pool open May 27 Stay cool in a city pool! Daily admission and semi-annual pool passes available. City hosts free Medicare workshop Get information on the elements of Medicare Parts A and B; Medicare Advantage plans (Part C); Prescription Drug plans (Part D); and Medicare Supplements (Medigap). Registration opens for Surprise Summer Tennis Camp for youth Specialized instruction, practice and match play for all levels. Ages 6-18. City to relocate City Hall recycling containers The City of Surprise Recycling large containers at City Hall, 14534 W. Tierra Buena Lane, will be relocated effective Thursday, May 25. 115th Ave & Union Hills Dr summer work hours begin May 22 Construction activities will begin at 4 a.m. due to anticipated high temperatures. Registration underway for City of Surprise Adult Softball Leagues Adult Coed and Men’s Softball available! Council briefed on possible General Obligation Bond questions; Call to Election vote set for June 6 City staff briefed City Council on three proposed General Obligation Bond questions in the areas of Public Safety, Traffic Congestion Mitigation and Pavement Preservation, at Tuesday’s Work Session. Surprise seeks public input on libraries Help guide future library operations, library renovation projects and potential new libraries! Surprise seeks promotional vendors for annual 4th of July Celebration Reserve your promotional booth space today! Free Chest Compression Only CPR Classes offered in Surprise Morning and afternoon classes available June 7, July 19 and August 1. Surprise Aquatic Center hosts Itty Bitty Beach Party Children ages six and under are invited to this fun party on May 25 from 10 a.m. to noon. Tickets on sale now. Area Youths Win Honors in Scotts Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit & Run Competition The winners will now compete in the Sectional Competition! Surprise seeks public input on libraries; May 11 community meeting Help guide future library operations, library renovation projects and potential new libraries! Attend a public meeting and take our survey. City Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commissions Applications are available at surpriseaz.gov/boards. Greenway Rd closed at Litchfield, Grand this weekend for improvement work Grand Avenue narrowed to one lane each direction at Greenway Road. Surprise public safety professionals receive VFW Servant Awards Police Officer Nathan Miller, Paramedic Russell Lindholm and Firefighter Michael Meadors were recognized for their integrity and dedication to service. City of Surprise Talent Show takes center stage May 12 Come support your local talent, and enjoy a night of entertainment! Free Parenting with Purpose class offers tips on motivating, inspiring children Get tips on how to raise successful children by inspiring them to be positive and confident and by setting effective boundaries and limits. Valley Metro shares Dial-a-Ride transition FAQs, outreach timeline Current Dial-a-Ride customers will receive letters about the new service model changes beginning next month. Step up to the plate! MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run competition is coming to Surprise Saturday, April 29 at the Youth Baseball Complex, 15565 N Parkview Place. Free Workshop: Understanding Your IRA Workshop will cover IRA basics, strategies and laws. Surprise partners on employment programs for people with intellectual, developmental disabilities Partnerships with Benevilla and One Step Beyond provide job shadowing opportunities. Surprise Safety Day event May 6; presented by Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center Event will showcase emergency vehicles and equipment and feature interactive exhibits and live demonstrations on water safety, CPR and the city’s public safety services. Surprise Super Swap Meet is April 29 More than 50 vendors will have new and used treasures on display! Daytime closure of Acoma Dr near Litchfield Rd for pavement preservation April 24 & 25 A detour route will be marked to assist drivers in navigating around the closure. City Council to discuss possible 2017 General Obligation Bond Election The Surprise Capital Improvement Funding Exploratory Committee was briefed, Wednesday evening, by city staff on proposed capital improvement projects that may be included in three separate bond questions this fall. Help shape our Arts and Culture Master Plan If you live, work, or invest in the city, tell us what makes Surprise interesting, unique, a great place to visit or a great place to call home. 2017 Surprise Retail Survey results are in! See who the top 10 most wanted restaurants and retailers are, as well as the local favorites! Surprise discusses future of Dial-a-Ride, Northwest Valley public transit Three service models will be available to customers on July 1, 2017 when the current Northwest Valley Dial-a-Ride transportation model is discontinued. City Manager presents FY18 Recommended Budget to City Council City Manager Bob Wingenroth presented a $336.5 million Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 Recommended Budget to City Council at Tuesday’s Work Session. City thanks community for support of Operation Thunderbox supply drive for troops Registration underway for summer youth sports camps and youth basketball leagues Summer Youth Sports Camps include basketball, football, baseball, softball, volleyball and soccer. Movie Night at Surprise Stadium featuring The Secret Life of Pets Free admission. Movie begins at 7 p.m. Surprise Sundancers award $135,000 in college scholarships to west valley students Scholarship funds presented to colleges and technical schools on behalf of 54 students. Become a storm spotter; free training class May 8 Learn how to properly identify and report significant weather phenomena. Surprise Resource Center partners to expand veteran assistance services All programs and services are available at no-cost. City of Surprise hosts Ultimate Capture the Flag tournament for teens Teens will play the classic game of capture the flag while wearing a giant inflatable bubble! Register today! Free wellness class on cognition, brain function Class will cover normal changes in memory as we age; changes/behaviors that may be indicative of dementia; strategies to preserve brain function & more! Surprise spring Egg-stravaganza hops into town April 15 Join the search for more than 50,000 candy and toy-filled plastic eggs! Surprise Fire-Medical awards winners of driving awareness poster, PSA contest First place winners received a prize and will have their submissions displayed in all of the Dysart Unified high schools. Free tax return preparation available to qualifying taxpayers There are two VITA sites offered through city of Surprise. Drainage improvement project underway along 115th Ave in Surprise The 115th Ave & Union Hills project is scheduled to be complete in summer 2018. Enjoy live music at Second Sundays in the Park, April 9 Notes from Neptune will play Blues and R&B music from 2-4 p.m. at Surprise Community Park. City of Surprise offers summer camp program This fun-filled camp for grades 1-8 includes: afternoon snack, daily activities, arts and crafts, games, sports and field trips. Free Workshop: Understanding Your IRA A free workshop that will cover IRA basics, strategies and laws. Wonderland Tea Party for kids on April 8 Guests, ages 3-10 years old, will enjoy an afternoon with stories and storybook characters, dancing, crafts, juice and cookies. Free class on protecting against cyber security threats Learn some simple ways that you can protect you and your family. ADOT maintenance work to close Loop 303 ramp at US 60 (Grand Avenue), March 29 Early morning drivers should plan an alternate route while the ramp is closed from 6:30 - 9:00 a.m. Greenway Rd - Litchfield Rd intersection improvement work to begin Expect lane restrictions around the intersection of Litchfield and Greenway roads from March 30 through May 8. Household Hazardous Waste Collection set for April 8 Free disposal of unwanted paint, electronics and other hazardous waste. Surprise Pops Band to play light classics at free concert April 2 Concert us 3 p.m. at the Valley Vista Performing Arts Center. Surprise Senior Center to host Seniors Prom April 19 There will be dancing, karaoke and a delicious catered lunch. Reserve your spot today! Wellness Class: Importance of screening for prostate cancer Dr. Kumar, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, will discuss a simple blood test that can help diagnose prostate cancer. Match your skills, talents to meaningful volunteer opportunities Learn about an organization that connects talent with nonprofits. Rock your block! Free block party trailer rentals available The trailer comes equipped with everything you need to get your party started, including chairs, tables, coolers & more! Calling all performers! City holding auditions for Surprise Talent Show Prizes in three categories - youth, teen and adult! Registration Underway for City of Surprise Adult Sports Leagues Choose from volleyball, kickball, flag football, baseball, basketball & softball! Surprise Aquatic Center offers spring swim lessons Private and group swim lessons will begin the week of March 27. 2017 Surprise Retail Survey is open! Help bring in new shopping & dining; vote for local favorites City 'Citrus Care' landscaping course changing locations Class will now be held in the Surprise-GateWay Training Center Auditorium, 13659 W Cactus Rd. City of Surprise offers Spring Break Sports Camps Youth tennis, baseball and softball camps are open for registration! Surprise seeking applications for voluntary commissions Applications can be submitted in person at City Hall or by email to clerk@surpriseaz.gov. Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Mock Drill Surprise-Fire Medical will use GOHS funding to conduct a Drunk/Distracted Driving Mock Drill for over 2,600 students at Valley Vista High School. Surprise Senior Center offers daily meal program A hot lunch is served Monday through Friday at noon. Volunteer for Community Pride Day on April 8 & help beautify Surprise Volunteers will help with landscaping and trash removal. Enjoy live music at Second Sundays in the Park, March 12 Vendor spaces available for Surprise Super Swap Meet Swap meet is Saturday, April 29. Reserve your spot! Surprise Stadium hosts Venezuelan National Baseball Team March 8 & 9 Team Venezuela will face off against the Kansas City Royals on March 8 and the Texas Rangers on March 9! Both games at 1:05 p.m. MST. Registration underway for city’s Spring Break Camp Camp runs March 20-24. For youth in Kindergarten - 6th grade. City opens summer job program for teens; apply by April 3 Summer job program for income-eligible Surprise teens between the ages of 15 – 19. Seeking input on proposed Sign Code changes; public meetings throughout March Proposed code aims to balance business needs with aesthetics, while meeting the requirements of law. Apply for the Surprise Youth Council and help make a difference in your city! Students who are currently in grades 6-11 may apply through March 20. Support our troops by donating care items Help send care packages to deployed Luke Air Force Base airmen by donating food and hygiene items March 1 through April 13 at Surprise City Hall! Surprise Arts Commission hosts Public Art Bus Tour March 22 Space is limited; reservations can be made by calling Benevilla at 623.584.4999. Free class on feeding your new baby This class, taught by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for Banner Health, will cover breastfeeding basics. City-run ambulance service grows; second ambulance now in operation City-run ambulances stationed at Fire Stations 302 and 305. Registration opens for City of Surprise lifeguard training & swim lesson instructor courses All classes will be held at the Surprise Aquatic Center. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road final weekly project update Activities, such as permanent lane striping, will be completed by March 6. Council repeals City-wide Temporary Sign Policy; and Bell and Grand Temporary Sign and Use Permit P Businesses in Surprise will have 60 days to comply with the original signage policy. City of Surprise hosts BIG 10 - PAC 12 Baseball Challenge Come see nationally ranked baseball powerhouse Oregon State, as well as the competitive forces of Ohio State, Nebraska and Utah! Tournament runs Feb. 23-26. Mayor Wolcott highlights Our Community. Our Story in 2017 State of the City Address Mayor Sharon Wolcott shared the story of Surprise, introducing who we are and where we are headed as a community, in the 2017 State of the City Address, presented this afternoon before a packed house at the Colonnade. Spring Cleanup Event March 11, free for Surprise residents Drop off up to 2,000 pounds of residential waste free-of-charge! Surprise kicks off the 15th annual Spring Training season! We are thrilled to kick off the 15th Annual Spring Training Season in Surprise! If you haven’t secured your tickets for the Kansas City Royals or Texas Rangers games, what are you waiting for? City hosts Teen Laser Tag Tournament Feb. 25 Register as a team of six or as a single participant to be placed on a team. Free sandbags available for flood protection; public reminded to report flooded streets A flash flood watch has been issued for Feb. 18 & 19. Schedule change for Sanderson Ford College Baseball Classic due to weather Get the updated schedule! Ottawa University Announces New Residential Campus in Surprise Ottawa University and the City of Surprise today announced that Ottawa University Arizona (OUAZ), a new residential university campus, will be opening Fall 2017 in Surprise, Ariz., expanding upon the university’s 40-year presence in the Valley of the Sun, making Surprise a university town, and bringing intercollegiate athletic programs to the West Valley. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Learn more about the project design and final construction activities. City offices closed Monday for Presidents Day; holiday trash / recycling schedule in effect City customers only are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day the week of February 20-24. West Valley Babe Ruth Baseball registration is now open Individual and team registrations for ages 13-15. Outreach and promotional vendor opportunities available for Spring Egg-stravaganza event Booth space available now! Registration open for Surprise Tennis University, specialized beginners program for adults Tennis University is an eleven-week program for beginner tennis players ages 18 and up. Mayor’s Welcome Back Lunch celebrates start of 2017 Spring Training season with Royals & Rangers Join us March 2 to hear about the upcoming season from Rangers and Royals team staff! Surprise hosts USTA Pro Circuit Tournament: Surprise Tennis Classic Women’s Tennis Championships Tournament runs Feb. 12-19 and includes great tennis action as well as a series of special events for the public. Traffic restrictions on Bullard Ave scheduled 2/14-2/17 The work to locate utilities will impact traffic between Acoma Dr and Waddell Rd. Surprise hosts Sanderson Ford College Baseball Classic Get tickets to see Oregon State, Indiana, Duke and Gonzaga play at Surprise Stadium Feb. 17-20. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of February 13. City hosts Itty Bitty Fairy Tale Ball on February 18 Music, dancing, games, snacks and more! For ages 10 and under. Tune in to “Rhythm Edition” at Second Sundays in the Park Enjoy a variety of musical hits from 2-4 p.m. this Sunday, Feb. 12. Drive Wise, Surprise! Police launch new traffic safety campaign The campaign is designed to create a culture of safe driving in Surprise. Police seek public assistance to identify graffiti suspect in Surprise This morning, the Surprise Police responded to several reports of graffiti in a residential area located in the 15200 block of Ventura Street and Hearn Road in Surprise. HOA Connection Classes focus on homeowners associations and the law Classes will cover HOA open meeting laws and proposed legislation related to community associations. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of February 6. Fitch upgrades Surprise MPC bonds to ‘A ’ The nationally-recognized credit rating agency also issued a rating outlook of Stable. County Seeking Community Input on Multi-Year Health Improvement Plan Attend the meeting on Feb. 28 at Surprise City Hall to help identify the top 3-5 health priorities. City begins FY18 budget discussions Feb 7 The City of Surprise Fiscal Year 2018 budget-building process begins at the City Council’s Work Session, 4 p.m., Tuesday, February 7. City hosts free Medicare workshops Workshops are for anyone currently enrolled in Medicare or wanting to learn more about it. Free Career Success Workshop for Women, Feb. 23 Workshop for women who are looking for tips on finding a job or advancing their career. Process begins for traffic/signal changes on Bullard Ave (Greenway – Peoria) With a state engineer on board, design work is underway on the transformation of Bullard Avenue, between Greenway Road and Peoria Avenue, city staff informed the Bullard Avenue Task Force, Thursday evening. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of January 30. Mayor Wolcott delivers 2017 State of the City Address, Feb. 22 Join Mayor Sharon Wolcott as she highlights the success of Our Community. Our Story and provides the vision for future success in the 2017 State of the City luncheon event. Bullard Task Force update meeting, Jan. 26 The Bullard Avenue Task Force will meet on Thursday, January 26, for a project update from city staff regarding traffic/signal changes on Bullard, between Greenway and Peoria. Register for the 2017 Surprise City Academy & learn how your city government works This eight-session academy offers the opportunity to learn about the city directly from the mayor, councilmembers, city manager and upper-level city staff. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of January 23. Flash Flood Watch issued through midnight tonight Sandbag locations available throughout Surprise. Sanderson Ford College Baseball Classic & BIG 10 - PAC 12 Baseball Challenge slide into Surprise The tournaments will host Oregon State, Indiana, Duke, Gonzaga, Nebraska, Utah and Ohio State. Tickets available now! City map shows finalized traffic patterns for Grand Ave intersections in Bell-Grand project area View the traffic arrangements before the project is complete so you know how to navigate the area. UPDATE: US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of January 16. City offices closed Monday for MLK Day; holiday trash / recycling schedule in effect City of Surprise trash and recycling customers are reminded that collection will be postponed by one day. Free wellness classes on concussions and cognition, brain function Register today! Classic folk characters educate Surprise residents on sanitation practices 'Like' us on Facebook at facebook.com/RecycleWiseinSurprise to see all six designs and to learn helpful recycling and sanitation sorting tips! City Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commissions Applications are available at surpriseaz.gov/boards. Surprise Pops Band to play Broadway tunes at free concert Jan. 22 Performance is 3 p.m. at Valley Vista Performing Arts Center. Surprise TV supports statewide simulcast of investigation of prescription opioid abuse in AZ Tonight, television and radio outlets across Arizona will simultaneously broadcast a 30-minute commercial-free investigative report on the issue of prescription opioid abuse. City of Surprise youth volleyball, tee-ball, softball and baseball registration opens Registration is open through Jan. 28. Surprise hosts Martin Luther King, Jr. day of celebration, community service on Saturday Join us for a program celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr., followed by a day of community service. Second Sundays in the Park concert series continues this Sunday Free performance at Surprise Community Park from 2-4 p.m. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of January 9. Surprise Citizens Patrol to host recruitment meeting On January 25, 2017 at 6pm, the Surprise Citizens Patrol will be hosting a recruitment and informational meeting at the Surprise Public Safety Auditorium located at 14250 West Statler Plaza. Surprise Police host Shred-a-Thon and Drug Take Back On Saturday, January 21, 2017, from 7 until 10 am, the Surprise Police Department will be hosting a Shred-a-Thon and Drug Take Back Event. This event will be held at the Surprise Public Safety Building located at 14250 West Statler Plaza. Mayor and Councilmembers in Districts 2, 3 & 4 sworn in during City Hall Ceremony The first Regular City Council Meeting of the New Year included the swearing-in ceremonies for mayor and three councilmembers. UPDATE: US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Due to recent rain, traffic restrictions for the week of January 2, 2017 have been changed. Surprise 10 & Under Tennis now offers free bonus play day for the 2017 winter session Classes begin on Tuesday, January 3 and space is limited. Register today at surpriseaz.gov/tennis. Surprise Stadium Box Office opens Jan.7 at 7 a.m. Visit surprisespringtraining.com or call 623.222.2222 for more information. Winners of Water Calendar Photo Contest announced; free calendars available Stop by City Hall for a complimentary calendar! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of December 26. Free sandbags available for flood protection; public reminded to report flooded streets Ten sandbag locations available throughout Surprise. Please bring a shovel to fill the bags. Free Wellness Class: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention of Concussion Register today! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of December 19. City offers Christmas tree drop-off sites; holiday recycling tips Drop-off sites are open December 26 – January 14. Surprise hosts Martin Luther King, Jr. day of celebration & service Jan. 14 Join us for a program celebrating the life and work of Martin Luther King, Jr., followed by a day of community service. Surprise seeks National Anthem performers for 2017 Spring Training season To be considered, submit a recording of your anthem performance by Jan.16, 2017. West Valley Conservatory of Ballet to perform at Second Sundays in the Park Dec. 11 2-4 p.m. at Surprise Community Park. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of December 12. 2017 Royals, Rangers Surprise Spring Training: Online Pre-Sale Starts Dec. 10! Individual tickets and season packages will be available. Cookies & Crafts with Santa Dec. 10 Dance, yoga and more! Now enrolling for winter special interest classes Classes available for ages 2 through adult! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of December 5. Registration for City of Surprise Adult Sports Leagues opens Dec. 5 Sports include indoor volleyball, kickball, flag football, basketball and softball. City hosts Teen Bubble Soccer Tournament Dec. 10 Register today! It’s flu season; Surprise Fire-Medical reminds you to know signs, symptoms of the virus Be aware of flu symptoms and know when to seek emergency medical attention. Registration underway for City’s Winter Break Camp for youth Camp will be held December 26-30 & January 2-6 from 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. at the Sierra Montana Recreation Center. High-tech displays at AZ TechCelerator’s “Tech the Halls” Holiday Open House Check out the latest tech wonders evolving at the city's business incubator on Thursday, December 8, at the AZ TechCelerator campus and enter for a chance to win some cool tech devices for you! Surprise Police complete a multi-year CALEA accreditation process Chief Terry Young is pleased to announce that the Surprise Police Department has once again successfully completed a multi-year process designed to recognize professionalism in law enforcement through achievement of accredited status with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA®). Join us for our 15th annual Surprise Party Dec. 2 & 3 Join us for a variety of activities and entertainment experiences. Free admission! Surprise Park-and-Ride returning to Bell & Grand location Dec. 5 Pick-up & drop-off for Route 571 – Surprise Express will relocate back to 13327 W Bell Rd effective Dec. 5. Put your pipes on a fat-free diet! Surprise encourages residents to properly dispose cooking grease Get tips on fat, oil and grease disposal! City celebrates reopening of Bell Road Commuters were able to cruise over the new Bell Road Bridge at Grand Avenue on their way to work this morning, as the Arizona Department of Transportation officially opened the road at 12:15 a.m. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of November 21. Free tax planning class Find out what's new for 2016, when to itemize deductions & more! Royals, Rangers announce 2017 Spring Training schedule Special online pre-sale begins Dec. 10. Box Office opens Jan. 7. City Council appoints Gaudreau as Associate Judge The Surprise City Council appointed Catherine Ann Gaudreau to serve as the new Associate Judge for the Surprise City Court, at their meeting November 15, 2016 meeting. Surprise launches virtual tour of city’s public art Map is available at www.surpriseaz.gov/arts Free Career Success Workshop for Women Nov. 29 Register today! Surprise Resource Center wins ‘Best of the West’; AZ TechCelerator runner-up City recognized for helping people and creating jobs! UPDATED: US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of November 14. Ahead of holiday shopping Surprise Police remind you to ‘Lock it or Lose it’ Police launch new Public Service Announcement showing that the majority of thefts from vehicles are preventable. Surprise voters reject General Obligation bond Surprise voters rejected a $63 million General Obligation bond initiative in the November 8th General Election, that would have funded nine capital improvement projects over the next five years. You're invited! “Thank you Surprise” Holiday Season Kickoff & Pre-Bell Rd Reopening Event, Nov The event will be held at the Surprise Marketplace Target, 13731 W. Bell Rd, on Nov. 21 at 4 p.m. Medicare Informational Workshop Nov. 22 Workshop will cover elements of Medicare Parts A and B; Medicare Advantage plans (Part C); Prescription Drug plans (Part D); and Medicare Supplements (Medigap). Free Wellness Class: Causes, Symptoms and Complications of Obesity Register today! The Art of Craft Beer & Scratch Cuisine; free event Nov. 16 Join us at State 48 for a fun look at the art of crafting beer and creating flavorful cuisine from scratch. Lane restrictions planned on Grand Ave near Loop 303, Nov 8-11 Drivers should proceed with caution and be mindful of construction personnel. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of November 7. Overnight closure of Crossroads Blvd, Smokey Dr on Nov. 8 Closure due to pavement preservation work. Join City of Surprise for a Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11 Parade begins at 9:30 a.m. and will run along Bullard Ave near Surprise Stadium. Surprise TV provides the latest in city meetings, series & events New programming is added daily; stay informed Surprise! City utility billing experiencing high call volumes due to American Water technical issues Payments can be made in-person at City Hall, 16000 N Civic Center Plaza, Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm. Fitch upgrades Surprise revenue bond and long-term default ratings to ‘AA ’ City Manager Bob Wingenroth announced Tuesday night that Fitch Ratings, one of the “Big Three” nationally recognized credit rating agencies, has upgraded the city’s Excise Tax and State-Shared Revenue Obligation (ETRO) bond rating to ‘AA+’ from ‘AA-’. City of Surprise winter youth sports registration underway Leagues and/or camps available for basketball, kickball, baseball and softball. Surprise utility billing begins today Visit surpriseaz.gov/mysurpriseaddress to see a list of service providers for your property. Enter the Surprise Party Gingerbread House Contest Create a gingerbread house for our annual Surprise Party! Prizes in four categories: adult, teen, youth and group. Free Class: The Facts About Annuities Register today! Shop at Surprise Super Swap Meet on Nov. 19 Over 70 vendors will be at the Surprise Aquatic Center from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Limited number of vendors spots still available. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of October 31. City seeks arts & crafts vendors, car show participants, promotional vendors for Surprise Party Surprise Party is Friday, December 2 from 5–9 p.m. and Saturday, December 3 from 11a.m.–5 p.m. at the Surprise Recreation Campus, 15850 N. Bullard Avenue. Traffic restrictions at Cactus Rd & Bullard Ave intersection on 10/29 Roadwork will begin at 6 a.m. and is expected to be completed by 6 p.m. Surprise to host “Play Ball” youth experience The November 5 "Play Ball" event is free for boys and girls ages 7-12. City cuts ribbon on new water operations, training center The Surprise-GateWay Training Center offers new critical labs and training space for West Valley water professionals. Experience City’s Haunted Maze Oct. 28-29 The maze will be open from 6-9 p.m. at the Sierra Montana Recreation Center, 14861 N. Spring Lane. Free class offers tips on preventing identity theft The financial consequences of identity theft can be devastating. Help protect yourself and your family by getting informed at a free class. Itty Bitty Monster Bash set for Oct. 28 Children can enjoy music, dancing, games, snacks and more – all while dressed in their favorite costume! Tickets on sale now! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of October 24. Surprise Public Safety officials invite you to G.A.I.N. Night on Oct. 29 This FREE family event will have music, bounce houses, face painting, emergency vehicle displays, SWAT team demonstrations, trick or treating and much more! Neighborhood Grant Program application deadline extended to Nov 30 Eligible neighborhoods within the city of Surprise now have more time to apply for grant money for their community project. Award-winning comic artist featured at event in Surprise Oct. 22 Steve Rude will be at Northwest Regional Library from 11 a.m - 1 p.m. Hayden appointed to District 2 council seat Jim Hayden was appointed by the Surprise City Council, Tuesday night, to serve out the remainder of the term for the District 2 (D2) council seat. Surprise begins interviews for associate judge The Surprise City Council-appointed Judicial Selection Advisory Commission (JSAC) will conduct open-to-the-public interviews with five Associate Judge candidates on November 1 and 3, 2016. City to host free workshops & career fair at Communiversity @ Surprise Sign up for the employment/employer workshops and plan to attend the Nov. 2 job fair! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of October 17. Daytime lane restriction on Greenway Rd at Litchfield Rd 10/18 – 10/21 The single-lane restriction will be in effect 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. City hosts free wellness classes: “Advances in Lung Cancer Treatment” & “Leading a Balanced Life” Register today! Surprise City Hall an early voting location for all Maricopa County voters The City Clerk’s Office is a satellite voting location, open weekdays and select Saturdays. Surprise Fiesta Grande celebration happening Saturday The heart of Surprise will be alive with food, music and fun this weekend! City of Surprise and Benevilla join forces for Helping Partners Program Program helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities find meaningful work. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of October 10. Surprise offers free gardening clinic & landscape classes Get tips from Master Gardeners! Council to appoint D2 applicant in Oct. 18th Meeting The Surprise City Council will vote to appoint Jim Hayden to the vacant District 2 council seat at the October 18th City Council Meeting, 6 p.m., in City Hall- Council Chambers. Registration underway for youth Fall Break Camp Fall Break Camp runs October 17-21 and is for youth in Kindergarten - 6th grade. Surprise shines a light on domestic violence October proclaimed Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Surprise. Purple lights will shine from city hall all month. Surprise sets November 1 as official utility billing transition date Customers currently billed by American Water for water and/or wastewater and solid waste services will receive a Surprise billing statement in November. Surprise hosts free speaker series on Arizona history & culture This series presents stories of our state's history and culture - from a famous stage coach robber to music and culture in the mining towns of pioneer Arizona. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of October 3. Council to interview D2 applicants in Oct. 4 Special Meeting The Surprise City Council will meet to interview the two applicants seeking the vacant District 2 council seat in a Special Meeting, October 4, at 4 p.m., in City Hall- Council Chambers. New season of Lunchtime Theater kicks off in October Enjoy a show over your lunch hour in the beautiful Arts HQ Gallery. Emergency Preparedness Fair Oct. 1 Come out for ham radio demos, 72-hour emergency kits, activities for kids, fire truck and police car displays and more! Surprise hosting several tennis tournaments this fall Surprise Tennis & Racquet Complex will host several USTA regional and national championships and a college national tournament. Surprise to host NFL Punt, Pass & Kick Competition for youth Fill out an entry form, and get ready to compete Oct. 8! Household Hazardous Waste Collection set for Oct. 8 Drop off unwanted paint, electronics and other hazardous waste! Surprise Fiesta Grande to feature kids’ zone, food trucks, car show & more on Oct. 15! Saturday, Oct. 15 from 3 - 9 p.m. on Hollyhock St., north of Grand Ave. Event admission and parking are free! Application assistance for KidsCare health insurance now available at Surprise Resource Center Now available through a partnership with local nonprofit Helping Families in Need. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of September 26. Surprise Senior Center offers meal program; debuts fall menu Oct. 1 Meals are available Monday through Friday at noon for a suggested contribution of $3.50. City of Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commissions There are currently two vacancies on the Planning & Zoning Commission. Free workshop on risk factors, symptoms and treatment of diabetes Workshop will be taught by a Certified Diabetes Educator for Banner Health. Surprise Dial-A-Ride rate reduced for trips to select cities Beginning October 1, rates for trips to select destinations outside of the city will be reduced from $4 to $2.50. Free retirement success workshop Oct. 5 Learn how to make the most of your retirement. Register today! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of September 19. Register for Surprise HOA Academy Learn about contracts, fiduciary duty, CC&R enforcement and code compliance. Vendor spaces available for Surprise Super Swap Meet Nov. 19 Sell new or used goods at our popular community-wide garage sale! Artwork submissions needed for Veterans Day art show in Surprise Professional and amateur artists are invited to display at this event. Movie Night at Surprise Stadium September 17 Stretch out on the grass and watch “Hotel Transylvania 2” (Rated PG)! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of September 12. City Econ Dev Team wins award for Bell-Grand marketing campaign The City of Surprise Economic Development Department was awarded a Golden Prospector Award for Best Multimedia Promotion at the Arizona Association for Economic Development Conference. City accepting applications for Neighborhood Stabilization Program The program offers financial assistance to income-qualified applicants who purchase a foreclosed bank-owned home in Surprise. Get the facts: City to host Bond Election meetings; or we’ll come to you City staff will host a series of public meetings this fall to explain the projects, costs and timelines. Surprise Fire-Medical hosts series of fire station open houses Meet the firefighters, check out the living and eating quarters, walk through the bays and see the fire trucks! Sierra Outlaws to perform at Second Sundays in the Park Sept. 11 This free family event will take place at Surprise Community Park from 2-4 p.m. and feature live country music. District 2’s Biundo resigns effective 9/9/16 Vice Mayor and District 2 Councilmember Jim Biundo submitted a letter of resignation to the City Clerk today, indicating an effective date of September 9, 2016. Free CPR Classes offered in Surprise A morning and afternoon class will be held on September 21. Register today! Beehive Coworking Space open house Sept. 9 Come and check out the office space, meeting rooms and other business amenities US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of September 5. Fall youth sports registration begins Sept. 6; Volunteer opportunities available Register for volleyball, softball, tee-ball or baseball. City of Surprise presents exciting fall lineup of teen events A pool party, dodgeball tournament, haunted maze and more! Primary Election results in for Mayor; Districts 2, 3 & 4 Councilmembers Surprise voters elected two new city councilmembers in Districts 2 and 4, returned an incumbent to District 3 and re-elected the mayor in Tuesday's primary election. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of August 29. Fall Cleanup Event Sept. 10, free for Surprise residents Drop off up to 2,000 pounds of residential waste free-of-charge! Help Improve the Future of Transportation The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) hopes to make your future trips better by finding out how you travel. Surprise Civic Center hosts two arts events Sept. 8 Experience a showcase of fine art photography at Surprise City Hall, followed by an art exhibition at Arts HQ. Dance, yoga and more! Now enrolling for fall special interest classes Classes are available for ages 2 through adult and will be held at various locations throughout Surprise. August 30 Primary Election results on web, TV City primary election results will be posted to https://www.surpriseaz.gov/ and featured on Surprise TV, the city’s cable TV channel, Tuesday evening, August 30. Primary Election: Friday marks final day to vote early at Surprise City Hall Police join with several community partners to host a drug symposium in Surprise On Tuesday, September 13, 2016 from 6-9 pm, the Surprise Police are partnering with the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission, Drug Free AZ Kids, and the Christ Church of the Valley (CCV) to host a community drug awareness symposium, “The 2016 Drug Symposium”. Registration underway for City of Surprise Adult Sports Leagues Choose from basketball, kickball, flag football and volleyball! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of August 22. Free marketing workshop for businesses Sept. 8 Reserve your spot, and get tips and tactics for promoting your business! Temporary lane restrictions for Bell Rd. landscape maintenance Palm trees will be trimmed and pruned August 22-31 between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Surprise Aquatic Center features dive-in movie, fall swim lesson registration The Good Dinosaur will be playing poolside on August 19! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of August 15. Tot Time combines fun & learning for children ages 3-5 Program activities include circle time, arts and crafts, gym time, field trips and more! Sewer spill closes WB Peoria (136th Ave – Litchfield Rd) A mechanical failure to the pump-around system on a construction project at the city’s south plant resulted in the spill. The pumping equipment is now operating properly, but crews remain on site for clean-up. Poetry Slam event Oct. 7 in Surprise It's open mic night for poetry, free verse and storytelling! Police, and CALEA assessment team, hold public meeting in Surprise As a part of the CALEA on-site assessment process, agency personnel and members of the community were invited to offer comments at a public information session. Free sandbags available for flood protection; public reminded to report storm damage Residents are asked to bring their own shovel to fill the bags. City of Surprise accepting applications for Associate Judge The final filing date for this position is Friday, September 9, 2016 by noon. Vendor space, promotional booths available for Surprise Fiesta Grande Surprise Fiesta Grande will be held Saturday, October 15 from 3-9 p.m. Surprise 11 is now Surprise TV; watch city news on a new channel Technology upgrades at Cox Communications and Centurylink have or will move the city’s cable channel position. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of August 8. Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex opens registration for fall youth programs A structured and fun framework for learning the game of tennis! City of Surprise accepting parade entries for 2nd Annual Veterans Day Parade There is no fee to participate. Entry forms are due by October 28. Neighborhood Grant Program application now available Interested communities should deliver the complete Neighborhood Grant Program application to City Hall by 5 p.m. on October 5, 2016. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of August 1. Coming soon: New opt-in number for ShopSurprise daily deals Beginning as early as this week, you will notice some important changes coming to better enhance the ShopSurprise digital marketing campaign! Back to school is a busy time for Bullard Avenue Next week is back to school time for many charter and public school students in Surprise! The City of Surprise Police and Public Works Departments offer safety information. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of July 25. A message from Police Chief Young “We are Your Police.” Cactus Rd closed Litchfield to Solar Canyon 7/25-8/2 for widening Detour signs will be placed at Litchfield and Dysart Roads directing traffic north to Waddell Road and south to Peoria Avenue. Surprise Farms Park named “Project of the Year” by national public works magazine A skate park , splash pad and basketball courts are just some of the amenities in this award -winning community park! City hosts photo contest for water conservation calendar Surprise is seeking photos that capture the beauty, history, character or activity of water within the city for use in a 2017 water calendar. Four-way stops added at Cotton Ln & Cactus Rd, Verde Vista Dr & Waddell Rd in Surprise Traffic management signs, flashers and flags will be posted in the project areas to inform drivers of the new changes. Career Fair, Employment Workshop coming to Surprise in August Get tips on resume building, interviewing, social media networking and more at the workshop and then meet with more than a dozen employers at the career fair! City of Surprise 10u State Champions – Surprise Royals advance to 2016 Pacific Southwest Regionals The city's Cal Ripken Surprise Royals youth 10u minor league baseball team is competing for the Pacific Southwest Regional title this week. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of July 18. City accepting applications for new Beehive Coworking Space Businesses can access meeting rooms, copiers, Wi-Fi and other fundamental business amenities. Limited spaces available! City of Surprise builds home for family through grant program Home was built through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, one of several neighborhood grants and housing programs offered by the city. Important dates & information related to the 2016 Primary Election Voter registration for the primary closes Monday, August 1, so be sure to register soon! Surprise Citizens Patrol to host upcoming recruitment and informational meeting The meeting is designed to inform the public about the Citizens Patrol and opportunities the program offers Join us for Dive in Movie Night featuring The Good Dinosaur Get your tickets, and watch a movie under the stars on Saturday, July 30! A food donation can help erase hunger & your library fines The City of Surprise is partnering with Maricopa County Library District for its 2016 Food for Fines Week, July 15-23. Veterans can connect with employers at Veteran Job Club meeting Thursday Meeting is July 14, 6-7:30 p.m.,in the Surprise Resource Center located at 12425 W. Bell Rd, Suite #124. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of July 11. Monsoon storms bring dirt & debris; know the rules on draining, backwashing your pool Get a step-by-step guide on how to drain a pool or spa, tips for knowing when to drain, and a guide to washing pool and spa filters! Girder placement resumes at Bell Road overpass in Surprise Work to install girders for a Bell Road overpass at Grand Avenue (US 60) resumed. Registration opens for City of Surprise fall youth sports leagues Registration begins July 5 for recreational soccer and flag football, competitive soccer and a new basketball skills class! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of July 1. Public input welcome on proposed building code amendments City Council is expected to review the amendments for possible action in September. Surprise Dial-A-Ride expands service, changes rates Rides available 365 days a year! City of Surprise 2015 Water Quality Report Available Online View the report online or request a paper report be sent to your home. Public Notice for how to submit arguments for/against Nov. 2016 General Obligation Bond Election The City of Surprise is seeking for/against arguments for Nov. 2016 General Obligation Bond Election. New partnership aims to meet needs of homeless youth in Surprise A Mobile Youth Resource Center, with bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities, internet access and more, is coming to Surprise. City of Surprise 4th of July Pool Celebration – Get Your Tickets Now! Celebrate with swimming, crafts, music, games, raffle prizes & a poolside view of the city's fireworks show! City opens application process for Community Outreach Program A City Council-led initiative to assist community organizations in providing programs and events that benefit City of Surprise residents is now accepting applications. City offers Teen Sunset Basketball on Saturdays, 3-on-3 tournament in July Come out and enjoy some friendly competition! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of June 27. Celebrate safely; know the law on fireworks use in Surprise The use of consumer fireworks is permitted from June 24 – July 6 and December 24 – January 3, only. Mayor Wolcott proclaims Drowning Impact Awareness Season Stay vigilant around water and take advantage of city's free CPR training, swim lesson assessments and more. You Decide- $63 million bond to fund public safety, streets & rec projects makes Nov ballot City Council approved sending a $63 million General Obligation Bond initiative to the voters in November 2016, at their Regular Meeting Tuesday June 21, 2016. Council oks FY17 budget; funds new public safety jobs, street maintenance The Surprise City Council approved a $271.9 million Fiscal Year 2017 Budget, at a Special Meeting on June 21, 2016. Surprise sends surplus equipment to auction Equipment will be auctioned July 9 and July 23 at Sierra Auction. City of Surprise 33rd Annual 4th of July Celebration Join us for baseball, live music, giveaways & fireworks! Youth entrepreneurs awarded seed money to launch smoothie business Students from Arizona Charter Academy were awarded $2,000 in seed money after competing in the 3rd Annual Surprise Youth Entrepreneurship Boot Camp. City hosts school supply drive Donate supplies to benefit K-8th graders in the Dysart and Nadaburg school districts! Drive runs June 20 - July 28. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of June 20. Surprise Fire-Medical gives helpful hints to prepare for upcoming heat wave Know the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses and seek emergency medical assistance if you or someone you know exhibits signs of heat stroke or exhaustion. Surprise joins Luke AFB, other communities in partnership program Surprise Mayor Sharon Wolcott joined Arizona Governor Doug Ducey, Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James, and other West Valley community leaders at a signature-signing event today to establish the Air Force Community Partnership Program at Luke Air Force Base. Overnight traffic restrictions at Bell & Dysart intersection tonight, 9 p.m. Work to repair a water leak near the intersection is expected to be completed tomorrow at 5 a.m. Turning restrictions at Greenway & Litchfield June 24-27 The left hand turning movements from Greenway Rd to north and southbound Litchfield Rd will be prohibited June 24 at 9 p.m. - June 27 at 5 a.m. City offers tips to stay safe during Monsoon 2016 Know where to find sand and bag locations, what to do during monsoon 2016 weather events and more! “Come to Dive-in Movie Night, you will” Don't miss the dive-in movie, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, at the Surprise Aquatics Center on June 18; doors open at 7:30 p.m. City of Surprise 33rd Annual 4th of July Celebration Two construction workers injured at the Grand Bell Interchange Project The police are currently on-scene working with the Arizona Department of Transportation personnel to determine the cause of the incident. Surprise Fire-Medical receives American Heart Association award The department received the Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold Award for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks. Volunteers needed for Community Pride Day Truth In Taxation Hearing Notice of Tax Increase THE CITY OF SURPRISE IS PROPOSING AN INCREASE IN PRIMARY PROPERTY TAXES OF $588,173 OR 8.7%. Update: US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Businesses around the project are open during construction so please continue to ShopSurprise! Council to consider proposed bond; public comments, survey results available online City Council to discuss proposed projects and potential ballot language at their June 7 meeting. Public meetings in June for proposed Surprise Heritage District The Surprise Heritage District would implement a new zoning district in the city's Original Town Site. Surprise Police warn against leaving kids, pets in hot vehicles As temperatures rise, Surprise Police are reminding residents of the deadly dangers of leaving kids and pets in cars through their “Hot Cars Can Kill” campaign. 2016 Surprise Retail Survey Results are in! Find out which restaurants and retailers the community chose as their local favorites! Registration opens for Surprise HOA Academy Academy offers expert information for HOA residents, board members and managers. Cactus Rd, Cotton Ln – 175th Ave, to close for improvement work A two month project to pave a dirt section of Cactus Road will begin May 31. Wreath laying ceremony in honor of Memorial Day to be held Saturday The ceremony will take place Saturday, May 28 at 9 a.m. at the WWII Memorial located by the Northwest Regional Library. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of May 30. Surprise Aquatic Center and Hollyhock Pool Open May 28 The City of Surprise pools will open on Saturday, May 28 for summer open swim. Surprise Aquatic Center hosts Itty Bitty Beach Party Children ages 6 and under can enjoy music, games, prizes, crafts and pool play! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of May 23. Statement From Mayor Sharon Wolcott Re: Citizen Comments Made At May 4 Council Meeting Surprise, Maricopa County partner to launch program aimed at giving working families a helping hand Income eligible parents in Surprise and El Mirage will soon have access to a pilot program called Strengthening Working Families, which combines opportunities for workforce development training, childcare support and rental and utility assistance. City receives four safety awards at AZ Water Association Annual Conference The city's water and wastewater utility teams were recognized for their dedication to safety. Surprise Forward Meeting Schedule Change: May 23 meeting moved to May 18 The meeting previously scheduled for Monday, May 23 at 6 p.m. at Villanueva Recreation Center will now be held on Wednesday, May 18 at 6 p.m. at the Surprise Senior Center, located at 15832 N. Hollyhock Street. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of May 16. City accepting applications for down payment assistance & major housing rehab funds Income-qualified applicants may be eligible to receive down payment and closing cost assistance on a foreclosed home or funds for major home rehab projects such as those affecting health and safety. Vote for your favorite local business in the 2016 Retail Survey Help your favorite restaurant or retailer earn a spot as a Top 10 Local Favorite for 2016! Registration is open for dance, tumbling and pom classes Classes available for ages 2 and up. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update, weekend travel advisory Get the latest information on the Grand Ave/Bell Road project activities and travel advisories. Council oks city center litigation settlement In a May 5 Special Meeting, the Surprise City Council unanimously approved a settlement to end litigation between the city and Surprise Center Development Company, which owns most of the land around the Civic Center Campus at Litchfield and Bell Roads. Council cuts plan for food tax to pay for new FY17 public safety positions; sets new funding option The Surprise City Council has opted for a new funding mechanism that would allow the city to add 22 full-time public safety personnel in Fiscal Year 2017, without creating a food tax. May Financial Classes Cancelled Cancellation affects “Straightforward Facts of Annuities” and “IRAs, Annuities and Other Sources of Retirement Income.” Join us for Surprise Safety Day on Saturday, May 7 Event will feature public safety exhibits, water safety demonstrations, free swim lesson assessments and more! Free Class: IRAs, Annuities & Other Sources of Retirement Income Register today! City of Surprise hosts AIA Division III HIgh School Baseball State Championship Watch Division III high school teams compete for the top spot. City of Surprise Youth Sports takes center court this summer with strong lineup of programs Registration is open for the youth basketball league and a variety of summer sports camps. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of May 2. Surprise Forward meetings in May; gather input on possible bond City of Surprise explores options for funding capital improvements, the public is invited to attend a presentation and discussion on a proposed $60 million 2016 General Obligation (GO) Bond. City of Surprise Talent Show takes center stage Friday, April 29 Come and enjoy a night of entertainment! Surprise Police investigation results in numerous fraud/theft charges against former city employee Estella Sanchez is accused of stealing city funds over a seven-year period. Jomax Road, 133rd-147th Ave, to close for improvements The project will pave one lane in each direction. New resources for job seekers in Surprise; city partners with ARIZONA@WORK, starts Veteran Job Club Both programs offer no-cost services. Council moves next meeting to May 4 Registration is open for free annuities class Register today! Southwest Gas outage in Surprise; 158 customers affected The area is safe and service has been suspended in the area of N 145th Ave and Parkview Place while the company works to repair the cause of the outage. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of April 25. Civic Center Drive closed April 26 - May 10 Closure is between Greenway Road & Tierra Buena Lane. Surprise Senior Center to Host a Seniors Prom April 29 “Share the Memories” Seniors Prom will feature music, entertainment, karaoke, a catered lunch and the crowning of a prom king and queen! Register for the “SCHOOL’S OUT! 3-on-3 Youth Basketball Tournament” Register your team in one of three age divisions, and hit the court May 13 & 14! Join a City of Surprise Swim and Dive Team Be part of our recreational Swim and Dive Team program for youth ages 5 to 17! FY2017 City Manager Recommended Budget focuses on public safety, transportation and infrastructure City Manager Bob Wingenroth presented City Council a $298.6 million Fiscal Year 2017 Recommended Budget April 19, 2016. Public meetings scheduled for proposed Surprise Heritage District Proposed zoning changes are intended to further implement the existing revitalization plan for the city's Original Town Site. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of April 18. Movie Night at Surprise Stadium April 23 Stretch out on the stadium grass and catch "Minions" (Rated PG). Surprise Super Swap Meet is Saturday More than 70 vendors will be selling new and used goods! Poetry Slam event May 6 in Surprise WHAM is hosting an open mic night for poetry, free verse and storytelling! Registration underway for City of Surprise Adult Sports Leagues Leagues include basketball, kickball, flag football and volleyball. National Work Zone Awareness Week reminds motorists, “Don’t be THAT driver!” Be alert and avoid distractions that could lead to accidents when driving through work zones. Power outage on Bell Rd impacting some traffic signals, area businesses Power provider Arizona Public Service (APS) has reported a power outage along Bell Road that is impacting some traffic signals, homes and area businesses. City offers free class on essentials of estate planning Register today! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of April 11. Utility Payment Assistance Event for Surprise and El Mirage Residents April 23 Southwest Gas and APS customers who qualify are encouraged to attend! Follow the FY2017 budget process online All presentations related to the City of Surprise FY2017 budget building process are available online at www.surpriseaz.gov/budget. Free Class: IRAs, Annuities, and Other Sources of Retirement Income Register today! ShopSurprise offers daily deals, discounts for shoppers Have daily deals sent directly to your phone by texting 'ShopSurprise' to 40518. Surprise Youth Council launches awareness campaign - “Be Yourself. Find Your Crowd. Get Along.” The campaign features posters, a video and on-campus activities at local high schools! Traffic Alert: Greenway Rd closed in all directions from Litchfield to West Point Pkwy Due to a fatal accident Bell drivers should head south to Waddell for E-W detour for the next several hours. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road weekly project update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of April 4 ADOT to open new ramps linking Loop 303, Grand Avenue (US 60) this weekend Ramp reconfiguration this weekend will restrict traffic from accessing the Grand Ave exit from southbound Loop 303. Surprise hosting several tennis tournaments in April; Find your best route to the matches USTA and NCAA tournaments are being played at Surprise Tennis & Racquet Complex. Job fair, job seeker workshop coming to Surprise in April Get job search tips & meet with more than a dozen employers from a variety of industries! Police and community partners host 2016 Spring Bicycle Rodeo The rodeo is on Saturday, April 9, 2016 at the CCV Church, 14787 West Cholla Street, from 8 am to noon. Register for the HOA Summit & connect with your city leaders Join us April 6 at 5:30 p.m.! Free class on using mediation as a tool for resolving conflict Register today! Surprise Super Swap Meet is April 16; Vendor spaces still available Swap meet will be held 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the Surprise Aquatic Center Parking lot. Grab your glove! MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run competition is coming to Surprise Boys and girls, ages 7-14, are invited to compete! Registration open for variety of summer youth volleyball programs; volunteer opportunities availabl Leagues, camps and classes available! Surprise offers free weekend landscape classes Learn how to grow and care for desert plants, as well as roses and ornamentals! Application deadline approaching for City’s summer job program for teens Applications are due March 31! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road project update & closure schedule, Mar 31 – April 5 Get the latest information and know what to expect the first 5 days of the 6-8 month Bell Rd full closure. Experience Super Science Saturday in Surprise on March 26 Explore the science that goes into fighting a fire, the forensics behind solving crimes; and the dirty details on treating wastewater! City of El Mirage to close Dysart & Thunderbird roads intersection for roadwork, Mar 26-27 The closure will be from 6 a.m. Saturday, March 26 to 6 a.m. Sunday, March 27. Surprise Spring “Egg-stravaganza” happening March 26 Egg hunts, face painters, vendor village, interactive kids zone and more! Police hold Citizen Safety Forum The Surprise Police Department, in partnership with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, will be hosting a Citizen Safety Forum from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 21, 2016. Open for business! City map highlights Bell-Grand business access during Bell Rd closure See the business entry points so you know how to Shop Surprise during the 6-8 Bell Rd closure that begins at 10 p.m. on April 1. Registration is open for free annuities class Take the confusion out of annuities and find out if they are right for you! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road Weekly Project Update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of March 21. Surprise Hosts Teen Sand Volleyball Tournament April 9 Register today! Overnight traffic signal work scheduled tonight in Surprise Expect lane restrictions at the Grand Ave and Bell Grande Drive intersection beginning at 10 p.m. tonight. Bell & Grand Temporary Signage Policy offers new options for businesses in Bell-Grand project area The revised policy is part of the city's Bridge Buddy outreach program that is working with businesses near the project construction area. Winners of 3rd Annual Surprise Literacy Challenge announced There were 124 participating classrooms from across Surprise! Council moves forward on adopting utility to enhance city stormwater operations If approved, single residential homes could see a $2.00 line item added to monthly water/wastewater bills. Follow the FY2017 budget process – new presentations available online! Watch presentations related to the operating budget and capital improvement project funding. Free Class: Planning for Long-Term Care Register today! Surprise participates in Fix-A-Leak Week March 14-20 Get tips on checking for and fixing household water leaks! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road Weekly Project Update Read about next week's construction activities and traffic restrictions in the latest ADOT Bell Road & Grand Avenue project update. Loop 303 bridge work to close stretch of US 60 from March 18-20 Grand Ave will be closed in both directions between the Loop 303 and RH Johnson Blvd/Sunrise Blvd from 9 p.m. Friday, March 18, to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 20. Surprise Police Explorers host a “Tip-A-Cop” event at local restaurant Support Surprise PD with their fund raising efforts during this “Tip-a-Cop” event. Supreme Court of AZ hears two cases in Surprise; public invited to attend The oral arguments will be held at Valley Vista High School’s Performing Arts Center on March 29! Information about the Presidential Preference Election Get details on early and election day voting, including local polling locations. Connect with your city leaders at the April HOA Summit Summit will be held April 6, 5:30 - 8 p.m. Register today! Surprise announces surplus auction Mar. 26 Auction will be held at Sierra Auction in Phoenix. City offers free class on essentials of estate planning Register today! Spring swim lesson schedule available Registration begins March 14! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road Weekly Project Update Check out the weekly construction activity and scheduled traffic restrictions for the week of March 7. City launches Business Education Series for local businesses The free education series launches on March 17 and is open to every businesses in Surprise. Experience Super Science Saturday in Surprise on March 26 Learn how the city uses science every day to keep Surprise residents safe! Follow the FY17 Budget Process March 1 presentations focus on public safety operations; asset maintenance/replacement including vehicles & pavement preservation. Council oks city water billing services Beginning this fall, the City of Surprise will process the billing for city water, wastewater and solid waste services. City maps the best routes to Spring Training at Surprise Stadium Spring Training at Surprise Stadium begins tomorrow, March 2! City opens summer job program for teens Applications are due March 31! Encore public art bus tour scheduled Mar. 22 Participants will meet at City Hall and board a bus to explore public art and galleries throughout the city of Surprise. Registration underway for Spring Break Camp Camp runs March 14-18 at Countryside Recreation Center. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road Weekly Project Update Traffic restrictions & schedule of onsite activities for the week of Feb. 29. City’s annual pavement preservation work continues See which areas are scheduled for preservation applications. Free class: IRAs, annuities and other sources of retirement income Register today! April 3 Pops Band concert features famous TV theme music The performance is free with the donation of a non-perishable food item. Volunteers needed for Community Pride Day Cleanup Event March 19, 7:30 a.m. - Noon. Vendor spaces available for Surprise Super Swap Meet Swap meet will be held Saturday, April 16 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.! Global connections; infrastructure improvements and new jobs highlight 2016 State of the City Mayor Sharon Wolcott delivers the 2016 State of the City speech before a full house at the Colonnade. Registration is open for youth dance classes Courses are scheduled to begin in March and will run for 12 weeks. Apply for the Surprise Youth Council and help make a difference in your city! Applications are being accepted Feb. 22 - Mar. 20. Police continue to search for a missing resident from Surprise William Butler has been missing since January 28; anyone with information should call 623.222.8477. Police arrest two men in connection to double homicide in Surprise Surprise Police Department has apprehended two suspects in connection to the February 9 homicide Phoenix Police locate 12 year old runaway from Surprise Genesis Pizano has been reunited with her family. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road Weekly Project Update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of February 22. Spring Household Hazardous Waste event date changed to Mar. 26 The event will be held from 8 a.m.-noon at the Public Works Maintenance Yard, 13433 W. Foxfire Dr.;proof of Surprise residency is required. Council votes to begin settlement process to end City Center litigation Both entities look forward to solidifying a partnership that will result in the development. Public transportation community meeting scheduled on Mar. 9 Learn about transportation options for Northwest Valley residents on March 9, 9-11 a.m. at the Surprise Senior Center, 15832 N. Hollyhock St. Surprise hosts USTA Pro Circuit Women’s Tennis this week Catch a game at the Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex through Sunday! US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road Project Update Important info about Grand Ave traffic restrictions that begin this Sunday. Greenway Rd & Bullard Ave intersection closed Feb 26-29; detour map available Download the detour map to find the best route to your final destination during the closure. Watch new presentations related to the FY2017 budget building process online Review of capital related revenue, overview of budget process & discussion of public safety operating budgets Police investigate kidnapping incident, suspect in custody Officers take suspect into custody without incident. Amber Alert: Police investigating kidnapping US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road Weekly Project Update Get the latest information on traffic restrictions and project activities for the week of February 15. Surprise Park-and-Ride will temporarily relocate beginning in April Service will temporarily relocate to DreamCatcher Park beginning April 4. Registration opens for City of Surprise lifeguard training & swim lesson instructor courses Courses will be held at the Surprise Aquatic Center in Feb. & Mar. City breaks ground on new water industry training facility Once constructed, the Surprise-Gateway Training Center will provide new learning opportunities for individuals interested in water resource management careers. Surprise recognized as an American Heart Association Fit-Friendly Worksite Surprise has been recognized as a Platinum-Level Fit-Friendly Worksite by the American Heart Association for helping employees eat better and move more. Pavement preservation work to cause temporary road closure at 175th Ave, Bell to Greenway Northbound closed 2/13. Southbound closed 2/15. Daytime hours. West Valley Babe Ruth Baseball registration is now open Both individual & team registration is available. Tickets available for 2016 Cactus League Lunch at Surprise Recreation Campus Feb. 24 Get exciting and exclusive insight into what's to come this season! Litchfield Rd widening begins Feb. 15, Cactus to Desert Cove Project is expected to be completed by the end of April. Nighttime traffic restrictions to begin at Bullard near Greenway; Revised restrictions at Greenway, Restrictions begin Feb. 8. US 60 (Grand Avenue) and Bell Road Weekly Project Update Upcoming traffic restrictions and a schedule of on-site activities for the week of February 8. Surprise Deputy City Manager Lance elected President of AZ City/County Management Association Lance also recently co-founded a Women Leading Government group. City of Surprise Second Sundays in the Park concert series continues Feb. 14 Concert will feature live variety music from Behind the Badge. HOA Connection Classes focus on homeowners associations and the law Classes will cover HOA open meeting laws and proposed legislation related to community associations. City launches Explore Surprise video series Short, impactful videos highlighting various city topics. Pavement preservation work continues in February Expect street restrictions in targeted areas. Major housing rehabilitation funds available to eligible Surprise residents Repairs covered under the program include plumbing, mechanical, electrical, heating, cooling & accessibility. City offers new, expanded options for youth tennis classes The “10 & under” classes are offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. City launches FY17 budget discussion 2/2 The City of Surprise FY2017 budget building process begins at the City Council’s Regular Meeting, 6 p.m., Tuesday, February 2. Residents feel safe & love living in Surprise; seek more local jobs & transportation solutions The 2015 National Citizen Survey (NCS) results are in and nearly 90% of residents rate Surprise as a great place to live and would recommend living here. City to host Ultimate Frisbee Tournament for teens Feb. 6 Registrations are currently being accepted at the Community & Recreation Services office. Surprise Stadium to host two collegiate baseball tournaments; Tickets available now! Tournaments will be held Feb. 19-22 and Feb. 25-29. Get to know your city! Register for the 2016 Surprise City Academy The academy begins on Mar. 7 and meets weekly through Apr. 18. City of Surprise Public Art Bus Tour Feb. 18 Spend a morning discovering various art exhibits & experiences in the city! Transportation improvement projects slated across Surprise in 2016 Transportation projects map available for download. Free class: Strategies for a stress-free retirement Register today! Grant funding identified to add lanes, traffic signals on Bullard Ave (Greenway – Peoria) City staff provides Bullard Avenue Task Force with traffic design plan. New city website meets mobile demand, offers modern design The City of Surprise has launched a redesigned www.surpriseaz.gov, to enhance mobile functionality, make it easier for users to connect to the information they seek. City of Surprise offers volleyball open gym Various days, times and locations. Mayor Wolcott delivers 2016 State of the City Address, Feb. 23 Join Mayor Sharon Wolcott as she highlights achievements and progress in economic development, transportation and more in moving Surprise forward during the 2016 State of the City Address. Utility, drilling work to require additional restrictions on Bell Road as part of ADOT Project Work to relocate utilities and drilling soil samples near the Bell Road and Grand Avenue intersection will require varied daytime and nighttime restrictions on Bell Road, now through the end of February. Registration is open for free annuities class Class will be held Tuesday, Jan. 26, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Tande named new Vice Mayor The Surprise City Council selected District 6 Councilmember Todd Tande to serve as Vice Mayor at their regular meeting Tuesday night. Road widening project set to begin on Greenway, Litchfield to Bullard Project will provide two lanes of travel in each direction. ADOT: Contractor selected for project to relieve congestion at US 60 and Bell Road Working with community, ADOT moves forward with interchange in Surprise. Bell Rd-Grand Ave nighttime restrictions continue; Public meeting to discuss upcoming construction Meeting will address construction timelines, public outreach and business engagement. Police seek assistance locating missing endangered adult Robert Copeland, age 40 years, may be armed; the public is asked not to approach Mr. Copeland and to call Surprise Police immediately if he is seen. New grant program supports neighborhood engagement Eligible communities interested in the Neighborhood Grant Program should submit the application by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 26. Police seek assistance locating missing endangered adult Wesley Sjol City to conduct pavement preservation work in several areas Residents can expect street restrictions during the work. Intersection of Dysart & Greenway closed this weekend for improvements Closure is planned for Friday at 7:30 p.m. through Sunday at 8 p.m. Residents to receive “Recycle Wise in Surprise” magnets & door hangers Delivery to begin Jan. 19. Police alert citizens to “jury duty” scam Surprise announces surplus auction Jan. 23 Free class: Understanding and Protecting your IRA Register today! Grant funding available to nonprofits providing public services to Surprise residents Informational pre-application meeting will be held Jan. 14. Cotton Lane closed Peoria – Cactus due to flooding This includes the northbound and southbound lanes. Council selects Biundo as Vice Mayor The Surprise City Council unanimously selected District 2 Councilmember Jim Biundo as Vice Mayor at their regular meeting Tuesday night. Bullard Ave Task Force to meet, review new design plan; Public invited to attend Monday, Jan. 25, 6 p.m., at the Northwest Regional Library Update: Cotton Lane has reopened Peoria – Cactus following sinkhole damage Free sandbags available for flood protection; public reminded to report storm damage To report storm damage, please call 623.222.6000. Cotton Lane closed Peoria – Cactus due to sinkhole Barricades are in place & police are conducting traffic control. Council votes to sponsor Surprise Pops Band The Surprise City Council approved a sponsorship agreement Tuesday night, that has the West Valley Pops Band changing its name to the Surprise Pops Band. Surprise Citizens Patrol to host recruitment meeting On January 27, 2016, from 6 – 9 pm, the Surprise Citizens Patrol will be hosting a recruitment and informational meeting at the Surprise Public Safety Auditorium located at 14250 West Statler Plaza. City hosts Itty Bitty Fairy Tale Ball this Saturday Guests, ages 10 and younger, will enjoy music, dancing, games, snacks and more! Registration for City of Surprise spring youth sports opens today Youth sports programs include softball, tee-ball and baseball. Police seek assistance locating missing endangered adult Robert Copeland, age 40 years, may be armed; the public is asked not to approach Mr. Copeland and to call Surprise Police immediately if he is seen. Utility work at Bell-Grand results in nighttime traffic restrictions Motorists can expect traffic restrictions Jan. 4-15 from 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Passport services available at Surprise City Hall beginning next week City Clerk's Office will accept passport applications & offer passport photos. Call of Election; Candidate packets available Monday Information on 2016 elections, candidate packets, voter registration & more. Waddell Road median work begins Jan. 6 Expect lane restrictions, reduced speed limit between Litchfield Rd. & 140th Dr. City offers free class on essentials of estate planning Learn how to preserve your assets and transfer your wealth to your loved ones. City offers Christmas tree drop-off sites; holiday recycling tips Drop-off sites are open Dec. 26 – Jan. 17. Surprise seeks National Anthem performers for 2016 Spring Training season To be considered, please submit an audio recording by Jan. 18. Council ok’s General Plan amendments Vote taken in Special Council Meeting on Dec. 19. Work to improve Greenway & Dysart intersection begins Dec. 20 Daytime road closures scheduled Dec 21 & 22 Southbound lanes on Verde Vista Dr, south of Greenway Rd, and 175th Ave, south of Bella Rd, will be closed for road repair. Celebrate safely; know the law on fireworks use in Surprise Get details on who can buy, what types are allowed and where they can be used! Council Special Meeting Dec. 19 The Surprise City Council will hold a Special Council Meeting, Saturday, December 19, 9 a.m., to discuss and possibly vote on amendments to some land-use elements of the Surprise General Plan 2035. Sidewalk ramp project kicks off Monday along Cactus Road Expect daytime lane restrictions 7 a.m.-4 p.m. through Jan. 5. Surprise City Manager receives Patriot Award for veteran support efforts Bob Wingenroth was presented with the U.S. Department of Defense award Tuesday night. Wingo to serve as Surprise City Attorney Surprise City Manager Bob Wingenroth named Robert Wingo as City Attorney, during tonight’s City Council Meeting. Purchase fresh, local produce at Surprise Senior Center Jan. 14 Mobile produce market will offer a variety of fruits and vegetables. Surprise employees go “over the edge” to support Special Olympians Both Assistant City Manager Michael Frazier and Surprise Police Sergeant Tim Klarkowski raised $1,000 each and repelled CityScape for the Special Olympics. Major Housing Rehabilitation funds available to eligible Surprise residents Repairs covered under the program include plumbing, mechanical, electrical, heating, cooling & accessibility. Lunchtime Theater in Surprise continues January 2016 Reserve your tickets today for the remaining three lunchtime performances by calling 623.935.6384. Surprise Resource Center opens Monday, offers assistance to those experiencing financial hardship Center will assist those who qualify with utility payments, rent and housing. AZ TechCelerator Relaunch Reveals New Programs, Innovation Tenants Campus now offers coworking space and international business services. Surprise offers variety of youth recreation activities this winter break Register today! General Plan Update discussion added to Dec.15 Work Session; possible action at Regular Meeting Council will consider amendments to elements of the Surprise General Plan 2035 during the 4 p.m. Work Session. Enjoy live music in the park this Sunday The Goode Time Carolers are performing at Surprise Community Park from 2-4 p.m. Surprise Farms Dog Park opens Dec. 9 Amenities include picnic tables, park benches, dog play features and a grass play area. Police remind public of recent changes in city ordinances the City of Surprise adopted several changes to ordinances related to animal ownership. In an effort to ensure all citizens are made aware of the new changes, the Surprise Police provided the following review of the effected ordinances or city codes. Surprise Police annual toy drive is underway Police are collecting toys and wrapping paper through Dec. 14. Surprise Dial-A-Ride to offer more daily trips The weekday trip cap has increased from 140 to 160 one-way trips per day. 2016 Royals, Rangers Surprise Spring Training: Online Pre-Sale Starts Dec. 12! Individual tickets and season packages will be available! Relay for Life of Surprise Kick-off to be held Dec. 2 Get information about the April 2016 relay and speak with past participants at the kick-off event. 14th Annual Surprise Party filled with fun Dec. 4 & 5 Free admission with a canned food or toy donation. Police provide safety tips, laws for bikes & cars sharing the road Get information on passing, yielding and more. Luke Air Force Base advises of increased air activity Dec. 1-13 Increased activity will include both night and weekend flying operations. Surprise municipal code addresses unreasonable dog barking Get informed on city ordinances related to dog barking. Put your pipes on a fat-free diet! Surprise encourages residents to properly dispose cooking grease Avoid clogged pipes; make sure you know how to dispose fats, oils and grease. Special registration for Winter Youth Sports leagues and camps this Saturday 8-11 a.m. at the Community and Recreation Services Office. Registration is open for free annuities class Class will be held Tuesday, Dec. 8 from 10-11:30 a.m. Enter the Surprise Party Gingerbread House Contest Contest offers four categories: adult, teen, youth and groups! Surprise seeks arts & crafts vendors, car show entries & promotional vendors for Surprise Party Vendors and car show participants are needed for Saturday, Dec. 5. Mainstreet to develop a new transitional care center in Surprise, AZ Mainstreet®, the nation's largest developer of transitional care properties, will open a Next Generation® property in Surprise in the fall of 2016. City’s skate park rules help promote safety, prevent damage Learn about allowed and prohibited uses and park hours. Free class: Understanding and Protecting your IRA Interested in an IRA or already using one for retirement? Register today! Surprise Fire-Medical offers tips to prevent deep fryer fires Residents are also encouraged to properly dispose leftover cooking oil at designated recycling locations. Registration underway for City’s Winter Break Camp A fun-filled camp for youth in kindergarten through 6th grade! City hosts Teen Bubble Soccer Tournament Participants will wear a giant inflatable bubble while playing a fun game of soccer! Dyson named new director of Human Service & Community Vitality City of Surprise has hired Seth Dyson as the new Director of Human Service & Community Vitality. Left turns prohibited at 143rd Ave in Veramonte, 11/16-11/30 The 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. restrictions will be in place until Monday, November 30; consider alternate routes. Surprise Racquetball Day offers free open play & demonstration Racquetball Day is Saturday, Nov. 14 from 1 - 3 p.m.. General Plan Summit set for Dec. 4 The Surprise City Council and Surprise Planning and Zoning Commission will host the 2015 Annual General Plan Summit, Friday, December 4, at City Hall. Surprise shares information, gathers input during transportation open house Missed the meeting? A list of the projects presented at the meeting is available on the Transportation and Traffic web page. Public comment invited on proposed land use update to City’s General Plan; meetings in Nov & Dec Amendment focuses on providing a new approach to the city’s land use goals. Grand Ave overnight closures begin Tuesday; weekend closure scheduled for Nov 13 Expect overnight closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. 11/10, 11/11 and 11/12, and a complete weekend closure beginning 9 p.m. 11/13. City of Surprise hosts inaugural Veterans Day parade & pancake breakfast Nov. 11 Join us in honoring our service men and women! City offers fly fishing classes Three session course begins Nov. 18! Village Drive West overnight closure scheduled Nov. 5 The restriction will be in place from 9 p.m. Thursday, November 5 to 5 a.m. Friday, November 6. Art Encounter explores City Hall architecture, art of government Nov. 12 Presented by the Arts and Cultural Advisory Commission. Council votes to move City Attorney under City Manager direction The Surprise City Council voted on an ordinance change that moves the City Attorney position under the direction of the City Manager's Office, at their Tuesday night meeting. “Second Sundays in the Park” concert series continues this Sunday Free family event from 2-4 p.m. at Surprise Community Park. Free class on essentials of estate planning Nov. 17, 10-11:30 a.m. at City Hall. Registration required. Surprise Ribbon Cutting Celebration for Surprise Farms and Veramonte Parks Join us on Saturday, Nov.14! City of Surprise winter youth sports registration underway Variety of leagues and camps for youth basketball, kickball, softball and soccer. City ambulance service launches today Surprise Fire-Medical will become the primary provider of emergency transport. Forum on money & politics coming to City Hall Nov. 18 Forum will explore questions and concerns regarding the impact of money in politics. Local students tour City’s water & wastewater plants Council names Wingo as Interim City Attorney The Surprise City Council named Deputy City Attorney Robert Wingo as the city’s Interim City Attorney, at Tuesday night’s Special Council Meeting. Experience City’s Haunted Maze Oct. 29-31 Get spooked at Sierra Montana Recreation Center. Get the facts about annuities at a free class Tuesday, Nov. 10, 10–11:30a.m. Registration required. Surprise adopts new, progressive accessibility icon Businesses will have the option to use the traditional logo or switch to the new logo without the need of a permit from the City. Early voting at Surprise City Hall closes Friday Any registered voter who resides in Maricopa County can vote at this location. Surprise Dial-A-Ride adds holiday service Holiday service will be capped at 30 one-way trips per day. Current, future transportation projects to be discussed at Nov 5 public meeting City staff will be available in the Mayor's Atrium from 5-7 pm to answer questions about the transportation CIP projects. Reems Road lane restrictions begin Oct. 26 for pavement preservation work Traffic will be restricted to one lane each direction during the paving and restriping process. Surprise City Attorney announces resignation Surprise City Attorney Misty Leslie notified City Council of her plans to resign on October 19, citing the acceptance of a new career opportunity. Free Class: Understanding and Protecting Your IRA Registration is now open! Itty Bitty Monster Bash this Friday! Event will feature music, dancing, games, snacks and more! Task force consensus: 2-lane Bullard Ave at 35 mph Much of the bike lane along Bullard will be maintained. Free sandbags available for flood protection; public reminded to report storm damage To report storm damage, please call 623.222.6000. Free class: Preventing Medical and Tax Identity Theft Register today to reserve your spot! City wins Emmy award for public awareness video “Hot Cars Can Kill” The winning video was part of a campaign created to remind everyone to check their cars for children and pets before exiting a vehicle to prevent overheating deaths. Surprise participates in Arizona’s 14th Annual Cities & Towns Week This week, the Surprise community is encouraged to learn more about the services and programs that the city offers. Surprise considers a new Stormwater Utility; educational meetings planned in Nov & Dec City staff will be available to answer questions about the proposed utility at the public meetings. Early voting underway at Surprise City Hall Any registered voter residing in Maricopa County can cast an early ballot at the City Clerk's Office Oct. 7-30. Overnight & weekend closures scheduled for Grand Ave bridge work Motorists should consider alternate routes for the overnight closure on October 20 and the weekend closure that begins at 9 p.m. on October 23. Surprise Fine Art & Wine Festival Set for January 22-24 Featuring award-winning Batik artist Paul Nzalamba & other renowned artists. Surprise Fiesta Grande celebration happening Saturday Attractions include a classic car show, flavorful food trucks, free kids’ play zone, a vendor village & more! Surprise offers free weekend landscape classes Learn about watering for healthy plants and preparing your garden and landscape for winter. Registration is open for free annuities class The class will be held at City Hall on Oct. 27, 10-11:30 a.m. Surprise to host NFL Punt, Pass & Kick Competition for youth The competition is free and open to boys and girls ages 6-15. Early voting begins today at Surprise City Hall Any registered voter residing in Maricopa County can cast an early ballot at the City Clerk's Office Oct. 7-30. October proclaimed “Domestic Violence Awareness Month” in Surprise Residents are encouraged to help raise awareness by wearing purple clothing or a purple ribbon. Update: Bullard Ave Task Force meeting moved to Northwest Regional Library The task force will meet at 6 pm, October 19, in the Meeting Room of the Northwest Regional Library, 16089 N. Bullard Ave. Free sandbags available for flood protection Residents are asked to bring their own shovel to fill the bags. City of Surprise recreational programming canceled due to inclement weather Programing includes adult and youth sports activities, aquatics and swim team programming scheduled for this evening. Surprise joins statewide literacy initiative City will collaborate with other communities to develop school-readiness and student success programs for Arizona children. Free class offers tips on preventing identity theft Topics include how to deter and detect identity theft, resources for getting help and more. City offices open on Columbus Day, closed two days at Thanksgiving See the fall holiday closure schedule and its effect on trash/recycling pick-up. Bullard Ave Task Force to meet Oct 19 The group of volunteers will continue discussions about the future of the Greenway Road to Peoria Avenue stretch of the arterial roadway. Tickets on sale now for Surprise Senior Idol show & contest The show will be held on Weds., Oct. 14 at 1 p.m. at the Valley Vista High School Performing Arts Center. Volunteers needed for community cleanup event Oct. 10 Sign up today and help beautify areas across the city! Construction leads to temporary Walmart Park & Ride changes beginning Oct 12 Route 571-Surprise Express passengers will need to use the Surprise Elementary School Park-and-Ride location. Surprise launches National Citizens Survey The City of Surprise strives to deliver top-notch services to our residents. To measure our performance, we are conducting a National Citizens Survey (NCS) this fall. Household Hazardous Waste Collection set for Oct. 10 This event is free and for Surprise residents only. Free class on essentials of estate planning Workshop will be held October 6 from 10-11:30 a.m. at Surprise City Hall. Registration required. Task force discusses future of Bullard Ave; weighs pros and cons of design alternatives The group will meet again to further discuss long-term solutions for the arterial roadway. City begins public discussions to amend sign code The City of Surprise is in the process of amending City Code Chapter 113, which deals with signs. Village Drive West weeklong road closure begins Sept. 28 Motorists will still have access to businesses along Village Drive. Free class: Understanding and Protecting your IRA Registration is open for the Oct. 13 class. Lunchtime Theater in Surprise Today, the City of Surprise in collaboration with the West Valley Arts Council, Theater Works and the West Valley Symphony announced a new 2015-16 performing arts series, Lunchtime Theater. City wins national awards for public awareness videos The City of Surprise received two awards from the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) during their Government Programming Awards earlier this month. Info on voter registration, election dates & more on National Voter Registration Day Voter registration closes Monday, Oct. 5 for the Nov. 3 election! Flash flood watch issued; free sandbags available for flood protection Residents are asked to bring their own shovel to fill the bags. 60-day public review begins on proposed land use updates to the Surprise General Plan Proposed updates are available for viewing online. Dog Park to close for maintenance Oct.7-21 Closure will affect the large and small dog parks areas at Surprise Community Park. NEW DATE: Bullard Avenue Task Force to meet 9/24 Using resident feedback from the August 17th and September 8th public meetings and through the online survey, the volunteer Bullard Avenue Task Force will meet on Thursday, September 24, 6 p.m., in the Community Room of City Hall. Special Council Session 9/22 on sign code policy The Surprise City Council will hold a Special Work Session on Tuesday, September 22, at City Hall, to discuss the city's sign code policy. City of Surprise presents exciting fall lineup of teen events From dodgeball tournaments to teen pool parties, there are plenty of events to keep youth active and connected! Surprise announces surplus auction Sept. 26 Surplus property will be sold through Sierra Auction. Registration underway for youth Fall Break Camp A fun way for youth in Kindergarten - 6th grade to spend fall break Oct. 12-16. Bullard Avenue Task Force to meet 9/22 Using resident feedback from the August 17th and September 8th public meetings and through the online survey, the volunteer Bullard Avenue Task Force will meet on September 22, 6 p.m., in the Community Room of City Hall. Second Sundays in the Park fall musical lineup unveiled Free concerts planned for Oct. 11 and Nov. 8. Updated: Bullard Ave short-term solutions shared at public meeting; project task force initiated Residents interested in joining the task force to discuss the future of Bullard Ave should contact Mike Gent, 623.222.6223. Low income emergency assistance approved for Surprise The additional Community Action Program funding will help low-income residents with short-term crisis services. Surprise Fiesta Grande celebration to feature kids’ zone, food trucks, car show & more! Applications are currently being accepted for car show entries and food and promotional vendors. Bridge work continues at Grand Avenue and Loop 303; Grand weekend closure required Motorists will need to consider alternate routes from 9 p.m. Friday, September 11 to 8 p.m. Sunday, September 13. Fall Competitive Youth Soccer Team Registration Now Open Registration is for intact teams. Individuals will be placed on a “free agent” list. Roadway restrictions at 143rd Ave in Veramonte, 9/8 – 9/11 Restrictions will be in place at 143rd Ave and Cactus Rd from 5 am Sept. 8 to 4 pm Sept. 11. Registration is open for free annuities class The workshop will be held Sept. 22 at City Hall. Vendor spaces available for Surprise Super Swap Meet Proceeds from the rental fees support the City’s senior programs! Volunteers needed for Community Pride Day Cleanup Event Help beautify your community on Saturday, Oct. 10 from 7:30 a.m. - noon. Surprise public safety officials announce G.A.I.N. Night 2015 The Surprise Police invite you to attend the upcoming G.A.I.N. Night (Getting Arizona Involved in Neighborhoods). This engaging community event is scheduled to occur on Saturday, October 3, 2015 from 6-9 pm at 15960 North Bullard Avenue (on the 8-acre field). 115th Avenue drainage improvement project; weekend road restrictions scheduled Roadway restrictions will affect travel along 115th Ave. during the weekends of September 11 and September 18. Police Officer receives National Award from the VFW Surprise Police Officer Wendy Klarkowski was an honored recipient of the Veterans of Foreign War Post 285’s National Law Enforcement Public Service Citation. Bullard Ave survey results are in; 9/8 next public meeting The discussion will continue in a second public meeting on Tuesday, September 8 Info on voter registration, election dates & more as fall election cycle approaches From registration to voting – we have the dates and details for you! Council says ‘yes’ to 2016 Fine Art and Wine Festival Agrees to allocate tourism funds to market the event in national publications. Bullard Ave. Survey Results & Public Meetings The results of a public survey regarding the traffic-calming project on Bullard Avenue between Greenway and Peoria are in. City accepting applications for Neighborhood Stabilization Program Program offers financial assistance to income-qualified applicants who purchase a foreclosed bank-owned home in Surprise. Movie Night at Surprise Stadium returns in September Free showings of fun family films scheduled for Sept. 12 & 26! Police, students, and local companies come together for "Project Hydrate" Over 15,000 water bottles were collected to help combat St. Mary's Food Bank water bottle shortage. Bullard Avenue public meetings to reveal survey results on traffic changes Residents are encouraged to attend two public meetings in which survey results regarding the recent changes to Bullard Avenue, Greenway to Peoria, will be discussed. Fall Clean-up Event Sept. 12, free for Surprise residents Event runs from 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Northwest Regional Landfill. Fall youth sports registration begins Sept. 8; Volunteer opportunities available Registration will include girls’ volleyball, Babe Ruth softball and Cal Ripken tee-ball and baseball. Registration underway for fall tennis lessons, age 10 & under A structured and fun framework for learning tennis, utilizing equipment and court dimensions that are age and skill appropriate. City’s Back to School Supply Drive a success Thanks to residents and staff, the City was able to donate an estimated $1,500 worth of school supplies! Share thoughts on proposed update to land use planning at Sept. 9 public meeting The presentation will include description and discussion of the proposed Land Use Map, Character Areas, potential sub-area overlays and more. City seeking talented seniors for Surprise Senior Idol show Registration forms must be received by Sept. 25. Show is Oct. 14. Bullard Avenue survey online; 2 public meetings planned City offers free class on Essentials of Estate Planning Tuesday, September 15 from 10-11:30 a.m. at Surprise City Hall Overnight closure of Grand Avenue near Loop 303 scheduled for Aug. 19 Drivers will need to consider alternate routes beginning 9 p.m. August 19 to 5 a.m. August 20. Surprise Aquatic Center features dive-in movie, fall swim lesson registration Lesson registration begins today for Scorecard Members and Wednesday for all other Residents. Surprise Seeking Applications for Voluntary Commissions Surprise is currently accepting applications for Board/Commissions. All positions are voluntary. Promotional booth space available for Surprise Fiesta Grande! The community celebration will take place Saturday, Oct. 17 from 2-10 p.m. Surprise accepting funding applications for Community Outreach Program A pre-application meeting will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 19 at 4 p.m. App deadline is Sept. 16. Overnight closings on Cotton Lane begin August 17 Motorists should consider alternate routes between the hours of 9 pm - 5 am. Surprise Public Safety launches veteran preference recruitment policy The City of Surprise Fire-Medical and Police Departments now offer preference points for military service veterans applying as firefighter and police recruits. City to host information meeting regarding recent changes on Bullard Avenue The City of Surprise invites the public to attend a community information meeting regarding the recent speed limit and striping changes along Bullard Avenue, Greenway to Peoria avenues. Tot Time Program combines fun & learning for children ages 3-5! Program runs Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. – Noon beginning Sept. 8. Temporary lane restrictions for Bell Rd. landscape maintenance Work begins Monday, Aug. 17 and will occur between the hours of 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. New hours for the Northwest Regional Library beginning August 31 The library will close at 8 pm Monday-Thursday but will now have extended hours on Sundays. Surprise MVD to reopen August 10 The newly renovated office now has a larger customer waiting area and an upgraded air conditioning system. Surprise Retail Survey Results are in See which restaurants and retailers topped the most-desired list! Surprise offers free weekend landscape classes Classes cover year-round color, irrigation and preparing your plants for winter. Mayor Wolcott proclaims August Drowning Impact Awareness Month Month aimed at encouraging safety around water and promoting awareness. Update on Surprise Farms Park Upgrades Dog park to be located on the western edge of the park. Free Spay & Neuter Clinic August 3 Limited to the first 40 cats or dogs. Appointments are required. Surprise announces surplus auction August 22 Surplus consists of miscellaneous office equipment. Mayor Wolcott encourages residents to participate in city’s Back to School Supply Drive City of Surprise accepting parade entries for inaugural Veterans Day Parade Share your patriotic spirit by applying to enter the parade! Entries are due Oct. 28. Bell Road Sidewalk project to begin in August Eastbound curb lane restrictions will be required during the project. Overnight closures of Grand Avenue near Loop 303 scheduled for Monday and Tuesday Grand Ave will be closed in both directions on July 27 and July 28 from 9 pm - 5 am. Free Class: Understanding and Protecting Your IRA Aug. 25, 10-11:30 a.m. For anyone interested in an IRA or already using one for retirement. Safety improvements coming to Bullard Summer fun continues at the Surprise Aquatic Center Contact Community and Recreation Services if you have questions about the Dive in Movie or fall swim lessons. Police to increase traffic enforcement in school zones Enhanced enforcement will begin Aug. 5 to help keep students & parents safe. Short closures of Loop 303 near Grand Avenue scheduled this week (July 21-24) Drivers can expect short delays in the area for the remainder of the week. Last week of registration for Fall Youth Soccer and Flag Football Special Saturday registration on July 25 from 8 – 11 a.m. at the Community & Recreation Services Office. Temporary lane restrictions for Bell Rd. landscape maintenance Landscapers will begin work at Reems Rd. & move west for approx. five weeks, stopping just west of Citrus Rd. Surprise Police offer back to school safety tips Parents reminded to talk with children about roadway dangers. Chance of heavy rain; free sandbags available for flood protection Sand and bags available at 10 locations around Surprise. Special Community and Recreation Services Advisory Commission Meeting July 16 City staff will provide an update on Surprise Farms Community Park improvements. Registration open for free class on annuities The class will be held at City Hall on Tuesday, August 11 from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Surprise builds home, fulfills dream for family City leadership and staff attend key exchange ceremony for local family's new home. Registration for fall recreational, competitive youth sports leagues now open Registration dates are July 6-25 with a Special Saturday Registration on July 25 from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. at the Community and Recreation Services office. Registration is also available on-line at www.surpriseaz.gov/recreation. Cleaner Living, Cleaner Water campaign focuses on Surprise stormwater Learn how to help keep our stormwater clean! Grand Ave closure starting Friday 7/10 near Loop 303 Grand Ave will be closed from Loop 303 to Sunrise Blvd. /RH Johnson Blvd. from 9 pm on 7/10 to 5 am on 7/13. Team Building: Surprise announces new police chief; former chief takes new city role South bound Bullard Avenue closure – Tierra Buena to Greenway The south bound lane will be closed from July 7 to July 15, between the hours of 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Surprise announces surplus auction July 11 Photos and descriptions may be obtained at the auction website www.sierraauction.com. Surprise judge appointed to AZ Supreme Court council Judge Dominguez will assist the AZ Supreme Court with judicial oversight beginning July 1. Surprise Police volunteer program wins award for outstanding achievement Program won the 2015 International Association of Chiefs of Police Award for Outstanding Achievement in Law Enforcement Volunteer Programs. Bullard Avenue sidewalk closure – Greenway to Tierra Buena The closure is expected to last through the month of July. Surprise Police to unveil permanent drug collection unit June 27 Unit will provide a way to safely disposal of unwanted, unused, or expired medication at any time. 32nd Annual 4th of July Celebration in Surprise Music, baseball, food & fireworks for July 4th! Free admission with a canned food donation. Little Curator Summer Art Camp - Register Now! This fun-filled camp, for ages 6-14, runs July 6-10. Half-day & full-day sessions available. Week-long closure of 140th Ave in Veramonte begins June 22 Tickets for Surprise’s 4th of July Pool Celebration on sale Monday Celebrate poolside at the Surprise Aquatic Center with a view of the city fireworks show! UPDATED - Plan Ahead: Grand Ave closure starting Saturday 6/27 near Loop 303 Grand Ave will be closed from Loop 303 to Sunrise Blvd. /RH Johnson Blvd. from 1 a.m. on 6/27 to 5 a.m. on 6/29. Celebrate safely; know the law on fireworks use in Surprise Get the details on permitted dates, acceptable types & more. Youth baseball summer tournament season kicks off This week, the Surprise Recreation Campus will host the first two of 11 scheduled summer tournaments. Surprise gets green light for city-run ambulance service Surprise-Fire Medical has received approval on its Certificate of Need Application. Greenway Road sidewalk ramp project begins Monday Daytime lane restrictions between June 15-26. Grand Ave lane restrictions on Saturday near Loop 303 Grand Ave will be restricted in both directions from 1 a.m. to Noon Saturday, June 13 near Loop 303. Youth Entrepreneurship Boot Camp awards new student entrepreneurs, Bulldog Drives Arizona Charter Academy students win tablets and $2,000 to launch their business on their school's campus. Straightforward Facts of Annuities class June 23 Register today for this free class! Surprise Police to host Crime Prevention Fair June 27 Mark your calendar! The event is happening Saturday, June 27 from 1 – 5 p.m. in the Surprise Public Safety Auditorium. Surprise hosts Teen Sunset Basketball on Saturday nights Admission is free. Teams or individuals can play from 7-11pm at Countryside Rec Center. Surprise Aquatic Center hosts dive-in movie featuring “Paddington” Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 13! Council adopts FY16 Budget Loop 303 & Grand lane restrictions 6/5 – 6/8 Grand Ave. will be reduced to a single lane in each direction from 163rd Ave. to west of RH Johnson Blvd. Surprise Fire-Medical receives American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Recognition Award UPDATED: Surprise Senior Center improvements begin June 8; Center will be closed Monday Projects include new air conditioning units and interior construction that will reconfigure the space. Surprise seeking applications for voluntary commissions Residents invited to attend Community Emergency Response Team training For residents interested in learning how to help in an emergency or disaster situation. Surprise Recreation kicks off summer programs this week A variety of youth sports leagues, programs, camps and special events begin this week and run through the summer. Truth in Taxation Hearing set for June 2 at City Hall Surprise Youth Sports softball participants advance to state Pitch, Hit and Run Competition Congratulations to Caitlin Callaway, Brooke Cohee and Brianna Cohee! Surprise Police remind youth to follow curfew Under 18? Curfew is 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and Midnight on Friday and Saturday. Surprise employee recognized as 2015 Treatment Plant Operator of the Year Award presented by the AZ Water Association. Free workshop: Essentials of Estate Planning Learn how to simplify estate planning and create a wealth transfer legacy by attending a workshop on June 9. See the preferred concept for public art at Bell and Grand; give input! Design centers on the agave plant and uses paint, light, sculptured concrete and metal fencing. Transportation Update: Bell Road curb lane restrictions and speed limit to change on Bullard EB Bell restrictions begin May 28. Bullard speed limit change, south of Greenway, set for summer. IRIS USA Breaks Ground for New Manufacturing, Distribution, Office Complex The new 420,000-square-foot facility will initially employ approximately 100 people. National Emergency Medical Services Week Registration opens for Fall HOA Academy Academy is open to West Valley HOA board members, management company staff and homeowners. Surprise to offer volleyball open gym beginning May 26 Locations include Kingswood Elementary and Villanueva Rec Center. Surprise announces surplus auction June 13 Auction items may include surplus office and fleet items. Surprise Stadium - 2015 AIA Division III State Baseball Playoffs Postponed Games will be rescheduled for Saturday, May 16. Teen Pool Party canceled due to inclement weather Next Teen Night event is scheduled for June 19. Surprise recognizes Public Works Week May 17-23 Mayor Wolcott will officially claim that week in honor of Public Works during Tuesday's City Council Meeting. Help decide the future look of city parks and development New online survey covers topics ranging from architectural and landscape design to park amenities. Community & Recreation programs canceled due to ongoing police situation Community Park, Aquatics Center and baseball fields and related programs canceled today. Second phase of Census testing underway Census workers to visit homes that have not completed survey through June 23. Surprise Aquatic Center and Hollyhock Pool open May 23! Summer passes are available for purchase. Surprise Police launch new crime tip hotline New hotline and email allow you to provide anonymous information on criminal activity in Surprise. Register for swim lessons and classes All levels of swim lessons are being offered. Surprise Aquatic Center hosts Itty Bitty Beach Party May 2, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Includes music, games, prizes, arts & crafts and pool play! Bring a Bag, Use a Bag; Pet owners can go green Donate extra plastic shopping bags for pet clean-up in our city parks! Surprise Fire-Medical Department awarded 2015 GOHS grants Surprise team member named “2015 Economic Developer of the Year” Economic Development Manager Mike Hoover received the award in the Large Community category. Surprise Hosting 2015 NCAA Division II Tennis Championships May 13-16 The team championships will bring the top 32 men’s and women’s Division II teams to Surprise! Surprise wins Age-Friendly Community Competition The city will receive $5,000 in grant funds to support age-friendly programs. Free Class: Preserving, Protecting & Understanding your IRA Class is May 19, 10-11:30 a.m. Reserve your spot today! Help bring shopping, dining to Surprise through Retail Survey Survey-takers can also enter our Gift Card Giveaway! Service Arizona kiosk now open at Surprise City Court Offers an alternative to the Surprise MVD office, which is temporarily closed for renovations. Narrowing down Bell-Grand public art concepts- Tell us what you think May 18 is the day to see the preferred concept and share your thoughts. Surprise police, partners host Mental Health Community Engagement event May 7 Receive mental health information and learn about alternatives to a police response during a mental health crisis. Registration for youth basketball and sports summer camps begins May 4 Surprise is also looking for volunteer youth basketball coaches. Free annuities workshop May 13 Learn what annuities are and if they are right for you. Community invited to Surprise Safety Day event May 2 Safety Day will be held from 8-11 a.m. at the Surprise Aquatic Center. Surprise recreational swim & dive team tryouts May 2; club team accepting new members Rec team tryouts are being held Saturday at the Surprise Aquatic Center from 8-11 a.m. Surprise City Hall to host Job Fair May 8 Six companies will be recruiting from 8 a.m. - Noon. Council receives FY16 City Manager Recommended Budget Northwest Regional Library closed rest of today Library to reopen 9 a.m., April 22. Community invited to workshop on Land Use Planning April 28 Plus, help select preferred design concepts for neighborhoods, parks & open spaces, housing and architectural styles. City seeking volunteers for Lizard Run Park clean-up May 2 Volunteers will help with trash pick-up and general landscaping. Surprise Super Swap Meet this Saturday! Over 70 vendors will be selling new and used goods in the Surprise Aquatic Center parking lot! Share input on art concepts for future Bell & Grand interchange Concepts range from images of the agave, to faces of Surprise residents, to real & conceptual lifelines. Surprise-based Athena Wireless Communications acquired by Google Working out of AZ TechCelerator, Athena Wireless develops high capacity wireless connectivity systems. Surprise Police warn against leaving kids, pets in hot vehicles Police launch “Hot Cars Can Kill” campaign. Road construction update Project Connect to provide on-site assistance for families in need Apr. 16 Assistance will be provided for housing, utilities, medical care and more! City offers Fair Housing Act training Apr. 30 Learn about the laws and policies in place to protect the right to fair housing. Council approves 500K renovation for city’s business incubator Following the upgrades, the city will launch two new start-up business programs at the campus. Registration opens for girls’ volleyball league & summer camp For girls ages 7-15. Online and in person registration available. Movie Night at Surprise Recreation Campus April 11 Free showing of The Boxtrolls - rated PG. Online input opportunity to share your ideas on potential capital improvement projects Review lists of potential projects, and share which ones matter most to you! ADOT: Surprise MVD office to temporarily close for interior renovation Renovations begin April 13. Self-service kiosk will be located at Surprise City Court. Household Hazardous Waste Collection set for April 11 Get rid of unwanted paint, electronics and other hazardous waste at this free collection event. Surprise Spring Egg-stravaganza hops in April 4 Join the search for more than 50,000 candy & toy-filled plastic eggs! City encourages residents to “Shop Surprise, Shape Surprise” Local sales tax makes up nearly 40% of the city’s General Fund revenues. Median improvements at 175th & Waddell to improve safety Work set for March 30 - April 3. Capital Improvement Funding Exploratory Meeting moved to April 9 Public meeting at 6 p.m. at City Hall, Council Chambers. Surprise part of online Census testing Households that receive the postcard are required by U.S. law to respond to the survey by April 1. Essentials of Estate Planning Learn how to preserve your assets at a free class on April 14. New City department hosts Open House on March 28 Meet the Human Service and Community Vitality Department, and enjoy food, beverages and a tour of the facility! West Valley Babe Ruth League registration continues through March 27 The league will play a 16-game season that will start in late April. Vendor spaces still available for Surprise Super Swap Meet- April 18 Proceeds from the rental fees support senior programs. Registration opens for Surprise Teen Leadership Summit City and DUSD team up to host free leadership summit on April 23. City’s Pavement Preservation Program schedule and maps released online The Surprise Public Works Department will begin its annual Pavement Preservation Program on March 23. Free CCC/CPR Classes offered in Surprise Surprise Fire-Medical will be offering free Continuous Chest Compression Only/CPR (CCC-CPR) classes in April, June and July. Council OKs agreement with WHAM Art Association Agreement keeps WHAM in facility on Dysart. Volunteer Opportunity! Become part of a city board or commission There are new opportunities to support your community. Capital Improvement Funding Exploratory Committee sets first meeting Join us! March 18, 6 p.m., City Hall- Council Chambers. Surprise participates in Fix-A-Leak Week March 16-22 Get tips on checking for and fixing household leaks. Surprise Literacy Challenge winners announced Sixty classrooms from across Surprise accepted a four-month reading challenge in November, and the results are in! Heritage District Overlay Community Workshop Mar.18 City planners will work with attendees in a hands-on approach to help create visual concepts for the Heritage District Overlay. City of Surprise brings local arts scene online City launches www.surpriseaz.gov/arts Spring swim lesson registration opens Registration opens today for scorecard holders and March 11 for all other residents. Veramonte Neighborhood Park Groundbreaking Event March 14 The Veramonte Neighborhood Park will feature restrooms, a splash pad, a parking lot and other park amenities. Surprise Police to host “Bike Rodeo” An event designed to teach the skills needed to ride safely. Public invited to voter participation forum March 26 Presentation and brainstorm session designed to stimulate ideas on how to increase accessibility and ease of voting. Free workshop: Preserving, Protecting and Understanding your IRA Learn strategies to help with retirement planning at a free workshop on March 24. City opens summer jobs program for teens The City of Surprise is offering a summer job program for income-eligible Surprise residents between the ages of 15 – 19. Fitch upgrades Surprise MPC bonds; issues stable outlook Improved debt structure drives the upgrade. Spring Clean-up Event March 14, free for Surprise residents Residents can drop off up to 2,000 pounds of residential waste at the Northwest Regional Landfill from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Vendor spaces available for Surprise Super Swap Meet- April 18 Proceeds from the rental fees support senior programs. Surprise announces surplus auction March 14 Photos and descriptions may be obtained at the auction website www.sierraauction.com. Surprise Farms Community Park Groundbreaking Event February 28 Completed park to include splash pad, dog park, skate park & more! Share input on Bell & Grand traffic interchange art project Public meetings planned for March 9 &10. Free Workshop: Straightforward Facts of Annuities Two workshop times available! March 10 at 10 a.m. and March 17 at 4 p.m. Surprise offers Spring Break Camp, Sports Camps Applications are being accepted now. Residents invited to attend Community Emergency Response Team training Surprise is offering free training for residents interested in learning how to help in an emergency or disaster situation. HOA Summit: connecting the City with HOA community leaders The City of Surprise is proud to host its next HOA Summit on Thursday, March 26. Council ok’s formation of committee to vet potential bond projects The Surprise City Council voted to form the Capital Improvement Funding Exploratory Committee to provide recommendations regarding the use of general obligation bonds in funding capital improvement projects. City accepting applications for Neighborhood Stabilization Program Housing program helps with down payment & closing costs. IRIS USA and Japanese parent selects Surprise for Western US Regional Headquarters 100 new jobs, nearly $40 million investment. Big 12/Pac-12 Spring Training Baseball Challenge hits Surprise Stadium this week Baseball fans can experience NCAA Baseball Feb. 19-22. 2015 State of City Mayor Sharon Wolcott’s 2015 State of the City Address was filled with breaking news and a vision for growing the city’s future through jobs, preservation, art and more. Crews continue repairs to 163rd Ave sinkhole Broken irrigation line the cause. Surprise announces surplus auction February 28 The auction will be held February 28, 2015 at Sierra Auction. Surprise seeks Senior Center volunteers The City is seeking volunteers to assist with food service at the Surprise Senior Center. Surprise Spring Training College Baseball Classic slides in Feb.13-16 Surprise Stadium will host Oregon State, Michigan State, Northwestern and University of New Mexico. Babe Ruth Baseball League registration begins Feb. 9 Individual and team registration will be open until March 27. Surprise, AZ named the national finalist in America’s Best Intergenerational Communities Award Surprise offers business academy in March Surprise Business Academy is a free program designed to educate new and aspiring entrepreneurs. Surprise hosts Teen Formal Dance Feb. 13 For 6th-8th graders. $7 admission. Surprise taps Michael Celaya to lead its new human service department; welcomes Nicole Lance to the Surprise, AZ (January 30, 2015) In support of City Council policies to better engage with residents and improve overall quality of life, City Manager Bob Wingenroth today announced key changes in the city’s organizational structure. Rain in forecast, changes to city sand bag locations Free sand and bags are available at various city locations. Surprise offers free estate planning class Feb. 24 From taxes to power of attorney, this class will cover the essentials of estate planning. Bell Road restrictions near El Mirage planned for median alteration project Beginning the week of February 2, crews will begin altering the median on Bell Road, just east of the El Mirage Road intersection. Free workshop: How to protect & enhance your financial estate Get educated on safe money principles at a free workshop on February 10 at Surprise City Hall. Residents invited to take Heritage District survey Survey will help determine the types of facilities, services and elements you would like to see in the Original Town Site. Funding assistance available to Surprise residents for exterior home paint projects Eligible applicants will receive a $150 gift card to supplement the cost of paint and/or paint supplies. “Investing in One Surprise” - Mayor Wolcott delivers 2015 State of the City February 17 Surprise honors first graduate from city-run business incubator MD24 House Call has grown from three employees to more than 100! Art Encounter at City Hall features ballet, local artists Feb. 11 The event will take place from 5:30-7:00 p.m. in the City Hall lobby and is free to the public. Spring Training Game Time Changes in Royals Schedule! The Kansas City Royals have changed the game times of two Spring Training games from the previously announced schedule. The Wednesday, March 18 game against the Milwaukee Brewers will start at 1:05 pm (previously scheduled at 6:05 pm) and the Friday, March 27 game against the Seattle Mariners will start at 6:05 pm (previously scheduled at 1:05 pm). New Surprise Youth Council gets sworn in The new leadership group will help guide decisions affecting the city’s youth. Surprise Teen Night at Sierra Montana Recreation Center this Friday! Youth in 6th-8th grade can listen to the DJ, check out the laser light show, play dodge ball, video games & more. Surprise General Plan update meetings continue tonight, tomorrow Help the city identify how to amend the Surprise General Plan. Surprise 11 to air report investigating heroin’s hold on AZ The 30-minute documentary will run each day, Thursday through Sunday, this week. Temporary lane restrictions for Bell Rd. landscape maintenance Drivers may experience temporary inside lane restrictions between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Help build Surprise through art, heritage, & strong economic plans Five meetings throughout January aimed at sharing ideas and gathering public input. Police host Citizens Patrol volunteer recruitment meeting Jan. 28 from 6-9 p.m. at the Surprise Public Safety Auditorium. Surprise hosts free Small Business Forum Jan. 27 Great opportunity for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Mountain View Blvd. extension opens to traffic The road now offers direct access off of Grand Avenue! Council selects D3’s Williams as Vice Mayor Acts on behalf of the Mayor in the event of absence. Surprise supports statewide simulcast of report investigating heroin’s hold on AZ Must see TV! Jan. 13, on all AZ broadcast stations at 6:30 p.m. Free class: Straightforward Facts of Annuities Jan. 28, 10-11:30 a.m. Please register early since space is limited. Second Sundays in the Park continues Jan. 11 The Dina Preston Band will be performing 2-4 p.m. at Surprise Community Park. Tickets available for Frozen Fairy Tale Ball On Jan. 10, enjoy music, singing, games and guest appearances by the cast of "Frozen." Free Workshop: Understanding & Protecting your IRA Workshop will be held Tuesday, Jan. 20 from 10-11:30 a.m. Please register early to secure your spot! Celebrity Flag Football Challenge® returns to Surprise Super Bowl weekend Tickets on sale now! Surprise Stadium Box Office opens Jan. 3 at 7 a.m. Tickets will be available for a variety of events, including Spring Training, Celebrity Flag Football and college baseball tournaments. Share your thoughts.... General Plan Update meetings set in January Help us identify how best to amend the General Plan to enhance our future. Youth tee-ball, baseball & softball registration begins Jan. 5 The city is also seeking volunteer coaches. Surprise seeking National Anthem performers for 2015 Spring Training Submission deadline is January 12, 2015. Making connections.... Bell Road sidewalk project kicks off in 2015 South sidewalk planned on Bell, east of Grand Avenue to the Avenue of the Arts. Grand Avenue lane restrictions near Loop 303 in place Dec. 22-24 Restrictions lifted over Christmas weekend. City offers Christmas tree drop-off sites; holiday recycling tips Four Christmas tree drop-off locations will be open Dec. 26 – Jan. 11 Surprise hosts youth recreation programs during winter break Winter break camp, sports camps and recreation programs available. Future Forward: City Manager announces new hires; organizational changes City Manager Bob Wingenroth has announced new staff and organizational changes. City increases Dial-A-Ride daily trip cap, expands service hours Changes effective January 2, 2015. Council approves recipients of Community Outreach Program funds Grants will assist six community organizations in providing programs & events that benefit residents. Flooding rain possible: City sandbag locations open 10 sandbag locations citywide. Cookies & Crafts with Santa Dec. 20 For ages 3-9. Registration required. Ballet featured at Second Sunday in the Park Dec. 14 This event will feature the West Valley Conservatory of Ballet performing “Home for the Holidays.” High Pollution Advisory-No Burn Day issued for Dec. 8 Open burning and woodburning fireplace activity is restricted in Maricopa County. Keep it safe; know the laws of buying, using fireworks in Surprise Find out when you can use consumer fireworks and what types are allowed. ADOT: Grand Avenue restrictions at 303 begin next week Loop 303 sound wall construction north of Mountain View Blvd. also set to begin. Surprise Police seek identity of Peeping Tom Sketch of suspect available. Competitive Basketball League registration opens in January City accepting team registrations Jan. 5-23, 2015 Street restrictions and sandbag locations open due to localized flooding Some city streets affected by localized flooding. ADOT to host Open House on 303/Grand interchange project Completion set for summer 2016. Surprise Police to Increase Patrols at Shopping Centers Police Host Holiday Safety Awareness Presentation Free Spay & Neuter Clinic Dec. 8 Clinic will be held at Gaines Park. Appointments are required. Update: Mulch fire continues near Surprise More smoke expected as heavy equipment knocks down smoldering piles of wood, leaves. Surprise Police collecting toys, gifts for families in need New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at several locations throughout the city. Mulch fire update & smoke safety tips Smoke in Surprise caused by mulch fire near Olive Ave. & Dysart Rd. 2015 Surprise Spring Training: online presale starts December 15! Free workshop: Personal Income Tax 101 Before your prepare your 2014 income taxes, make plans to attend the city’s free workshop December 10. Free Workshop: Understanding Annuities Learn about the pros and cons of annuities at a workshop on December 16. Please register early! ADOT: 303/Grand Avenue interchange work to begin in December Completion set for summer 2016. Free Workshop: Life Planning For a Secure Retirement Tues., Dec. 9 from 10a.m.-12p.m. in the Surprise Public Safety Building Auditorium. Surprise Police long-distance action saves a woman in Wisconsin Support Surprise, buy local this holiday season Shopping Surprise supports services you depend on; local employers & more! CRS - Roundtable discussion to introduce city’s new Competitive Sports programs Roundtable discussion to introduce city’s new Competitive Sports programs UA Master Gardener Training to be held in Surprise Calling all green thumbs! Classes begin Jan. 6. City offers free Fair Housing event Dec. 2 Registration required. Surprise Police Sergeant receives M.A.D.D award Sergeant Jeremy Robertson was recognized with a 2014 DUI Enforcement Award. Surprise Super Swap Meet November 15