Submitted by Jim Phipps, public information officer for Chandler.
Residents of traditional, non-HOA neighborhoods are becoming more engaged and addressing issues that negatively impact them because of a series of spirited, interactive workshops known as Chandler’s Traditional Neighborhood Academy.
The academy was one of Mayor Jay Tibshraeny’s first initiatives upon his return to office in 2011 after he saw an unfilled need to provide educational courses, resources and tools for residents of neighborhoods that don’t fall under HOA rule.
The free academy, which begins anew in April, helps students take an inventory of neighborhood conditions and identify characteristics that make the neighborhood desirable and those posing challenges.
Neighborhood survey results, action plans and logos from 18 traditional neighborhoods can be found at chandleraz.gov/neighborsinaction.
The Traditional Neighborhood Academy consists of four workshops on Wednesdays beginning April 16. Classes are 6-8 p.m. at Chandler City Hall, second floor, Training Room A, at 175 S. Arizona Ave.
The academy’s April 16 workshop, “You and Your Neighborhood,” will identify key components of a neighborhood and determine the boundaries and neighborhood characteristics. Participants will learn about resources available to assist with communication and develop a survey to identify specific challenges and concerns.
Other sessions are:
• April 23: “Neighborhood Leadership & Identity.” Participants will learn the importance of community partnerships and discuss neighborhood identity and the characteristics of an effective leader. Concepts for neighborhood logos also will be developed.
• April 30: “Know Your City Resources.” Participants will receive an overview of city resources and learn how to develop positive relationships with their city government.
• May 7: “Moving Forward With Your Neighbors.” Participants will present the outcomes of their neighborhood survey and review their logo design concepts.
For more information, contact the Neighborhood Programs Office at 480-782-4354 or e-mail cristabel.dykstra@chandleraz.gov.
