| Council Approves Temporary Tax Increase |
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By Kathy Langdon, President/CEO
Results from the June 30th town council meeting were a blow to the business community as the Council voted to temporarily increase sales tax by .25 percent and add a new 1 percent use tax-a tax charged on products purchased outside of the state where sales tax is not collected.
Your Chamber was at the table at every opportunity during these budget discussions and the Chamber's Board and public policy committee met with the Council prior to the vote.
We surveyed our members, held a special focus group meeting, met with town staff and shared your concerns and stories. In spite of our efforts, it was made clear that some options would not be considered, including salary cuts, furloughs, or eliminating parks and recreation programs, in part due to the unknown and potentially negative impact of the State's budget deficit on Gilbert. While the tax increases were passed, we were able to secure a 30-month temporary tax which does not go into affect until September 1st. In addition, we received overwhelming support and commitment from the Town Council to pull together a community working group to recommend efficiencies throughout the Town's programs and services. Based on the priorities and recommendations made by this group, the Council has agreed to pull the tax increase if sufficient efficiencies can be found that would balance the Town's budget during these lean times. The business community needs to continue to be part of these discussions and work together to find new solutions. Finding solutions to balancing the Town's taxing structure with quality of life programs and basic services is of great significance. We encourage you to volunteer to be part of this community working group. It will most likely be a six- month commitment of night meetings to understand the Town's budget, programs, services and other opportunities and it will be a great way to find out how to create that balance and have your voice heard. If you would like to be considered to serve on the working group or participate in the public process, contact Kathy at (480) 892-1103 or email kathy@gilbertchamber.com and we will add your name to the list for the Council's consideration. If you would like to see how the Council voted on issues refer to Council Casts Votes on page four of this publication or visit our website at www.gilbertaz.com. |
| Updated Member Info Needed for Directory |
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By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
The Gilbert Chamber is preparing for production of the 2010 Membership Directory, a publication featuring a comprehensive listing of members and space for advertisements.
The membership directory is distributed to all members, included in relocation packets, made available for visitors in our lobby and published on our website. This year's publication may also include a visitor's guide featuring tourist attractions and local accommodations.
Important! You will receive in the mail a verification form within the next few weeks. Carefully review your contact information and categorical listing and make any corrections necessary. This document is the only way to ensure that your listing is printed correctly in the Directory.
Advertise! In addition to your listing, members and non-members are invited to purchase advertising space in the Directory. You will be contacted by a representative of Lawton Publishing regarding rates and availability. If you would like immediate service, send an email to sarah@gilbertchamber.com. |
| Registration Open for Gilbert Small Business Program |
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By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
Registration has begun for the ten-week entrepreneurial education Front Runner program, a series offered to Gilbert residents and small business owners through a partnership between the Town of Gilbert and the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce.  The Front Runner program places a strategic focus on growing business through optimizing business tools, market research and analysis, using financial tools, one-on-one coaching, and guest speakers providing expertise on a variety of topics. This year's class will also place an emphasis on social media marketing as well as survival tips during this economic period. "This program has allowed me to take a fresh look at how we do business," said Constance Lemere, Vice President of Employee Benefit Exchange Corp. and past participant of the Front Runner program. "It has inspired me to come up with new processes relating to service and keeping us competitive with the industry." The Town of Gilbert was able to secure a grant to offset the cost - normally $1,500 per student - and is offering the program for $150 per student to cover the cost of materials only. Classes will begin Wednesday, September 16th and will be held weekly from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. through November 18th. Registrants must have at least two years of experience as an existing small business or entrepreneur. For more information or to register for the Front Runner program, visit www.gilbertft.com or contact John Zupon at (480) 503-6762. |
| Council Casts Votes for New Taxes, Conditional Use Permits |
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By Kathy Langdon, President/CEO
Rental Tax - remove exemption
The Town Council approved removing the exemption on sales tax collection on rental property from owners who have less than three properties. The Chamber supported this change as it provided a consistent tax policy for rental property.
Yes-Abbot, Crozier, Daniels, Lewis, Presmyk, Sentz, Urie.
No- n/a.
Add a new Use Tax of 1.0%
The Town Council approved a temporary 30-month (September 12, 2009 - May 31, 2012) use tax of 1% on goods purchased out of state where a sales tax was not collected. The Chamber did not support the introduction of this tax because of the impact on utility customers and school districts, however, did recommended if the Council moved forward on this new tax to consider a 1% tax instead of the 1.5% proposed. A yes vote noted below indicates support for the temporary tax at 1%.
Yes-Abbot, Crozier, Presmyk, Sentz, Urie.
No-Daniels, Lewis.
Increase Sales tax by .25%
The Town Council approved temporarily (September 1, 2009 - May 31, 2012) increasing the sales tax by .25%; the new sales tax amount to be collected is 1.75% for Gilbert. The Chamber opposed this increase. A yes vote noted below indicates support for the temporary tax increase of .25%.
Yes-Abbot, Crozier, Presmyk, Sentz, Urie.
No- Daniels, Lewis.
Community Working Group to Evaluate Efficiencies
The Town Council approved a community working group to evaluate priorities and efficiencies throughout the Town. Council members Urie, Daniels, and Sentz will have until the Council Retreat in August to bring back recommendations as to mission, make-up of group, and public processes. The Chamber supported this community working group. A yes vote below indicates support for the working group.
Yes-Abbot, Crozier, Daniels, Lewis, Presmyk, Sentz, Urie.
No- n/a.
Non-Traditional Businesses, separation restrictions and conditional use permit
The Town Council approved an ordinance that would provide separation requirements and a conditional use permit for all listed "non-traditional" businesses. The Chamber argued that separation requirements provides an unfair geographic monopoly for the businesses the Town does not want while the conditional use permit would allow for public input. We were one vote short on securing just the conditional use permit for these businesses. A yes vote below indicates support for both separation and conditional use permit requirements. Non-traditional businesses include tattoo studios, pawn shops, check cashing (payday loans, etc.) operations. Hookah Lounges were placed under smoking lounge restrictions.
Yes-Abbot, Crozier, Lewis, Sentz.
No-Daniels, Presmyk, Urie. |
GILBERT TAX CODE CHANGES EFFECTIVE ON SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2009
On June 30th, 2009, the Mayor and Council for the Town of Gilbert approved three ordinances that change the current Sales Tax Code.
Beginning on September 1st, 2009, the current Gilbert Tax Rate (1.5%) will increase to 1.75%. The combined TAX RATE for Gilbert will be 8.05%
(6.3% State and County / 1.75% Gilbert).
Beginning on September 1st, 2009, there will be a 1.0% Gilbert Use Tax on purchases made through the internet or Out-of-State in which tax was not paid. Previously there was only a State Use Tax. This change will add a Gilbert Use Tax making the State and Town Use Tax 6.6% (5.6% State/1.0% Gilbert).
Beginning on September 1st, 2009, the exemptions for two or less rental properties will be removed. Residential Rental Tax will be due on each Gilbert rental.
Please make any corrections to your accounting systems effective on September 1st, 2009. These changes are in effect until May 31st, 2012. More information may be found on the Gilbert website www.ci.gilbert.az.us under the Business Resources heading.
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| Safety Tips for Triple-Digit Temperatures |
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By Grace Hodges, VP Programs/Services
Triple digit temperatures are here! Listed below are some precautions you should take to protect yourself and your family from heat related illnesses.  Take it easy. Allow your body time to adjust to working in the heat and plan breaks out of the sun to allow your body to cool off. Drink plenty of water. Don't wait until you're thirsty. By that time, you may be experiencing dehydration. Drink at least eight ounces every 30 minutes while working outside.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. They will only accelerate the dehydration process.
Eat right and eat light. Avoid hot, heavy meals. Fresh fruits and vegetables are good alternatives since they are heavy in water content and contain vitamins and minerals lost through perspiration.
Dress Sensibly. Wear light-colored clothing that lets your skin breathe. Wear a cap or wide-brimmed hat to shield your head and face when you're outside.
Please remember...any form of heat exposure can be a serious threat to your health and safety. Don't ignore the danger signs. |
| Scholars Program Seeking Volunteers |
| By Grace Hodges, VP Programs/Services
More than 98 percent of new jobs in Arizona that pay above the median wage will require some education after high school. Most employers will also require prior work experience. Helping children prepare for successful careers demands curriculum that encourages academic rigor and strong workplace skills. Arizona Academic Scholars is an initiative of the Arizona Business & Education Coalition (ABEC) in partnership with the Arizona State Board of Education (SBE). Arizona Academic Scholars is a community-wide incentive program to motivate more students to complete an academically enriched high school course of study. The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Gilbert Public Schools and Higley Unified School District to promote the Scholars Program. We'd like to invite businesses to become involved in helping the students become successful in their career path. We are looking for businesses that will go into the classrooms to help mentor students. If you are interested in volunteering to help with the Scholars Program please contact Grace Hodges at 480-892-0056 or email grace@gilbertchamber.com. |
| EVCCA August Legislative Update |
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The Arizona Legislature's Regular Session gaveled to a close on July 1st. Due to outstanding budget issues, the legislature went into a Special Session the following week. Lawmakers passed four bills that fund K-12 education and the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System. The passage of these bills places Arizona's current fiscal year budget another $480 million further in debt.
The remaining dominant issue before the legislature is how to pay for the budget imbalance. Sources of revenue being discussed include reinstatement of the equalization property tax and a temporary state sales tax.
Despite the budget woes, the legislature was able to pass a number of business bills supported by the East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance before it adjourned. They include:
HB 2199 - Corporation Commission Omnibus
Among other changes, permits electronic filing of corporation documents
HB 2323 - Health Insurance; Small Business Coverage
Reduces the go-bare period to be considered an uninsured small business from six consecutive months to 90 days
HB 2324 - Health Insurance; Individuals; Coverage Exemptions
Allows for a mandate reduced insurance product for individuals or sole proprietorships
HB 2396 - Transportation; Public-Private Partnerships
Allows for public-private partnerships for transportation projects
HB 2401 - Administrative Rules Oversight Committee
Reestablishes the Administrative Rules Oversight Committee
SB 1018 - Medical Malpractice; E.R. Treatment; Burden of Proof
Reduces the burden of proof for medical malpractice cases against E.R. doctors thereby reducing the premiums for insurance
SB 1185 - IRS Code Conformity
Conforms Arizona tax code with federal code
SB 1262 - Workers' Compensation
Reduces workers compensation fraud
SB 1266 - Workers' Comp; Drugs & Alcohol
Removes unconstitutional statutory language relating to workers' compensation and workplace injury resulting from drug or alcohol use
SB 1403 - Renewable, High-Wage Industries Incentives
Provides for a success-based renewable energy manufacturing tax credit
SCR 1026 - Secret Ballot; Fundamental Right
Upon voter approval, guarantees the right of Arizona residents to vote by secret ballot
One bill of note that was opposed by the East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance was signed into law - SB 1113. The bill requires restaurants and bars that wish to prohibit weapons on the premises to post a gun prohibition notice next to a liquor license.
Should you have any questions about the aforementioned issues or any other business issues before the Arizona Legislature, please feel free to contact East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance lobbyists, Tom Dorn, Eric Emmert and Heather Bernacki at (602) 606-4667. |
| Leadership Alumni Event in August |
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 The next family-oriented Gilbert Leadership Alumni event is slated for August 29 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bring your swimsuits and beat the heat at Gilbert's Mesquite Jr. High swimming pool featuring a zero-entry area for little ones, TWO waterslides, a diving board and volleyball courts for the rest of us! We will be serving hot dogs, chips and (non-alcoholic) cold drinks. Admission and 'dogs are free, but come prepared to buy raffle tickets for super summer prizes!! The event is being sponsored by Mesa United Firefighters. Keep your eye out for our next spooky event: Halloween at the Museum on October 31st!
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| New Date for Gilbert Excellence Event |
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The Gilbert Community Excellence Awards will now be held on Friday, October 23rd from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Trilogy at Power Ranch. General Admission is $50 per person or a corporate table for ten can be purchased for $400. For more information, email marty@gilbertchamber.com. |
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This could be your Ad!
Contact Sarah for information and rate sheet.
(480) 892-0056, ext. 104
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| Mark Your Calendar! |
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Members of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce hosted booths July 11th at the Chamber's Community Shred-A-Thon and Recycling Event. |
Register to attend any of the Chamber's upcoming events by calling
(480) 892-0056 or online at
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| New Member Welcome Reception |
New members are invited to attend this event for a brief overview of the Chamber's benefits, programs, networking and sponsorship opportunities.
Thursday, August 13th
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
Sponsored by:
ABP Insurance Brokers
Employee Benefit Exchange
Spaich Benefits Group
Summit Risk Management
T. Marreel and Associates |
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Free to new members of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce |
| Business Connections...Network NOW! |
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Grab your business cards and attend this networking event to meet other Chamber members. This fun opportunity includes door prizes an a light breakfast.
Thursday, August 13th
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission - $10
Chamber Member Price - $5 |
| SRP Small Business Workshop
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Quickbooks; The Next Step
Presented by M.A.X. Services, this workshop will review the simple steps to organizing your business using Quickbooks.
Thursday, August 13th
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission - $15
Chamber Member Price - $10
Lunch provided by M.A.X. Services |
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Gilbert NOW!...Network at Noon |
Jay DeWitt of the City of Phoenix's Aviation Department will introduce PHX Sky Train - the highly anticipated people mover system at Sky Harbor.
Wednesday, August 19th
11:15 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Southeast Regional Libray
775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission - $25
Chamber Member Price - $15
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| SRP Small Business Workshop
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Understanding Sign Codes and Regulations
Presented by the Town of Gilbert, this workshop will review sign code regulations including obtaining a sign permit and displaying signs and banners.
Wednesday, August 26th
7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission - $15
Chamber Member Price - $10 |
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Business Wrap Up...Network NOW! |
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Wrap up the work day and meet other Chamber members. This event includes door prizes and light hors 'devours.
Thursday, August 27th
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
The Gilbert Skybox Sports Grill
825 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert
General Admission - $10
Chamber Member Price - $5 |
| Chairman's Express |
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The following members are recognized for their continued support and contributions to the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce:
APS
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Gilbert Tribune
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
SRP |
| Premier Members |
| A.L. Russell & Associates
APS
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
SRP
Thorobred Chevrolet
Villa Siena |
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| Membership Anniversaries |
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1-5 YEARS
AlphaGraphics of Gilbert
American Cancer Society
Chiropractic Wellness Center
Citslinc International, Inc.
Crown Collision
Hospice Family Care
Humana
Joe's Farm Grill
National Bank of Arizona
One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating
PinnacleOne
Radisson Fort McDowell Resort & Casino
Rocket Media
State Farm Insurance-Higley Rd.
T. Marreel & Associates
Valhalla Holdings
Wyatt Aerospace
6-10 YEARS
Cox Communications
Gilbert Chapter of United Mesa Firefighters
SCORE
11- 15 YEARS
A.C.T. Awards, Engraving & Promotional Products
Geof Glovsky, DMD, Orthodontics
Gilbert Kiwanis
Golba Group Realty & Property Management
HoneyBaked Ham Co.
Meridian Bank, NA
Mesa Verde Property Mgmt., Inc.
R & K Building Supplies, Inc.
State Farm Insurance - K. Kiernan
WHPacific
16 - 20 YEARS Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Gilbert Tribune
Lawton Publications
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Orange-Sol Blending & Packaging, Inc.
Power Ranch
State Farm Insurance - Alvarez Insurance Agency,Inc.
The Arizona Group
21+ YEARS
Bar 4 Self Storage, LLC
Gilbert Public Schools
Southwest Ambulance
Southwest Gas |
| Website Referrals |
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Listings Displayed in Directory
Arizona Business Bank Aromas at the Islands B.R.I.O. Tuscan Grille Bolero's at Seville Golf & Country Club Chick-Fil-A of San Tan Village Country Cottage Cafe & Gift Shop Dragon Wok Fine Chinese Restaurant M&I Bank - Higley Village M&I Bank- William's Field Meridian Bank, NA Coupon List View
ActionCOACH Business Coaching Brilliant Deductions Elements Therapeutic Massage Infinite Healing Center International Minute Press of Gilbert Kyrene Medical Center PC Papa Johns Pizza Stephanie Lopez - Mary kay Storage One Self Storage Super Suppers Gilbert Website Clicked On
Best Western Legacy Inn & Suites Cozy Weddings of Gilbert Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix-Gilbert Open Rain Elite Software StoneRidge Dental Ultimate Tan Warren's Jazz Bistro Watch Me Grow Child Care - Lindsey Groves Location Sponsors Clicked On
A.L. Russell & Associates, Business & Entrepreneur Coach
APS
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Gilbert Tribune
Martin Uhlhorn Agency, Inc.
Sign A Rama
SRP
Tempe Schools Credit Union
TruWest Credit Union
UTAZ Development Corporation |
| You Say It Best! |
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"I own several businesses in different parts of the Valley and Gilbert's Chamber by far is the most outstanding where it counts...bringing people to my business."
Sherene Robinson
Udder Delights |
| Chamber Member Shout Out! |
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The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce recognizes the following businesses for their contribution of door prizes or catering last month:
A Mug You Can Trust
Bed Mart
Crosswoods Indoor Golf Center
Dolly Steamboat
Gilbert Tribune
Jimmy's of Chicago
LaVie Nails & Spa
M&I Bank
Premier Designs
Sam's Club
Tempe Schools Federal Credit union
Udder Delights
Watson's Flower Shop
XTrim Med Spa |
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