In a significant leadership update, Gilbert Police Chief Michael Soelberg has announced his withdrawal from the recruitment process for the permanent Assistant Town Manager position, according to the Gilbert Digital Newsroom. Chief Soelberg, who has served as Interim Assistant Town Manager for the past eight months, will continue in this role until the new Assistant Town Managers are appointed, expected by January 2027. He expressed his commitment to returning to his role as Police Chief, emphasizing his dedication to public safety and the Gilbert Police Department. Town Manager Mario Paniagua praised Soelberg's service during this transitional period.
Infrastructure and Community Planning
On the infrastructure front, the North Water Treatment Plant (NWTP) rebuild has reached 75% completion, marking a major milestone in Gilbert's largest capital improvement project. As reported by the Gilbert Digital Newsroom, the project is on track for completion by winter 2028, ensuring a safe and reliable water supply for the town's residents and businesses. The new water treatment process is expected to be operational by spring 2027.
In other planning news, Gilbert is seeking community input for its strategic tourism planning through Discover Gilbert. Surveys for residents, visitors, and business owners are open until November 29, aiming to enhance the town's tourism strategy and economic benefits, as detailed by the Gilbert Digital Newsroom.
Community Engagement and Events
Gilbert is preparing to honor veterans with its annual Veterans Day Ceremony and Car Show on November 11 at Water Tower Plaza. The event will feature a classic car show, military displays, and a keynote speech by retired U.S. Army Infantry Major Chris Woodard, according to the Gilbert Digital Newsroom.
Additionally, the Gilbert Town Council has approved changes to its meeting schedule and Code of Conduct, effective December 15, 2026. These changes, aimed at improving meeting efficiency and clarity of conduct expectations, were made in response to community feedback, as reported by the Gilbert Digital Newsroom.
In Chandler, residents are invited to a Boards and Commissions Open House on December 2 to explore volunteer opportunities within the city. This event, hosted by the City Clerk’s Office, aims to engage residents in local governance, as noted by the Chandler News Center.
Chandler is also celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday with a community resource gathering on November 12, organized by the Golden Neighbors program. The event will provide information on city resources and federal services, according to the Chandler News Center.
Public Safety and Environmental Initiatives
The Gilbert Police Department has been awarded a $37,677.50 grant for DUI enforcement and training, enhancing road safety efforts in partnership with the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, as reported by the Gilbert Digital Newsroom.
In Mesa, the city has awarded $40,000 in grants to youth-led sustainability projects through the Mesa Youth Climate Action Fund, supporting initiatives in water stewardship and heat mitigation, as detailed by Mesa Now.
These developments highlight Gilbert's commitment to leadership stability, infrastructure improvement, community engagement, and public safety, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable future for its residents.