(The Center Square) – The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors voted Wednesday to allocate $130,000 in taxpayer money for various purposes in the East Valley through the county’s “Community Solutions” fund.
$100,000 will go to the International Dark Sky Discovery Center to support children's education and admission fees, $10,000 will be used to “improve signage” along the Haws Trail system near Mesa in the Tonto National Forest and $8,000 will support early childhood programs at East Valley Technical College, the commission touted in a news release Wednesday. Other funds will be dedicated to “heat protection.”
“Over the past few years, the East Valley has experienced significant growth and development, with no signs of slowing anytime soon,” Vice Chairman Thomas Galvin said in a statement. “To support this continued expansion, Maricopa County is intentionally investing in projects that help residents and their families learn about the natural world, enjoy outdoor spaces, advance their education, advance their careers and live healthy, fulfilling lives.”
As for heat relief, the funds will be used for “medical equipment” and “portable evaporative coolers” specifically for people with disabilities and seniors, but to receive the benefits, people must be part of the county's Department of Social Services' Senior and Adult Services program, according to a news release. $3,000 will also be used for pet-related supplies for the cooling center.
“We have a growing population of residents over the age of 50 who are especially affected by the relentless summer heat,” Maricopa County Social Services Interim Director Jason Matthews said in a statement. “Many of them live on fixed incomes and can't afford the costs of maintaining, repairing or replacing their air conditioning. These fixtures will play a critical role in keeping seniors and people with disabilities cool and safe during HVAC emergencies.”
High temperatures, with temperatures reaching triple digits almost daily, are expected to continue in the Valley over the next few weeks, often resulting in a flood of public funds and measures being put in place. Centre Square On Wednesday, it was reported that Attorney General Chris Mays is demanding that the property management company fix widespread air conditioning problems at the apartment complex by Friday.
As for other public funding, the aforementioned Discovery Center in Fountain Hills will use the money for camps and exhibits.
