“We will work hard to show how these funds will be spent wisely and dedicated to projects that improve our citizens’ quality of life,” she said in a text to Community Impact Newspaper.
Though improving traffic consistently rates at the top of Gilbert residents’ concerns in town surveys, the bond passed by 164 votes, winning 50.2% of the vote.
No organized opposition group emerged to the bond, but resident Jim Torgeson, a sign shop owner who filed two ethics complaints against Peterson about how public comment is handled at town council meetings, paid for numerous signs that were placed around town.
Torgeson’s ethics complaints were dismissed after an independent investigation from a Tucson attorney. His signs frequently targeted Peterson for criticism in urging a no vote against the bond.
Torgeson has filed a statement of interest in running for town council next year.
Peterson acknowledged the work of the Gilbert Citizens Transportation Task Force, made up of residents of the town, in creating the bond package.
“I’m confident their work will be recognized and appreciated by the voters of Gilbert over many years to come,” Peterson said.
The town’s present plan is to use the money to fund 57 projects that fall under five categories: $214 million for safety and congestion; $106 million for road reconstruction; $78 million toward redevelopment in the Heritage District; $68 million for traffic technology; and $49 million for multimodal transportation investment.
The tax rate remains flat at $0.99 per $100 assessed valuation.