In a world where national headlines often dominate our attention, it's easy to overlook the profound impact local governance has on our daily lives. On Friday, April 4, 2025, I attended the Policy Impact Series hosted at the ASU Chandler Innovation Center, a collaborative event organized by the East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance (EVCCA). This gathering provided a platform for community members to engage directly with key county officials: Chairman Thomas Galvin and County Attorney Rachel Mitchell.

Chairman Thomas Galvin, County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, and Chandler Chamber CEO Terri Kimble — *Left to right: Chandler Chamber CEO Terri Kimble, County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, and Chairman Thomas Galvin*

The Power of Local Engagement

Chairman Galvin opened the discussion by acknowledging a sentiment many of us feel: "Government isn't trusted by people on both sides of the aisle." Yet, he emphasized that many in public service operate with a servant's heart—striving to make a difference.

In a powerful moment, County Attorney Mitchell reframed a familiar quote: While courage is often said to be "what you do when no one is watching," she offered a bolder take—"Courage is what you do when EVERYONE is watching." She welcomed community feedback, stating, "If you have criticism of our office, we want to hear it." That kind of transparency and accountability is rare—and vital.

Addressing Community Challenges

The panel addressed several pressing local issues that impact our everyday lives:

Small Business Support

"People don't thrive if our businesses don't thrive," Mitchell emphasized, spotlighting the county's efforts to create a more robust environment for local businesses. Initiatives like the Small and Local Business Advocacy Program and the Arizona Microbusiness Loan Program are designed to uplift entrepreneurs and fuel local economies.

Water Availability

Water is always top-of-mind in Arizona. Galvin touched on the county's ability to be proactive while remaining nimble when reacting to challenges from agencies like the EPA. With a growing population and increasing climate pressures, these efforts are critical.

Drug Crisis and Community Safety

The rise in fentanyl-related deaths is alarming. Mitchell stated that "for every 10 pills, 7 contain a potentially lethal dose." Education is the key, both speakers emphasized. Kids often think they're taking a prescription like Xanax or Percocet—but it's counterfeit and dangerous.

Mitchell pushed for more tools, support for diversion programs, and smart legislation to address the issue without unnecessarily saddling people with felonies. Galvin noted that six people overdose daily—avoidable deaths that demand targeted education and community-driven solutions.

Housing and Workforce Development

Galvin shifted focus to zoning laws that haven't been updated since the 1960s. "Why are there height restrictions next to the light rail?" he asked. He advocated expanding lot sizes and reforming outdated codes to unlock more housing opportunities.

He also touched on the importance of keeping young talent in Arizona through robust workforce development programs—many of which are formed through strategic partnerships between the county, local chambers, and major employers like Intel. These efforts are crafting pipelines into exciting, future-facing jobs.

A Call to Civic Participation

Here's the bottom line: It's easy to feel overwhelmed by national or global issues. But this event reminded me—and I hope reminds you—that local government is where real, tangible change happens. You don't have to run for office or become a policy expert. Just start by showing up. Even if it's a panel discussion on Friday morning.

Your voice matters. And the people in those rooms want to hear it.

To stay informed and attend future sessions, check out the Chandler Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar.

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