It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, AZ gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Gilbert, AZ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“When I tell you their company name should be "Angel on Earth"- I really mean”
“We have been using ABC for almost a year and have been completely satisfied with”
“I have worked with for this company for 4 years and they are great people”
“Absolutely unbelievable care provided. If you or a family member need assistance don’t”
“Always Best Care provided in home personal care for my sister for seven years. Their”
“Always provided great care for my mom and Chelsea was amazing. Thank you!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services went above and beyond anything that we ever could have”
“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with”
“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with”
“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with”
“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with”
“My parents had nothing but good things to say about their caregiver. She was reliable,”
“Always Best is a great place to work. They treat their employees well and truly”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides.”
“Marcy took time out of her day to answer all of my questions when I”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides.”
“My parents had nothing but good things to say about their caregiver. She was reliable,”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides.”
“Marcy and her team are genuinely caring and want the best for each individual they”
“Marcy took time out of her day to answer all of my questions when I”
“This is a great company! Highly recommend!”
“The care for my wife was wonderful for abut 9 months when I had to”
“Always best took excellent care of my mom. They made sure that whoever took”
“I recently had a situation with the wedding of my daughter that needed a caregiver.”
“Our family needed to get my disabled brother in an assisted living environment quickly as”
“When I tell you their company name should be "Angel on Earth"- I really mean it! I had spent several hours on a Friday calling numerous senior care agencies, but I made zero progress. Most were too expensive or couldn't accommodate my needs. Finally, around 5:30pm, one of the owners of "Always Best Care Senior Services" returned my call. She introduced herself and let me know she received my message & was returning my call. Her name was Marcy and from the moment she started talking, I knew I was in good hands. She asked me what I was looking for in a care giver & also shared what her company offered. I thanked her for calling me even though I knew she was probably done for the day, but she let me know she's on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. After I told Marcy what I needed for my mother & what we could afford, she asked if I ever considered a "group home" for my mother's care. She explained what it was and said she could even take me to visit a few she would recommend. We agreed to meet a few days later at one of the locations and I was impressed with what the home had to offer. I was more impressed that Marcy didn't know me and still went above and beyond my expectations! She took time from her day to take me to 2 different homes, she asked questions at each location to help let me decide and let me know that she has helped place people in both locations and she trusts both owners 100%. It really eased my mind & I was able to place my mother and know she was in good hands. If it weren't for Marcy, I would still be looking for someone to care for my mom. Even though I didn't use her agency, Marcy helped me find an alternative that we could afford & I'm forever grateful!”
“We have been using ABC for almost a year and have been completely satisfied with the service and quality of their staff. They have been flexible with schedule and always on time. We trust them to take my Mom to Dr appointments and grocery shopping. Marci, who is in charge is delightful and always personally comes to visit when introducing any new caretaker.”
“I have worked with for this company for 4 years and they are great people to work for. Marcy goes above and beyond for her clients and genuinely cares for her clients. Highly recommend if you need care for a loved one or if you are looking for a job as a caregiver.”
“Absolutely unbelievable care provided. If you or a family member need assistance don’t hesitate to contact Always Best Care. They do it right with superb care and compassion!”
“Always Best Care provided in home personal care for my sister for seven years. Their caregivers were skilled, professional and most importantly demonstrated genuine concern for my sister's well-being. They provided three shift coverage, covered vacations, and recruited new caregivers when required. The owner and office staff were delightful to work with. I would highly recommend them.”
“Always provided great care for my mom and Chelsea was amazing. Thank you!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services went above and beyond anything that we ever could have expected. Our 87-year-old mom was provided with kind, gentle care and attention by everyone who cared for her. Nobody expects to be in the situation of needing a caregiver. We are extremely grateful that Always Best Care was able to provide their services. If you are in need a caregiver and income assistance for yourself or a loved one needs in home caregiving, we highly recommend Always Best Care.”
“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with Always Best. This stuff can be a nightmare but the team here is simply the best and makes everything easy!”
“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with Always Best. This stuff can be a nightmare but the team here is simply the best and makes everything easy!”
“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with Always Best. This stuff can be a nightmare but the team here is simply the best and makes everything easy!”
“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with Always Best. This stuff can be a nightmare but the team here is simply the best and makes everything easy!”
“My parents had nothing but good things to say about their caregiver. She was reliable, kind, and caring and did a lot of extras that were very much appreciated. Thank you Always Best Care for all your help.”
“Always Best is a great place to work. They treat their employees well and truly care about their customers.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides. We used them for our 90 year-old parents for some respite care.”
“Marcy took time out of her day to answer all of my questions when I has been turned down by others. She is a wealth of knowledge and displays a tremendous amount of passion in the work that she does. I would highly recommend her for support needed with yourself or your loved one, she definitely would take the time to ensure all of your concerns and questions are addressed.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides. We used them for our 90 year-old parents for some respite care.”
“My parents had nothing but good things to say about their caregiver. She was reliable, kind, and caring and did a lot of extras that were very much appreciated. Thank you Always Best Care for all your help.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides. We used them for our 90 year-old parents for some respite care.”
“Marcy and her team are genuinely caring and want the best for each individual they serve. Marcy has a breadth of knowledge, experience, and connections within the community to provide support in making decisions about care of our loved ones. I highly recommend ABS.”
“Marcy took time out of her day to answer all of my questions when I has been turned down by others. She is a wealth of knowledge and displays a tremendous amount of passion in the work that she does. I would highly recommend her for support needed with yourself or your loved one, she definitely would take the time to ensure all of your concerns and questions are addressed.”
“This is a great company! Highly recommend!”
“The care for my wife was wonderful for abut 9 months when I had to place her in a home for Alzheimer's patients. The care and concern for her well-being was at the top of their agenda! The staff that looked after my wife was very good! Should I need home care services again, Always Best Care would be at the top of my list!”
“Always best took excellent care of my mom. They made sure that whoever took care of her didn’t wear perfume and didn’t smoke. They also provided me with updates. Highly recommend”
“I recently had a situation with the wedding of my daughter that needed a caregiver. My daughter's father is disabled and needed extra assistance to look his best and get to the wedding. Always Best Care was there to help. They were understanding, professional and on time. Since then I have needed Always Best Care's services for my 93 year old Aunt. My Aunt has loved the friendly , cheerful company and the help has been priceless. Trust is a huge factor with having someone come into our home. I trust Always Best Care. They have done an excellent job with management , communication, and consistent high quality care.”
“Our family needed to get my disabled brother in an assisted living environment quickly as his care giver's health (our mother) was in decline. Always Best Care came to our rescue after finding out the needs and type of care needed to get our brother into a safe environment. We spent many hours looking and found the right place for him all in one day. Always Best Care also gave us resources to get additional financial help that my brother could qualified for. These amazing women helped us in a very stressful and emotional time when we were under extreme pressure and they made it as easy as possible considering the situation. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Freestone District Park in Gilbert, AZ with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Bourbon Bones Chophouse or visit Downtown Gilbert Water Tower, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Gilbert, AZ, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Gilbert, AZ understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Gilbert, AZ 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Posted and last updated GILBERT, AZ — Some Gilbert residents are asking the Arizona Attorney General’s Office to formally investigate sharp increases in their water bills after complaints of sticker shock from bills that have tripled or even quadrupled in just a few years.“This whole thing has been very, very questionable,” said Amy Bejarano, a Gilbert resident who received a water bill this year that was a dramatic increase over previous bills.In her complaint, she alleges systemic utilit...
Posted
and last updated
GILBERT, AZ — Some Gilbert residents are asking the Arizona Attorney General’s Office to formally investigate sharp increases in their water bills after complaints of sticker shock from bills that have tripled or even quadrupled in just a few years.
“This whole thing has been very, very questionable,” said Amy Bejarano, a Gilbert resident who received a water bill this year that was a dramatic increase over previous bills.
In her complaint, she alleges systemic utility rate increases, failures in the town’s water-metering system and a lack of consumer transparency.
“We note a severe lack of accountability,” she wrote in her complaint.
According to a letter she received back this week and shared with ABC15, the AG’s Office said its Environmental Protection Unit will determine what actions, if any, can be taken.
The AG’s office confirmed to ABC15 they have received complaints but declined further comment for now.
In a statement, the Town of Gilbert said it takes its responsibility to provide safe and reliable water service seriously while maintaining transparency and complying with state law. Town officials said they prepared a financial analysis to support the rate adjustments and held public hearings and open houses to communicate with residents.
"These steps were taken in accordance with state law to ensure that the rate adjustments are just, reasonable, and necessary to maintain the Town’s water infrastructure and service quality for all residents and businesses,” the statement said.
They are also planning a series of listening sessions on water bills, the first scheduled from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, November 10, at Gilbert Town Hall.
This latest development comes as Gilbert residents , demanding answers to rising water bills.
“People are hurting,” Gilbert resident Bill Spence said at Tuesday’s meeting.
After the meeting, Gilbert Councilman Chuck Bongiovanni said he and two other councilmembers have requested a study session after an audit of water meters is finished. That audit is expected to start as early as next week. It’s unclear how long the audit will take.
Bongiovanni told ABC15 he wants the study session to re-evaluate water rates and all alternative options in funding infrastructure needs for water and sewer.
Jessica Marlow, the town’s public works director, said at a meeting earlier this month that increases in water rates are vital to ensuring the town’s future water supply, including upgrades to the North Water Treatment Plant and nine new wells.
Town leaders have said : phased-in increases over the past two years, new water meters and a new billing system that went into effect June 30. The new billing system didn’t automatically enroll residents into automatic billing. Marlow said that led to unpaid balances carrying over.
A water rate increase of 50% in April 2024 was followed by another 25% increase in April of this year. This was coupled with a $30 monthly increase in sewer rates the same month this year.
Another 25% increase in water rates is planned for April 2026.
Email ABC15 Investigator Anne Ryman at [email protected], call her at 602-685-6345, or connect on X, formerly known as Twitter.
GILBERT, AZ (AZFamily) — Former Gilbert Mayor Brigette Peterson is expressing regret, saying she should have never voted for the current water rate increase, after hundreds have reached out, claiming their bills are skyrocketing.As many struggle to pay the bill, we’re learning this rate increase didn’t have to be so steep.The Gilbert North Water Treatment Facility upgrade is set to cost over $700 million, and the water rate increase is partially covering the cost of the project.On Wednesday, the ...
GILBERT, AZ (AZFamily) — Former Gilbert Mayor Brigette Peterson is expressing regret, saying she should have never voted for the current water rate increase, after hundreds have reached out, claiming their bills are skyrocketing.
As many struggle to pay the bill, we’re learning this rate increase didn’t have to be so steep.
The Gilbert North Water Treatment Facility upgrade is set to cost over $700 million, and the water rate increase is partially covering the cost of the project.
On Wednesday, the former mayor explained that the project had been delayed, and as a result, the price continued to rise.
The North Water Treatment Plant marked its halfway point on Tuesday. It’s an ambitious project, valued at more than $737 million.
Arizona’s Family reporter Austin Walker sat down with Peterson, who revealed she had a hand in approving the rate increase.
“This project has been discussed since, I think, 2018, 2019,” Peterson said. “If I knew the things that I know today, it would have been a completely different story for me.”
When asked whether she regretted that vote, Peterson replied, “Yes.”
She stated that the project experienced delays and setbacks.
“We were definitely discussing in 2020. When I came in as mayor, it had doubled in cost, and that was coming out of the pandemic,” Peterson said.
Supply chain problems drove up the project’s cost, reflected in each fiscal year’s budget, which increased from $239 million to $422 million, $457 million, $545 million, and now $737 million.
“We had put a transportation bond on the ballot,” said Peterson, who explained that the bond was meant to free up other money to pay for the water treatment plant, or so they thought.
“Well, that barely passed, and then it was challenged in court, and so it delayed that.”
A councilman within the town of Gilbert filed the court case.
At the time, Town Councilman Jim Torgeson sued the Town of Gilbert for allegedly violating his freedom of speech over campaign sign restrictions, which led to a halt in the water facility project.
“If this would have happened years ago, the rate, when it was cheaper, the rate increases could potentially not have been this drastic,” Walker asked Peterson.
”Potentially correct, yes,” Peterson said.
For weeks, residents have shared stories of struggling to pay their bills. Even Peterson, who moved out west but is trying to sell her vacant Gilbert home, said she’s confused by the current billing.
“And my bill, with no one living in my house in Gilbert right now, has only gone down $5,” she said.
Now, from the outside looking in, Peterson said there’s a lot she would change.
“I want somebody to take accountability,” Peterson said. If I knew the things that I know today, it would have been a completely different story for me.”
And she hopes current town officials will also reflect.
Arizona’s Family obtained a statement from the Town of Gilbert, which explained that the project is also being funded through fees paid by developers.
“The full reconstruction of Gilbert’s North Water Treatment Plant represents one of the largest public works infrastructure projects in Arizona. Given the magnitude and critical importance to serving the Gilbert community, it was always envisioned as a multi-year initiative. This approach became more important as the project, and the country, experienced unprecedented and wide-ranging cost escalation post-COVID. In response, this purposeful pause did not impact the overall construction timeline and ultimately resulted in $30 million in savings through value engineering. The project continues to be on schedule.
This project is funded through a combination of water rates, paid by residents and businesses, and what we commonly call SDFs (System Development Fees) which are paid for by developers.
The lawsuit referenced addresses the 2021 voter-approved . Neither the lawsuit nor the Bond had any impact on the North Water Treatment Plant reconstruction.
We recognize the importance of community feedback, which is why the Town initiated discussions with Council through a publicly accessible These conversations are ongoing, and we remain committed to transparency and collaboration."
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GILBERT, AZ (AZFamily) — A Valley flour mill is buttering up bread lovers and home bakers alike with its first-ever BreadFest this weekend. It’s an event that might just be worth toasting to.The Hayden Flour Mills will host its inaugural BreadFest at Don Guerra’s Barrio Bagel and Slice, located at 689 N. Arizona Avenue in Gilbert, on Sunday from 10 a.m. through 1 p.m.Breadfest will offer the chance for attendees to shop at vendors, snack on samples, view butter sculptures, enter your sourdough in a cont...
GILBERT, AZ (AZFamily) — A Valley flour mill is buttering up bread lovers and home bakers alike with its first-ever BreadFest this weekend. It’s an event that might just be worth toasting to.
The Hayden Flour Mills will host its inaugural BreadFest at Don Guerra’s Barrio Bagel and Slice, located at 689 N. Arizona Avenue in Gilbert, on Sunday from 10 a.m. through 1 p.m.
Breadfest will offer the chance for attendees to shop at vendors, snack on samples, view butter sculptures, enter your sourdough in a contest, and play games like play bagel ring toss.
The festival’s main purpose is to connect the bread-loving community and local bakers and “give them a true small-town festival,” according to Emma Zimmerman, co-owner and co-founder of Hayden Flour Mills, with her father, Jeff.
“We are harvesters, we are millers, and we are bakers at heart,” Zimmerman said. “What better way to pay homage to the art of the ancient grain than a festival that features bread?”
Got some extra dough and time this weekend? BreadFest is set to include several local vendors serving up delicious bread-based concoctions, such as Barrio Bread and Sonoran Pasta Co., as well as a sourdough bread contest featuring entries from local home and cottage bakers, judged by professional bread artisans from around the state.
In addition, guests can learn about Hayden Flour Mills’ passion and purpose, peruse vendors, snack on samples, enjoy live music, view butter sculptures, purchase a variety of bread-related items, and play fun, wholesome games with the family, such as bagel ring toss.
The Zimmermans are currently seeking vendors and home bakers for BreadFest. Those interested can visit haydenflourmills.com/pages/bread-fest for more information on how to participate.
Doors open at 9:45 a.m. BreadFest admission begins at $7 for general admission and $40 for VIP admission, which includes a limited edition BreadFest t-shirt. Admission is free for children. Tickets are limited; click or tap here to purchase.
To learn more about Hayden Flour Mills and its return to glory through a family’s labor of love, go to haydenflourmills.com.
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Some Gilbert residents are experiencing serious sticker shock, as they say their rates have multiplied to hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars more than what they'd usually pay in just a matter of months.GILBERT, AZ — Some Gilbert residents are experiencing serious sticker shock, as they say their rates have multiplied to hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars more than what they'd usually pay in just a matter of months.The frustration boiled over at Tuesday's town council meeting, when residents flooded the pac...
Some Gilbert residents are experiencing serious sticker shock, as they say their rates have multiplied to hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars more than what they'd usually pay in just a matter of months.
GILBERT, AZ — Some Gilbert residents are experiencing serious sticker shock, as they say their rates have multiplied to hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars more than what they'd usually pay in just a matter of months.
The frustration boiled over at Tuesday's town council meeting, when residents flooded the packed chambers for a meeting that lasted over four hours.
The Town of Gilbert says several factors are driving up costs, including increased rates, tiered billing, water leaks, and a transition to a new billing portal. Some residents believe there has also been possible mismanagement of funds.
The town has ordered an independent audit to review the meters. Until it's complete, there will be no late fees and no service disconnections. But residents want more than audits as they also demand answers and relief.
"Why are people who are trying to produce food or have livestock on their properties getting beat up as badly as we are?" asked resident Darrell Grossen, who has more than 100 fruit trees on his property.
"We are in Arizona. We are in the desert. But if, you know, my ask is that I only be charged for what I'm actually using," explained Amy Bejarano, also a Gilbert resident. "And that's what the other residents, that's where all of us are at."
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GILBERT, AZ — Gilbert residents packed town council chambers on Tuesday for the second time this month, demanding answers to rising water bills.Frustrated residents say their bills have tripled in the past few years.“People are hurting,” said Gilbert resident Bill Spence.He asked town leaders to repeal water rates back to 2023 levels before a series of sharp increases went into effect. He suggested the rates that they are currently being charged are not “just and reasonable” as required by t...
GILBERT, AZ — Gilbert residents packed town council chambers on Tuesday for the second time this month, demanding answers to rising water bills.
Frustrated residents say their bills have tripled in the past few years.
“People are hurting,” said Gilbert resident Bill Spence.
He asked town leaders to repeal water rates back to 2023 levels before a series of sharp increases went into effect. He suggested the rates that they are currently being charged are not “just and reasonable” as required by the Arizona Constitution.
“It’s tearing the community apart,” he said.
Sara Barker, a resident since 1991, described being “blindsided” when she recently opened a bill for $700.
“There’s no way I used that much water,” she said.
Town leaders have said several factors are driving up bills: phased-in increases over the last two years, new water meters and a new billing system that went into effect June 30.
Town officials announced Tuesday that an audit of those water meters could start as early as next week. They are also planning a series of listening sessions, the first scheduled from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, November 10, at Gilbert Town Hall.
A water rate increase of 50% in April 2024 was followed by another 25% increase in April of this year. This was coupled with a $30 monthly increase in sewer rates the same month this year.
And the pain is not over. Another 25% increase in water rates is planned for April 2026.
Jessica Marlow, the town’s public works director, said at a meeting earlier this month that the increases are vital to ensuring the town’s future water supply, including upgrades to the North Water Treatment Plant and nine new wells.
Marlow said the town is also changing out water meters as they age. She said the new meters are more sensitive. Small leaks that went undetected in the old system may show up as higher usage with the new meters. She announced at a town council meeting earlier this month that the town is ordering an independent audit of the meters.
“If there’s a meter error, we will adjust it,” she said.
On June 30, the town also switched to a new billing system that doesn't automatically enroll residents into automatic billing. Marlow said there are unpaid balances that are carrying over as a result.
She said the town is planning to hire temporary workers to reduce wait times for customer-service calls. She urged residents to call if they have questions about their bills.
Email ABC15 Investigator Anne Ryman at [email protected], call her at 602-685-6345, or connect on X, formerly known as Twitter.
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