Online Trademark Attorneys
Sausser Summers, PC
- Lower Cost
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File a Trademark for $399 + $250 Government Filing Fee
Trademark Attorney Working With Clients in Mesa, AZ
If you're an entrepreneur, you know that protecting your intellectual property should be high on your list when it comes to safeguarding your company. However, as a successful business owner, you also know the steps and costs of filing a trademark in the U.S. can be expensive and arduous.
This conundrum can be even more overwhelming for new business owners who want to do everything possible to minimize the price of securing trademarks. They try to handle complicated tasks like trademark registration on their own, which can be a big mistake - especially when juggling the day-to-day tasks of running a business. You may be thinking, "But what about those set-it-and-forget-it services you can find online? All you have to do is plug in your info, and you're done." Using pre-made templates for trademark filing can be tempting, but doing so can leave you with inadequate protection and hurt you in the long run.
So, what is the easiest, most cost-effective route to consider that also minimizes legal risk? The truth is, before you spend money on an online filing service, it's best to consult with a trademark attorney working with clients in Mesa, AZ.
At Sausser Summers, PC, our experienced trademark attorneys can help you understand the trademark process step by step. We can even help with U.S. trademark filing, U.S. trademark responses, and U.S. trademark renewals at a price you can actually afford. That way, you can make an informed decision regarding your business without having to break the bank.
- Trademark Attorney Working With Clients in Mesa, AZ
- Sausser Summers, PC: Simplifying the U.S. Trademark Process
- Do I Really Need a Trademark Attorney for Protecting My Business in Mesa, AZ?
- Additional Benefits of Using a Trademark Attorney
- What About Online Filing Services?
- Understanding Trademarks Over Time
- Steps to Renew Your Trademark
- Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Abandonment
- How to Avoid Having to Refile Your Trademark
- What Makes an Online Trademark Attorney Great?
- Trademark Attorneys Working Hard for You
Sausser Summers, PC: Simplifying the U.S. Trademark Process
Hiring an attorney can be a daunting task, but at Sausser Summers, PC, our goal is to make the process as simple and seamless as possible for you. That's why we offer a straightforward checkout service. First, you choose your flat fee trademark service and fill out a short questionnaire. Then, we will contact you within 24 hours to discuss the details of our service. From there, one of our experienced trademark attorneys will get to work on your behalf.
Using a trademark attorney for filing in Mesa, AZ, can significantly increase your chances of a successful registration. The U.S. government recommends hiring a trademark attorney to help with your application, and our team of trademark lawyers is dedicated to meeting your needs. In fact, we help ensure your application is filed correctly the first time so you can get on with your life and avoid legal risks.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we work closely with our clients to understand their needs and provide them with sound professional advice. We never offer incomplete services, such as simply filing for registration, because that would leave you open to legal risks. You can rely on us to handle your intellectual property matters, and our flat fee services can help protect your business in a simple, straightforward, and affordable way. It's really that simple.
In terms of filing a U.S. trademark, we provide an easy three-step process to protect your intellectual property:
1. You provide your trademark info to our team via an online form.
2. Our team performs a comprehensive trademark search. This search ensures that no other marks will prevent you from registering your trademark in the U.S. Once performed, we'll send you a legal opinion letter that details our findings.
3. Sausser Summers, PC, files your U.S. trademark application. We are then listed as your Attorney of Record on file. From there, we'll provide ongoing updates regarding the status of your trademark as it works through the registration process.
The bottom line? At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.
The bottom line?
At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.
Do I Really Need a Trademark Attorney for Protecting My Business in Mesa, AZ?
It's not necessary to be a lawyer in order to apply for a trademark. Anyone can submit a trademark application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). However, registering a trademark involves more than just filling out a form. It's essential to conduct thorough research, accurately identify and clearly explain your trademark to ensure it receives adequate protection. And even after securing a trademark, you've got to monitor it consistently to make sure it's free from infringement.
The big takeaway here is that it's always a good idea to work with a trademark attorney to protect the intellectual property that you've worked so hard to establish. According to the Wall Street Journal, applicants are approximately 50% more likely to secure their trademark than people who file applications on their own. If your trademark application is rejected by the USPTO, you will need to revise and refile it, incurring additional filing fees. To avoid delays and extra costs, it is best to have a trademark lawyer help you get it right the first time.
Call
us (843) 654-0078Additional Benefits of Using a Trademark Attorney
Great trademark attorneys (like those you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC) will help with every step of filing and enforcing your trademark. Some additional benefits include the following:
Check to see if your proposed trademark is registered by another entity.
Conduct research to see if another business is using the trademark for which you're applying.
Provide advice and guidance on the strength of your trademark.
Draft and submit your trademark applications and application revisions.
Advice and guidance regarding trademark maintenance and protection.
Monitor the market for unauthorized use of your trademark.
Trademark enforcement to protect you against infringement.
Curious whether our trademark attorney services are right for you and your business? Contact Sausser Summer, PC, today. Let's talk about what you need, and how we can help.
What About Online Filing Services?
Online services, can provide you with basic assistance in filing your trademark. However, they will never be a legitimate substitute for an experienced trademark attorney helping clients in Mesa, AZ.
Although online filing services offer a step-by-step process, they take a one-size-fits-all approach to preparing legal documents. Even their advanced service only provides basic attorney assistance in completing your paperwork and helping with minor roadblocks. Online filing services' disclaimer highlights the many limitations of its services, including the fact that communications are not protected by attorney-client privilege. In addition, online filing services cannot provide advice, explanations, opinions, recommendations, or any kind of legal guidance on possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies.
In other words, online filing services can offer you the necessary forms and point you in the right direction, but they cannot customize their services to your specific needs or help you with serious complications that may arise.
For the most comprehensive trademark service and protection, it's always wise to work with highly rated trademark lawyers, like you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC.
Understanding Trademarks Over Time
Trademarks in the U.S. can last indefinitely, but did you know that clients in Mesa, AZ can file a trademark online, only to lose protection in some circumstances? Trademarks differ from patents and copyrights in that they do not have an expiration date. However, to prevent the cancellation of a trademark, you must maintain it. To ensure that your trademark remains protected, you must actively use it in commerce and renew it with the USPTO every ten years.
The Lanham Act tells us that "use in commerce" is the legitimate use of a trademark in the ordinary course of trade. In other words, you cannot register a trademark solely to reserve the rights to it in the future. In most cases, a trademark must be used continuously in connection with the goods or services it is registered for.
Steps to Renew Your Trademark
Trademarks are registered with the USPTO and generally need to be renewed every ten years. However, there is one crucial exception that you should be aware of. Within the first ten years of owning a trademark, you must file for renewal between the fifth and sixth year from the date of your initial registration.
During this renewal period, you are required to submit a Section 8 declaration, a specimen that shows how the mark is being used, and pay the required fee. You can also apply for Section 15 Incontestability status, which can strengthen your trademark rights. This application, although not mandatory, can make it harder for others to challenge your ownership of the mark.
After the first renewal, which falls between the fifth and sixth year of ownership, the next renewal filing is due between the ninth and tenth year, and then every tenth year thereafter. In the ninth year you will need to file a Section 8 declaration, attesting to your use of the mark or excusable nonuse. You've also got to file a Section 9 renewal application before the end of the tenth year to keep your registration active.
It is worth noting that the USPTO provides a six-month grace period if you fail to renew your mark within the required time frame, but it is best not to rely on it. If you don't file within the grace period time limits, the USPTO will cancel and expire your mark.
By hiring trademark attorneys helping clients in Mesa, AZ, you can avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that can arise and cause you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it.
Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Abandonment
In the event that you stop using your trademark and have no plans to resume using it in commerce, it may be considered abandoned by the USPTO. This could result in the loss of your protective rights to the mark. Typically, a trademark is assumed to be abandoned if it has not been used for three years. However, you may be able to refute this presumption by providing evidence that you intend to use the mark again in the future.
Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Inappropriate Licensing
In addition to trademark abandonment, you should also be wary of improper licensing. It's important to remember that once you allow someone else to use your trademark, you must keep an eye on how they use it. You should monitor the products or services that feature your trademark to ensure that they meet consumers' expectations in terms of quality. Failure to do so can lead to a "naked" trademark license and the loss of your protective trademark rights.
How to Avoid Having to Refile Your Trademark
If you're wondering how you can avoid refiling your trademark, the answer is simple: file it correctly the first time around. Filing a trademark isn't inherently difficult, but when doing so, it's very important that certain aspects are filled out accurately in your application. If any information is missing or incorrect, the trademark application may be considered "void ab initio" or void from the beginning, requiring you to file again.
To avoid this, make sure that the information you provide in the application is accurate and complete, including the ownership of the trademark. For instance, if a corporation has multiple shareholders, it should not file under the President's personal name. The rightful owner should be the one/entity that ultimately controls the trademark and the associated goods/services.
It is also important to ensure that the goods and/or services description is precise. For example, if you sell electronic products, you should not file for research and development services despite having a research and development department. The goods/services description should reflect the goods/services you offer to customers, not the departments within your business.
Additionally, providing accurate dates of first use when filing for a trademark is crucial. The USPTO requires two dates to be specified - the date of first use anywhere and the date of first use in interstate commerce. Contact our trademark law office today to learn more about having accurate dates on your filing paperwork.
What Makes an Online Trademark Attorney Great?
At Sausser Summers, PC, we often get questions about how to distinguish run-of-the-mill consultants and others from great trademark attorneys. After all - when you're looking for an attorney to file or prosecute your business trademark, you should know their qualifications. Here are three ways you can separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff when it comes to trademark attorneys.
It's crucial to seek legal advice from a licensed trademark lawyer rather than relying on advice from non-professionals like trademark consultants. The USPTO even recommends hiring an attorney to help with the trademark process. Although trademark consultants may provide advice on trademark availability or name marketability, they cannot file the trademark for you or offer legal advice. According to the Rules of Practicing in trademark cases, "Individuals who are not attorneys are not recognized to practice before the Office in trademark matters." This rule applies to individuals who assist trademark applicants.
When searching for a trademark attorney, it's important to find someone with a strong background in trademark law. Look for an attorney who specializes in this area and has significant experience handling trademark-related cases. Avoid lawyers who don't have expertise in this field, as they may not be able to provide the guidance and support you need.
Ensure your attorney provides updates throughout the trademark registration process to avoid missing deadlines, including responding to any Office actions within six months. Failure to do so can result in trademark abandonment. The USPTO will only correspond with the listed attorney of record, so make sure your attorney keeps you informed.
In summary:
- Be sure you're using a licensed trademark attorney helping clients in Mesa, AZ.
- It's best to work with a trademark lawyer who has years of experience filing trademarks.
- Ensure that your trademark lawyer is willing to provide ongoing notifications relating to your trademark application process.
Trademark Attorneys Working Hard for You
Building your brand and gaining recognition for it is a significant achievement, and it's important to protect it. However, there are certain pitfalls and mistakes that can arise, causing you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it. By working with knowledgeable trademark attorneys, you can avoid these issues and file your trademark successfully.
With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Sausser Summers, PC, offers comprehensive guidance, strategic advice, and reliable representation for a variety of trademark matters. Our attorneys have years of real-world experience and, having registered countless trademarks with the USPTO, provide our clients with individualized representation when they need it most.
If you're looking for skilled, adept, and experienced counsel, look no further than our trademark law firm. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can help you safeguard your brand.
Latest News in Mesa, AZ
Mesa Temple Christmas lights 2024: How to see the huge display
Michael Salernohttps://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/holidays/christmas/2024/11/26/mesa-temple-christmas-lights-2024/76453600007/
White lights glow in the shape of camels and magi, anchoring biblical scenes that tell the story of the birth of Jesus. Palm trees wrapped with green lights seem to give the appearance of a natural glow.It can only mean that one of Arizona's most beloved holiday traditions is returning to Mesa.The Mesa Arizona Temple, the oldest of six Arizona temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, will bring back its Christmas lights display at the church's north lawn and temple gardens starting Friday, Nov....
White lights glow in the shape of camels and magi, anchoring biblical scenes that tell the story of the birth of Jesus. Palm trees wrapped with green lights seem to give the appearance of a natural glow.
It can only mean that one of Arizona's most beloved holiday traditions is returning to Mesa.
The Mesa Arizona Temple, the oldest of six Arizona temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, will bring back its Christmas lights display at the church's north lawn and temple gardens starting Friday, Nov. 29.
The lights will be on display every night through Monday, Dec. 30. Here's what to know about this year's display.
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What time are the lights on at the Mesa Temple?
Mesa Arizona Temple Christmas lights go on at 5 each evening during the holiday season.
What time do the Mesa Temple lights turn off?
Mesa Temple lights turn off at 10 nightly.
How long are the Mesa Temple lights up for?
Mesa Temple lights will be on starting Nov. 29 and ending Dec. 30.
The lights are up for fewer days this year — 31 days, in contrast with last year's 38-day run — which reflects a shorter lead-up to the holidays as Thanksgiving falls later in November. Last year's lights ran from Nov. 24 to Dec. 31.
What does the Mesa Temple Christmas lights display have?
A tradition that began in 1979, the Mesa Temple lights are one of the nation's largest volunteer-run Christmas light displays. It returned from a five-year hiatus in 2022 following a renovation of the temple and draws about 1.5 million visitors each holiday season.
It features hundreds of thousands of lights that wrap around palm trees, cactuses, hedges, shrubs and flower beds, giant lighted wise men with their camels, and a near-life-size Nativity scene at the temple's northwest corner.
It also includes 10 biblical scenes with near life-size figurines and a lighted star of Bethlehem, made up of 22,500 lights on two sides.
How much does it cost to see the Mesa Temple Christmas lights?
Viewing the Mesa Arizona Temple Christmas lights, as well as the Nativity displays at the visitor center, is free.
Where do you park for Mesa Temple lights?
Parking is available at the Mesa Drive Park and Ride next to Pioneer Park, as well as several lots on the east side of the temple. Special needs parking is available in the lot east of the north temple grounds on S. Hobson, and parking attendants will be available to assist visitors.
Temple staff urge visitors not to park near people's houses.
Alternatively, visitors can consider using the Valley Metro light rail to get to the temple. It's about a 0.4-mile walk from the Mesa Drive and Main Street light rail station.
Details: Mesa Arizona Temple, 101 S. Lesueur, Mesa. 480-861-3411, mesatemple.org.
Christmas at the Princess 2024:What's new at the family-favorite holiday lights
Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @salerno_phx.
Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.
Mesa Public Schools announces new superintendent
12news.comhttps://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/mesa-public-schools-announces-new-superintendent-matthew-strom-andi-fourlis/75-4a30e861-54d3-49b6-994b-dc904dfd9275
Matthew Strom will take over for Andi Fourlis who is retiring on June 30.Credit: KPNXMESA, Ariz. — In a unanimous vote, the Mesa Public Schools Governing Board selected a new superintendent Wednesday.The board will now move into contract negotiations with Matthew Strom. If they reach an agreement, Strom will start as superintendent on July 1, 2025.RELATED: ...
Matthew Strom will take over for Andi Fourlis who is retiring on June 30.
Credit: KPNX
MESA, Ariz. — In a unanimous vote, the Mesa Public Schools Governing Board selected a new superintendent Wednesday.
The board will now move into contract negotiations with Matthew Strom. If they reach an agreement, Strom will start as superintendent on July 1, 2025.
RELATED: Mesa Public Schools superintendent announces retirement
The vote comes in anticipation of the retirement of the current superintendent, Andi Fourlis, on June 30.
Strom has spent 27 years in public education in various roles including as a teacher. He currently serves as the Associate Superintendent for Mesa Public Schools.
He previously served in Arizona’s second largest district, Chandler Unified, as Assistant Superintendent of K-12 Education.
Over 4,000 community members consisting of parents, staff and community members responded to a survey about their desired qualifications for the next superintendent.
Mesa Public Schools serves 56,000 students with 80 schools and programs.
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Why RV Ownership is on the Rise in Mesa, AZ
Bernard - Side-Line Staffhttps://www.side-line.com/why-rv-ownership-is-on-the-rise-in-mesa-az/
???????? Side-Line stands with Ukraine - Show your SupportOver the past few years, the appeal of recreational vehicle (RV) ownership has skyrocketed across the United States, with Mesa, AZ, emerging as a hotspot for enthusiasts. The unique blend of outdoor adventures, a warm climate, and a community that embraces a mobile lifestyle has made this desert city a prime location for RV enthusiasts. But what exact...
???????? Side-Line stands with Ukraine - Show your Support
Over the past few years, the appeal of recreational vehicle (RV) ownership has skyrocketed across the United States, with Mesa, AZ, emerging as a hotspot for enthusiasts. The unique blend of outdoor adventures, a warm climate, and a community that embraces a mobile lifestyle has made this desert city a prime location for RV enthusiasts. But what exactly is driving this surge in RV ownership, and why are the highest-quality travel trailers becoming the vehicle of choice for many?
Mesa’s Natural Attractions: A Paradise for RV Owners
Mesa, located in the heart of Arizona’s scenic desert landscape, offers a wealth of natural attractions that make it a haven for RV travelers. From the breathtaking Superstition Mountains to the serene waters of Saguaro Lake, the area provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
For those who own the highest-quality travel trailers, Mesa’s numerous RV-friendly campgrounds and parks make it easy to explore these stunning sites. State-of-the-art amenities, including water and electricity hookups, allow RV owners to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort.
The Call for Freedom and Flexibility
RV ownership represents more than just a vehicle; it’s a lifestyle choice that offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility. In Mesa, this lifestyle is particularly attractive. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the ability to pack up their highest-quality travel trailers and head out on a whim to explore neighboring destinations like Sedona, the Grand Canyon, or even the nearby state parks.
Travel trailers, with their compact yet comfortable designs, allow owners to create personalized travel experiences. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long road trip, RV ownership empowers individuals and families to tailor their adventures to their own schedules and preferences.
Economic Appeal: Cost-Effective Travel
Another factor driving the rise of RV ownership in Mesa is its cost-effectiveness. With the rising costs of flights, hotels, and car rentals, owning an RV—especially a high—quality travel trailer—provides a more economical way to travel.
Families in Mesa are recognizing the long-term financial benefits of owning a travel trailer. Once purchased, an RV allows for countless trips without the recurring costs of traditional travel. Many local dealers offer financing options, making it easier than ever for residents to invest in their dream travel trailer.
Embracing Remote Work and Nomadic Lifestyles
The shift toward remote work has also contributed significantly to the growing popularity of RV ownership. Many people in Mesa are embracing nomadic lifestyles, working from their highest-quality travel trailers while exploring the country.
With reliable internet connectivity increasingly available at RV parks and campgrounds, the barriers to working remotely from an RV have decreased. This lifestyle is especially attractive in Mesa, where residents can enjoy sunny weather year-round while maintaining a work-life balance.
A Sense of Community Among RV Owners
Mesa boasts a vibrant RV community that provides support and camaraderie for new and seasoned RV owners alike. Social groups, meetups, and events centered around RV life create a sense of belonging for those who have embraced this lifestyle.
Owners of the highest-quality travel trailers in Mesa often share tips, travel recommendations, and maintenance advice with one another. This thriving community has made RV ownership more appealing, as it adds a layer of social connection to the lifestyle.
Innovations in Travel Trailers: Why Quality Matters
The rising popularity of RVs can also be attributed to advancements in travel trailer design and technology. Modern highest-quality travel trailers are equipped with features that rival traditional homes, including full kitchens, spacious sleeping areas, and even smart home capabilities.
For Mesa residents, owning a high-quality travel trailer ensures durability in the desert climate and the ability to tackle rugged terrains while maintaining comfort. These trailers are built with premium materials, advanced insulation, and reliable towing features, making them ideal for both local trips and long-haul adventures.
Mesa’s RV Dealerships: Making Ownership Accessible
Mesa is home to some of the most reputable RV dealerships in Arizona, offering a wide selection of new and used travel trailers. These dealerships cater to a range of budgets and preferences, making it easy for residents to find their ideal highest-quality travel trailers.
From basic models to luxury options, Mesa’s dealerships provide expert guidance, financing assistance, and after-sales support. This accessibility has played a crucial role in increasing RV ownership in the area.
The Role of Family Adventures
Families in Mesa are discovering that RV ownership is a fantastic way to bond and create lasting memories. Owning a travel trailer allows families to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend quality time together in nature.
With features like bunk beds, convertible dining areas, and entertainment systems, modern, high-quality travel trailers are designed to accommodate families of all sizes. Parents and children alike enjoy the convenience of having their own space while traveling, turning every trip into a comfortable and stress-free adventure.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Travel
As sustainability becomes a priority for many, RV ownership offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional travel. Mesa residents are increasingly drawn to energy-efficient, high-quality travel trailers equipped with solar panels, energy-saving appliances, and water-conserving systems.
This focus on sustainability aligns with the values of Mesa’s outdoor-loving community, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
Challenges and Solutions in RV Ownership
While RV ownership has its challenges, such as maintenance and storage, Mesa’s thriving RV culture provides solutions. Local storage facilities offer secure and affordable options for those who need a place to park their travel trailers when not in use.
Additionally, Mesa’s RV service providers are well-equipped to handle routine maintenance and repairs, ensuring that the highest-quality travel trailers remain in top condition for years to come.
The Future of RV Ownership in Mesa
As RV ownership continues to grow in popularity, Mesa is poised to become a leading destination for RV enthusiasts. The city’s commitment to outdoor recreation, coupled with a supportive community and access to top-notch RV dealerships, makes it an ideal place to embrace the RV lifestyle.
Whether it’s retirees seeking freedom, families looking for adventure, or professionals adopting a remote work lifestyle, the appeal of owning the highest-quality travel trailers in Mesa shows no signs of slowing down.
Final Thoughts
The rise of RV ownership in Mesa, AZ, is a testament to the city’s unique blend of natural beauty, community support, and modern convenience. From cost-effective travel to family bonding, owning the highest-quality travel trailer offers endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation.
If you’re considering joining the growing community of RV owners in Mesa, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Visit local dealerships, connect with experienced RVers, and discover why Mesa is the ultimate destination for RV ownership. Adventure awaits—right in your own backyard!
Bernard - Side-Line Staff Chief editor
Bernard Van Isacker is the Chief Editor of Side-Line Magazine. With a career spanning more than two decades, Van Isacker has established himself as a respected figure in the darkwave scene.
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'You're waking a sleeping giant': Residents warn Mesa leaders there will be consequences to raising utility rates
12news.comhttps://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/mesa-city-council-pass-utility-rate-hike-despite-objections-from-residents-arizona-mayor-john-giles/75-f80084ec-e6bf-4584-9704-618f764ad63f
The new rates would take affect in February 2025.Credit: 12NewsMESA, Ariz. — The Mesa City Council voted Monday night to raise local utility rates despite hearing strong objections from residents who felt now was not an appropriate time to raise costs.After hearing comments from several residents, the council unanimously approved a proposal to increase the cost of water, gas, electricity and wastewater rates. The new utility r...
The new rates would take affect in February 2025.
Credit: 12News
MESA, Ariz. — The Mesa City Council voted Monday night to raise local utility rates despite hearing strong objections from residents who felt now was not an appropriate time to raise costs.
After hearing comments from several residents, the council unanimously approved a proposal to increase the cost of water, gas, electricity and wastewater rates. The new utility rates would take effect on Feb. 1, 2025.
VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: ‘Están despertando al gigante dormido’: Residentes advierten a líderes de Mesa sobre consecuencias de aumento en utilidades
Several residents urged the council to not approve the rate increase and warned there could be political consequences at the next election if they did approve the proposal.
"You're waking a sleeping giant," one attendee warned the council before Monday's vote.
Public speakers asked the council to find expenses to cut from Mesa's budget rather than raise costs for residents. Others suggested the council members could risk losing their seats if they don't listen to the concerns of voters.
"You're going to hear from us, 'You're fired' for malfeasance," another attendee told the council.
The city's elected officials argued that if they didn't raise utility rates this year, then they would have to make a bigger increase in the future.
Mesa's utility funds are used to help finance the city's public safety services and City Manager Chris Brady said the city is not able to collect enough revenue from other sources.
"We don't capture enough sales tax, too many of us are shopping outside of Mesa," Brady said.
City leaders rejected the notion that Mesa has a "spending problem" and insisted the city's cost-of-living expenses remained competitive with other Valley communities.
"We are doing the bare minimum increase possible and going through some contortions in order to accommodate that," Mayor John Giles said Monday night.
More details on how Mesa's utility rates will change can be found in the city document below:
RELATED: Union says fiber construction in Mesa has led to $135,000 in damage
RELATED: Peoria might require big water users to obtain permits from the city
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