Mayor Spotlight: Jackie Meck, City of Buckeye

City of Buckeye
Incorporated: 1929
Population: 50,876
Elevation: 888 ft.
County: Maricopa
Area within Limits: 374 sq. mi.

Name, title & city/town:
Jackie Meck, Mayor of Buckeye
Year elected to office: 2008
Years served as Mayor: 7 years
Hometown: Buckeye, AZ

Why did you decide to serve in local government?
The City of Buckeye has been home for my entire life. I believe Buckeye is a blank canvas and council and staff are the painters. We want future generations to be proud of their community. Being able to serve the residents has been a true honor.

What are the biggest challenges facing your town today?
Like all cities, water resources are a major issue. In Buckeye, we have secured water for the next 100 years, but we want to leave a legacy for our future generations. I am working to create a water conservation effort along with neighboring cities, Avondale and Goodyear in educating our public about this precious resource.

What opportunities do you see for your community?
We are currently working on two major preservation and restoration projects that will change the landscape in Buckeye. First, the Gila River Projects will restore our Gila River and create waterfront development options in Buckeye, as well as remedy a major fire and flood issue along the floodplain. I am also active in the White Tank Conservancy which is an effort to preserve our mountains and offer world class trails for people from all over the world to enjoy. Our phase one, Skyline Park, opens this winter!

What are you most proud of during your time in office?
I just celebrated my 53rd wedding anniversary, and a happy wife is a happy life. My wife has been a great value to my time as mayor. She is an author and has written three books on the history and people of Buckeye. Being able to see our city grow and prosper as a team is something I am very proud of.

Why is the League important to cities and towns in Arizona?
The bond the League creates is invaluable. I have made lifelong friends and partners to make a real difference in our city. The Gila River Projects are a great example of how when cities work together, they can make the most impact.
 

League of Arizona Cities and Towns
1820 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ  85007
Phone: 602-258-5786
Fax: 602-253-3874
http://www.azleague.org

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